Further Clarification

While we are very happy that so far the blood tests and bone marrow biopsy have shown no leukemic cells, we’ve been reminded again that Jim is not out of the woods yet. They are still not able to say the Induction Phase of chemotherapy was successful. Jim’s doctor explained that he is “hypocellular” meaning Jim’s body is not producing enough bone marrow cells. When his body is only producing a few cells and no bad cells are found, that is good. However, they need to see Jim producing more cells. Then if no leukemic cells are found, they would consider the Induction Phase successful.

Jim is doing very well and the doctors are pleased. He continues to receive visitors and enjoys each and every one that stops by to see him. His white blood count continues to be low – yesterday at 300 and today at 600. He is eating well and goes for 2 or 3 walks a day. A big blessing is that his spirits are high. He has a positive outlook, and many have commented to me that Jim is a testimony, and that it is obvious that his faith in God, which is interwoven into his very being, is where he draws his strength and peace.

We thank you again for your interest and for your prayers. Please pray:

1. That Jim would stay clear of any infection.
2. That Jim’s blood counts would go up without any leukemic cells.
3. For complete healing of this disease.

We have one other concern for which we would appreciate your prayers. Please pray for our youngest son, Kyle. Kyle was born with Down syndrome and although he knows that his Dad is in the hospital and is “sick,” we’re not sure how much he grasps the seriousness of Jim’s illness. I have been taking Kyle up to see his Dad periodically, but he hasn’t seen Jim since much of his hair has fallen out. I was not sure how to prepare Kyle for this. It was suggested to me to make a social story for him to explain that his Dad doesn’t have much hair. I am working on a book for Kyle that will show people with different hair styles and people without hair (i.e. athletes, those who have shaved their heads, etc. I will probably include Larry the Cucumber who is featured in a Silly Song about not having hair). A friend, who is a graphic artist, took a picture of Jim and photoshopped it to take away his hair. I will then include a page about Jim losing his hair. Please pray that this would help to prepare Kyle and that he would have a sense of understanding and peace and not of fear.

Thank you for interceding on our behalf.