Smiles Make My Day

Anya had a very good day yesterday. She woke up smiling and even played with some toys and colored in bed! I can't explain what this does for me - it made my whole day! The rash is clearing and the doctor was pleased with her progress. However because the rash is not more cleared the doctor has asked that she stay in the hospital until Monday, after the bone marrow aspirate. This gives us more time to get the house cleaned & organized but I am sorry for Anya who is ready to be home with her family and for all of us who would like to be with her at the house.

Last night Isaiah was feeling better so I brought him to Anya's room for a few minutes. She was so happy to see him; she couldn't quit smiling. But when it was time for him to leave she was heartbroken. By that time she was exhausted and very ready for bed. But the nurse still needed to do a few things (including bringing her medicine) so it was a difficult couple of hours.

Anya was awakened this morning to a nurse coming in to get her blood. She was very upset and has been upset ever since. She has an incessant appetite because of the steroids and doesn't have the patience for food to arrive. And she can't stop crying because she is worried about the nurses who are going to come in soon. I am hoping that she will be able to get back to sleep shortly so she can get the rest she needs to feel better.

Please pray for the bone marrow aspirate test on Monday - it is important that we find the leukemia cells have responded to treatment. We are hoping with Dr. Kitchen, Anya's oncologist, to find less than 5% leukemia cells. We are also asking God to give Anya peace, joy, and comfort in the midst of her discomfort and fear. And we are praying that Anya will be able to come home on Monday, instead of the date being pushed back again.