A mother shares her emotional journey with her four-year-old son Joel, who has a rare and aggressive brain tumor. After being diagnosed at age one, Joel underwent chemotherapy and radiation, and his parents were told he might not survive. However, at two points when his death was deemed imminent, Joel miraculously recovered, and the tumors disappeared. The family has learned to live day-to-day, relying on faith and finding joy in the small things, like Joel's giggle. Despite the challenges, they remain hopeful and find strength in their love for each other.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. Joel has a rare and aggressive brain tumor.
2. Joel was diagnosed with the tumor when he was 1 year old.
3. The treatment for the tumor involved chemotherapy and radiation.
4. Joel underwent 30 days of radiation, 6 days a week.
5. During treatment, Joel was very sick and vomited three to four times a day.
6. Joel's parents prayed for him to stop being nauseous, and he stopped vomiting after that.
7. Joel's tumor came back 10 months after treatment started.
8. The doctors said there was nothing new they could try to treat the tumor.
9. Joel was given two weeks to four months to live.
10. Joel's parents were asked to sign a "do not resuscitate" order.
11. Hospice care was called in for Joel.
12. Despite the prognosis, Joel's next MRI showed that two of his tumors were gone and the other one was shrinking.
13. Joel has been off all cancer treatment for six months.
14. Joel's MRI results are checked every three months.
15. Joel's current MRI showed that he has a new tumor.
16. Joel is almost 4 years old and does not talk in a meaningful way.
17. Joel has a younger brother named Elijah who has similar needs.
18. Joel's parents have two older sons as well.
19. Joel's family has to deal with the uncertainty of his condition and the possibility of his death.
20. Joel's parents are grateful for the time they have with him and are praying for his healing.