It’s been a little while since my last update in late September, when we were anxiously waiting for the results of my post-chemo scans and bloodwork, as well as Brinley’s EEG. I’m so grateful to finally share that this month brought some of the best news we could have hoped for — both for me and for Brinley.

My Health Update

After months of chemotherapy, bloodwork, and scans, I finally received results that bring a huge sense of relief and hope.

My most recent tumor markers — AFP, beta-hCG, and LDH — are all completely normal, which means there’s no sign of active cancer. The CT scans confirmed the same story: the lung nodules that were once suspicious for metastasis have continued to shrink, with no evidence of active disease. In the world of oncology, that means one beautiful word — remission.

Getting through cancer wasn’t something I could have done alone. My incredible wife, Lauren, showed up in ways I didn’t know were possible. When I was too weak to handle daily tasks, she managed Brinley’s appointments and therapies, made sure I got to every chemo session, cooked meals, and kept me hydrated and nourished. She was my steady anchor through every high and low — my hero.

Every single night, Lauren and I would ask each other these same five questions:

1. What was your favorite part about today?

2. What did you learn today?

3. What made you laugh today?

4. What are you looking forward to tomorrow?

5. Do you need any support?

Those nightly conversations helped us end each day with gratitude and reflection — even when the day was hard. They gave us perspective and kept us connected.

One thing Lauren mentioned to me last night was something that she learned during this journey, which is to focus on the present. You can work yourself up and create unnecessary anxiety with future “potential” diagnosis or what this or that could mean, but you need to live in the present, because things might not always be as they appear. An example of this is that for a long time we thought Brinley has Aicardi Syndrome which was not the case. One day at a time is a mantra that we will never forget.

I also couldn’t have done this without my mom, Glenna. She drove me to chemo, stayed with me during those long infusion days, and constantly reassured me that I’d get through it. She coordinated with Lauren, checked in every day, and was always there when I needed her.

And then there’s my community — my tribe. Friends and family constantly reached out with messages, meals, and encouragement. That support was the fuel that kept me positive throughout treatment.

I’ve always felt close to my community, but this experience showed me just how deep those connections go. I am, without question, a lucky man — and forever grateful.

Next Steps

Now that chemotherapy and initial recovery are behind me, I’ll be entering a surveillance phase. This means ongoing bloodwork and periodic CT scans to make sure everything stays clear and that there’s no sign of recurrence. My oncology team will closely monitor my tumor markers and imaging on a regular schedule — a process that brings reassurance and helps ensure any future changes would be caught early.

While the journey continues, this next chapter feels much lighter, and I’m thankful to be in a place where “normal” is starting to return.

Brinley’s Progress

Now for even more good news.

We met with Brinley’s neurologist yesterday, and her recent EEG from September came back as what he called a best-case scenario: completely normal results with normal wave activity. While EEGs can’t predict the future, this is a great indication that she hasn’t had any seizures or spasms. If that continues for another year, her neurologist believes she will no longer be considered high-risk.

With this good news, we no longer have to make the drive to Oakland every three months — instead, we’ll go every six months for her in-person visits.

Brinley’s therapies continue to amaze us. We’re pretty sure she said her first word (“up”!) and she’s becoming so interactive and expressive. She is babbling a lot more and is turning into a little social butterfly, just like me! Her head control continues to improve and she’s almost able to sit up independently. Every day, she’s full of smiles, and her personality just shines through.

Time to Celebrate

After months of uncertainty, long hospital days, and emotional endurance, we finally have reason to celebrate. Both Brinley and I are moving forward with health, hope, and so much gratitude for the love that has carried us here.

It’s time to celebrate the good news. 💛

Thank You

To our family, friends, and community — thank you for walking beside us through every step of this journey. Your messages, meals, visits, and words of encouragement gave us strength on the hardest days. We’ve felt lifted by your love and are endlessly grateful to have such an incredible circle of support surrounding our family.

We can’t wait to continue sharing brighter updates ahead.

Happy Halloween!

Love Keith, Lauren and Brinley