First of all, I want to thank everyone who has called or emailed with words of encouragement and prayers and to those who have provided meals and childcare. I'm sorry I'm not able to respond to every note and email right now, but know that your words and prayers mean so much. We truly feel God carrying us through this trial. I heard a quote recently that God's grace is like water, naturally flowing to the lowest valleys. Even though there are moments that seem impossible and overwhelming, God's grace is even more overwhelming than the difficulties.
Today has been a day for Joella to regain strength before her surgical procedures tomorrow. She received more blood transfusions and platelets to get her blood counts up to safe levels. She has continued to spike fevers up to 104.8, but so far no infections have shown up in her blood cultures.
Joella has been awake more today, flashing lots of smiles to us and to visitors, doctors and nurses. She seems to be getting used to the routine of nurses checking her vitals, and she doesn't cry as much. Her favorite toy is the thermometer the nurses use. Her Nana brought by her baby doll with a hospital gown today, and Joella is enjoying playing doctor with her dolly.
We received a handmade blanket today from Project Linus. I actually helped make one of these blankets for sick kids at a recent MOPS meeting. For all of you MOPS mommas, they really mean a lot. Thank you for helping to provide comfort and warmth for kids like Joella going through serious illness.
Prayer requests: Please pray for her surgical procedures tomorrow: port-a-cath placement, bone marrow aspiration, and lumbar puncture with chemotherapy injection. Pray for Joel and I for wisdom and clear direction from God as we make decisions about her treatment. Pray for us to see God's wonders and glory.
Hello Kerry,
ReplyDeleteI just saw the news about Ella and wanted to let you know that Kyle and I are praying for all of you. May God's love and strength guide Joella, you, Joel and Cameron through this time. We pray that he will provide wisdom and pour out his mercy.
Your post/updates are filled with hope and love. May God continue to replenish these throughout this season. We hope to visit and see you soon!
Sending much love,
-Emily and Kyle Martin
Kerry and Joel -- I know that, right now, it takes a considerable amount of a precious commodity -- energy -- to put a jumble of experiences, emotions, and thoughts into writing to help us stay updated and in touch with you and Joella. So thank you for allowing us the privelege of walking with you through this time. Please know that -- whether near or far physically, the Spirit is even now forming a broad community of family, friends, and believers who are holding Joella and you before our good and gracious God. May He provide you with the all you need for tomorrow and the days ahead.
ReplyDeleteHi, Kerry and Joel.
ReplyDeleteI'll be praying for you all and for Joella's surgical procedures tomorrow.
Robin Snyder
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ReplyDeleteI am praying for ALL of you.
ReplyDeleteOur thoughts and prayers are with you. We can't be there with you physically, but know that we're holding you in our hearts. God is miraculous. I've never met a more positive person than you Kerry, and while my heartaches for your family at this time, I know if anyone can be strong through this, it's you. God bless you and yours.
ReplyDeletePrayers going out continually.
ReplyDeleteI loved reading that Karna brought the baby in the hospital gown. She would think of something so wonderful as that. You all have been continually on my mind. Prayers continue for grace and peace. Love, Linda
ReplyDeleteWe're praying for you often, Joel and Kerry! When I was babysitting Caitlyn Saturday I came back into the room where she was and she had her hands folded and said, "I pray for Jo-lell-a!" (We had not even been talking about her.) We know God hears those precious prayers too. He is good - all the time. We will continue to pray for complete healing and no recurrence. God bless you all,
ReplyDeleteMarcy Faber (Carolyn's mom)