Our Dad suggested the Scripture for tonight, Philippians 4:19 " And my God will meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus". This has been shown to us over and over in our lives and He continues to provide each day.
Dad and Martha got here about 2 this afternoon and they had a safe trip and found us without any problem. They are planning on staying until Thursday and we're looking forward to the time we'll have with them. Dad refused to do the blog for me this evening. He finally has a cell phone but doesn't want to use a computer.
Barb spent the morning cleaning and getting ready for company and Becky took some time to write some emails and send some cards. After doing all that she was pretty shakey and learned that she can only do a few emails at a time and not over do it.
We had a big meal of roast, potatoes, carrots, onions, celery and rolls. We enjoyed it and have enough for leftovers tomorrow. I've cleaned up the kitchen and now we're going to watch some of the US Open Tennis Tournament and visit.
Love,
Becky and Barb
Monday, August 31, 2009
Sunday, August 30, 2009
August 30 Day +45
Isaiah 61:10,11 " I delight greatly in the Lord; my soul rejoices in my God. For He has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels. For as the soil makes the sprout come up and a garden causes seeds to grow, so the Sovereign Lord will make righteousness and praise spring up before all nations."
This has been a pretty quiet and restful day here in St. Louis. We listened to our brother Richard preach on Jesus and his encounter with Matthew today and how we need to get outside the walls of the church building to witness for Christ. We read Scripture and had communion together too.
I think we are going to have to replace the batteries in the remote after Becky spent the afternoon flipping between channels watching golf, the Little League World Series and the Cardinals. It was an enjoyable afternoon.
Not much else happening here. Becky continues to feel good and get stronger every day. The Lord continues to provide all our needs and gives blessing after blessing.
Our Dad and his wife are planning on coming to St. Louis tomorrow and we ask that you pray for their safety in traveling here. We are looking forward to thier visit.
Love,
Becky and Barb
This has been a pretty quiet and restful day here in St. Louis. We listened to our brother Richard preach on Jesus and his encounter with Matthew today and how we need to get outside the walls of the church building to witness for Christ. We read Scripture and had communion together too.
I think we are going to have to replace the batteries in the remote after Becky spent the afternoon flipping between channels watching golf, the Little League World Series and the Cardinals. It was an enjoyable afternoon.
Not much else happening here. Becky continues to feel good and get stronger every day. The Lord continues to provide all our needs and gives blessing after blessing.
Our Dad and his wife are planning on coming to St. Louis tomorrow and we ask that you pray for their safety in traveling here. We are looking forward to thier visit.
Love,
Becky and Barb
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Day +44 August 29
Psalm 98:4-9 "Shout joyfully to the Lord, all the earth; Break forth and sing for joy and sing praises. Sing praises to the Lord with the lyre; with the lyre and the sound of melody. With trumpets and the sound of the horn shout joyfully before the King, the Lord.
Let the sea roar and all it contains, the world and those who dwell in it. Let the rivers clap their hands; let the mountains sing together for joy before the Lord; for He is coming to judge the earth; He will judge the world with righteousness, and the peoples with equity."
Our day started with Jim and Patti Moore from Barb's home in Hedgesville, WV stopping by for a little while on their way to visit their daughter and family in Summersville, MO. They are also taking the wheelchair home with them Barb brought since Becky no longer has any need of it. PTL. We enjoyed their time with us.
This afternoon we watched some of the Little League World Series (between rain delays), some
golf and some baseball. About 4 we had more company with Hope, Jessica, Rachel (Becky's daughters),and three of their friends Amy, Kristen, and Lindsay stopping by for a couple hours. We visited for a while and then all went to the game room to play Wii. There was some fierce competition in bowling and I think everyone had a good time. Everyone also liked the apartment (Loft). It is roomy, comfy, and as Norma said "a perfect place to heal". Becky is worn out this evening but has really enjoyed the company.
Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with Linda Slager and her family today as they had Jack's funeral and burial in IL. He will be greatly missed not only by his family but also the church family at Glendale Christian Church.
We pray that you all may have a exciting day in the Lord's house tomorrow.
Love,
Becky and Barb
Let the sea roar and all it contains, the world and those who dwell in it. Let the rivers clap their hands; let the mountains sing together for joy before the Lord; for He is coming to judge the earth; He will judge the world with righteousness, and the peoples with equity."
Our day started with Jim and Patti Moore from Barb's home in Hedgesville, WV stopping by for a little while on their way to visit their daughter and family in Summersville, MO. They are also taking the wheelchair home with them Barb brought since Becky no longer has any need of it. PTL. We enjoyed their time with us.
This afternoon we watched some of the Little League World Series (between rain delays), some
golf and some baseball. About 4 we had more company with Hope, Jessica, Rachel (Becky's daughters),and three of their friends Amy, Kristen, and Lindsay stopping by for a couple hours. We visited for a while and then all went to the game room to play Wii. There was some fierce competition in bowling and I think everyone had a good time. Everyone also liked the apartment (Loft). It is roomy, comfy, and as Norma said "a perfect place to heal". Becky is worn out this evening but has really enjoyed the company.
Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with Linda Slager and her family today as they had Jack's funeral and burial in IL. He will be greatly missed not only by his family but also the church family at Glendale Christian Church.
We pray that you all may have a exciting day in the Lord's house tomorrow.
Love,
Becky and Barb
Friday, August 28, 2009
Day +43 August 28
Exodus 15:2 says, " The Lord is my strength and song, and He has become my salvation; this is my God, and I will praise Him; my father's God and I will extol Him." We continue to rejoice at how the Lord is blessing Becky. He is truly the great Physician and we praise His name.
Today BJ came to visit and we had quite the contests. After a big lunch we rested for a little while and then headed to the exercise room. Becky did 11 minutes again on the treadmill and BJ did the weights a little and Barb did a little on the walking machine. Then it was off to the Wii. We did 2 games of bowling and 2 games of 3 holes of golf. We have to say that BJ was the winner of all the games. Becky gave her a real run on a couple of the games though. We had a good time. We again did the stairs down and back.
Later in the afternoon some friends from Springfield, Bob and Betty West, stopped by on their way to see family here in St. Louis. We enjoyed the time we had with them. It's so nice to see people from home.
BJ left about 6:25 to head back to Springfield. Becky and I are settling in for the Cardinal game against the Nationals. The Nationals are near Barb's home in WV but to avoid too much controversy I'll have to keep quiet tonight. Ha!
We hope everyone has a good and safe weekend.
Love,
Becky and Barb
Today BJ came to visit and we had quite the contests. After a big lunch we rested for a little while and then headed to the exercise room. Becky did 11 minutes again on the treadmill and BJ did the weights a little and Barb did a little on the walking machine. Then it was off to the Wii. We did 2 games of bowling and 2 games of 3 holes of golf. We have to say that BJ was the winner of all the games. Becky gave her a real run on a couple of the games though. We had a good time. We again did the stairs down and back.
Later in the afternoon some friends from Springfield, Bob and Betty West, stopped by on their way to see family here in St. Louis. We enjoyed the time we had with them. It's so nice to see people from home.
BJ left about 6:25 to head back to Springfield. Becky and I are settling in for the Cardinal game against the Nationals. The Nationals are near Barb's home in WV but to avoid too much controversy I'll have to keep quiet tonight. Ha!
We hope everyone has a good and safe weekend.
Love,
Becky and Barb
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Day +42 August 27
Psalm 27:1-4 says, "The Lord is my light and my salvation - whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life - of whom shall I be afraid? When evil men advance against me to devour my flesh, when my enemies and my foes attack me, they will stumble and fall. Though an army beseige me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then will I be confident. One thing I ask of the Lord, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple."
We had another good day today. I tried to get Becky to go on an outing with me to the grocery store and the discount store but wasn't successful. She did get on the computer for a little while though while I was gone. After I got back we went to the exercise room and she walked at 2.0mph for 11 minutes and even walked up and down the stairs to get there. She seems to be getting stronger every day. People who call are all saying how much stronger she sounds on the phone. PTL!!!
This afternoon we had to watch the Cardinals and they got beat by the Astro's 4-3. The relievers just didn't do their job today. I guess everyone has a bad day once in a while.
After that we watched another video of Louie Giglio titled "Indescribable". He talked about the vastness of the universe that God SPOKE into being and how small and insignificant we are but God cared so much that He was willing to send His only Son to redeem us. He had pictures of the universe from the Hubbell Telescope that just blew us away with its vastness and his descriptions of it. How Great is Our God!!!
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Slager family and the Glendale Church family as they have visitation and a memorial service this evening.
Love,
Becky and Barb
We had another good day today. I tried to get Becky to go on an outing with me to the grocery store and the discount store but wasn't successful. She did get on the computer for a little while though while I was gone. After I got back we went to the exercise room and she walked at 2.0mph for 11 minutes and even walked up and down the stairs to get there. She seems to be getting stronger every day. People who call are all saying how much stronger she sounds on the phone. PTL!!!
This afternoon we had to watch the Cardinals and they got beat by the Astro's 4-3. The relievers just didn't do their job today. I guess everyone has a bad day once in a while.
After that we watched another video of Louie Giglio titled "Indescribable". He talked about the vastness of the universe that God SPOKE into being and how small and insignificant we are but God cared so much that He was willing to send His only Son to redeem us. He had pictures of the universe from the Hubbell Telescope that just blew us away with its vastness and his descriptions of it. How Great is Our God!!!
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Slager family and the Glendale Church family as they have visitation and a memorial service this evening.
Love,
Becky and Barb
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
August 26 Day +41
We only have one verse for this evening but it was taken from a message that we heard from Louie Giglio yesterday. He was talking about how trouble was going to come our way as a Christian but we can have peace because we know that there is hope since Christ has overcome the world. In John 16:33 Jesus says, "I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
We went to the hospital this morning for labs and to see the nurse practitioner. Jessica headed out at the same time so now it's just the two of us again. We really enjoyed having her here though. We decided to get a wheelchair but she pushed it and then she was going to ride if she got too tired. She walked all the way to the lab and the office and then we stopped at the gift shop for some cards and left the chair outside the door. She planned to ride back to the car but when we came out the chair was gone. She decided someone needed it worse than she did so she sat down and rested for about 10 minutes and then we walked on to the car. I did volunteer to go find a chair but she did fine.
The report from the labs was pretty good. Her Red blood cells was 3.10 (nl. 3.90-5.00), Hemoglobin 10.1 (nl. 12.1-15.1), Hematocrit 29.0 (nl. 36.1-44.3) and Platelets 166 (nl. 140-440).
These are all lower than the ones drawn on Friday and the NP explained it as the donor red cells trying to take over her cells that are already in her body and it can cause an anemia. If the hemoglobin count goes below 10 they can give her a medication to help reverse the process but insurance will not pay for it unless the count is below 10.
We did ask if she was already 100% donor marrow why she needs another biopsy in 3 months and she said it could always reverse and go back to her marrow and they also need to stage any cancer cells that may come back. She is in remission at this time though.
She will see the NP again next Wednesday, have labs and also have a Pentamadine antibiotic treatment to prevent pneumonia. If the counts are lower then she will also get another treatment to bring the counts up.
We got home from the hospital and rested a little before Debbie Nelson and Sara Carr came for a visit. These are friends of Becky's from Southland Christian Church in Springfield. They bought lunch at St. Louis Bread Co. and visited for a couple hours. We enjoyed their visit.
Becky finally laid down on the couch about 4:00 and slept until about 5:25. We had supper and are now going to watch a ball game tonight.
Pray that the blood counts will begin to increase on their own without the other medications and that she can continue to gain strength daily.
Love,
Becky and Barb
We went to the hospital this morning for labs and to see the nurse practitioner. Jessica headed out at the same time so now it's just the two of us again. We really enjoyed having her here though. We decided to get a wheelchair but she pushed it and then she was going to ride if she got too tired. She walked all the way to the lab and the office and then we stopped at the gift shop for some cards and left the chair outside the door. She planned to ride back to the car but when we came out the chair was gone. She decided someone needed it worse than she did so she sat down and rested for about 10 minutes and then we walked on to the car. I did volunteer to go find a chair but she did fine.
The report from the labs was pretty good. Her Red blood cells was 3.10 (nl. 3.90-5.00), Hemoglobin 10.1 (nl. 12.1-15.1), Hematocrit 29.0 (nl. 36.1-44.3) and Platelets 166 (nl. 140-440).
These are all lower than the ones drawn on Friday and the NP explained it as the donor red cells trying to take over her cells that are already in her body and it can cause an anemia. If the hemoglobin count goes below 10 they can give her a medication to help reverse the process but insurance will not pay for it unless the count is below 10.
We did ask if she was already 100% donor marrow why she needs another biopsy in 3 months and she said it could always reverse and go back to her marrow and they also need to stage any cancer cells that may come back. She is in remission at this time though.
She will see the NP again next Wednesday, have labs and also have a Pentamadine antibiotic treatment to prevent pneumonia. If the counts are lower then she will also get another treatment to bring the counts up.
We got home from the hospital and rested a little before Debbie Nelson and Sara Carr came for a visit. These are friends of Becky's from Southland Christian Church in Springfield. They bought lunch at St. Louis Bread Co. and visited for a couple hours. We enjoyed their visit.
Becky finally laid down on the couch about 4:00 and slept until about 5:25. We had supper and are now going to watch a ball game tonight.
Pray that the blood counts will begin to increase on their own without the other medications and that she can continue to gain strength daily.
Love,
Becky and Barb
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
August 25 Day +40
II Cor. 1:3-7 "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer. And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort." We were saddened to learn that Becky's friend from Glendale Christian Church passed away early this afternoon. Please pray for his family as they deal with his loss. Although he will be missed, he has claimed the victory!
We have had problems all day with the computer so I hope this blog will get sent this evening. I'm not sure if it was human error on Jessica or my part or if the server was having problems. It finally started working about 5 this evening after the cable company did some kind of signal to our box.
We went to the exercise room this morning and Becky walked on the treadmill at 2.0 and went 11 minutes or .35 mile. That was the most she's done yet. We even walked down the stairs to get to the room too. She's doing better!!! Jessica was walking on the other treadmill until she walked right out of her shoe! It was actually a flip flop but we all got so tickled she had to stop walking. Barb did 2.5 miles on the bicycle. I"m not sure that we'll have time to do it tomorrow with the appointments in the morning and company coming at noon but we'll be walking some at the hospital.
Jessica has decided to spend another night with us and has just gotten back with supper from Applebee's. Becky had another craving for ribs and I can't fix them right here. We have really enjoyed having Jessica with us for a few days.
We'll report more tomorrow afternoon after the appointments.
Love,
Becky, Barb and Jessica
We have had problems all day with the computer so I hope this blog will get sent this evening. I'm not sure if it was human error on Jessica or my part or if the server was having problems. It finally started working about 5 this evening after the cable company did some kind of signal to our box.
We went to the exercise room this morning and Becky walked on the treadmill at 2.0 and went 11 minutes or .35 mile. That was the most she's done yet. We even walked down the stairs to get to the room too. She's doing better!!! Jessica was walking on the other treadmill until she walked right out of her shoe! It was actually a flip flop but we all got so tickled she had to stop walking. Barb did 2.5 miles on the bicycle. I"m not sure that we'll have time to do it tomorrow with the appointments in the morning and company coming at noon but we'll be walking some at the hospital.
Jessica has decided to spend another night with us and has just gotten back with supper from Applebee's. Becky had another craving for ribs and I can't fix them right here. We have really enjoyed having Jessica with us for a few days.
We'll report more tomorrow afternoon after the appointments.
Love,
Becky, Barb and Jessica
Monday, August 24, 2009
Day +39 August 24,2009
II Corinthians 4: 16-18 "Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary but what is unseen is eternal".
I am blogging a little earlier this evening since I've received word that I'm blogging too late for those on the east coast to read before turning in for the night. I promised to try harder to get it done earlier so here goes.
We have had a good day today. We got up and had breakfast and Barb put on a pot of pinto beans for lunch that Becky requested. They cooked all morning and we ate beans, fried potatoes and onions, and corn bread for lunch. Good eating.
We went to the exercise room this morning and Becky walked 11 minutes on the treadmill, Jessica did the stepper machine and Barb did the bicycle. After that we went and played Wii. Jessica had the advantage with experience so she beat us in every game. We played bowling, tennis and baseball. We all enjoyed it. Becky said her arms were probably going to be sore tomorrow.
After lunch we just relaxed and visited. We did watch Louie Giglio speak on "Hope" and how we have Jesus as an anchor in trouble and we can use our troubles as a megaphone to proclaim the love of Jesus to others. It was a very good lesson for us to hear.
We received word through the prayer chain and also through Jason Slager, through Jessica, that Jack Slager, a friend from the church at Glendale, was admitted to ICU at St. John's in Springfield. Please remember him and his family in your prayers also. He is not doing well.
Jessica is insisting on vacation so I am back on the job blogging again. Hope you have a good and Godly evening.
Love,
Becky, Barb and Jessica
I am blogging a little earlier this evening since I've received word that I'm blogging too late for those on the east coast to read before turning in for the night. I promised to try harder to get it done earlier so here goes.
We have had a good day today. We got up and had breakfast and Barb put on a pot of pinto beans for lunch that Becky requested. They cooked all morning and we ate beans, fried potatoes and onions, and corn bread for lunch. Good eating.
We went to the exercise room this morning and Becky walked 11 minutes on the treadmill, Jessica did the stepper machine and Barb did the bicycle. After that we went and played Wii. Jessica had the advantage with experience so she beat us in every game. We played bowling, tennis and baseball. We all enjoyed it. Becky said her arms were probably going to be sore tomorrow.
After lunch we just relaxed and visited. We did watch Louie Giglio speak on "Hope" and how we have Jesus as an anchor in trouble and we can use our troubles as a megaphone to proclaim the love of Jesus to others. It was a very good lesson for us to hear.
We received word through the prayer chain and also through Jason Slager, through Jessica, that Jack Slager, a friend from the church at Glendale, was admitted to ICU at St. John's in Springfield. Please remember him and his family in your prayers also. He is not doing well.
Jessica is insisting on vacation so I am back on the job blogging again. Hope you have a good and Godly evening.
Love,
Becky, Barb and Jessica
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Isaiah 40:28-31 "Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the Everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and His understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."
I(Jessica) have been voted as the guest blogger for tonight. I go on vacation, and they put me to work!!
Today has been a good day! We all got up to the sun shining and were able to listen to my cousin, Tim(Aunt B's son) preach online from Community Christian Church in Frankfort, Indiana. I was proud to hear my cousin preach on Jesus the Revolutionary. We all really enjoyed the sermon, communion, and Mom even sat down at the keyboard to play a few songs.
Aunt B cooked a wonderful meal for lunch. We had pork chops, salad, and macaroni and cheese. After lunch we all sat down to enjoy the Solheim Cup. I can't believe I actually enjoyed watching golf on T.V.!
After a restful afternoon, we had dinner and Mom is getting ready to beat Aunt B and I in a game of Sequence...or so she says!! HA! We are such a competitive family!
As you enter the new week, we pray the Lord richly blesses your lives as He has blessed ours tremendously!
Love,
Becky, Barb, and Jessica
I(Jessica) have been voted as the guest blogger for tonight. I go on vacation, and they put me to work!!
Today has been a good day! We all got up to the sun shining and were able to listen to my cousin, Tim(Aunt B's son) preach online from Community Christian Church in Frankfort, Indiana. I was proud to hear my cousin preach on Jesus the Revolutionary. We all really enjoyed the sermon, communion, and Mom even sat down at the keyboard to play a few songs.
Aunt B cooked a wonderful meal for lunch. We had pork chops, salad, and macaroni and cheese. After lunch we all sat down to enjoy the Solheim Cup. I can't believe I actually enjoyed watching golf on T.V.!
After a restful afternoon, we had dinner and Mom is getting ready to beat Aunt B and I in a game of Sequence...or so she says!! HA! We are such a competitive family!
As you enter the new week, we pray the Lord richly blesses your lives as He has blessed ours tremendously!
Love,
Becky, Barb, and Jessica
Saturday, August 22, 2009
DAY + 37 AUGUST 22
Psalm 103:1-5 "Praise the Lord, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits- who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's."
I'll begin with a report on the steak dinner last night. Becky was so tired after the trip to the hospital and all the walking that she did, that she wasn't up to going out for dinner. BJ called Jan, a friend here in St. Louis, to see if there was a good steak place that we could go get it and bring it back here. She said a Friday night wasn't a good time since there was a football game downtown and the other places would be really busy. She volunteered to get steaks and grill them and bring them here. After some discussion back and forth, Jan brought steak, grilled veggies, brauts, and salad and Barb fixed baked potatoes. It was a much better steak dinner than we could ever have gotten at a restaurant and there was even enough to have for lunch and supper today. A big thanks to Jan for a great meal.
Today Jessica, Becky's daughter, came for a visit for a few days of her vacation. We went out this afternoon to the park and walked 10 to 15 minutes and then I brought her and Jessica back to the apartment and I went to get a few other items from the store that we needed. She is still recuperating from the long walks yesterday but we did enjoy the cooler weather and the walk in the park. It was interesting that there were more men in the park sunbathing than women.
The TV has been on the Solheim Cup, women's golf, all day long. It's a competition between the USA and Europe. We can't play the game but enjoy watching it. Go USA!!
Not much else from here. We thank the Lord for all of you and pray that you all may have a good day in worship tomorrow .
Love,
Becky and Barb
I'll begin with a report on the steak dinner last night. Becky was so tired after the trip to the hospital and all the walking that she did, that she wasn't up to going out for dinner. BJ called Jan, a friend here in St. Louis, to see if there was a good steak place that we could go get it and bring it back here. She said a Friday night wasn't a good time since there was a football game downtown and the other places would be really busy. She volunteered to get steaks and grill them and bring them here. After some discussion back and forth, Jan brought steak, grilled veggies, brauts, and salad and Barb fixed baked potatoes. It was a much better steak dinner than we could ever have gotten at a restaurant and there was even enough to have for lunch and supper today. A big thanks to Jan for a great meal.
Today Jessica, Becky's daughter, came for a visit for a few days of her vacation. We went out this afternoon to the park and walked 10 to 15 minutes and then I brought her and Jessica back to the apartment and I went to get a few other items from the store that we needed. She is still recuperating from the long walks yesterday but we did enjoy the cooler weather and the walk in the park. It was interesting that there were more men in the park sunbathing than women.
The TV has been on the Solheim Cup, women's golf, all day long. It's a competition between the USA and Europe. We can't play the game but enjoy watching it. Go USA!!
Not much else from here. We thank the Lord for all of you and pray that you all may have a good day in worship tomorrow .
Love,
Becky and Barb
Friday, August 21, 2009
August 21 Day +36
Psalm 139:13-16 " For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mohter's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I waas made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body."
We are really praising the Lord this afternoon after seeing the Nurse Practioner. The report is 99.5% (they mean 100%) donor cells in her bone marrow which means the transplant worked!!
They never did find the blood culture report but she said they would have called if there had been an infection present and put her on another antibiotic.
They again had trouble getting blood from the catheter and were only able to get blood from one of the three lumens but they all flushed good again. The labs showed the platelets at 179 up from 162 and the Hemoglobin 10.4 and Hematocrit 30.5 which are lower than last week but still nothing to cause a problem.
Her blood pressure was improved, the pulse better and the tremors have decreased so the Atenolol is working like it's suppose to. She wondered about stopping the Atenolol but since that's what's helping she'll be staying on it for now.
She walked to the office from the parking garage and from one side of the seventh floor to the other twice and back to the parking garage so she is pretty wiped out right now. BJ was here for the day and went to the appointments with us and now they are both resting. Becky was feeling a little nauseated so she took a half a Phenergan. We were going to go out and celebrate with a steak dinner but not too sure about that now.
She will continue to see the Nurse Practitioner weekly for the next month and then see Dr. DiPersio on Sept. 21 and if all goes well between now and then, should be able to go home after that. She will have to make weekly trips for lab until the 100 day mark, when she will have another bone marrow biopsy and PET Scan, and then will go to every 2 weeks to St. Louis and the week in between to see Dr. Hoos in Springfield. They may take the catheter out before she leaves St. Louis if she avoids the CMV virus. Always an "IF" but right now things look good.
We thank all of you for your prayers and support and just Praise Him! God sure does amazing things in our lives.
Love,
Becky and Barb
We are really praising the Lord this afternoon after seeing the Nurse Practioner. The report is 99.5% (they mean 100%) donor cells in her bone marrow which means the transplant worked!!
They never did find the blood culture report but she said they would have called if there had been an infection present and put her on another antibiotic.
They again had trouble getting blood from the catheter and were only able to get blood from one of the three lumens but they all flushed good again. The labs showed the platelets at 179 up from 162 and the Hemoglobin 10.4 and Hematocrit 30.5 which are lower than last week but still nothing to cause a problem.
Her blood pressure was improved, the pulse better and the tremors have decreased so the Atenolol is working like it's suppose to. She wondered about stopping the Atenolol but since that's what's helping she'll be staying on it for now.
She walked to the office from the parking garage and from one side of the seventh floor to the other twice and back to the parking garage so she is pretty wiped out right now. BJ was here for the day and went to the appointments with us and now they are both resting. Becky was feeling a little nauseated so she took a half a Phenergan. We were going to go out and celebrate with a steak dinner but not too sure about that now.
She will continue to see the Nurse Practitioner weekly for the next month and then see Dr. DiPersio on Sept. 21 and if all goes well between now and then, should be able to go home after that. She will have to make weekly trips for lab until the 100 day mark, when she will have another bone marrow biopsy and PET Scan, and then will go to every 2 weeks to St. Louis and the week in between to see Dr. Hoos in Springfield. They may take the catheter out before she leaves St. Louis if she avoids the CMV virus. Always an "IF" but right now things look good.
We thank all of you for your prayers and support and just Praise Him! God sure does amazing things in our lives.
Love,
Becky and Barb
Thursday, August 20, 2009
August 20 Day +35
Psalm 89:15,16 "Blessed are those who walk in the light of Your presence, O Lord. They rejoice in Your name all day long; they exult in Your righteousness."
A special "Happy Birthday" message to Rachel, Becky's daughter, who turned 29 today. We love you.
There was a terrible storm during the night with a lot of thunder and lightening but Becky slept well because she didn't hear any of it. Wish I could say the same for myself.
It was sunny again before we got around this morning so we did the treadmill in the exercise room again. We walked down the steps to the first floor which was something new for her. She walked almost 10 minutes this morning and then her legs just buckled and she hit the STOP button. We went back this afternoon but she had some stomach upset so was only able to do 6 minutes before we had to head back to the apartment. She did walk a little faster coming back which was good.
She seems to be getting a little stronger and people who call mention that she sounds stronger in her voice. Each day is a new challenge to do more. I'm not sure how much we'll exercise tomorrow because of the appointments at the hospital. She has lab at 12:45 and sees the ANP at 1:30. Hopefully we'll get the blood culture reports as well as some of the bone marrow test results. We'll let you know what we find out.
Love,
Becky and Barb
A special "Happy Birthday" message to Rachel, Becky's daughter, who turned 29 today. We love you.
There was a terrible storm during the night with a lot of thunder and lightening but Becky slept well because she didn't hear any of it. Wish I could say the same for myself.
It was sunny again before we got around this morning so we did the treadmill in the exercise room again. We walked down the steps to the first floor which was something new for her. She walked almost 10 minutes this morning and then her legs just buckled and she hit the STOP button. We went back this afternoon but she had some stomach upset so was only able to do 6 minutes before we had to head back to the apartment. She did walk a little faster coming back which was good.
She seems to be getting a little stronger and people who call mention that she sounds stronger in her voice. Each day is a new challenge to do more. I'm not sure how much we'll exercise tomorrow because of the appointments at the hospital. She has lab at 12:45 and sees the ANP at 1:30. Hopefully we'll get the blood culture reports as well as some of the bone marrow test results. We'll let you know what we find out.
Love,
Becky and Barb
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Aug.19 Day +34
Hebrews12:1-3 "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart."
We have had a relatively quiet day today. Becky doesn't get going too well early in the morning so it was getting pretty warm before we were able to head out to the park so we had to scratch that idea for today. Hopefully the weather will cool off soon and we can go out later in the day.
After lunch we did go down to the exercise room in the apartment complex and, after cleaning off the equipment with a Clorox wipe, Becky walked on the treadmill for about 6 minutes which is a long time for her. Maybe we can set a goal for 8 minutes tomorrow. I did my time on the bicycle which was next to the treadmill just in case she had problems. She did fine but was worn out by the time we walked back to the room.
While I was fixing supper, she again had a bout with nausea. I really don't think my cookings that bad! I got her a half a Phenergan but she ended up vomiting a little bit and then felt better. The nurse had said on Monday that she felt the nausea could be graft versus host disease but wasn't sure. She did eat a little supper without any problem.
Becky is now setttled in on the couch for the evening. We just finished watching the Warner Robbins, GA girls win the Softball Little League World Series. The Cards don't play until 9 so we'll have to find something else to watch tonight. We have some movies if there's nothing on TV.
Thanks again for your cards, prayers and notes. We appreciate them so much.
Love,
Becky and Barb
We have had a relatively quiet day today. Becky doesn't get going too well early in the morning so it was getting pretty warm before we were able to head out to the park so we had to scratch that idea for today. Hopefully the weather will cool off soon and we can go out later in the day.
After lunch we did go down to the exercise room in the apartment complex and, after cleaning off the equipment with a Clorox wipe, Becky walked on the treadmill for about 6 minutes which is a long time for her. Maybe we can set a goal for 8 minutes tomorrow. I did my time on the bicycle which was next to the treadmill just in case she had problems. She did fine but was worn out by the time we walked back to the room.
While I was fixing supper, she again had a bout with nausea. I really don't think my cookings that bad! I got her a half a Phenergan but she ended up vomiting a little bit and then felt better. The nurse had said on Monday that she felt the nausea could be graft versus host disease but wasn't sure. She did eat a little supper without any problem.
Becky is now setttled in on the couch for the evening. We just finished watching the Warner Robbins, GA girls win the Softball Little League World Series. The Cards don't play until 9 so we'll have to find something else to watch tonight. We have some movies if there's nothing on TV.
Thanks again for your cards, prayers and notes. We appreciate them so much.
Love,
Becky and Barb
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
August 18 Day +33
Nehemiah 9:6 says, "Blessed be your glorious name, and may it be exalted above all blessing and praise. You alone are the Lord. You made the heavens, even the highest heavens and all their starry host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them. You give life to everything, and the multitudes of heaven worship you."
I couldn't sleep last night so I got up and watched the Cardinals beat the Dodgers. Becky couldn't believe that I stayed up for the ballgame. She was snoozing soon after she hit the bed. She said this morning that she slept well last night.
I went over to the hospital this morning and picked up her blood pressure medicine so she could get started on it. She got cleaned up while I was gone and then we rested for a while. It was so nice and cool when I walked to the hospital that I decided to get Becky out and go to the park for a walk. We had started the dishwasher and it took a lot longer than we thought so it was noon before we got started. While we were waiting, she played the keyboard and we sang some.
When we finally got to the park the sun was shining bright and it was beginning to get pretty warm. We stopped near an area that had a lot of trees where we could walk in the shade and headed toward the lake. There were a lot of geese by the lake and as we headed their way, they started heading our way probably thinking we were going to feed them. We decided to reverse course quickly and when we turned around so did the geese.
After the walk we decided to go to Sonic for lunch and enjoyed burgers, tater tots and onion rings
and 44 ounces of orangeade and limeade. Barb was able to finish her drink but Becky got about 28 ounces down and had to quit. That's not bad though. We enjoyed our outing but Becky was pretty tired when we got back and we sat on the couch and did puzzles and watched TV this afternoon.
Not much else going on from here now. We are hoping to get out earlier tomorrow for our walk in the park. The doctors and nurses keep saying that "the more exercise the less fatigue she'll feel". Becky said she didn't know how they could tell that since none of them have had a transplant!!
Love,
Becky and Barb
I couldn't sleep last night so I got up and watched the Cardinals beat the Dodgers. Becky couldn't believe that I stayed up for the ballgame. She was snoozing soon after she hit the bed. She said this morning that she slept well last night.
I went over to the hospital this morning and picked up her blood pressure medicine so she could get started on it. She got cleaned up while I was gone and then we rested for a while. It was so nice and cool when I walked to the hospital that I decided to get Becky out and go to the park for a walk. We had started the dishwasher and it took a lot longer than we thought so it was noon before we got started. While we were waiting, she played the keyboard and we sang some.
When we finally got to the park the sun was shining bright and it was beginning to get pretty warm. We stopped near an area that had a lot of trees where we could walk in the shade and headed toward the lake. There were a lot of geese by the lake and as we headed their way, they started heading our way probably thinking we were going to feed them. We decided to reverse course quickly and when we turned around so did the geese.
After the walk we decided to go to Sonic for lunch and enjoyed burgers, tater tots and onion rings
and 44 ounces of orangeade and limeade. Barb was able to finish her drink but Becky got about 28 ounces down and had to quit. That's not bad though. We enjoyed our outing but Becky was pretty tired when we got back and we sat on the couch and did puzzles and watched TV this afternoon.
Not much else going on from here now. We are hoping to get out earlier tomorrow for our walk in the park. The doctors and nurses keep saying that "the more exercise the less fatigue she'll feel". Becky said she didn't know how they could tell that since none of them have had a transplant!!
Love,
Becky and Barb
Monday, August 17, 2009
Aug. 17 Day +32
Mark 1:35 says, " And in the early morning, while it was still dark, he arose and went out and departed to a lonely place, and was praying there." This scripture shows us how important prayer was to Jesus that he would arise early and go to a lonely place to talk with His Father. If it was that important for Him, how much more should it be for us to talk to our Heavenly Father too.
It was a long day for us today. We decided to take the car today because it looked like rain and it's a good thing we did. It started raining before we got out of the garage and was raining when we got back home. There was a real "gully washer" after we got into the apartment and it's still raining.
We got to the Lab about 9 and they were able to get the blood work done by 9:30. They had a little trouble but were able to get all 3 flushed. We got to the Bone Marrow Biopsy room about 9:50 and Becky decided she wanted Versed (the doctor called it an amnesia drug) so the procedure wouldn't hurt as bad. They finally got started about 10:10. Becky was awake and talked to him during the procedure but, true to it's purpose, she doesn't remember anything about it.
Her next appointment was at 11:15 and it was a good thing we had the wheelchair because she was pretty groggy and needed the help. We finally got in a room to see the doctor about 12:00. We saw the nurse about 12:15 and then he finally came in about 12:45. Becky was telling him that when she got back from the bathroom she had a chill and he jumped right on that and said her departure from the hospital was going to be delayed. He did say that her labs are better with the platelets now at 162 and normal is above 140. Everything else was good on the CBC but the Creatinine was up which is an indicator of kidney function and hydration. Also her blood pressure remained elevated at 151/90.
The doctor decided to decrease her CellCept (antirejection drug) from 2 twice a day to 1 twice a day and the Tacrolimus from 1mg in am and 0.5mg in PM to 0.5mg in AM and PM . He is also going to start her on a blood pressure medication that hopefully will help with the tremors too. They didn't have it in the pharmacy but I'll go pick it up in the morning. She will go back for bloodwork and see the Nurse Practitioner on Friday afternoon.
Since she was having the chills, he sent her over for blood cultures to be run. The nurse wasn't thrilled to see her returning because she has so much trouble getting blood. The cultures had to be done from the port catheter as well as her arm today. The nurse said she was off Friday and Monday and Sept. 11 if Becky could schedule her labs for those days. She was just teasing, we think. After the blood cultures she had to go to have a dose of IV antibiotics. We finally got home about 3:25.
She is thoroughly exhausted this evening. We came home and I fixed "lupper" and we both ate like we were starved, which we were! I think we are going to rest this evening and do nothing.
Thank you for your prayers. All in all she got a good report today.
Love,
Becky and Barb
It was a long day for us today. We decided to take the car today because it looked like rain and it's a good thing we did. It started raining before we got out of the garage and was raining when we got back home. There was a real "gully washer" after we got into the apartment and it's still raining.
We got to the Lab about 9 and they were able to get the blood work done by 9:30. They had a little trouble but were able to get all 3 flushed. We got to the Bone Marrow Biopsy room about 9:50 and Becky decided she wanted Versed (the doctor called it an amnesia drug) so the procedure wouldn't hurt as bad. They finally got started about 10:10. Becky was awake and talked to him during the procedure but, true to it's purpose, she doesn't remember anything about it.
Her next appointment was at 11:15 and it was a good thing we had the wheelchair because she was pretty groggy and needed the help. We finally got in a room to see the doctor about 12:00. We saw the nurse about 12:15 and then he finally came in about 12:45. Becky was telling him that when she got back from the bathroom she had a chill and he jumped right on that and said her departure from the hospital was going to be delayed. He did say that her labs are better with the platelets now at 162 and normal is above 140. Everything else was good on the CBC but the Creatinine was up which is an indicator of kidney function and hydration. Also her blood pressure remained elevated at 151/90.
The doctor decided to decrease her CellCept (antirejection drug) from 2 twice a day to 1 twice a day and the Tacrolimus from 1mg in am and 0.5mg in PM to 0.5mg in AM and PM . He is also going to start her on a blood pressure medication that hopefully will help with the tremors too. They didn't have it in the pharmacy but I'll go pick it up in the morning. She will go back for bloodwork and see the Nurse Practitioner on Friday afternoon.
Since she was having the chills, he sent her over for blood cultures to be run. The nurse wasn't thrilled to see her returning because she has so much trouble getting blood. The cultures had to be done from the port catheter as well as her arm today. The nurse said she was off Friday and Monday and Sept. 11 if Becky could schedule her labs for those days. She was just teasing, we think. After the blood cultures she had to go to have a dose of IV antibiotics. We finally got home about 3:25.
She is thoroughly exhausted this evening. We came home and I fixed "lupper" and we both ate like we were starved, which we were! I think we are going to rest this evening and do nothing.
Thank you for your prayers. All in all she got a good report today.
Love,
Becky and Barb
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Aug. 16 Day +31
Psalm 84:1-4,10-12 " How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord Almighty! My sould yearns, even faints, for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my lflesh cry out for the living God.
Even the sparrow has found a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may have her young--a space near your altar, O Lord Almighty , my King and my God. Blessed are those who dwell in hour house; they are ever praising you.
Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked. For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless.
O Lord Almighty, blessed is the man who trusts in you."
We have had a good Lord's Day today. Becky got up singing Happy Birthday and bringing a gift. It's the big 60 for Barb today. We had breakfast and got cleaned up for church. We listened to Tim, Barb's son, again today. He had a very good sermon on Aquilla, Priscilla and Apollos and how we need to encourage each other in the church. We had scripture reading and communion together too. We also had live music with our service. Becky played the keyboard for about 15 minutes. It was really a wonderful addition. Thanks Carole for bringing it.
Becky said Barb could decide what to cook for her birthday dinner today. Ha!! We had a good lunch of meatloaf, green beans and noodles. The afternoon was spent watching golf, sorry Tiger lost, and Cardinal baseball they are losing too. There's been a couple hard rain showers here this afternoon which were really needed.
We have a big day planned for us tomorrow with lab at 9:15, a bone marrow biopsy at 10 and a doctor's appointment at 11:15 or whenever the biopsy is over. Pray that the port will work well, and the biopsy will go as easily as possible.
Love,
Becky and Barb
Even the sparrow has found a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may have her young--a space near your altar, O Lord Almighty , my King and my God. Blessed are those who dwell in hour house; they are ever praising you.
Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked. For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless.
O Lord Almighty, blessed is the man who trusts in you."
We have had a good Lord's Day today. Becky got up singing Happy Birthday and bringing a gift. It's the big 60 for Barb today. We had breakfast and got cleaned up for church. We listened to Tim, Barb's son, again today. He had a very good sermon on Aquilla, Priscilla and Apollos and how we need to encourage each other in the church. We had scripture reading and communion together too. We also had live music with our service. Becky played the keyboard for about 15 minutes. It was really a wonderful addition. Thanks Carole for bringing it.
Becky said Barb could decide what to cook for her birthday dinner today. Ha!! We had a good lunch of meatloaf, green beans and noodles. The afternoon was spent watching golf, sorry Tiger lost, and Cardinal baseball they are losing too. There's been a couple hard rain showers here this afternoon which were really needed.
We have a big day planned for us tomorrow with lab at 9:15, a bone marrow biopsy at 10 and a doctor's appointment at 11:15 or whenever the biopsy is over. Pray that the port will work well, and the biopsy will go as easily as possible.
Love,
Becky and Barb
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Aug. 15 Day +30
Luke 18:1 "Now He was telling them a parable to show that at all times they ought to pray and not to lose heart". There may be times when we do tend to lose heart, but praying to God in any circumstance is the answer.
It's been a pretty restful day from getting up late to sitting and watching golf and baseball during the day. Becky did walk with me down to get the mail this afternoon and then when we got back she did some on the stairwell. Up and down one flight of 8 steps was enough for her though for one day.
We have talked to most of our family in MO, IN, and WV today. Cell phones sure are great to have especially when most of our family is on the same plan.
Not much else to report from here. We will be thinking of you as you worship in the Lord's house tomorrow and we will be worshipping here.
Love,
Becky and Barb
It's been a pretty restful day from getting up late to sitting and watching golf and baseball during the day. Becky did walk with me down to get the mail this afternoon and then when we got back she did some on the stairwell. Up and down one flight of 8 steps was enough for her though for one day.
We have talked to most of our family in MO, IN, and WV today. Cell phones sure are great to have especially when most of our family is on the same plan.
Not much else to report from here. We will be thinking of you as you worship in the Lord's house tomorrow and we will be worshipping here.
Love,
Becky and Barb
Friday, August 14, 2009
August 14 Day +29
Psalm 62:5-8 says, "Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from Him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor depend on God; He is my mighty rock, my refuge. Trust in Him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge."
We have had another busy day with BJ and the grandchildren leaving this morning about 9 and then about 11 Hope and Jessica, 2 of Becky's children came for a visit for the day. They had lunch with us and visited until about 5:30 and we enjoyed talking and watching a movie together.
We also had a visit from Carole Haverland from Glendale Christian who brought a keyboard, loaned by Mark Grimm, for Becky to play while here. Carole visited for about 45 minutes and Becky enjoyed her visit.
After lunch Becky sat down at the keyboard and played for 20 or 30 minutes while Barb did the dishes and Hope and Jessica sang along. It was really good to hear her playing again. She is still real shakey but it didn't show too much in the piano playing. The keyboard will be good therapy. Becky made Jessica go out in the hall and make sure it wasn't too loud to disturb the neighbors.
After walking the girls down to the car we checked the mail and got a couple more cards. When we got back to the room she had another wave of nausea but a half a Phenergan took care of it without any vomiting this time. I'm not so sure that the nausea isn't related to the heat because it was really warm in the garage. It may just be part of it though.
We are settled down now to watch the Cardinals for the evening. Thank you all for your continued prayers and concern.
Love,
Becky and Barb
We have had another busy day with BJ and the grandchildren leaving this morning about 9 and then about 11 Hope and Jessica, 2 of Becky's children came for a visit for the day. They had lunch with us and visited until about 5:30 and we enjoyed talking and watching a movie together.
We also had a visit from Carole Haverland from Glendale Christian who brought a keyboard, loaned by Mark Grimm, for Becky to play while here. Carole visited for about 45 minutes and Becky enjoyed her visit.
After lunch Becky sat down at the keyboard and played for 20 or 30 minutes while Barb did the dishes and Hope and Jessica sang along. It was really good to hear her playing again. She is still real shakey but it didn't show too much in the piano playing. The keyboard will be good therapy. Becky made Jessica go out in the hall and make sure it wasn't too loud to disturb the neighbors.
After walking the girls down to the car we checked the mail and got a couple more cards. When we got back to the room she had another wave of nausea but a half a Phenergan took care of it without any vomiting this time. I'm not so sure that the nausea isn't related to the heat because it was really warm in the garage. It may just be part of it though.
We are settled down now to watch the Cardinals for the evening. Thank you all for your continued prayers and concern.
Love,
Becky and Barb
Thursday, August 13, 2009
August 13 Day +28
Numbers 6:24-26 "The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace."
Today has been a busy day here. BJ came last night with Becca and Allen, two of the grandchildren, to spend a couple nights. They got here about 6:30 and were really glad to see their MeMe and MeMe was glad to see them. We finally got settled down about 10:00 for the night and they were up and ready to go at 7:30 this morning.
They were excited because they were going to the zoo for the day. We had an early lunch and they got away about 11:30. Becky went to sleep on the couch and took over an hour nap. She really needed a rest. We went for a walk when she got up and then BJ got back with the kids about 5:30. They were really excited to tell all about their day. Pizza was the order for supper and we enjoyed that.
They have now had their baths and are ready for bed. We're watching a Disney Movie on TV. It's an off night for the Cardinals and that worked out well.
Not much else happening here. We're all going to go to bed early tonight.
Becky and Barb
Today has been a busy day here. BJ came last night with Becca and Allen, two of the grandchildren, to spend a couple nights. They got here about 6:30 and were really glad to see their MeMe and MeMe was glad to see them. We finally got settled down about 10:00 for the night and they were up and ready to go at 7:30 this morning.
They were excited because they were going to the zoo for the day. We had an early lunch and they got away about 11:30. Becky went to sleep on the couch and took over an hour nap. She really needed a rest. We went for a walk when she got up and then BJ got back with the kids about 5:30. They were really excited to tell all about their day. Pizza was the order for supper and we enjoyed that.
They have now had their baths and are ready for bed. We're watching a Disney Movie on TV. It's an off night for the Cardinals and that worked out well.
Not much else happening here. We're all going to go to bed early tonight.
Becky and Barb
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
August 12 Day + 27
Psalm 63:1-8
"O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water.
I have seen you in the sanctuary and beheld your power and your glory. Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you. I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands. My sould will be satisfied as with the richest of foods; with singing lips my mouth will praise you.
On my bed I rememeber you; I think of you through the watches of the night. Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings. My soul clings to you; your right hand upholds me."
We spent a big part of the day today at the hospital with the blood draw and port dressing change at 9 and then the doctors appointment at 2. They again had trouble getting blood from the port and after 2 nurses working with her they were finally able to get 2 of the lumens to give a blood return. The other one flushes good with saline but just won't give a blood return. The lab nurse went on and did the dressing change herself instead of making Becky wait for another nurse to do it. That sure helped.
We came home after the blood work and Becky rested while I went to the store for a few items we needed. I got back and did some laundry and ironing and fixed lunch and then we headed back to the hospital for the doctor visit. We finally got back to see the doctor about 2:35 and were out of there by 3. She said Becky was doing well and we already have another appointment scheduled for Monday.
The blood work was good with her Hemoglobin at 12.0 (normal 12.1-15.1), Hematocrit 34.5 (nl. 36.1-44.3), Platelets 127 (nl. 140-440) and ANC 3.2 (nl. 1.8-6.6). They are really pleased with the lab results. The Tacrolimus level was over 6 and they want it between 5-10 but her sugar was elevated, her blood pressure was elevated, and she is having a lot more hand tremors. She decided to decrease Becky's Tacrolimus dosage to 1 mg in the morning and 0.5mg in the evening. She will have another level done on Monday and then she will see what needs to be done from there.
We went to the Pharmacy after leaving the doctors office but the new medicine wasn't ready yet so I brought Becky back to the apartment and waited a while. It was really hot out today and when she got home she had another wave of nausea and again vomited a small amount and then felt better. I went back about 4:45 and got the medicine after calling to make sure it was ready.
Becky is feeling much better now, ate supper, and is now waiting to watch the Cardinals on TV tonight.
Again we rejoice in the good report and appreciate so much your continued prayers and thoughts.
Love,
Becky and Barb
"O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water.
I have seen you in the sanctuary and beheld your power and your glory. Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you. I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands. My sould will be satisfied as with the richest of foods; with singing lips my mouth will praise you.
On my bed I rememeber you; I think of you through the watches of the night. Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings. My soul clings to you; your right hand upholds me."
We spent a big part of the day today at the hospital with the blood draw and port dressing change at 9 and then the doctors appointment at 2. They again had trouble getting blood from the port and after 2 nurses working with her they were finally able to get 2 of the lumens to give a blood return. The other one flushes good with saline but just won't give a blood return. The lab nurse went on and did the dressing change herself instead of making Becky wait for another nurse to do it. That sure helped.
We came home after the blood work and Becky rested while I went to the store for a few items we needed. I got back and did some laundry and ironing and fixed lunch and then we headed back to the hospital for the doctor visit. We finally got back to see the doctor about 2:35 and were out of there by 3. She said Becky was doing well and we already have another appointment scheduled for Monday.
The blood work was good with her Hemoglobin at 12.0 (normal 12.1-15.1), Hematocrit 34.5 (nl. 36.1-44.3), Platelets 127 (nl. 140-440) and ANC 3.2 (nl. 1.8-6.6). They are really pleased with the lab results. The Tacrolimus level was over 6 and they want it between 5-10 but her sugar was elevated, her blood pressure was elevated, and she is having a lot more hand tremors. She decided to decrease Becky's Tacrolimus dosage to 1 mg in the morning and 0.5mg in the evening. She will have another level done on Monday and then she will see what needs to be done from there.
We went to the Pharmacy after leaving the doctors office but the new medicine wasn't ready yet so I brought Becky back to the apartment and waited a while. It was really hot out today and when she got home she had another wave of nausea and again vomited a small amount and then felt better. I went back about 4:45 and got the medicine after calling to make sure it was ready.
Becky is feeling much better now, ate supper, and is now waiting to watch the Cardinals on TV tonight.
Again we rejoice in the good report and appreciate so much your continued prayers and thoughts.
Love,
Becky and Barb
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Day +26 August 11
All of Psalm 111 is Scripture for today. "Praise the Lord. I will extol the Lord with all my heart in the council of the upright and in the assembly. Great are the works of the Lord; they are pondered by all who delight in them. Glorious and majestic are his deeds and his righteousness endures forever. He has caused his wonders to be remembered; the Lord is gracious and compassionate. He provides food for those who fear him; he rememebers his covenant forever. He has shown his people the power of his works, giving them the lands of other nations. The works of his hands are faithful and just; all his precepts are trustworthy. They are steadfast forever and ever, done in faithfulness and uprightness. He provided redemption for his people; he ordained his covenant forever--holy and awesome is his name. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding. To him belongs eternal praise."
Becky has felt better today without nausea but she did do some arm exercises this afternoon and now she says her arms are aching. We were trying to do some exercises hoping the blood would flow easier in the morning when she goes for blood work. Please pray that the port will work for them tomorrow.
We have had a quiet day. We did walk down the hallway and to the mailbox this afternoon. We enjoyed a supper of fresh green beans, corn on the cob, and tomatoes sent home with Barb from Tony and Sophie in Loogootee, IN. The corn was so sweet and the beans were great.
Becky goes to the hospital in the morning for blood at 9, a dressing change at the port site at 9:30 and then back to see the doctor at 2:00. We'll have time to come home and get some lunch before the doctors appointment.
Thank you for your continued prayers that are needed and appreciated.
Love,
Becky and Barb
Becky has felt better today without nausea but she did do some arm exercises this afternoon and now she says her arms are aching. We were trying to do some exercises hoping the blood would flow easier in the morning when she goes for blood work. Please pray that the port will work for them tomorrow.
We have had a quiet day. We did walk down the hallway and to the mailbox this afternoon. We enjoyed a supper of fresh green beans, corn on the cob, and tomatoes sent home with Barb from Tony and Sophie in Loogootee, IN. The corn was so sweet and the beans were great.
Becky goes to the hospital in the morning for blood at 9, a dressing change at the port site at 9:30 and then back to see the doctor at 2:00. We'll have time to come home and get some lunch before the doctors appointment.
Thank you for your continued prayers that are needed and appreciated.
Love,
Becky and Barb
Monday, August 10, 2009
Day +25 August 10
Psalm 116:12-14 says, " How can I repay the Lord for all his goodness to me? I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord. I will fulfill my vows to the Lord in the presence of is people." The Lord has surely been good to us and we praise Him for all his goodness.
Barb got home from IN about noon and BJ had lunch ready and after lunch BJ headed back to Ozark. She had worked hard taking care of Becky and keeping things done at the apartment. They enjoyed their time together. Becky and Barb both took a nap this afternoon after Barb got her laundry done.
Becky hasn't felt as good today as she has been with a wave of nausea and took a little Phenergan before supper. She is feeling a little better but may take a little more before bed. Right now the Cardinals are on and she's zoned in on them.
Nothing is scheduled until Wednesday morning so there won't be a lot to report. We did have some excitement across the street today with 3 fire engines outside the Parkway Motel parking garage but they weren't there but about 15 minutes so it must not have been anything too serious.
Thanks to BJ for doing the blog while Barb was gone. She did a good job. Becky continues to receive cards and appreciates all of them as well as the prayers.
Love,
Becky and Barb
Barb got home from IN about noon and BJ had lunch ready and after lunch BJ headed back to Ozark. She had worked hard taking care of Becky and keeping things done at the apartment. They enjoyed their time together. Becky and Barb both took a nap this afternoon after Barb got her laundry done.
Becky hasn't felt as good today as she has been with a wave of nausea and took a little Phenergan before supper. She is feeling a little better but may take a little more before bed. Right now the Cardinals are on and she's zoned in on them.
Nothing is scheduled until Wednesday morning so there won't be a lot to report. We did have some excitement across the street today with 3 fire engines outside the Parkway Motel parking garage but they weren't there but about 15 minutes so it must not have been anything too serious.
Thanks to BJ for doing the blog while Barb was gone. She did a good job. Becky continues to receive cards and appreciates all of them as well as the prayers.
Love,
Becky and Barb
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Day + 24 Sunday, August 9, 2009
Psalms 66: 1-3 Shout joyfully to God, all the earth; Sing the glory of His name; Make His praise glorious. Say to God, "How awesome are Thy works! Because of the greatness of Thy power thine enemies will give feigned obedience to Thee."
We have had another good day today on this Lord's day. We listened to a sermon from Becky's brother, Richard, on the internet today for our service and read some scripture before taking communion. Becky rested well last night and has mostly rested today while watching the Cardinals baseball game and some of the PGA on TV. She was interested in watching Tiger's comeback to win the tournament today.
We have enjoyed some good meals and used several of the tomatoes that BJ brought up from our good neighbors Rhonda and Craig; they were delicious! We took a walking stroll today around the hallway and then this evening we went on a field trip with our friend, Jan. She took us over by her house and through a very nice park area that is nearby. There seemed to be a lot of people out enjoying this beautiful day. I had to stay in the car, but it was nice to move around a bit, but it wore me out.
We pray that each of you have a God-filled week. I appreciate all of the wonderful cards, prayers, and kind thoughts that I have received from so many of you.
Also, just for the record, I was successful in beating BJ in our Sequence games on Saturday and today, we are tied....even when I'm not 100%, I can still beat her! She says that I'm just too competitive.
Love,
Becky & BJ
We have had another good day today on this Lord's day. We listened to a sermon from Becky's brother, Richard, on the internet today for our service and read some scripture before taking communion. Becky rested well last night and has mostly rested today while watching the Cardinals baseball game and some of the PGA on TV. She was interested in watching Tiger's comeback to win the tournament today.
We have enjoyed some good meals and used several of the tomatoes that BJ brought up from our good neighbors Rhonda and Craig; they were delicious! We took a walking stroll today around the hallway and then this evening we went on a field trip with our friend, Jan. She took us over by her house and through a very nice park area that is nearby. There seemed to be a lot of people out enjoying this beautiful day. I had to stay in the car, but it was nice to move around a bit, but it wore me out.
We pray that each of you have a God-filled week. I appreciate all of the wonderful cards, prayers, and kind thoughts that I have received from so many of you.
Also, just for the record, I was successful in beating BJ in our Sequence games on Saturday and today, we are tied....even when I'm not 100%, I can still beat her! She says that I'm just too competitive.
Love,
Becky & BJ
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Day + 23 August 8, 2009
COL. 3: 16 Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. This verse is to prepare your hearts for worship on the Lord's day tomorrow.
We had a good day on Friday with BJ arriving in St. Louis to take over the caregiver role while Barb departed to Loogootee, IN to meet her family and to attend the 140th anniversary celebration for the church there that she and Gene served there for 15 years. Friday evening we went on a field trip to the Applebee's nearby to have dinner where I enjoyed a sirloin steak and baked potato, although it was a good trip, it really wore me out. The rest of the evening I spent resting and enjoying a short visit with a couple of friends, Jan and Chris, who stopped by. Jan, thanks for delivering the grocery order again.
Saturday morning we had to be at the 24/7 clinic at the hospital to have the port flushed and a new dressing put on; the port is still giving problems on the blood return as they were only able to retrieve this on one of the three lines no matter which position I was in. I anticipate another day of rest and recuperation today and wish the best for all of you as well. Perhaps I'll have enough energy to beat BJ in a game of Sequence later on....she says "not going to happen;" we'll see!
Gods blessings to all of you,
Becky
We had a good day on Friday with BJ arriving in St. Louis to take over the caregiver role while Barb departed to Loogootee, IN to meet her family and to attend the 140th anniversary celebration for the church there that she and Gene served there for 15 years. Friday evening we went on a field trip to the Applebee's nearby to have dinner where I enjoyed a sirloin steak and baked potato, although it was a good trip, it really wore me out. The rest of the evening I spent resting and enjoying a short visit with a couple of friends, Jan and Chris, who stopped by. Jan, thanks for delivering the grocery order again.
Saturday morning we had to be at the 24/7 clinic at the hospital to have the port flushed and a new dressing put on; the port is still giving problems on the blood return as they were only able to retrieve this on one of the three lines no matter which position I was in. I anticipate another day of rest and recuperation today and wish the best for all of you as well. Perhaps I'll have enough energy to beat BJ in a game of Sequence later on....she says "not going to happen;" we'll see!
Gods blessings to all of you,
Becky
Friday, August 7, 2009
Day +22 August 7
Psalm 8 says, "O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory above the heavens.....When I consider your heavens the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that ou are mindful of him , the son of man that you care for him? You have made him a little lower than the heavenly beings and crowned him with glory and honor."
I'm doing the blog early today with not much to report because I'm taking off for Loogootee, IN at noon for the weekend for the churches Anniversary celebration. Gene, Barb's husband, will be preaching and bringing Robert with him. BJ is coming to stay with Becky for the weekend and I'm sure will take good care of her. She wasn't thrilled with the 8:00 appointment on Sat. and when Becky called to confirm the appt. it wasn't even in the computer and they said they didn't even open until 8:30 anyway, so BJ gets an extra half hour of sleep now.
Becky had a surprise visitor from home last night with Todd Keeley stopping by for a few minutes. She really enjoyed the visit and him praying with us. He sings in a Barbershop group here in St. Louis called the Ambassadors of Harmony that just won the international competition. He said they will be performing here sometime this month and if Becky feels like it, we'll try and go hear them. We did listen to a little of it on the internet last night and it was great.
Jan came by last night and took Barb out to find some other stores for supplies. We went to a store called "Big Deals" that is like a dollar store and it had everything I needed. I think we're stocked for a few days.
Becky slept well and continues to do great. She said the chest was hurting "just a little" this morning so that's good. She did walk some extra yesterday with the appointments and now BJ and she will get to walk some today.
Have a great and Godly day.
Becky and Barb
I'm doing the blog early today with not much to report because I'm taking off for Loogootee, IN at noon for the weekend for the churches Anniversary celebration. Gene, Barb's husband, will be preaching and bringing Robert with him. BJ is coming to stay with Becky for the weekend and I'm sure will take good care of her. She wasn't thrilled with the 8:00 appointment on Sat. and when Becky called to confirm the appt. it wasn't even in the computer and they said they didn't even open until 8:30 anyway, so BJ gets an extra half hour of sleep now.
Becky had a surprise visitor from home last night with Todd Keeley stopping by for a few minutes. She really enjoyed the visit and him praying with us. He sings in a Barbershop group here in St. Louis called the Ambassadors of Harmony that just won the international competition. He said they will be performing here sometime this month and if Becky feels like it, we'll try and go hear them. We did listen to a little of it on the internet last night and it was great.
Jan came by last night and took Barb out to find some other stores for supplies. We went to a store called "Big Deals" that is like a dollar store and it had everything I needed. I think we're stocked for a few days.
Becky slept well and continues to do great. She said the chest was hurting "just a little" this morning so that's good. She did walk some extra yesterday with the appointments and now BJ and she will get to walk some today.
Have a great and Godly day.
Becky and Barb
Thursday, August 6, 2009
August 6 Day +21
Dear friends and family,
"Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good and his love endures forever, his faithfulness continues through all generations." Psalm 100.
We rejoice today that Becky is doing so well. The ache in her chest seems to be better today which makes us think it was muscle after all. She said it still bothers her when she bends over at times but it isn't as bad as it was the last few days.
We went to another part of the hospital today called Queeny Towers to have the antibiotic breathing treatment done. They were a little disorganized and it took longer than we expected but she did well and we were back to the apartment by 2:30. Since I drove to the appointment we decided to take the "scenic route" back through Forest Park. It is a beautiful park and maybe when she's stronger we'll be able to go enjoy it more.
We came back and I fixed "lupper" (combo lunch and supper) since we hadn't eaten much since breakfast. Becky is still doing well with eating and drinking for which we're grateful.
Not much else from here. A friend is coming by tonight to show Barb some more of the shopping places around the area and where I need to be at what time of day. They said this area is safe during the day but a woman doesn't need to be out alone at night. Of course that's about any place anymore.
Love,
Becky and Barb
"Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good and his love endures forever, his faithfulness continues through all generations." Psalm 100.
We rejoice today that Becky is doing so well. The ache in her chest seems to be better today which makes us think it was muscle after all. She said it still bothers her when she bends over at times but it isn't as bad as it was the last few days.
We went to another part of the hospital today called Queeny Towers to have the antibiotic breathing treatment done. They were a little disorganized and it took longer than we expected but she did well and we were back to the apartment by 2:30. Since I drove to the appointment we decided to take the "scenic route" back through Forest Park. It is a beautiful park and maybe when she's stronger we'll be able to go enjoy it more.
We came back and I fixed "lupper" (combo lunch and supper) since we hadn't eaten much since breakfast. Becky is still doing well with eating and drinking for which we're grateful.
Not much else from here. A friend is coming by tonight to show Barb some more of the shopping places around the area and where I need to be at what time of day. They said this area is safe during the day but a woman doesn't need to be out alone at night. Of course that's about any place anymore.
Love,
Becky and Barb
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
August 5 Day +20
Micah 6:8 says, "He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God".
We have had a good day today. Becky is still having the soreness in her chest but it hasn't gotten any worse and she hasn't started running fever so we're just going to wait and see for another day. She has the appointment tomorrow for the antibiotic treatment so they will check her lungs then. The treatment will probably help with the ache too.
Barb went out today and did a little more shopping. OJ goes quick with Becky so we had to get another gallon. Of course vitamin C is good for her. Becky watched the Cardinals this afternoon while Barb was gone for a while. We did 2 laps this morning and need to do more now and another tonight before bed.
We don't have a lot to report since she is doing so well. The saying "No news is good news" is applying to us right now.
Love,
Becky and Barb
We have had a good day today. Becky is still having the soreness in her chest but it hasn't gotten any worse and she hasn't started running fever so we're just going to wait and see for another day. She has the appointment tomorrow for the antibiotic treatment so they will check her lungs then. The treatment will probably help with the ache too.
Barb went out today and did a little more shopping. OJ goes quick with Becky so we had to get another gallon. Of course vitamin C is good for her. Becky watched the Cardinals this afternoon while Barb was gone for a while. We did 2 laps this morning and need to do more now and another tonight before bed.
We don't have a lot to report since she is doing so well. The saying "No news is good news" is applying to us right now.
Love,
Becky and Barb
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Day 19 August 4
Becky suggested the Scripture tonight be I Peter 4:11 which says, " If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen".
Becky slept until after 8 this morning and I was beginning to wonder about her. In fact I went in to make sure she was OK. She had gone to bed about 9 last night. I think she was in withdrawal because the Cardinals weren't on TV. Ha!!
We got our first mail today at the new apartment, (except for the last residents mail). Becky got a note from a lady she knew from one of their first ministries who heard about her illness from the blog. She was so thrilled to hear from her and hopes to keep in touch now.
Becky walked the hallway twice today with 2 laps each. She has not felt as good today as the last few days. She has some achiness in her chest so we called the office since it's something new and they said to call if anything was different. After talking to the nurse they decided to just watch her temperature more today and if the ache went further in the chest or hurt more that she should call them back. She did a lot of deep breaths yesterday when they were trying to get the port to work and she also pushed the wheelchair a little bit on her own when we were going through doorways. Hopefully it's just a muscle strain and it will resolve in a few days.
While she took a nap today, I watched the video they gave her on the transplant procedure and got a few more tips on things to do. One thing that was said was "fatigue from a stem cell transplant is not the same as being tired. Too much sleep causes fatigue to get worse and you need plenty of exercise". We are going to try and do more exercises in the room at first and then maybe do more walking.
We watched a ballgame today, on the computer, of our niece, McKenzie Martin, playing in a tournament in South Bend, IN. They got beat but it was a good game.
Not much else from here today. She continues to rest and eat well.
Love,
Becky and Barb
Becky slept until after 8 this morning and I was beginning to wonder about her. In fact I went in to make sure she was OK. She had gone to bed about 9 last night. I think she was in withdrawal because the Cardinals weren't on TV. Ha!!
We got our first mail today at the new apartment, (except for the last residents mail). Becky got a note from a lady she knew from one of their first ministries who heard about her illness from the blog. She was so thrilled to hear from her and hopes to keep in touch now.
Becky walked the hallway twice today with 2 laps each. She has not felt as good today as the last few days. She has some achiness in her chest so we called the office since it's something new and they said to call if anything was different. After talking to the nurse they decided to just watch her temperature more today and if the ache went further in the chest or hurt more that she should call them back. She did a lot of deep breaths yesterday when they were trying to get the port to work and she also pushed the wheelchair a little bit on her own when we were going through doorways. Hopefully it's just a muscle strain and it will resolve in a few days.
While she took a nap today, I watched the video they gave her on the transplant procedure and got a few more tips on things to do. One thing that was said was "fatigue from a stem cell transplant is not the same as being tired. Too much sleep causes fatigue to get worse and you need plenty of exercise". We are going to try and do more exercises in the room at first and then maybe do more walking.
We watched a ballgame today, on the computer, of our niece, McKenzie Martin, playing in a tournament in South Bend, IN. They got beat but it was a good game.
Not much else from here today. She continues to rest and eat well.
Love,
Becky and Barb
Monday, August 3, 2009
Aug. 3 Day +18
Psalm 147:1 says, "Praise the Lord. How good it is to sing praises to our God, how pleasant and fitting to praise Him".
We spent most of the morning at the Siteman Cancer Center having blood work and seeing the Nurse practitioner. They had trouble getting blood from the port again and almost had to stand her on her head but it finally came. Her appointment with the ANP was for 10:30 and she finally came in about 11:45. Becky's labs were better with the WBC 4.3, ANC 3.0, Hgb 12.2, Hct. 35.4 and Platelets 80. The platelets and Hematocrit was low but increased from the last labs. We don't have a Tacrolimus level back yet but should hear from that this afternoon. They were so pleased with the way she's doing that they cancelled the labs and appt. for platelets on Thursday. She still has an appointment for the Pentamidine antibiotic treatment at 1:00 though. She will go to the 24/7 clinic on Sat. for a dressing change and port flush and then have labs, a dressing change and see the ANP on Wednesday the 12th. She is scheduled for more labs on the 17th, see Dr. DiPersio and have a Bone Marrow Biopsy. That will tell them how well the donor cells are engrafting. All in all they were thrilled with how well she is doing.
She's doing better than most of her family back home that are all sick. There's evidently a bug going around there so we're sorta glad to be here.
Unless something changes we will blog once a day. Continue to pray that she gains strength and her Platelets continue to improve.
Love,
Becky and Barb
We spent most of the morning at the Siteman Cancer Center having blood work and seeing the Nurse practitioner. They had trouble getting blood from the port again and almost had to stand her on her head but it finally came. Her appointment with the ANP was for 10:30 and she finally came in about 11:45. Becky's labs were better with the WBC 4.3, ANC 3.0, Hgb 12.2, Hct. 35.4 and Platelets 80. The platelets and Hematocrit was low but increased from the last labs. We don't have a Tacrolimus level back yet but should hear from that this afternoon. They were so pleased with the way she's doing that they cancelled the labs and appt. for platelets on Thursday. She still has an appointment for the Pentamidine antibiotic treatment at 1:00 though. She will go to the 24/7 clinic on Sat. for a dressing change and port flush and then have labs, a dressing change and see the ANP on Wednesday the 12th. She is scheduled for more labs on the 17th, see Dr. DiPersio and have a Bone Marrow Biopsy. That will tell them how well the donor cells are engrafting. All in all they were thrilled with how well she is doing.
She's doing better than most of her family back home that are all sick. There's evidently a bug going around there so we're sorta glad to be here.
Unless something changes we will blog once a day. Continue to pray that she gains strength and her Platelets continue to improve.
Love,
Becky and Barb
Sunday, August 2, 2009
August 2 - Day +17
II Chronicles 32:7,8
I'm a little later with the blog today and may only do one time today. We both slept well with the exception of the monitor I bought making static during the night. I think I'm getting interference from something else either in the apartment or outside. I finally just turned it off.
We had a late breakfast and got showers and then listened to Tim, Barb's son, preach on Stephen and having confidence and being under the umbrella of God and had communion together. We enjoyed listening to him. If any of you want to hear him you can go to Community Christian Church, Frankfort, IN on the web. I'm just a little proud of him.
We have a few friends who have called and are going to stop by this afternoon. Becky continues to do well. She still has been fever free and doesn't have any of the other Graft Versus Host symptoms yet. We keep a close eye out for any problems but Praise the Lord for His blessings thus far.
We will be going to the hospital in the morning to have blood drawn and see the doctor so I'll post late in the morning tomorrow with a medical update too.
We continue to thank God for all of you and your prayers and thoughts.
Becky and Barb
I'm a little later with the blog today and may only do one time today. We both slept well with the exception of the monitor I bought making static during the night. I think I'm getting interference from something else either in the apartment or outside. I finally just turned it off.
We had a late breakfast and got showers and then listened to Tim, Barb's son, preach on Stephen and having confidence and being under the umbrella of God and had communion together. We enjoyed listening to him. If any of you want to hear him you can go to Community Christian Church, Frankfort, IN on the web. I'm just a little proud of him.
We have a few friends who have called and are going to stop by this afternoon. Becky continues to do well. She still has been fever free and doesn't have any of the other Graft Versus Host symptoms yet. We keep a close eye out for any problems but Praise the Lord for His blessings thus far.
We will be going to the hospital in the morning to have blood drawn and see the doctor so I'll post late in the morning tomorrow with a medical update too.
We continue to thank God for all of you and your prayers and thoughts.
Becky and Barb
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Evening of Day +16
It's been a rather quiet day here at the apartment. We finally got the lab results about 4 this afternoon and her Tacrolimus level was 5.1 which is low so they have started her back on the medicine at 1 mg 2 times a day instead of 2 mg 2 times a day. She will have another level drawn on Monday and will see the doctor at that time too.
She continues to have a better appetite and ordered Hamburger Stroganoff for lunch and a BLT on toast for supper with corn on the cob. She has also been drinking well with about 2 liters in today. I am amazed at the difference in her since moving over here but praise the Lord for how well she's doing. We walked the halls a couple times today also. She did take a little nap this afternoon while watching the golf channel. I think she had to get her nap in so she could stay up for the Cardinal game tonight!
We have had several calls from friends and family and always enjoy talking with them.
We pray you all have a good Lord's Day tomorrow.
Love,
Becky and Barb
She continues to have a better appetite and ordered Hamburger Stroganoff for lunch and a BLT on toast for supper with corn on the cob. She has also been drinking well with about 2 liters in today. I am amazed at the difference in her since moving over here but praise the Lord for how well she's doing. We walked the halls a couple times today also. She did take a little nap this afternoon while watching the golf channel. I think she had to get her nap in so she could stay up for the Cardinal game tonight!
We have had several calls from friends and family and always enjoy talking with them.
We pray you all have a good Lord's Day tomorrow.
Love,
Becky and Barb
Day +16
Jeremiah 29:11 says, "I know the plans I have for you" declares the Lord,"plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future". The Lord just continues to bless us each day. We slept well last night and Becky is eating well. It's not got a thing to do with my cooking since I haven't fixed a full meal yet. I think it's just the difference in being in the hospital and being in a more relaxed atmosphere.
We went to the hospital at 8 this morning to the 24/7 cancer clinic to get her levels drawn again. They were 11 yesterday and the nurse today thought that was good but the one that called yesterday said it needed to be about 9 so who knows. We should hear from it by this afternoon to see when she can start the anti-rejection drug again. She has been continuing to take one of the two anti-rejection drugs anyway.
We came back and got breakfast and I have some laundry going now. I think we're going to relax today and enjoy life. I may even cook a meal!!
Becky and Barb
We went to the hospital at 8 this morning to the 24/7 cancer clinic to get her levels drawn again. They were 11 yesterday and the nurse today thought that was good but the one that called yesterday said it needed to be about 9 so who knows. We should hear from it by this afternoon to see when she can start the anti-rejection drug again. She has been continuing to take one of the two anti-rejection drugs anyway.
We came back and got breakfast and I have some laundry going now. I think we're going to relax today and enjoy life. I may even cook a meal!!
Becky and Barb
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