A Brief Update on My Son

Sorry I’ve been away from the blog the past few days, it’s mostly been work that’s prevented me from getting.  We did have some follow up on my son’s health situation.  The tumor board, which is a panel of 20 or so experts convened whenever a new tumor is diagnosed at Children’s Hospital in Dallas, met and reached the same conclusion the pediatric neurosurgery physicians had reached – they believe it is a “low grade” tumor that is probably not fast growing and may have been around for some time. He will receive further testing to establish a baseline and have a very intensive MRI done in a month to see if the tumor has changed at all.  If not, he’ll have another MRI every three months to continue to monitor its status.

So, provided he doesn’t have any problems develop that indicate the tumor is affecting him in negative ways, he’ll just continue on anti-seizure meds and be closely watched.  The doctor did indicate that ultimately, he’ll probably require surgery to remove the tumor. It’s not a certainty but it’s the greatest probability.  The hope is to put that off as far as possible.  Because of the location of the tumor, it’s very likely he would suffer vision loss of one degree or another if or when surgery becomes necessary.  So while his incredible recovery has been amazing and a blessing beyond description, this is not something he’s “gotten over.”  He has a very serious condition and it will require close observation for years to come.

Thank you again for all of your prayers.  Please keep my good boy in your prayers for the foreseeable future.  It is my fervent hope that through the many prayers being offered up Benedict may never have to have surgery and the tumor may simply be cured through God’s benevolence.  I have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of spiritual support for my son – literally hundreds of people are praying for him.  I shall have Masses offered for your intentions and in thanksgiving for your generosity.

Unless something unexpected occurs, this will probably be the last update for some time.  That is my hope, at least.