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Today was a big day! Ross had his eye biopsy, and you better believe he came through it like an absolute champ. He’s rocking a cool eye patch. He’s also sporting a brand-new pair of grippy socks. We all know these are basically hospital badges of honor. Who knew you could look this good after a biopsy?

As part of this next phase, we’re also diving into something really fascinating: the DecisionDx-Melanoma Castle Genetic Test. This test will give us deeper insights into Ross’ cancer and his unique genetic profile. It’s like science is pulling back the curtain. It helps us understand how aggressive the melanoma might be. It gives us crucial info on what steps to take next. If you want to learn more about how this mind-blowing test works, check it out here.

It’s wild to think about how long good ol’ “Lenny” has been around. Ross’ tumor, if you’re new here, has been hanging out for 7 to 10 years. But the technology we’re using now to fight him off? That stuff didn’t even exist back then. We’re so grateful to be walking through this with modern science on our side. It’s a good time to be in the fight, and we’re fully equipped. But we’re not alone.

Meeting Dr. Dalvin and the Dream Team at Mayo Clinic

This week, we had the privilege of meeting Dr. Lauren Dalvin and the incredible team at Mayo Clinic. When we say “dream team,” we mean it. Every single person we encountered had a warm smile and a kind word. It’s like God and the universe know exactly where to place you. It happens right when you need to be there. We felt that in every conversation, every step forward. We are thrilled to be here and excited for what comes next.

The cherry on top? We met the folks connected to the clinical study for Darovasertib. They will help us get everything organized to *fingers crossed* move into the study. Ross will return in the next few weeks for more measurements and tests. If everything goes as planned, he’ll get his first month’s supply of the trial drug. We’re ready to watch Lenny shrink right before our eyes!

Trigger Warning – Medical Images – Eye Cancer – Here’s Lenny!

Science is so cool!

Post-Biopsy Recovery & “Doc Movies” Therapy

After the biopsy, it was time to head “home” to our cozy hotel room. We made a quick stop for breakfast and supplies. Then, we settled in and committed to a day of watching Doc Movies. Now, let me explain the beauty of Doc Movies. According to Ross (aka “Doc”), these films can be just about anything. They tend to lean toward action or sci-fi. But the real defining feature? It makes you say, “Well, that wasn’t a complete waste of two hours.”

Critics and peer reviews? Nah, they don’t matter for Doc Movies. It’s all about whether Doc feels entertained and mildly better about life by the end. Some iconic Doc Movies include classics like Godzilla vs. Kong, any Star Wars movie, and The Martian. Other favorites are The Lord of the Rings trilogy, Jurassic Park, and Captain Ron. Don’t forget Ghostbusters, Dodge Ball, and Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter. And of course, there’s The Expendables and The Replacements. You get the idea—anything that tells a halfway decent story without making you regret hitting play.

And that’s exactly what we needed after today—a low-key, snack-filled, action-packed escape. Because after a day like this, there’s nothing better than lounging around, watching a “Doc movie,” and realizing that none of it was a waste of time. Just like this journey. Every step has been worth it.

We’re feeling ready for what’s next. Going home and seeing our kids, furry and non-furry today. Grateful to be here with you. Stay tuned, dear friends, because we’ve got more adventures coming soon!