Nathan's Surgery Before & After Pictures

Nathan got admitted to the hospital last Saturday, since they wanted him under observation and on steroids until his doctors returned on Monday. He spent his time practicing tying knots, and we walked around the hospital and met with visitors. He seemed to be getting weaker by the day. He was extraordinarily brave, and encouraged me by saying, "God will work everything out" - his paraphrase of Romans 8:28 : "And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose."

Nathan's neuro-oncologist met with us before the surgery, and told us that the best he hoped for was that the surgeon could remove enough of the tumor that it would buy us time to try an experimental drug. If that didn't work, then he would have to have radiation, which would cause some amount of permanent brain damage. We were devastated, but continued to pray and trust God's purposes. Hundreds or maybe thousands of people were praying for Nathan and his doctors. He said a few months more and the tumor would cause permanent brain damage also, and that the surgery might cause damage.

We took advantage of nice weather the day before surgery and spent the day outside. Lots of calls and texts, but didn't want them to take away from enjoying this day with our boy, not knowing what tomorrow would bring.

We prayed that God would guide the surgeon's hands and mind, and that He would do more than we could ask or think, and He did! The surgeon was able to see the optic nerve and other critical areas to stay away from, and he was able to remove 75% or more of the tumor. The morning after surgery, Nathan wanted bacon and eggs for breakfast.

When he got out of intensive care and back into a regular room, we watched one of our favorite movies, "Sargeant York". To quote a line from the movie: "The Lord takes care of them that are a-believin' in Him."

Getting ready to go home, three days after brain surgery. Aaron managed to pack all his stuff on one wagon.

Went out for a fabulous lunch at the Old Blinking Light restaurant on the way home. Our waiter's mother had passed from brain cancer, and he was very touched by Nathan.

Here is Nathan on Sunday, the day after he came home. He painted a bird house. We are realizing that keeping him down will be the hard part of recovery.

Thank you, all of you who have prayed for Nathan, and supported us through a very difficult time. We would love to hear from you.