Today is Everett's last dose of chemo for this round of treatment. He will continue to get 2 daily doses of ATRA for another 25 days and may get to come home for a week at the end of his first month of treatment if all goes well. So far the doctors are very happy with how he is tolerating the medications. We expect his blood counts to start to drop in the next week, but for now our little man is feeling good and playing just like he did before his diagnosis. I'm sure he has no idea that he's sick at all. He's such an amazing and smart little boy and has already won the hearts of his doctors and nurses here at CHP.
Gramma Miller, Bugga, Aunt Carrie, Great Gramma Carole and Avery came to visit for Christmas yesterday and the boys had a wonderful time opening all their presents. It wasn't the Christmas we imagined a little over a week ago, but we were surrounded by family and we feel blessed that the boys are still young enough that they don't really understand or care that we didn't spend Christmas at home. They were just excited to see each other and to play with all the cool toys they got.
Every day John and I are amazed at the generosity of our friends and family as well as people we have never met before. Everett has gotten presents from complete strangers and it seems like every day someone is dropping off something else for Everett to play with or to make him more comfortable while he's here. Each and every word or encouragement and every gift that Everett receives is appreciated more than anyone can know. It's these things that get mom and dad through the day.
We'd like to ask you all to remember and pray for the other families and children who are in the hospital, here at Children's and at other hospitals as well. During our stay here, we have quickly realized that there are too many families like ours who have a child that is sick and who worry every day about what the future holds for them. There is one family in particular who my heart goes out to--their teenage son had an accident while messing around with friends and has been in a coma for 2 weeks. I met this boy's mom on my first day here as I was standing in the lobby of the hospital in tears, after just hearing from the doctor that my sweet little boy has leukemia. His mom immediately came up to me, gave me a big hug and tried to comfort me as best she could, all while she was/is dealing with her own pain and fear over what will happen to her own son I say a prayer for this family each night and hope that those of you who read this blog will as well.
Val
I'm so glad that Everett has done so well with his chemo. What a strong little guy! I'm also grateful that the boys were able to have fun this Christmas. I hope that you, John, and the family were able to enjoy the holiday and each others company despite the circumstances. I will keep you all, and the other families at the hospital, in my prayers. Love, Joy
ReplyDeleteI have been thinking about and praying for you all each day and night. I'm rejoicing with you at how well Everett has done so far and I'm praying that the same will continue! This blog is such a great way to 'keep in touch' with all of us who are wondering how you're doing, so thank you for taking the time to keep it updated- it's also great to know how BEST to pray for you and your little man.
ReplyDelete-Nicole
Joy - Thanks and it's nice to hear from you. Hopefully you'll be able to make it out west sometime with Carrie to see Everett. He loves visitors.
ReplyDeleteNik - I got the inspiration from Julie but thought this would be the best way to keep in touch with everyone without replying to multiple emails, FB posts, and the like. It helps to know that you are enjoying reading it and keeping up. We appreciate your prayers; each day is a new challenge.