Eli’s First Day of Radiation

Today was Eli’s first day of radiation, and emotions were definitely high for all of us. We’ve been anticipating this day for weeks, and when it finally arrived, it brought a mix of fear, hope, worry, and uncertainty.

The good news is that Eli did so well. He was incredibly brave and handled everything like a champ. No matter how many times he shows us his strength, we’re still amazed by him.

After he woke up, his first request was chips and salsa, so naturally that’s where we headed. Seeing him hungry and acting like himself brought a lot of comfort after a long day.

Eli will receive radiation treatments Monday through Friday, with a projected end date of July 21. While the road ahead feels long, today was the first step, and we’re choosing to focus on one day at a time.

What makes today even more meaningful is that it is World Brain Tumor Day. Of all the days for Eli to begin this next phase of treatment, it feels fitting that it falls on a day dedicated to raising awareness for those battling brain tumors and honoring the strength of patients and families walking this difficult path.

Watching your child go through something like this is heartbreaking, but watching him face it with so much courage makes us incredibly proud. He is teaching us every day what true strength looks like.

Today was a big milestone in this journey. One treatment down. We are so grateful for the amazing team caring for Eli and for everyone who continues to pray, send messages, and support our family.

As hard as today was, ending it with Eli asking for chips and salsa and seeing him smile felt like a reminder to hold onto the good moments when they come. Those are the moments we’ll keep carrying with us as we move forward. Please continue to keep our brave little warrior in your thoughts and prayers as we begin this next phase of treatment.

🩶🦁🧠 #RoaringForEli