The Journey Continues

So, you know how sometimes you hear what you want to- and filter out what you're not interested in hearing? Well, I think that's where I am, and I think, Patrick is to some extent. We were hoping to hear that the tumors(big one at the base of the spine, little ones up and down the spine)were shrinking after the radiation.But, apparently these things don't happen that fast. The tumors aren't growing...I guess that was the true goal of radiation. They may still shrink, but that could takes 3months or more. Patrick still has pain from the big tumor- and from swelling as a result of the radiation. But the good news is that a very small dose of steroids(Decadron twice a day)is taking away the pain and helping Patrick feel much better. It will actually improve his appetite too, so that's a good thing. He's going to start Physical Therapy soon so he can get his strength back and "limber"up. We're- or more accurately-I-am hoping his hair will be grown back in time for the wedding. He looks fine bald...but I'll be happier when he looks like my healthy Patrick... In the meantime, he's finishing up with one more college credit which he will do on-line. He's finished with actual class time.
I'm planning on having a small party for him on Sat.,Aug. 7th-combination graduation/end of radiation party.
Patrick is back to fishing and hanging with his friends, so I don't see much of him again- but that's a good thing.
It looks like this will be a life-long journey. For now, there will be MRI's every 3 months. No surgery unless the big tumor grows and/or starts affecting major organs.
Thanks for everyone's concern, thoughts and prayers. We're all doing fine and Patrick is in good spirits.