Today Joshua started the 8 weeks that we have been praying about - in leukemia world, this period of time is called "delayed intensification." So this morning Joshua had a spinal tap and two forms of intravenous chemotherapy. He goes back on Friday for another shot, and so the 8 weeks will go. As we wrote earlier, the side effects during this time are said to be the worst of the 3 years - vomiting, hair loss, fever, and hospital time.
So here we are, some 8 hours after the treatment, and nothing has happened yet. You can tell he's not feeling great, but he's still playing, still eating, still watching videos... lots of videos. Not much to report yet, I guess, which we are very thankful. The shot on Friday is supposed to dramatically drop his blood counts, which means he will be very susceptible to infection and sickness.
We continue to pray for low side effects and a minimum of hospital stays; thanks for joining us in those prayers. In thinking about you guys I am reminded about what Paul said about the Philippian church, calling them "co-laborers" with him. Now I know that Paul used that term to talk about his missionary efforts and trips, but the feeling I get from that passage is that those were people in his life willing to help carry the load. That's how we feel; this is a heavy load, but it feels much lighter with alot of people under it.
22 comments:
We love you guys. We love Joshua ("The Lord Saves"). We are praying with you all.
Amy Wright
Miracles happen every day and we are definitely praying for one now. Specifically, we pray for very low side effects and lots of health and blessing. You are all so brave and courageous. Walls can fall and battles can be won with little physical problem. Thank you God for hearing our prayers.
Mike and Janna
Hi! I ran into you today at the hospital and only in the middle of the conversation did I realize that you probably didn't have any clue who I was. I'm one of the teachers in the 2-year old classroom at Rolling Hills - we miss Joshua terribly, but we are so glad to get updates and know that he's doing well. He's in my prayers every night, as well as your whole family. God is going to do amazing things through ya'll - just wait! Keep hoping and praying and rest in the comfort of your Father's unending Grace.
We love you & our lives are so much brighter because we know you. Please know that you will be in our hearts and on our minds every day. May these next 8 weeks fly by with little to no side effects. We can't wait to play again soon! Rub the belly for me!
All of you will be in my prayers every day, with special prayers that this time of treatment will be successful and not as awful as they say. He is a darling boy who looks amazingly to me like his dad! I know he brings you joy every day and that you are wonderful parents who give him strength and so much love that all these trials can, and will be overcome.
You are all loved very much.
We'll keep praying for Joshua and for a mighty work to happen with his treatment. Keep lovin' on him and depending on God for your strength and comfort. Tell Jana & baby girl HI, too!
Michael, you and Jana are such great examples to us about being real...being great parents...and seeking the Lord. May our aweomse God stretch out his hand of endurance in your lives...and his hand of healing in dear Joshua's life.
Man...this is edgy for me. You know how low tech I am. I don't guess I have ever written on a blog before. I am honored to have your's be the first. I think I need another year or so before I write on another one. Peace out bro, Cliff Lea
We are so grateful to the Lord for His loving care of Joshua and all of the family. We continue to pray for each of you, that the Lord will meet your individual needs as He sees fit and for your good. We are especially praying for the things you mentioned. We believe that He is in complete control of your lives and that He will receive the glory for the great things He has, and is, doing. We love you.
Bob and Peggy Utley
Hey y'all,
Wanted you to know all the folks in my class have committed to be praying for you guys throughout this time. Love you guys,
Andy Blanks
We continue to pray Psalm 27 over you guys and little Josh
Sterling wants to send a new video for Joshua to watch during this special season. Let us know of some options!
Still here and praying.
It's tough to think of the journey you're in today. Please know we're praying to Him on your behalf and Joshua's. We love you all so much and wish we could be in Nashville to carry some of this load. The Bruce crew.
As many others have said...we are praying for you and Joshua during these next few weeks. May there be little to know side effects and you can enjoy ysome good time before your second bundle of joy arrives. Please let Jenni know when a good time to bring food or anything else you might need by. (She told me she asked about getting a schedule together) God blessings on all FOUR of you during this time
praying that God will prepare you and Joshua for whatever side effects might come. praying for continued strength, patience, and rest during the next 8 weeks for your precious family. love you guys, liza
Y'all don't know me but I have been reading your blog on Joshua and your family and have been compelled to pray for you. Thank you for sharing your hardships so people like me can pray for what appears to be an amazing little boy with an amazing family! Kristy
So glad I checked in today for an update! We want to help carry your burden...thanks for keeping us informed!! We're believing God's plan for Joshua (and you!) is good! We're asking God for minimal side effects!!
Blessings!
Andy & Becky Dietz
I'm praying that this treatment would quickly take care of the problem. I pray that there would be low side effects and that there would be zero illness and infection! Please know there are so many people helping carry this load with ya'll through prayer.
praying for all of you and love you all!
sass
We are praying also. Already almost a week down. God please let these days go quickly and smoothly for this family!
The Goldsmiths
still praying for you guys!
salem
Praying for you guys ... man he's getting tall!
Praying for you guys ... man he's getting tall!
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