Getting Better All the Time

Sorry about the long wait for an update. We've been very busy as Byron recovers from surgery. This was a big one and took a lot out of him, but his spirits are high and he gets stronger every day. He's getting around on crutches very well - he even took a little walk down the sidewalk in front of our house today.

The surgeon saw Byron today and was pleased with his progress. There is some question as to what our next steps are. With less than 50% of the tumor being "necrotic," we can't be sure whether or not the cancer responded to the type of chemo drugs already used on Byron. Obviously, we don't want to put Byron through any unnecessary toxicity. On the other hand, we want to do whatever it takes to safeguard him from further recurrence of the cancer. The oncologist and surgeon are doing a bit more research and we will make decisions in the next few weeks.

Meanwhile, Byron continues to heal and grow stronger. He definitely wants to get back into the scene as quickly as possible. So many people have been so supportive throughout this journey, and he is anxious to get back and give back to his community. We have received many gifts and much love. There are so many people to thank for so many things. I must say a special thanks to Byron's loving parents and his wonderful grandmother, Gigi, for the amazing gift of a brand-new refrigerator. Wow! And a BIG hug and congrats to Barb - we are so happy for you! Love to all!

He's Coming Home!

These things are never set ins tone, of course, but they told Byron he could come home tomorrow. That makes a very nice birthday present! He's such a strong guy, and he is doing very well, considering what he's going through. Knowing that he wants this page to be more about his art than his health, I offer the following pictures from last Monday night - his last night out before the surgery (musicians, please forgive any mistakes or omissions, and feel free to correct me!):
The first set: Ross Hammond, Alex Jenkins, Randy
And for the second set, we have Loren Pritchard, Tawnya Mendoza, and Tyler Lammerding
The third set, featuring guest from LA, Ross hammond, Alex Jenkins, Tawnya Mendoza, Randy, Byron Blackburn, and Shawn Hale