Maggie has begun her oral chemos again and will get her IV vincristine, and a week of steroids starting Monday.
Today was a decent day as Maggie did well at her GI appointment (Dr. Khan was encouraged about Dr. French's decisions about TPN, removing the feeding tube). Maggie's nutrition levels are creeping up a bit closer to normal. Her weight, though inflated because of all of the fluids she's getting, is 3 1/2 pounds higher than it was a week and a half ago when Maggie was admitted for dehydration, the ear infection, and the rest. We've begun feeding her a little bit, and she was pretty eager to eat, especially tonight at supper. She has eaten food for 1 1/2 days now, and her stools are few and far between. This is really nice. Perhaps more evidence that Maggie's bad diarrhea in the past has been due to chemo, not necessarily her diet.
Our appointment with Dr. French yesterday was a bit uneventful...he doesn't know why her organs are enlarged, he didn't even make a guess when we asked him. That's a bit unnerving, but he still doesn't believe it is due to relapse. I guess we'll continue to mention that word every post here until things reverse a bit or if a test identifies another cause.
Maggie has had some good times at home lately. She's more independent, is back into her books (it had been a while), and giggles when tickled. She's been a serious chatterbox of late, too.
We're waiting for easier days and less uncertainty, but we'll accept the last few days as real blessings. Again, we're going to give the "one day at a time" adage a shot.
Please continue to pray for Maggie, primarily that her cancer never returns, but also that she can maintain her treatments without too many side effects.
3 comments:
Love to read a good post. Awesome.
I faithfully read each night your updates and pray for your little girl and both of you. It is difficult to read sometimes and know that God is in control.
In my 61 years I have seen much and believe that no matter the heartache and no matter the problems He is there in our darkest hour to give us strength and grace.
I know there are many prayer warriors out there who are sending pleas to God that He will uplift you during this time and providing healing for your daughter.
God Bless you Both
An Ohio Grandma
My dear young Andy and Whitney:
If you can allow the word "relapse" into your vocabulary and also take "one day at a time," "embracing every day that Maggie does alright," you will have achieved an equanimity it has taken your almost-70-year-old aunt many, many years to value.
Not that I achieve it every day.
But when I have physical reminders that at this age my healthy days are more numbered than I would like, it often does make me more appreciative of all I can enjoy in the present.
As you are dealing with the health of a cherished young one rather than just yourselves, of course, your challenge is much greater.
Which is why I and others keep reminding you of your achievements. Within God's grace.
Love and prayers always.
Great Aunt Phyllis
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