Anna Jo's Battle

My wife, Shana and I are reaching out for support for our youngest daughter, Anna Jo. As you can tell from the photo, Anna Jo is in Memphis. At four years old, Anna Jo was diagnosed with Juvenile pilocytic astrocytoma (JPA) which is a rare childhood brain tumor. Only about 14 cases per million children are diagnosed. Initially, the tumour was resected at Batson Children's Hospital at UMMC. Unfortunately, they couldn't get it all. The tumor continued to grow and we started chemo with Carboplatin and vincristine. That did stop the tumor from growing but several months later it started to grow again. We looked at drug trials and were accepted for one(Lenalidomide). It did not stop the tumor. We have avoided radiation because of the severe side effects especially in younger children, but now she is older and it is her best option. So last month we started proton radiation at St. Jude's in Memphis. Her MRI also showed that some of the tumor cells had spread to her spine which is another area that will have to be treated.

Her tumor is treatable. Her prognosis is good. She is tough. She has tolerated both chemo and radiation extremely well. God has been good to us.
But it is hard on her. Pray for her. Pray that she's able to be calm and that God protects her.

Currently, Shana and our eldest, Lauren, are staying with her in the Ronald McDonald house. The boys and I are home. I am working and trying to handle the household duties.

Obviously, there's no pressure. If you have already helped us, we really appreciate the help. God's people have been good to us.

If you feel lead to contribute, we really appreciate the help. If you are praying for us, please keep us in your prayers.

Thank you in advance for your generosity.