New journey

I haven't written a blog post in over 3 years but thankfully this little site is still here. It occurred to me that keeping my health updates in one spot would be a simpler way to share the information with family and friends.

If you want to start at the beginning, here it is. About 3 months ago I started noticing I was having vision issues. I was seeing double at times and couldn't figure out why. In early April, I visited an eye doctor hoping it could be corrected with a prescription change. No such luck. The eye doctor could see the problem and wanted to find out the cause. I went to a series of doctors and some things were ruled out (like diabetes and thyroid issues).

In the meantime, the double vision was getting worse. It was happening (and still is!) constantly. I had an appointment with a neurologist on June 7 to check for possible neurological causes. An MRI on June 20 showed a tumor on my brain stem.

At this point, we are waiting on doctors at OHSU in Portland to review my case and recommend a treatment plan. What we know is the tumor is in a high-activity center of my brain and the neurosurgeon said a biopsy is too risky and he considers it a non-surgical case.

We are expecting more information on Friday afternoon and have been told treatment will likely be a combination of radiation and chemo. As of now, I have a few symptoms but no pain. My eyes only work individually and not together so I spend most of my day with one eye patched. My coordination and balance are off so Brack helps guide me around. I am recently noticing my tongue is feeling numb and my speech is starting to slur. Also, my handwriting is getting worse so be glad you're reading a typed message.

Brack and I have been blown away by the responses of people near and far already. From Fayetteville, GA to Parkdale, OR we've received calls, texts, emails and cards from friends old and new. Our co-workers have already gone above and beyond during their summer break to make it clear they are here for us. It's such a comfort to know so many are thinking of us and are willing to support us in this season. Thank you.

Brack and I are praying people. We are hopeful that God is already working toward healing and we are thankful for the peace and grace we've been receiving each day. We're also thankful for humor--if you know us at all, you know we're making jokes. Laughter fills our home each day and I wouldn't have it any other way.

Our kids went back east to spend July with grandparents. While we filled them in on what we know, it's not something that's too easy to understand. I'm thankful they are having a fun summer with family while Brack and I try to figure out this new rhythm.

My mom flew out to come see us this week. She's been a huge help around our new place in Parkdale and of course a great encouragement to me. Those of you who know her understand why I'm so glad she's here.

I'll keep posting when there's more news to share. Thanks for being part of our story.

-Jordan

Me and Brack at Crater Lake

View of Mt. Adams from our friend's house in Parkdale, OR (our new town!)

On Mount Hood (in June!)

Mom and me enjoying the summer in Hood River