SAT . Immunotherapy Dose #1: Stepping Into the Unknown

Today was a big day.
We’re still moving forward with immunotherapy — and this morning started with a strong radiation visit and a clear game plan. From there, it was straight to clinic to talk through medications, pain control, and what to expect with this first round.
And somewhere in between all the plans and explanations… the “what ifs” crept in.
This was his first dose. You can read about side effects. You can hear the doctors explain the science. But until it’s actually in his body, you just don’t know how it’s going to respond.
Will’s biggest worry? His arm pain flaring. Steroids are the only thing that truly help right now — but steroids can interfere with immunotherapy. It’s a hard trade-off. A frustrating one.
He got discouraged. I got frustrated. Negativity rolled in for a minute.
Jason, as always, was the steady one — grounding us when emotions started spiraling. After he left for work, Will and I just sat there waiting on meds and talked honestly. About fear. About side effects. About how scary it is to start something new — especially when you’re 15, exhausted from hurting, and facing choices no teenager should have to make.
But we pulled it back together.
First doses are always the hardest because of the unknown. Thankfully, we have a strong medical team watching him closely. We’re taking this one step at a time.
Immunotherapy dose #1 is officially complete.
Tears have stopped. Fluids are running. We’ll head home soon. And I’m at the end of an emotional rollercoaster — ready to crash, rest, and maybe cry into a gallon of ice cream.
Still fighting. Still trusting. Still moving forward.
Please pray his arm pain stays away.