Phoebe update - 4th March

Phoebe has made a good recovery since the removal of the tumour a month ago. But as Phoebe starts the treatment phase tomorrow we naturally feel concerned about the significant side effects this could cause. 

Today Matt writes on the Facebook page '#PrayForPhoebe':

Stem cell harvesting has gone well & today will be the last day.

Please pray for us as radiotherapy starts tomorrow. Common short term side effects are tiredness/fatigue, hair loss, nausea/sickness, itchy skin, thin skin, skin discolouring, sore throat, headaches.

Although the short term side effects aren't pleasant, they pale in comparison to the long term ones. Common long term side effects are hormone failure, thyroid deficiency, infertility, reduced IQ, memory loss, secondary cancer from radiation, stunted growth in spine, cataracts, dry mouth.

Almost all of these side effects can be combated with medicine/surgery but it means a life of medical issues. It doesn't mean a life without joy or happiness though.

It's hard for us to grasp but we grieve at these lists, especially the long term side effects. Please pray boldly that Phoebe would be the exception and wouldn't have to deal with these. Pray for us as we cope with all of this. Pray our joy would remain firmly in the hope we have in Christ our Saviour.

Big hugs!