Happy New Year, everyone! May you find many reasons for joy and hope this year.
After about a month off, John is back on chemo again. His first treatment was on Friday, January 8. He lost his appetite (and 10 lbs.) over the weekend, but so far the other side effects haven’t kicked in yet. Basically he just slept a lot.
I gave him his first Grastofil injection today to help keep his white blood cell count up. Six more to go before the next chemo day on the 22nd. Being back on Grastofil means he can probably proceed with treatment uninterrupted until he and the doctor decide it’s time to take a break again. He’ll have another CT scan in about three months to re-evaluate.
Please continue to pray that the chemo will be effective, that God will give the doctors wisdom in their decision making, and that I will have the strength to take care of our family on the days when John is not feeling the best.
Keep praying for the baby too. My last ultrasound the week after Christmas showed she was growing normally, kicking and moving around, and she had a normal heartbeat, so we are very thankful for that. I found out earlier in December that I have gestational diabetes for the first time in my life, so I’ve had to monitor my blood glucose daily and follow a special diet, which so far has helped keep my numbers on target without the need for insulin shots — another thing I’m thankful for.
I’ll close with a little story to brighten your day. Sometimes I use Bible verses for the kids to practice their handwriting, and I stuck a copy of Philippians 4:13 on our fridge back when Harry was memorizing it. It’s been there for months. The other morning, he saw that I was tired and I must have seemed frazzled because he pointed to it and said, “Mom, just remember, whenever you feel weak, read this verse.” I just thought I’d share these words of wisdom from an 8-year-old for anyone else who could use the reminder today.
“I have learned the secret of living in every situation… I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:12-13 NLT
“When peace like a river attendeth my way, when sorrows like sea billows roll, whatever my lot Thou hast taught me to say, ‘It is well, it is well with my soul.’” Horatio G. Spafford
Thank you so much for this update, Leanne. I thank you for your example of a positive and grateful perspective. What a wonderful story about Harry! Indeed, may the Lord continue to Strength for you and John and the kids.
What a sweet kid! Those are moments to be treasured, for sure. Still praying for you and John, and thanks for this update to help steer prayers for the near future. Thank God that He walks with us each little step through our trials, and for every little act of mercy along the way – what would we do without Him!
Thanks for keeping us updated . Praying for John to tolerate the treatments and for you, Leanne for good health and that of your baby. Kids have insight and Harrison is so cute, “Out of the mouths of babes.”