Update on Paige

Dear family and friends,

It has been a long time since I have posted on this blog but we have decided to use it as a way to update everyone with what is going on with Paige. Thank you so much for your love, support, and prayers the past few days. We have felt the strength of all your prayers. We have received so many calls and texts, and we apologize that we have not answered as many of them as we would like to. Please know that we have been very busy and just haven't had the time to get back to everyone, but that does not mean that we don't appreciate your concern.

Here is what we have found out so far. Paige has a tumor located behind her left eye. The doctors are still not sure what kind it is, but the signs are pointing to lymphangioma orbit. If it is this kind of tumor it is most likely something she was born with. The tumor is not affecting her brain which is good. It is very large and could start affecting her vision so we are needing to act quickly. She is going in tomorrow (Wednesday) for a biopsy. The results of the biopsy will be able to tell us more and they will be able to figure out a treatment plan. The tumor cannot be removed because it is wrapped around her optical nerve and there would be too much risk of damaging it. We are home right now, getting ready for her surgery tomorrow. We are very blessed to be working with some of the best doctors in the nation. We also feel blessed because the surgeon would not normally be available on so short of notice but he had a rare cancellation for tomorrow and agreed to take on Paige.

Paige is doing great. She is not in any pain and feels completely normal. The only noticeable sign is that her left eye is bulging slightly more than her right eye. She has been doing so great with everything. She is VERY brave and holds still for her tests and IVs. The doctors and nurses all love her and are very shocked at her ability to cooperate; they say she does better than most big kids. It has been hard for her not understanding why she needs to be at the doctor and taking medicine when she is not sick, but overall she has done wonderfully.

We will be going in early tomorrow morning for her surgery. We don't know how long Paige will have to stay at the hospital for. If everything goes really well she could possibly go home that day, or she may have to stay the night or longer. Stacie's mom was able to fly in yesterday to help out so she will be helping taking care of Rylee, Eric and Sam. Tony has been able to take off work and they are very understanding so that is great as well. We feel so blessed to have so many wonderful family members, neighbors, friends, and ward members who have been helping by watching our children, bringing food, and praying for us.

We appreciate all the offers of help. Please keep praying for Paige, the doctors, and our family. We have felt much strength from your prayers. We know our Heavenly Father is watching over us and helping us. We love you all.