The Journey Continues

We are learning more about the side effects of radiation every week...Patrick's latest symptoms are tingling in his legs and some bladder issues. He saw the neurosurgeon on Wed. and Ralph asked LOTS of questions. We were worried that the tumor was growing, but Dr. Hudgins is 90% sure that Patrick's symptoms are all related to the radiation. I told a lady at work about Patrick's symptoms- nausea and fatigue included. Right away she said his symptoms were from the radiation. Her brother had radiation and is still having issues almost 2 years later! We were told at one time that you can expect 1 week of symptoms for every treatment- i.e. 30 weeks of fatigue, etc. for Patrick.
Patrick will have another MRI next Wed. to make sure the tumor isn't growing.
He will probably start taking a drug called Neurontin- it will help the tingling feeling and is also good for pain. He is working with a very good Physical Therapist who is helping him with the pain issues.
We may or may not get a second opinion at the Cleveland Clinic. Dr. Hudgins said that would be fine...he can even give us the names of some doctors in Cleveland. We will wait for the MRI results and will wait until after we talk to Dr. Hord(the oncologist) to make our final decision.
Please continue to pray for Patrick- for strength and for his spirit-that he wouldn't get discouraged. Also, pray that we would make the right decisions.