*Tumor Turmoil*

So, most of you know, Ashley's pain subsided about a year ago, after a full year of agonizing migrains believed to be related to her brain tumors. This year has been pain free, and we have been very thankful for that. We are still in need of your prayers though as only just this past week, we found out that both of Ashley's brain tumors (bilateral optic nerve gliomas) have grown. The right side, which has always given us the most concern, but until recently had remained stable, has nearly doubled in size in just the past 3 months time since her last MRI in July, and is now breaching the chiasm. This particular tumor is threatening the integrity of Ashley's vision so it must be monitored very carefully, thus we are back to 3 month intervals for her MRIs, oncology follow-ups, and ophthalmology examinations. Chemotherapy is lingering heavily in the shadows now, although not 100% for certain at present. Timing is key, and too early could interfere with effectiveness should she have stronger need for it down the road. We have also been told that because this particular tumor is not just elongating, but because of the manner in which it is thickening in diameter as well, it is also of concern that it could potentially engage her pituitary gland which could ultimately put her into instant puberty at age 6 or 7. Obviously, we do not want this so again, close monitoring and treatment considerations are key, as well as timing. Aside from the usual concerns of hitting puberty too early, this could also stop her growth in it's entirety, meaning she could stay the size she is at the time that breach, when and if, occurs, and would remain so for the rest of her life. She has some newer cerebral mass which is common for Neurofibromatosis, and appears to be stable at present, however if it increases it could become a potential hazard to her motor skills and development. The least of the new findings, is a small cyst in her brain, near the surface. For now, it is pretty insignificant, especially when compared to the rest, but if it were to grow and get large enough, it could potentially block the flow of spinal fluid. Prayers are greatly appreciated! Ashley will be seeing the Ophthalmologist in a couple of weeks, in January,.. and we have to set up a review with a special developmentalist for her. I don't recall the appropriate 'title', but what they'll be doing is basically seeing where all Ashley is at on things developmentally to create a 'base report'. This will help map her progress (or deteriations, God forbid, please) should the tumors continue to grow and/or Ashley undergoes chemotherapy. Her next MRI is planned for 3 months, so the first week of March, however, she could get moved up sooner into February if the ophthalmology report indicates it's warranted.

Scott's mom is still hanging in there, but we continue to ask for your prayers for her as well,.. She is a very strong woman, but this is a very difficult battle, and takes it's toll. We try to stay focused on the positives, and keep praying for miracles in our families.

Please continue to keep Alice & her family in your prayers, too,.. they REALLY need them right now. They continue to receive more & more difficult news on Alice's condition, and now face some very difficult decisions and realities. No family should have to endure what this family has been going through, and we just ask that you please lift them up in prayer.

We wish you all the greatest of joys, a very Merry Christmas, and a blessed New Year! Please remember eachother during this holiday season, and remind one another how much you mean,.. each day is precious, and we know all too well about that. We love each & every one of you. God bless you all,.. always.