Will’s health has shown new improvements following his recent follow-up examination and radiation therapy, offering a rare positive sign in his long battle with osteosarcoma.
Will’s treatment day began very early, with the whole family having to leave home while it was still dark to keep up with their schedule in Birmingham.
According to family members, this was one of the important follow-up appointments, including radiation therapy, clinical examination, and blood tests to assess the current response to treatment.
The long journey, combined with the extended waiting time at the hospital, left both Will and his family exhausted.
It’s not just physical exhaustion, but also prolonged psychological pressure from facing outcomes that could completely alter the treatment plan.
In the days leading up to this, the family had noticed Will experiencing unusual pain in both forearms.
The pain occurs in the same location on both arms, appearing and disappearing intermittently, causing particular concern for the family.
According to the initial assessment by the medical team, the most likely cause is muscle strain due to Will’s prolonged use of crutches.
The frequent use of crutches to assist with mobility places significant strain on the musculoskeletal system in the upper body, particularly the forearms.
No new lesions directly related to the progression of cancer have been detected in this area so far.
However, doctors emphasize that with osteosarcoma patients, all signs of pain need to be closely monitored and should not be taken lightly.
The family said that although the pain wasn’t constant, it was enough to cause concern, as they were all too familiar with the fact that the illness could change in a short period of time.
In that context, the latest blood test results have provided an important positive sign.
Alkaline phosphatase levels, a key biochemical parameter in monitoring bone cancer, have decreased to within the normal range.
According to medical records, in December, Will’s blood glucose level exceeded 800, significantly higher than his normal range of 100 to 500.
This high rate of increase had previously caused doctors and families to worry about the level of disease activity.
Two weeks ago, the alkaline phosphatase level dropped to 525, which is considered an initial improvement but not enough to confirm a stable trend.
By the latest test, the number had further decreased to 460, officially returning to the normal range, although it remains at a high level.
According to Will’s relatives, this is the number the family has been monitoring most closely throughout his treatment.
This is because this index usually reflects the level of bone metabolism and is closely related to the activity of cancer cells in osteosarcoma.
The consistent improvement in alkaline phosphatase levels is thought to be related to the daily oral medication Will is taking as part of his current treatment regimen.
The family expressed hope that the medication was working as expected, helping to control the progression of the disease.
Although doctors haven’t reached a definitive conclusion, they consider this a positive sign in a treatment process that is often fraught with uncertainty.
From a professional standpoint, the return of a key indicator to the normal range does not necessarily mean the disease is completely under control.
However, in cancer treatment, especially bone cancer, even small changes can be very significant.
Will’s family said the result was a huge morale boost after weeks of constant stress.
It gives them more confidence to continue supporting their child through the treatment process ahead.
According to the plan, Will will return to the hospital in two weeks for his next scan on February 19th.
This scan will play a crucial role in assessing the overall response to treatment and determining the next course of treatment.
In the meantime, Will continues to follow his current treatment plan, which includes taking his medication daily and closely monitoring for any unusual symptoms.
The family was also advised to minimize the risk of infection, as Will’s immune system was being affected by the treatment.
Despite facing a serious illness, Will still retains the playful spirit of a boy his age.
The family said the boy had previously engaged in risky behavior, such as driving a four-wheeled vehicle through water despite the potential dangers.
The incident did not have serious medical consequences, but it caused the family concern about the risk of infection and injury.
Doctors believe this is a common challenge in caring for pediatric cancer patients, as it requires balancing medical safety with the child’s need for movement and play.
During the follow-up appointment, the tense atmosphere was somewhat eased by everyday family moments.
Will’s grandmother spoke directly with and questioned him about his risky behavior, showing both strictness and concern.
According to family members, such moments help the family stay connected and maintain a positive spirit amidst the long days of treatment.
Currently, Will is still undergoing intensive treatment, with biochemical indicators showing signs of improvement, but we cannot be complacent.
Doctors emphasize that osteosarcoma is a complex disease, requiring long-term monitoring and continuous evaluation through various stages.
Will’s family said they choose to face reality day by day, continue with treatment, and not set expectations beyond the current medical capabilities.
However, the results of this test have provided them with what they’ve always needed on this challenging journey.
That’s one reason to continue believing.
And this provides a basis for hoping for positive changes in the coming period.
