The chemo/immunotherapy treatment that I completed three cycles of was ineffective (the usual effectiveness rate is 90%). Since receiving the news on Monday, we have been waiting to hear on the plan for a biopsy and next course of treatment. Meanwhile, my family has felt very strongly that it is time to get more aggressive. They have generously initiated and funded a trip for me to be evaluated at MD Anderson in Houston.
The people at MD Anderson do not fool around. In a matter of hours, we were in full 
communication getting my appointment scheduled, records sent to them and flights/hotel all arranged. Jonathan and I will fly out on Sunday and have my first appointment on Monday with Lymphoma specialist, Luis Fayad, MD.
Through prayer and what we believe to be nudges by the Holy Spirit, as a family, we agree this is the next best step. After a long, informative appointment this morning with my general oncologist/hematologist, we can anticipate a thorough review of my records, more diagnostics (which may get intense) and a treatment that may be a clearly defined path, or one of their new innovative treatments that are more aggressive. We can definitely head there knowing that we are going to be working with a team full of the best of the best.
We ask that above anything else, that you continue to pray. Please pray for our safety as we travel, wisdom for all of the medical personnel that will have input in my care, Jonathan’s and my faith, stamina and discernment as we are given choices. We ultimately want God to have the glory, and hope for a complete healing too!
April and Jonathan
Our hopes, encouraging thoughts, and prayers will be traveling with you!
Scott and Rachelle
Little April I have tried everything to get a message to you now mqaybe this will work. Our prayers will be with you every mile you travel and every step you take. We will be praying for your doctors too. We love you so much. Our prayers and love toJonathan too.
as you fly closer and closer TO M.D. ANDERSON tomorrow there will go our prayers mile after mile. we ask God to hold both of you in his arms and tell you everything is going to be good. We will also pray for your doctors that God will be there with them so they will know just the right thing to do for you. So little April you are surrounded by love and faith by so many, many people and we love you so much. Aunt Marianna and Uncle Gene
Jonathan and April, we will be praying for you in this difficult process. Your lives are such a witness to God working through you in the midst of trials. I’m thankful you have decided to get a second opinion and are taking more aggressive action. May God guide your steps and give you strength and courage in the days ahead.
“My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” (Exodus 33:14 )
Praying for healing mercy from the God of wonders, and the peace of Christ to rule in your hearts…in the name of Jesus our Lord, amen.
Know that we are continuing to pray for you both. In the Bible we find in Isaiah 41:10 the following:
fear not, for I am with you;
be not dismayed, for I am your God;
I will strengthen you, I will help you,
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
All of us need to hold fast to this verse and believe it and trust in God to do what He says He will do. We can put our trust in nothing higher! Love you both.
PRAYING FOR YOU CONTINUALLY!!!!!
Praying for you April and Jonathan!! Please let us know if there is anything we can do for you. Text or call anytime!!
April & Jonathan:
God is mighty and powerful and He loves you both so much. He is carrying you in the palm of His hand. Trust in Him and rely on His strength.
I pray for you both daily and I know that God is going shine His glory through you both and you will touch lives for Him as you walk this path. Please let us know if we can help in way.
Love you and your sweet family.
Psalm 28:7
The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him.
We continue to pray for your healing, and we are available to help you any way we can.
So amazed at how quickly you were admitted to MD Anderson and we are believing and agreeing this is the right next step. You and Jonathan are so strong in The Lord and a testimony to many. I’m reminded of Philippians 4:6 when I think of you and claiming verses 19 and 23 in that same chapter for you. Let us know if there’s anything we can do to help, especially with your precious children. You have our prayers and our love every step of the way in this journey. Len and William
Jonathan,
Just knowing that you and April trust God will make my prayers easier, but no less frequent. Let me know if there is anything that I can do for you or your family during this chapter of your lives. Christ is our strength.
Please know that you’re in our constant thoughts and prayers! We are here and willing to do whatever you might have for us to do! Know how very much we support and LOVE you!
I look forward to the day that we can meet at Starbucks, kick back and share, laugh and enjoy what God has planned for our day!!!