50%!!
Eric and I wanted to take a minute to update everyone. This past couple of weeks have been rough for both of us.
A couple weeks ago, Eric had an MRI to assess how treatment is going. Unfortunately, the MRI was less definitive than we had hoped. There are several signals on the MRI that could be interpreted a couple of different ways. The short version is that the MRI shows a size difference in the tumor that wasn't surgically resected. Unfortunately, that size difference could mean that the tumor is growing, or it may be treatment effect (swelling and irritation) from the chemo/radiation.
Currently, there isn't a good way to make a solid determination either way. There aren't any other tests that would give us a definitive answer. So, we are currently stuck knowing it could be tumor growth or it could be treatment effect.
Last week, Eric suffered a seizure while teaching class. Luckily, two of his students knew exactly what to do, took action, and did everything they could to help Eric. What they did was perfect for Eric. Due to their responsible actions, we were able to get Eric the advanced care that he needed in a timely manner.
After an ER visit and multiple tests, the medical consensus is that Eric had a break-through seizure and needed several medication changes. This week has been much better after making those changes.
The good news is that we are celebrating Eric being 50% done with his chemo rounds! Last night Eric finished his third round of six planned rounds. 50% done!!
We have several appointments this week to hopefully determine a plan of action going from here forward. While the future is uncertain, Eric is continuing to live life to the fullest possible! We continue to hike together and squeeze out adventures when we can!
Thanks for all of your love and support. We both appreciate it! We certainly couldn't do this without you.
On a fun note, Eric is going to be involved with a Carroll College math debate on Thursday September 23 at 7pm. They are going to attempt to live stream it.....but, being outside may interfere with live streaming. Feel free to check out the live stream tomorrow! https://www.facebook.com/carrollcollege/ https://www.carroll.edu/event/math-debate-under-stars
Comments (10)
What an amazing pair of students!
I can hear Eric teaching one of his classes down the hall from me, and I'm amazed at how he keeps projecting his energy & enthusiasm despite the rigors of the treatment. You'd never know from listening to him that he's under any treatment at all! We're all pulling for him at Carroll!
Two angels were exactly where they were supposed to be… Thinking of you two often and sending lots of good thoughts from the ‘hood. THANK YOU for taking the time to do these updates. (I often think about Eric’s long solo hike a couple years ago…Drew kept me informed about parts of it. Do you remember where you were when you hit the 50% milestone of THAT journey…? THAT was some trip, wasn’t it?!?)
Stay strong!!!
It was wonderful to see the four of you this morning! We are praying for both of you. Can't wait to see the Math Debate on Thursday! The Ryerson's
Keeping both of you in my prayers. So very thankful for the angels in Eric’s class and the seizures are under control. This journey is not for the weak. The two of you have been very courageous and strong tackling this journey. My prayers are for continued strength and peace through this and healing. 👊 Eric Strong!! 👊 Sullivan Strong!!!
Again, Johnanna, thank you for this information. Love the idea of Eric and the math debate AND you two hiking HIKING hiking. BnP
Kimberly Ayers' mom here. Once again, thank you both for being good friends with Kim during her two year stay at Carroll. Mutual love for math and hiking and dogs meant many memorable happy hours in Montana's natural beauty for you all. Your family and friends' closeness and support during the toughest period of your lives have been awe inspiring. Please know that there are some who haven't met you personally but are rooting for you, and cheering Eric's strength. Helaine Ayers
Teaching under the stars...how great! Hoping the weather cooperates to provide you with a better backdrop than any Hollywood set could ever make! Sorry to hear about the seizure but happy to hear it happened where not one but two people were prepared to help you, immediately! You both are truly amazing and have so much support surrounding you all of the time! Keep healing!
You and Eric are warriors! Praying for you to have courage and fight the daily battle without fear. We love you.