We find ourselves at a crossroad in Maggie’s treatment.

During our consultation with Maggie’s oncologist, Dr. Collier, we discussed her liver pathology report in depth. The tumor was removed with clear margins (all the tumor removed). However, microscopic inspection did reveal individual live cancer cells in a pattern that confirms the liver still contains cancer. In Dr. Collier’s words, the liver is now known to be similar to the lungs containing microscopic cells and nodules.

Given this new knowledge, we have several options for going forward. We could remain at the Children’s Cancer Center and continue with chemotherapy – either some combination of the first line drugs already used or move on to second line drugs. The second option is to seek treatment at an adult facility with greater experience in colorectal cancer cases. After our meeting, we spent a weekend in prayer and discussion as a family. We all agreed Maggie would have the last word. We are thankful God lead us all to perfect agreement and peace in deciding to seek referral to MD Anderson. With the support and blessing of Dr. Collier and cooperation of the entire staff, we have started the process of setting up a consultation with adult colorectal specialists.

We know up to this point, Maggie has had the best care possible in the world. She has been treated with established protocols routinely offered at every step. The decisions up to this point have been made with very little difference between chemo options. The choice has been more about preferences – oral vs. IV delivery, outpatient vs. admitted. Now we see greater differences between options with more uncertainty about results and side effects. We desire more guidance before making a decision between first line, second line or drug trial.

We’re unsure the exact time frame involved. We are praying for fast processing – her records will be transferred to MD and a 3-5 day evaluation process of them will follow. We will then be contacted regarding her case. Maggie was initially scheduled to restart chemo this Thursday, the 22nd. We will discuss with Dr. Collier whether she will receive any more chemo there. We’ll update on that issue when we know.

We have not lost our faith in God’s absolute power to heal or in His absolute nature of Goodness. We are learning daily the true nature of praying “Not my will, but thine be done.”  Please pray for a perfect timing and problem-free transfer of care to MD Anderson. Pray we retain the strength to keep doing what we need to do to fight this. And pray for us to have wisdom to make decisions for Maggie’s treatment consistent with God’s plan for His glory and her good. We love you and thank our God daily for family and friends who walk this road with us.