We head back to NIH tomorrow, and if everything goes well, Ella will start the next round of chemo on Friday (it's a five days on, twenty-three days off cycle).
Ella handled the first round of chemo well. While we were at NIH we were able to enjoy some time with friends, attend church and visit the new American Girl store in VA, which helped to make our stay, for what it was, a good one. The main side effect Ella experienced was some fatigue, and then she had to have a platelet transfusion this past Friday (but counts are now back to where they need to be). Ella and Jack started school on the 16th and both are enjoying it. While Ella can't really run around during PE or recess due to some balance issues, she can do everything else. I (Renae) have been going to school for recess and in an effort to make hanging out with Ella at a picnic table a fun thing, have become the craft lady (even though I'm really not very crafty). The children are all so sweet to Ella, as are all of the teachers and staff, which is a huge blessing.
Ella and I will head back to NIH tomorrow. Ella will have doctor appointments, labs and an MRI on Thursday. After an audiology test on Friday morning, we should be able to head home. If everything is stable, she'll start the next round of chemo on Friday. We'll be able to give it to her orally at home. Prayers for great test results would be wonderful.
We were sad to learn today that Sydney Gaylord, passed away yesterday after her battle with a brain tumor. We know Sydney's parents and think the world of them. Please keep them, her husband, young children and all of her family and friends in your prayers (www.caringbridge.org/visit/sydneygaylord). Additionally, please keep the Makintosh family in your prayers as their daughter Nicole passed away this evening from a DIPG (www.carepages.com/carepages/NicolesNotes).
Love & Blessings,
The Newmillers
