Support for Beau Branyan and Family

There are no words for the events of October 8, 2020 other than those in a text from my sister, "This is a nightmare." As some of you know, Beau has been suffering knee pain since July. After visiting an orthopedist, he was originally diagnosed with an injury related to overuse. After physical therapy did not help, Beau returned to the doctor, a different orthopedist, and received a new diagnosis related to inflammation under the patella. After a few weeks, Brooke became increasingly concerned about the look of Beau's leg and his continued pain. She scheduled a visit to Beau's pediatrician, Dr. Reed, on October 7. After examining Beau's leg, Dr. Reed sent Brooke and Beau to Le Bonheur's ER for an MRI. Beau was unable to tolerate the pain caused by the brace necessary for the MRI so he was admitted to the hospital so they could perform the MRI under sedation. This was completed the following day. Unfortunately, the MRI revealed tumors in Beau's pelvis region. He was diagnosed with cancer; arrangements were made for Beau to be transferred to St. Jude that evening.

Despite long days and longer nights, Beau has been a real trooper. He is asking excellent questions and throwing in a little humor to lighten the mood for everyone. He is stronger than he knows. Today, they did a biopsy of a tumor and his bone marrow, and this went really well.  We hope to get the results back Monday.  At this point, the family is trying not to speculate until a diagnosis and treatment plan are determined, but we know we are in for a long battle. Some encouraging news amidst the horrible is that Beau's chest x-ray looked good. Beau is scheduled for further scans Tuesdays, a PET scan and a CT scan. He is in the incredible care of his St. Jude team, and we are overwhelmingly grateful for this hospital and its mission.

Please pray specifically for:
-Beau's continued resolve to battle this disease 
-Brooke and Richard's continued strength
-Good scans - clear lungs and localized tumors
-Beau's grandfather who was diagnosed with cancer the same day

For those of you looking to show your support, I have set up this GoFundMe to help Brooke and Richard arrange for Cash's care during the day. Brooke normally manages his remote learning and acts as a shadow to assist with his special needs. We are currently searching for a special needs tutor to work with Cash every weekday. Donations will also help support Richard's ability to use his Family Medical Leave as needed without the worry of lost income.