Saturday, October 18, 2008

We've Got News!

We are thrilled to share that the results of Jim’s bone marrow biopsy show no leukemic cells! We cannot say that he is in remission, however, until his blood counts come up. The doctor expects that by the end of next week, his counts should be better. Jim’s white blood count is very low. A normal white blood count is anywhere between 4.5 and 11 thousand. Jim has a white blood count of only 400. He still needs platelets and blood to boost those counts as well. We’re still unclear if Jim will be able to come home after his counts increase or if they will start Phase II – the Consolidation Phase – at that time. We will hopefully be able to speak with Jim’s doctor this week to clarify this. They did, however, tell us to expect and 3 – 5 week stay and possibly as long as 6 weeks.

Some other good news is that Jim’s mouth sores are healing nicely. He was able to have pot roast for dinner last night and a chicken sandwich tonight! We’re thankful that he is more comfortable and that it is easier for him to eat. Thank you for all your prayers. It is comforting to know that God cares even about the minor side effects Jim has.

Speaking of side effects, Jim’s hair is also getting thinner and thinner. There are no obvious clumps missing but his full thick head of hair is getting pretty T-H-I-N! Other than that, Jim is feeling well. He has a good amount of energy and takes some walks but also likes to nap occasionally too.


Thank you for thinking of us and supporting us and especially for your prayers. We continue to trust God for our strength and peace and are careful to give Him the praise.

6 comments:

Jenny said...

Thanks be to God!
Jenny

Jennifer Kennedy said...

Wonderful news!!

Anonymous said...

That is really great news about Jim's bone marrow test! We continue to pray for all of you. What a difficult journey you are all on, but demonstrate the grace of the Lord in all of it!
Love, Jim, Sally, Brian and Julie

Jen said...

We've been anxious to hear this great news, and are celebrating with you! We'll continue to pray for you all...
Jen & the guys

MARK LEYEN said...

Great News!!! Praise Jesus!! Know that I am PRAYING daily that God will continue to heal you completely Praying for the Family as well Thanks for the great updates here on this blog...

CUZ Mark
In Denver

tleyen said...

Praise the Lord for this good news! Tim and I have been praying without ceasing for you all! Mark told us yesterday about the blog...thanks for doing this. We love you! :)
Cousins Erin and Tim