August 5, 2026

Sunday, Mom and Dad surprised us by walking through the hospital door for a visit, which was such a blessing. Then my mom and dad came up Tuesday to surprise us, and last night Mom surprised us again and brought Rosie this time for a few days. I can’t even tell you how much those surprise visits mean to us.

Today Mom and Rosie were able to be with us during the doctor visits, listen to everything, and offer their input. We love spending time together, and having family here has helped take our minds off simply sitting in a hospital room.

As for the medical update: the doctors have added a new oral pain medication as they begin weaning Rusty off the pain pump. One step forward! 🙌 His nausea is much better controlled with medication today.

Yesterday his nausea was all day, and he needed meds around the clock, and it still wasn’t controlled.

The biggest excitement of the day? Rusty actually said food sounded good and wanted Olive Garden! Mom and Rosie went to pick up dinner for us, and seeing him want to eat again feels like a huge victory. Even though he didn’t eat a ton, it is still huge. Thank you, Mom. ( and for the hair dryer 😂)

The current plan is for him to remain in the hospital for at least another 2–3 days, depending on whether he continues progressing in the right direction. His voice sounds different because he hasn’t been using it much, and it takes more effort for him to talk.

The doctors will also be meeting with his oncologist to coordinate the transition from discharge to his appointment for the new clinical trial drug.

Today has been the best day we’ve had so far, and for the first time in several days, it truly feels like we’re moving in the right direction. Thank you all for your continued prayers, encouragement, and love. We feel every one of them, and they mean more than we can express. ❤️

Also thank you Guistos for coming up to visit and keep me company while he got some good sleep.

Thanks Eric and Mist for bringing up my stuff and visiting on Sunday. As always good laughs.

Thanks Trena and Chris for the visit. Friends of ours and the Gibby’s who are battling a similar fight.