Next steps for Reid’s cancer journey

I wanted to keep this brief but share an update following our appointment with the surgeon and radiologist at City of Hope yesterday. We discussed Reid’s diagnosis and treatment plan in detail.

We were grateful that the doctors took the time to answer all our questions and didn’t rush us. They reviewed Reid’s CT scans from his hospital stay in September, showing his 7 cm tumor. I asked why this hadn’t been identified earlier, and while the surgeon acknowledged this was an oversight, we need to focus on moving forward. When he saw me struggling with the news, he told me, “We’re here to cure.” I feel confident that Reid is in good hands.

There was a lot to take in. The radiologist explained the next 8 months—laying out the plan through a thin mask and slight accent, with my mind racing to absorb it all as I jotted questions on scrap paper. Reid will undergo 4 months of chemotherapy, followed by 2 months of radiation, 2 months off, and then surgery. We are hopeful the tumor may even shrink before treatment begins. Prayer warriors, please pray for this—to see the tumor shrink now on its own.

Many have asked what stage is the cancer, the surgeon thought it was stage 3, without seeing the recent CT and MRI scans.

This journey isn’t easy, and I’m learning to accept that. There were moments I felt overwhelmed, yet I found myself planning next steps: new, nourishing recipes for Reid, positive affirmations, and self-care ideas. We’re ready to tackle this together. A friend from school sent me this verse the morning of our appointment, and it’s brought me comfort: “The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; he knows those who take refuge in him.” (Nahum 1:7)

Thank you for all your love and prayers—your support means everything to us.

xx

Shalice