Birthday

Hello Friends.

Today, for just a brief moment, we experienced some rest.  It's Sam's 21st birthday, and our whole family was home together.  We had our traditional family birthday lunch at Fazoli's and everyone got a birthday gift for Sam.  Each of us then shared something we admired about Sam.  It was difficult to pick just one thing.   We are all so proud of him, as he has had such an amazing year.

We are learning this chemotherapy business as we go.  Luke spent some extra time in the clinic last week, because his white blood count was very low.  This was an unscheduled visit, but not unexpected by his doctors.  The most recent medicine Luke received is known to cause severe drop in the white blood cell count, which makes the patient susceptible to infection.  Once Luke began having fevers, the doctors wanted to take every precaution to make sure he didn't get an infection.  That meant staying at the hospital where they could culture his blood daily, provide fluid and meds, and monitor his condition closely.  Even though the days are long and we'd rather be home, we are grateful that Luke received excellent care and that no infection was found.  He will be back in GR on Thursday for his next round of chemo, treatments 17-21 in his regimen.

Please pray for Luke.  He needs patience, strength, and discipline through this long and difficult process.  We are so proud of him, and heartbroken as we watch him feel lousy all the time, but our prayer remains the same.  Can't stop, WON'T stop praying, for God to heal our boy. (James 5:14-16)

God bless,
James & Lu
(for Sam the birthday man, Jay & Luke)

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