As we share this update on December 31, it feels like a natural moment to pause and reflect. This past year brought more challenges than we could have ever imagined, but it also taught us to slow down, stay present, and focus on what matters most. Looking ahead, we do so with gratitude for how far we’ve come and a steady sense of hope for what’s next. As we transition to 2026, we want to share some updates. 

Brinley continues to be very social and engaged. She loves interaction and clearly enjoys back-and-forth play with the people around her. Whether it’s games, tickles, or simple shared moments, her enjoyment is obvious and consistent.

One of the most exciting updates has been hearing Brinley’s first words. She started with “up,” lifting her arms to be picked up, which felt especially meaningful because it was so intentional. She will also say “hi” in social moments. We’re hearing more emerging consonants as well, including M and D, and we’re starting to hear what sound like early attempts at “mama” and “dada.”

Her curiosity continues to grow. Brinley is now able to turn the pages of her board books, which has been a fun milestone to watch and a great sign of improving fine motor coordination. She’s more purposeful with her hands and more engaged with the world around her.

Physically, she’s building strength and stability. Her sitting skills are emerging, and she can now sit in a tripod position, supporting herself with her arms. It’s an important developmental step and a clear sign of increasing core strength and balance.

One of the most reassuring updates came from neurology. Brinley recently had an EEG after being fully weaned off Keppra. This study was done to see how her brain would function without seizure medication, and the results were completely normal. There was no seizure activity and no epileptiform discharges. While we will continue to be observant through age two for infantile spasms, her risk is now significantly lower, and it truly feels like we are almost out of the woods.

Feeding has also been going well. With the help of GI medications, Brinley’s reflux is well managed, and she’s enjoying more solid foods. This has been another encouraging area of progress.

Alongside Brinley’s milestones, we are also preparing for the next step in my own health journey. On January 6, I am scheduled to undergo surgery to remove the remaining lung nodules. As you might remember, they have been monitoring two nodules in my right middle lobe. Both nodules responded favorably to chemotherapy, though at this point the tumor board would just like them gone. The procedure will involve removing the targeted portion of the lung containing the nodules so the medical team can fully evaluate the tissue and ensure there is no remaining disease. Recovery is expected to take about two to four weeks, starting with rest and pain management, followed by a gradual return to normal activity as my lungs heal and strength returns. All tumor marker bloodwork continues to come back normal, which gives us confidence heading into this surgery.

As always, we’re taking things one day at a time and are deeply grateful for our doctors, therapists, family, friends, and community who continue to support us through both Brinley’s journey and our own. We’re going to kick ass in 2026!

Wishing you all a very healthy and happy new year!

With love,

Keith, Lauren, and Brinley