Wednesday, September 3, 2008

September 3, 2008 (Wednesday)

Today was frustrating in many ways but ended on a real positive note for us. We found out early in the morning that the appointment today regarding the port-a-cath was simply a consultation with the surgeons and not the actual insertion of the port-a-cath. So Gracie and her mom met with the surgeons to discuss what they were going to do. We already knew what the plan was and Gracie had already gone under anesthesia twice in the last 9 days so we were pretty clear about things but I guess it never hurts to prepare. The actual insertion will be on Friday some time. Then we have confirmation of the EUAs for the other kids on Monday at some yet to be determined time.
That is when the great news comes in. Tonight we got an e-mail from Gracie's cancer coordinator! We were beginning to think that it would be my wife for the duration. However, they actually do have someone that tries to coordinate everything from doctor's visits, surgeries, chemotherapy, lodging, back-up lodging and your general comfort while going through this process. Our coordinator sent us lots of phone numbers and information on next weeks chemotherapy sessions and plans. She sounds like she will be in regular communication and help to sort out any further issues. It was nice to hear from her!
Still it was a hard day when we realized that the procedure on Friday will be the first of many that starts causing our little Gracie some significant pain. After the insertion of the port-a-cath we will need to be careful in playing with her so as not to disrupt it or dislodge it or at least not cause her any further pain. Soon after chemotherapy starts and that is not exactly what anyone plans for their little innocent almost 3 year old. Also the time and resources necessary to go through chemotherapy with Gracie are beginning to weigh heavy on our minds. We are so blessed to have good friends and caring family members that significantly ease those burdens however they remain pressing for our little growing family.
It is interesting to see how her siblings and their friends react. Today as I walked my oldest child to school we met two friends at the entrance who immediately asked, "Does Gracie have a plastic eye yet?" The question was posed innocently and I answered, "No, not yet." To which a spontaneous and unanimous cheer erupted from these two friends, "Yeah! Hooray!" I laughed and began cheering right along with them. We are truly blessed and there is much to cheer about these days, despite our few little troubles.
As always, we thank you all for your prayers and your support. They mean so much to us and we have seen your exercise of faith benefit our family in so many ways. I was trying to list all of the churches, families and individuals that were praying for us the other day but had to stop because the list was too long and I would surely miss someone. It is truly humbling to see how a little girl's life can be impacted by the love of so many wonderful people. So again- Thank you all.

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

James and Stephanie,

We are grateful to read your journey with Gracie through this trying time. When Dennis comes home from work and the girls from school, one of the first things they ask, "What does James say about Gracie today?" It helps us to make our prayers more specific for your family rather than just a general, "Please heal Grace from her cancer." It helps us focus our faith on a specific request. Thank you for taking the time to write - I'm sure it is very time consuming with all the other regular work, church, and family duties that are going on alongside Grace's treatment.
Love Kristin and Dennis

Lyndsee Bates said...

Thanks for the update, we are glad to hear that everyone's tests came out positive!!!
I hope that Meteghan has had a good experience going to school so far this year!!! And that it has been good for you two as well. I was so excited when she came up to me on Sunday and said hi but was quickly told/reminded that I wasn't her dance teacher this year, I was sad but she said that she had fun with her new teacher! I'll miss her lots but know she is in good hands!

Unknown said...
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
James said...

Virginia, I removed your comment just because I do not want your phone number published on the blog to the world. I would not want to be responsible for someone calling you at all hours of the day and night. We have your phone number and greatly appreciate your support (and the support of all our friends and family). Thank you so much. May God bless you for your love and service!.
James