Free Week!

Well, it could definitely be for better reasons, but Peyton’s got a week off from any chemotherapy treatments. Her blood counts are low and her ANC is really low, she has what’s called “neutropenia” which just means her ANC is really low. So, being neutropenic, she’s highly succeptible to infection, her body’s ability to fight off germs is dropping to all time lows. So, she has to wear face masks when we’re indoors with lots of people, outside she has a better chances of staying germ free.

She had a good time in the hospital. She felt great and didn’t really need to be there, but the fever watch continues. Overall she looks great and feels pretty darn spunky.

We were thrilled when she got the clear that her cultures weren’t showing anything growing and her friend Adelaine came for a visit. They shared a plate of spagetti, they got their fingernails and toenails painted and we all went to the playroom and let the girls run wild. They were so sweet together and it’s great to have a special friend that she can play with.

The Tupperware fundraiser stuff arrived, so booklets are heading out and into the hands of those who’ve offered their time to share the books with others and gather orders. Everyone has just been wonderful and generous and we’re hoping to have a successful fundraiser. Peyton’s first bill for a month’s worth of chemo came in the mail and it was 11,000 dollars! That’s not counting her hospital stays that bills have yet to arrive for….scary, huh? We’re hopeful that insurance is going to take the bulk of it, but we’re unsure of exactly how much is our portion.

Adelaine’s parents need our prayers and support, as they’ve got financial difficulties that are forcing Angela to take a job. It’s an amazingly stressful full time job just caring for your sick child, but she also home schools her two boys. I hate that she has to get a job and take that burden on as well, but they will do what they need to to get through this situation. I’m hoping that the fundraiser goes well so that we can arrange one for Adelaine’s care as well, it takes a huge emotional and financial toll on a family.

Thanks to my dear friend Chris for the wonderful dinner she brought us tonight and I have to tell you that if you ever get sick and need a meal brought….make sure you ask Chris to bring the caramel brownies! FANTASTIC!!

Thank you to all who called and continue to send encouraging emails, letters and packages. They bring so much happiness to Peyton and helps keep her smiling and joyful.

Thank you to my sister who sent the most wonderful book of Bible verses, especially picked for a mother to find exactly what she needs for the day she needs it. Today’s verse for me was this:

I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me. Philippians 4:13

—Anissa