Today Julie had a PET scan and first meeting with the oncologist Dr. Prager. Marisa was in the waiting room during the PET scan and Michaela joined Julie in the meeting with Dr. Prager while a whole crew of others were listening on the phone and telecom.

We are thankful to have some confirmed information, but we were heartbroken the PET Scan today found reconstructed breast cancer involving skin, an enlarged lymph node in the center of her chest, enlarged lymph nodes by her clavicle, spinal lesions in the cervical, multiple rib lesions and lumbar spine lesions in addition to tumor in liver. PET Scan did not reveal lung lesions as indicated on the abdomen CT Scan, however will be followed by a CT Chest. The CT scan showed spots on the lungs, but the PET did not so there will likely be another chest scan. It was overwhelming to see how far spread the cancer is and frustrating that it was not detected sooner.

Dr. Prager was great to talk to, very patient with our many questions and seemed realistically optimistic. We were able to talk to her about potential treatments, but we will not be able to plan until the biopsy happens. The biopsy determines the treatment plan. Unfortunately, she said the biopsy results take two weeks and time is of the essence. Dr. Prager will be calling on her behalf every day to advocate for the appointment to be moved sooner.

Prayer requests:

• Praise that we were connected with a kind and helpful doctor

• Praise for our amazing friends and family, especially Reina and Kim who have been calling doctors, nurses and hospitals day and night to get appointments

• Prayer that we can get the biopsy moved up ASAP, that is critical

• Prayer that the brain scan and lung scan would come back with no additional issues

• Prayer that the second oncologist appointment at Cedar Sinai on Thursday afternoon would also go well and that the Lord would give Julie and her squad wisdom to choose a good doctor

• Prayer that the blood work would go smoothly and be quick and painless (Julie’s veins are small and difficult to locate and only accessible from one side)

• Prayer that Julie would be comfortable physically, peaceful mentally and that she would be able to have fun times with friends and family during a very stressful season

• Prayer that Mic, Marisa, Michaela, Neal and Meg would be able to focus at their jobs as they have been very distracted and emotional

• Prayer that Eli would be diligent during his pastoral internship at Bay View OPC and able to balance visiting with the family in Los Angeles and investing his time in the congregation in San Diego

• Pray that the Hirtzel, Archimbud, Drinkward family would be in good spirits, able to support each other and enjoy time spent together

Thank you,

Marisa and Michelle