All Stable

First MRI since we restarted treatment shows that the trial drug is continuing to have effect. The official word is that the tumor is stable, and shows no growth since the February MRI. Looking at the figures it might even have shrunk slightly. But they need to see a more significant decrease to officially declare shrinkage. However, stable is VERY good we are much relieved and move forward for another three months.

This means we can now finally start to think about our summer plans. We are still constrained by medical appointments and school holidays but we are very grateful that the treatment is continuing to have a positive effect. Isabella is one of the first to go back on this treatment.

Meanwhile in other news: it is still pouring with rain here and feels more like March than the typical May weather for DC. We did have a lovely sunny day yesterday, though very cold for the 5 K color run that Gregorio and the girls did. I waited at the finish with a cappuccino in hand and everyone's sweatshirts!

We are gearing up towards the end of school with lots of annual events, with choral concerts, sports day, exams, birthdays and more.

Next MRI end of July.

Lots of love,
Emma & Gregorio xxx

Race for Hope 2016

Most of the Team at the start of the race.

Well it poured with rain but this did not dampen spirits. We had an amazing turn out, nearly 60 in Team Impavido. Thank you to all who joined us, along with thousands of other runners and walkers. Isabella strode proudly in the survivor's tribute (see video below - though I am not sure this will work!) and we all ran or walked in record speed

It was a memorable day. Here are some fun photos of the team!

Team Impavido at the end

We abandoned the celebratory lunch in the garden - even the English think twice about 60 in the garden in the rain....so we moved to a large pizzeria in Bethesda and took over a private room. A fun and relaxing way to celebrate with dear friends. We are very grateful for their immense support and when the rain stopped all kids (and one or two adults) even went outside and played rugby - an annual tradition for two members of the team.

The donations just keep on rolling in, we are nearly at $4,500 raised by Team Impavido for 2016. Vice President Biden spoke at yesterday's event, though we missed him. His support  for this cause and over $2 million raised so far by Race for Hope 2016 will surely move us closer to better treatments and a cure. Here's hoping.

Many thanks to all who supported near and far.

Lots of love,
Emma, Gregorio, Isabella & Matilde xxx

Sheltering in CVS before the start

Great outfit! Did it keep you dry?

Last but not least!

5k ladies - give me a game of tennis over running any day!