June 5, 2012

Good Morning!

As you know, Nathan was diagnosed with a substantial brain tumor that we believe is originating from the brain stem and reaching out to the cerebellum. He is in surgery right to remove as much of the tumor as they can safely. Safely is the key word. Because the brain stem controls breathing, they have to be very careful how much of the tumor is removed. We know there is a portion of the tumor they can not remove. The surgery is expected to last 7 hours. They have already inserted a tube in the top of the brain to drain the fluid and they just started the actual surgery.

Nathan is in excellent hands here. Dr. Ian Pollack is the Neurosurgeon performing the surgery. We pray that God guides his hands to safely remove as much of the tumor as possible. We also pray the tumor is benign. Those are the two main pieces of Nathan's journey we are currently praying for.

We know you are all praying for our little guy today. We can not thank you enough. Mike and I are truly overwhelmed by the care and concern you have all shown. We find comfort and strength in knowing so many people are looking afterNathan. The reason we chose the name Nathan is because it means, A Gift From God. We know Dr. Pollack will take care of our precious gift.

My sister-in-law, Kristen is going to help me give you all updates. Nathan is going to need every ounce of my time after he gets out of surgery. I know you are all waiting to hear how things go and I will not have the time to write individual emails. I apologize.

These words were sent from my brother this morning and I believe them to be true.

"Today is the first day we get up and don't have to try and figure out what is wrong with Nathan. Today is the first day we get to cure Nathan. Today he stops getting worse and starts getting better. We have the right pictures, the right diagnosis, and the right surgeon and a stronger 8 month old than anyone can imagine. Today he starts to get better."

Much love to all of you.

Beth, Mike, and Nathan