March 10th, 2011

This is Mandy. I can't pretend that this will be fun for me or that I have any desire to do this but I would do anything for my little boy who I love so much!!! And we know all of you are awaiting the latest update... I can't begin to tell you how much love and support we have felt. We have always known we have been blessed with great families and amazing friends but over the last few days it has been overwhelming! Thank you so much for everyone that has prayed and fasted for us. It is your prayers, support and friendship that are truly helping us through this difficult time.

Yesterday we went to Primary Children's to meet with Dylan's Oncology team. There we were given a lot of information and the doctors were very competent. We feel we are working with some of the best in their field. Dylan's tumor is called a Diffused Pontine Glioma. They figure he has had it for possibly years. The tumor has just grown recently which has led it to start pressing on his nerves in his brain stem. This has caused him headaches, partial paralysis of his face among a few other symptoms which led us to seek answers. We are very fortunate to have such wonderful Pediatricians who were able to push for quick tests and results. We are very appreciative to them. During our meeting with the Oncology team we learned the location of Dylan's tumor. It is throughout his brainstem thus leaving it inoperable. Our plan as of now is to slow the growth of this nasty tumor. Last night Dylan started on steroids which he will take for the next week to help with the inflammation and take some pressure of his nerves. This will cause him to gain around 20 lbs. over the next few weeks. Today he is going down to LDS hospital to get fitted for his mask that assists in pinpointing the tumor for treatment. Starting Monday he will begin his radiation treatments. This will continue for 6 weeks Mon.-Friday. He met Dr. Thompson who will be performing these treatments. He really liked him and he made Dylan feel very comfortable.

Sooooo, that is the plan for now. Obviously there is a grand plan that we don't quite understand yet, but I am certain that in time we will. We are so grateful to have the knowledge we have been blessed with that will continue to be a strength for us. I truly believe (and I'm not just saying this, I have experienced this personally :) ) in the power of Priesthood Blessings and prayer. I also know that certain experiences are strategically designed to touch our lives at specific times. This especially includes the timing of the arrival of our newest family member, Drew. He has brought such a special spirit into our home. That, coupled with the rest of our amazing children who are constantly dancing, singing, drawing pictures or just giving us loves, makes us realize the magnitude of all the blessings we do have including all of you. This will not be an easy road. As much as I try to relieve the intense emotions with humor, they are still very raw. I will do my best to keep up on this blog, I think it will be some kind of therapy for me as well as provide answers to others at the same time. Once again, I can't even begin to tell you all how much we appreciate every single thought and prayer. Dylan is one special kid. He always has been. He too has been so touched by all the people who have shown love and support to him.