This morning started out pretty normal for a clinic day. Joshua and I left around 8 o'clock without breakfast because he had anesthesia scheduled for his spinal tap. Joshua seemed absolutely fine, even watching Andi eat breakfast without complaining. Joshua was doing a great job at the clinic. He didn't shed a single tear while was being accessed, being examined by Dr. Zeiber, or while receiving meds through his line. Then, while he and I were playing dinosaurs on the floor, he stepped on his line and pulled the needle out of his port. OUCH! The nurses fixed him up and restarted his meds. Unfortunately, this sent Joshua into a tailspin of emotions. His crying and lack of food led to a drop in blood sugar. After quite a bit more crying, they gave him some liquids through his line and he perked up enough to proceed to his spinal tap.
Before we went downstairs for Joshua's procedure, Dr. Zeiber came back to talk to us about Joshua's home meds. Currently, Joshua is at 100% of his chemo pills (based on weight/height). Because his counts were up, she informed us that we would need to up his dosage to 120%. The fact that Joshua's counts are up is good news. We rejoice in that. At the same time, we get nervous when Joshua's dosage gets very high because it can very easily cause a crash to his immune system. Along with the increase in chemo, she also needed to increase his steroids. YUCK! As we have shared many times before, the steroids cause so many strange side effects. Thus, an increase in steroids means an increase in side effects.
The spinal tap went well and the nurses had his cherry coke Icee waiting for him when he finished. After a very long morning, at around 2 o'clock we made it to one of Joshua's favorites, Jason's Deli. He broke his fast in fine style to the point that the manager came over and asked if he wanted a refill on his fruit. I guess he noticed how quickly he downed the strawberries. It was a pleasant end to a long day.
Please pray through the news about Joshua's increase in dosage. Pray that he can continue to show his courage and strength in this fight. Pray also for Michael, Andi, and me. Pray that we will be patient and encouraging toward Joshua and each other. Thank you again for your faithfulness.
9 comments:
Jana, we pray for your family constantly. I am so sad that Joshua had such a rough day. Just keep your eyes on the date you've been given, keep repeating it. It will give you strength on the trying days.
We really do miss seeing you guys, really!!! It just isn't the same on our days up there.
Tell Joshua that Jaxen says hi!
Wow, Joshua is such a trooper. I'm sorry to hear about the increase in meds and steroids. I know that will be tough. I cannot believe all the medicine he is already taking!! You're doing great, Jana. I know how hard it is to stay positive and not just break down crying in front of your child at times. I'll be praying for you and your family.
Jana, I've really enjoyed catching up on your blog! I want you to know that we commit to regularly pray for you guys... even more than we already have been!
What strength God has given you~ we love you guys!!!
I'm praying for you guys.
thank you for keeping us updated--we love to know specifically what we can pray for.
hope we can plan a playdate soon!!
Joshua is a true inspiration for us. Our son Jaylon's chemo was delayed this week because his ANC was at 700. We needed him to be at 750. It was a blessing in disguise in that it gives him a break for now.
We love your blog and pray for Joshua.
We love you ALL and we'll keep praying!
praying for all of you~
Wow.. I am so sorry to hear about the rough day. You guys are in our thoughts so often, and I know the Lord continues to hold Joshua as well as you through all this pain. Please know that you have an army of Love and Support that will continue to think about you and continue to pray for you. Love you guys!
Brian Maines
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