Home.

After a very long six days in the hospital, we were finally discharged on Saturday afternoon. Phew. It was amazing to go home, with Laila, knowing that the tumor is OUT! Relieved and exhausted, we took the weekend to lay low, at home, as a reunited family. And it felt so good. I am writing this one week post-surgery, and boy what a difference a week makes. A week ago right now, Chris and I were both an anxious mess, pacing around the hospital, awaiting the hourly updates from the OR. The sense of calm I have this week versus last week is immeasurable. Prior to our discharge, we also found out that her pathology came back CLEAR! Best news ever. They tested the lymph nodes and tissues that surrounded the tumor for cancer and all of it was clear. "Relieved” is truly an understatement. Many people have asked if "clear pathology" means we are done with treatment. Unfortunately, it does not. Next up, Laila will begin a five to seven straight days of radiation starting next Monday. Sadly, she will have to be put under for every session, everyday. But, first we take her in this Wednesday so they can run a simulation to make sure they know exactly where to place everything for next week.

Following radiation, chemo will resume (likely every week) until Thanksgiving (we hope). At this point, we believe the chemo and radiation are just precautionary - to be sure there aren’t any more cancer cells hiding inside her. Despite looking so small and frail, Laila continues to be a daily inspiration. She is beginning (and very determined) to crawl. And yesterday, for the first time since surgery, started to be her animated, smiley, giggly self again. She is also back to sleeping through the night which is amazing and another huge relief.

Thank you again, from the bottom of our hearts, to everyone who sent messages, texts, prayers, cards, gifts, flowers, balloons, food and everything else. As we've continued to say, all of your love and support has really helped all of us navigate through everything we've been facing. We couldn't be doing this without you and the unwavering generously you have bestowed on our family.

Radiation will definitely be a new adventure, but after going through surgery, bring it on!