tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52354769925935726172024-02-08T10:44:28.272-06:00It's WhateverKendall Thomas's journey after being diagnosed with Leukemia.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger94125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5235476992593572617.post-86750199181959316922010-04-30T00:06:00.006-05:002010-05-13T01:44:26.660-05:00This update took TOO longI have heard from many of you about updates on Kendall and why I stopped writing the blog. Truth is....I felt like if I wrote something, then things might be over. But isn't that what we want...for it to be over. The last 8 months of my life has been turned upside down. Not to mention what it has done for Kendall...for Tammy, Whitney, Bragan and Dylan and many..many other people in her life. It has been "a journey". Today is <br />May 12. I'm gonna post in this post, what I wrote when we got home......<br /><br /><br />"Today is April 29, around midnight, and I am going to write the last official entry into the journey of Kendall Thomas. I know that its been a couple of weeks since the last post, I just couldn't find the words to write to you to truly express how I feel. I'm gonna give it my best shot though:<br /><br />Kendall and me went to the doctor on that next Tuesday, 13th. We meet with them and she was cleared to go home. Kendall was so excited and wanted to go right then, which we couldn't, we still had to have her PICC line removed and finish gathering a few things at the apartment. None the less we did leave that same day, she was determined to get moving. And as usual, I did it to make her happy. Its been a while since she has been that happy. And knowing this in the back of my mind, I was not ready to go. I became scared about what could and can happen. How are we gonna fix it if we're in Gardendale. The doctors are in Houston and I wanted to stay around them. Kendall would have no part in it. She was ready to go. So we did.<br /><br />Kendall is home now and wont go back for three months. She is still going to be tested for blood work every month. We pray that all the test show good positive things."<br /><br />.....so, that's as far as I got before I had to quit. Writers block or facing reality of what is going to happen next. I just took some time to try and become normal again...with my family. It was hard to do. Me and Tammy have not hardly been together in some time and we keep getting into each others way. She had developed her routine as had I. And it didn't seem to mesh anymore. Work was hard to go back to, not knowing where Kendall was every minute of the day and wondering if she was ok. That took some time to adjust. Dylan, my baby boy.... that has grown up too fast and I feel like I missed the last moments of him being a child. He is turning out to be quite a teenager. Very independent and doesn't need his daddy anymore..or as much. Whitney and Bragan have their own families now and are not as needing anymore either. Everybody grew up...but not apart. We do feel stronger as a family. The family has even grown. Our neighbors have become closer, more like family and we have all developed a special bond during this journey. People we have meet in Houston have become family, doctors, other patients and even strangers. <br /><br />Out of all of this, Kendall is fixing to return to school. Getting ready to move next week. I keep telling myself that a move to Montgomery is a lot better than a move back to Houston. Kendall has started back training and exercising for school. I know she knows I am having a hard time with it but she always tries to make me laugh by saying that she has been with me every day for 8 months and she doesn't have to see me every day anymore. She has saved them all up.<br /><br />We go back to Houston in July for our first three month check up. That should be a pleasant trip. I don't know if I will ever get Kendall on a plane again. <br /><br />Me and God have spend a lot of time together lately. Mostly me giving him thanks for his miracles. I never gave up on him and never will. It's easy to see how we need God when things are not going our way. He is easy to talk to and always listens. It did make me feel better trying to find scripture that would give me hope, faith and encouragement...and love. Now that things are returning to normal around, I want to keep God around more. I know he has always been there, but like the other people, neighbors, strangers and family that we have made stronger bonds with...God is one of those..too. I know I can't always get my way, but as long as I can keep God with me...it doesn't really matter <br />"which way" it is.<br /><br />PS. This is not really the last entry...that was a little dramatic on my part!<br /><br /><br />May 13, 2010Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5235476992593572617.post-90634618587469042782010-04-09T09:39:00.003-05:002010-04-09T10:10:02.197-05:00Is This Our Final Week?Well, I thought that we might be packing up and getting ready to drive home. Kendall went to the doctor today to have her blood work checked. The doctor said they were starting to improve but that they were not where they wanted them to be at before she goes home. So instead of packing we have one more weekend to spend in Houston. Kendall did not need any blood or platelets today and her white blood cells are really starting to climb. Some of it may have been due to Kendall being sick the last 3 days. Nothing but laying in the bed with headaches and being nauseous. When I got up this morning I noticed that she had gotten up sometime during the night and fixed popcorn, so I knew she was feeling better. <br /><br />Kendall goes back to the doctor Tuesday and that might be the day we can come home, as long as her blood counts are still improving. But the doctor wouldn't say for sure. Kendall was a little upset, I know she's ready to come home. She didn't have to say anything, her facial expressions said it all. When we were in the car on the way to the apartment we talked about it a little. She was looking forward to packing up today and heading home. But she said she guessed she could stand a few more days but not many more. I'll find us something to do to take her mind off of it. But it ain't going to be easy. <br /><br />We have to go back to a physical therapy session this afternoon to start Kendall's road to complete physical recovery. They're gonna show her how to start off slow and work into a regular training routine for exercise. Kendall is really excited about that visit. I still can't get her to go walk with me outside. I can't really blame her though. The last time I made her walk outside with me, she threw up in the parking lot and she reminds me of that every time I ask her to walk.<br /><br />Kendall's going to get a nap to rest up for the appointment this afternoon. Maybe by Tuesday I will telling you that we are driving home.<br /><br /><br /><em><strong>Hebrews 3:13<br />But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness</strong></em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5235476992593572617.post-55059918988500876702010-03-30T21:17:00.002-05:002010-03-30T21:48:41.949-05:00The Verdict Is InI'm sitting at work today doing some paperwork. My cell phone rings and it is MD Anderson hospital. A million things begin to go through my mind as I answer the phone. It's one of Kendall's PA's(physician assistants)calling to tell me some news about Kendall. She says that Kendall no longer needs to have anymore lumbar punctures or chemotherapy. Kendall is 100% tumor free and she has 0% leukemic cells. Speechless! All of Kendall's test results from last week were very good. At this point, I don't seem to hear anything else. The last 7 1/2 months flash before my eyes. Is it really over. Can Kendall come home to stay this time? I didn't know what to say. I hang up the phone and almost instantly get a phone call from Kendall. I will never forget the excitement in her voice as she begins to tell me what the doctor told her today. I tried so hard to reach through the phone and hug her. This is almost over and we can make that final journey back home. Then I talked to Tammy and the excitement continued. Tammy was crying so much I could barely hold mine back. <br /><br />After several hours of the news sinking in...it was such a relief to finally just say out loud that Kendall's cancer is gone. Can she now resume her life before it was so abruptly changed? <br /><br />Dylan and myself are going out to Houston this weekend for one last visit. Then Dylan and Tammy will come home while I finish out Kendall's journey in Houston for the next couple of weeks. It will be so great to load up the apartment and head for home. <br /><br />I can't wait!!!!!!<br /><br /><br /><em><strong>John 16:32<br />But a time is coming, and has come, when you will be scattered, each to his own home. You will leave me all alone. Yet I am not alone, for my Father is with me.</strong></em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5235476992593572617.post-84503810029047171912010-03-18T03:10:00.002-05:002010-03-18T03:28:55.635-05:00The Official Last Round of ChemoOnce again, I take Kendall and Tammy to the airport for their final journey back to Houston for Kendall's last round of chemotherapy. I dropped them off this even and gave each of them a long hug and kiss and told them that I loved them. Letting go still remains hard for me to do as I know the day nears when Kendall is off to college again. That is already storing a supply of tears to fall. Kendall has been so anxious this last two weeks and is also so confident about getting started. They made it back about 7pm and safely entered the cozy surroundings of the "apartment". I am so looking forward to packing it up and moving back home. <br /><br />Kendall will be at the doctor early this morning to get things started. I pulled up her schedule and the next 30 days is filling up quick with things to do. I will make sure over the next couple of days to post the last reports of her doctors visits and procedures as they happen. God has performed such a miracle already and I want to make sure that to God be the glory. He has been with my family extremely close over the last 7 months and we all have been truly blessed and touched by his power. <br /><br />I always meet someone around Gardendale that asks about Kendall or the family and it is another blessing that we have received from all of you and your prayers and thoughts. I mean it when I say that you have meant a great deal to Kendall and my family as well and I hope to be able to personally thank and hug each of you and touch you as you have touched my heart.<br /><br />Well as you can see by the time stamped post, its past 3:30am and I can't sleep. Anxious, nervous and praying that this goes well one more time. Good night.<br /><br /><br /><em><strong>Romans 15:13 <br />“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”</strong></em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5235476992593572617.post-71378526579709389702010-03-07T03:10:00.002-06:002010-03-07T03:46:41.546-06:00Catching Up To DoIn just over a short week, so much has happened in the way of Kendall's schedule, I wasn't sure what I needed to write because things changed so fast. <br /><br />On that Friday, February 26, Kendall did have to have platelets again that morning at the hospital. But we did manage to make the late afternoon flight to come home. Wasn't sure we were even going to get to come home. Kendall has had several more infections come up and that has caused her blood counts to really be out of line. But we did come home. Kendall was still really tired and she didn't do much while we she was home. The only thing she really wanted to go and do was to see her team play softball on that Friday. They were playing at 1:00pm, nut we were late coming in. So I wanted to tell Coach we're sorry we couldn't make it but maybe we can catch one soon.<br /><br />Kendall and Tammy flew out on Tuesday afternoon headed back to Houston. Kendall has to have another lumbar puncture with chemo in her spine and also have a bone marrow aspiration. I especially couldn't wait to get the results of the bone marrow aspiration. This test was going to assure us that Kendall was still in remission. Her last test showed that she had around 3% blasts cells (leukemic cells) in her body. They want that number to of course be at zero(0). But anything under 5% and she is still in remission. Even a lower number than the previous will shoe=w that her treatment is still working. That test was giving on the March 3rd and she had to meet with her doctor on March 4th to get the news.<br /><br />On Thursday, March 4th, we received the results for the aspiration and it showed around 1% blasts cells. Which was GREAT news! It could still go a little lower and maybe when the next treatment is over it will be lower. But around 1% is just what we all needed to hear. Kendall could have left the doctor's office that day and everything would have been a great day. But then she received some other news about her blood counts, The doctor said her blood counts were too low to start the next round of chemo. She said the blood was working on its on now but that they were just not recovering enough to go through the next round. Tammy said Kendall's face turned red as they told her it would need to be post poned for a week. Then I think Kendall had steam coming from her head as the doctor told her that she needs a two week break instead and told her to go back home to rest. I knew Kendall was furious as she was so ready to start the next round to get through. Tammy called me to tell me all of this news and and I felt like I was back on the roller coaster, up and down up and down. <br /><br />I booked Kendall and Tammy a flight home for Friday, March 5th and anxiously awaited their return. I spoke to Kendall later on that day and she was a little better. She was still upset and disappointed that she couldn't start chemo but was instead dealing more with being sick from the lumbar puncture. So we had a reunion on Friday only though Kendall was gone for just a few days but we still celebrated the results from the blast cells. Kendall is still in remission.<br /><br />Over the next few days, we will look over her schedule on exactly what day Kendall and Tammy will be going back out. But for now I will enjoy my family all together for a short week or so. And Tammy wasn't even mad that I had not done anything on my "to do list" that she gave me because they weren't gone long enough for anything other than me to read it. I of course was working on a game plan to tackle the lists. But now that list is gone as Tammy has already revised it for a newer one.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5235476992593572617.post-20855059192754369432010-02-25T01:21:00.004-06:002010-02-25T01:43:27.212-06:00Sleep, Rest...we need itI thought I would be writing this post from Gardendale tonight but Kendall and me are still in Houston. Kendall and myself spent 3 wonderful nights in the hospital with Kendall's fever. Running test and drawing blood. Well her fever broke but she still had a slight infection but we were able to go back to the apartment. Although she is having to take IV antibiotics for the next 13 days. Every 6 hours. Try sleeping with that routine. The medicine is refrigerated and had to be room temperature prior to giving it, then after running for an hour it has to be unhooked and the lines flushed so they won't clog. Midnight and 6am are the toughest but so far it has been ok. An hour of sleep here and an hour of sleep there. Not to mention that Kendall has all of her other medication that she is taking twice a day.<br /><br />Back to being home. The lab showed that her platelets are not recovering very fast and she is having to have them transfused every other day. Some of it was due to the fever and infection. It leaves her really tired and doesn't have a lot of energy to do anything. She has also been bleeding more than normal from her mouth as the result of low platelets. They have been low before but not for this long. The doctor said Kendall needed to stay around close because of the way her platelets keep dropping so fast. She goes back Friday for another check and maybe by then we will be able to go home. They want to start the last round of treatment next week. So much has to happen before she can start again. For now, I make sure she is resting and eating some hoping that her body pulls itself together for this last cycle.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5235476992593572617.post-75945180911026267392010-02-18T22:42:00.003-06:002010-02-18T22:53:28.813-06:00Fevers Means Larger Hospital RoomsBack in the hospital for those long nights,no sleeping and general discomfort. Kendall ran a fever that could not be avoided so we made the trip to the Emergency Room. 3pm till 2am is not as bad as it seems. Really, we were able to sit in the er with lots of people that even somelooked to be in more pain that Kendall. I tried to be patient>The nurse told me that she was putting us in a wing that nobody is using. I said you will forget about us and we'll be here forever. She assured me that, that would not happen. Well it did, we didn't see a nurse for hours. Finally got in the roomabout 2am and Kendall slept a little but I could not. The nerses where in her room every 39 minutes now. So I stayed up and are now feeling the affects of no sleep.<br /><br />Kendall hasreceived two units of blood and 6 units of platelets and on all the antiobiodics anyone could imagine. She's doing fine,just notreal social causeshe is tired so much. Won'tkeep you long just wanted to give the quick update.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5235476992593572617.post-66899837605143748802010-02-16T21:52:00.002-06:002010-02-16T22:42:53.661-06:00Steady Is The PathI don't know how this past week has slipped by me. It just seemed liked yesterday that Kendall was starting her chemo and we were getting settled in. Kendall has had, so far a good beginning. This past week, Kendall hasn't done a lot because she has been tired. She did give me a scare last night when she started to run a fever but it came down and we avoided a hospital trip. She told me that she was due a trip to the emergency room and had already packed an overnight bag to go. She is starting to become more comfortable with the realization that she has leukemia. She knows what she has do and has no problem in getting it done. I know she still gets upset about it, but I have begin to see how much she has grown through this experience. And she has handled it extremely well. I am very proud of her for the strength and courage she has shown throughout this. <br /><br />Kendall's blood counts have been really low this week and haven't begun to recover yet. Hopefully by the end of the week they will start to recover. She has had to get platelets every other day. But even though she's recovering slower that usual, she has more upbeat days than down days.<br /><br />We meet some new people this week at the hospital. We were laughing at how we can tell what people are new to MD Anderson and what people have been around for a long time. The new people we met are from Kentucky and have only been out here for a month. Kendall and me felt like regulars as they were asking how to get around the hospital and about things around Houston. As I carried on my conversation with them, I couldn't help but think how familiar I have really became with the hospital and even with the city of Houston. Then I began to think about how much I missed our home, our family and our neighbors. I began to get sad thinking about that so then I began to think about how close Kendall is to being through with her treatment and we can get back to all those things that we miss. <br /><br /><em><strong>Psalm 68:13<br />Even while you sleep among the CAMPFIRES, the wings of my dove are sheathed with silver, its feathers with shining gold."</strong></em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5235476992593572617.post-84156591135417415342010-02-08T19:23:00.002-06:002010-02-08T20:15:10.329-06:00Gods Miracle OpportunityHow many mornings do you wake up and realize that each day is a miracle. That every day you have an opportunity to shine in Gods eyes. I was reminded of that this morning when Dylan called me at 6:45am. I was laying in the bed thinking about all the reasons why I shouldn't get out of it. Dylan's voice was so full of life, excitement....opportunity! He was walking out to catch the school bus and wanted to call me not only to see what I was doing but also to specifically ask how was Kendall doing. His voice reminded me of some of the reasons why I should get out of bed.....<br /><br />....so how is Kendall doing? She has had a rough weekend. Filled with not eating or drinking anything and not having the energy to move around. She didn't run a fever or anything but was just.....tired. I was worried because she wasn't eating or drinking and I would constantly be trying to give her something. She would politely smile at me and say...no thank you. I didn't find any new hobbies or interests, I just calmly sat in the living room listening out for her to call me. I started reading a couple of different books, but Tammy knows I never finish them, I just start them. Kendall did start to stir around a little bit on Sunday and began to eat a little....and it was very little. <br /><br />Kendall had a doctors appointment this morning for labwork. Her energy level was better than Sunday and she was eating more and even drinking more. She is at day 6 of treatment and I didn't think she would need blood by the way she was feeling, but she is at day 6 which is usually time for a blood transfusion. But I was right, she didn't need any. Her white blood count was at 0.1, which is really low this early but Kendall was in good spirits. She even started wearing her mask without me even having to remind her. I'm beginning to think that she don't need me anymore because she's been through so much it's almost like routine to her. Kendall doesn't have to go back until Wednesday and I'm sure she will have to have blood and/or platelets by then. <br /><br />I know some mornings when I get up it's like routine to me. I go through the motions day after day without taking time to do what's really important. To take the time to thank God for the opportunity. The opportunity to care....to laugh....to cry...and to love. I've often talked about things that refer to Gods plan for the future and how it will turn out...His way. But tonight I want to take the time....the opportunity to thank him for the things in my life today. For the opportunity to live each day pleasing God. I know that some days I probably don't please God as much as other days. But I thank him for the opportunity. <br /><br /><br /><em><strong>Colossians 4:5-6<br />Make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.</strong></em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5235476992593572617.post-27708740615001075142010-02-04T11:42:00.004-06:002010-02-04T16:59:25.861-06:00Round and Round We Go.....Days 1 and 2 are in the books. Kendall has finished two or her three days of chemo this week and we are fixing to tackle day three. This treatment had the extra drug in in and Kendall has been so worried that it was going to make her sick. She was right.....it did. She went through the chills, the fever, the nausea and the pain the whole night. And she wasn't through. Chemo ran until 3am that morning. Most of all the symptoms happened while we were still at the hospital and the nurse took very good care of her. Every time Kendall moved, the nurse was there to help. When we got to the apartment, Kendall went straight to bed. She slept until the next day of chemo. So back to the hospital we go. By now she was feeling a little better and the hospital wasn't crowded at all. We went right in and she started chemo. It was now time for Grey's Anatomy. That's all she likes to watch on tv so it felt like we watched all of one season. Back to the apartment and Kendall went to sleep. I feel like we are either at the hospital or trying to catch up on sleep. One would think that after 6 months of this it would surely ease up. Sometimes I think it's getting harder for Kendall. Her body falls down quicker and it takes longer for her to recover. While she's having chemo, she stays so tired. But somehow, she presses on and wants to keep going. Some days I feel like I have to drag her to the hospital but she is so looking forward to the end of the tunnel.....<br /><br />....So now we're back from day 3 and wait on the blood transfusions. By day 6 she will be needing blood and platelets. It's scary sometimes to think that I know all of this. Six months ago seems like an eternity. How much in the dark I was about this. Well, not going to go through all of that now. I'll wait until next month to do that.<br /><br /><br /><em><strong>2 Corinthians 5:7 <br />We live by faith, not by sight</strong></em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5235476992593572617.post-70763784720604226742010-02-01T20:59:00.002-06:002010-02-01T21:15:48.875-06:00Rounding ThirdWell, back at it. Kendall and me flew back in to Houston on Sunday night to start the next round. Two more. I told her it was like rounding third and heading home. She didn't think that was funny. Kendall was able to spend another week at home trying to be normal. For the most part she did really good. She hasn't had much of an appetite this past month but started to eat better this past week. Her energy level was really good. She was able to get out and do a lot this week. I still worry about her being out by herself. She tells me I'm paranoid but I can't help it. <br /><br />We had a visit with the doctor today and got the green light to start. Her white blood count was down a little and was in discussion about whether or not to wait a few more days to start. Kendall didn't say anything but I could tell that a decision to delay would not make for very pleasant conversation around the apartment. But the doctor said she was good to go so we dropped that discussion as quick as it came up. So we left the hospital knowing that the next few days of chemo are going to be tough because the doctor said her bone marrow is not recovering as well as it has been. We'll just take it one day at a time and everything should be fine.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5235476992593572617.post-35536497825155520022010-01-22T06:55:00.002-06:002010-01-22T07:12:11.106-06:00ALMOST THROUGHKendall and Tammy are getting to come home tonight. Kendall has a doctor's appointment this morning and should be able to catch their flight home tonight. Kendall has done really well this past week. A few times where she was not feeling good, but mostly was very upbeat. I called her one night and she sounded like she was having way too much fun. Her blood levels have recovered nicely and are higher than they have been the last couple of treatments. Maybe her body is working harder knowing that she is almost through. This had been a hard month for me. Working long hours and little time with the family. So I'm really looking forward to the mini reunion tonight. I'm sure Kendall will be non stop, full of things to do while she is here. She has to be back at the end of the month to start her next round of chemo. Wow! cant believe it's already down to just two left. Tammy did say that I wouldn't recognize Kendall because her hair has began to grow in really thick. I know Kendall is looking forward to family and friends and can't wait to see everyone.<br /><br /><br /><em><strong>Proverbs 2:11<br />Discretion will protect you, <br />and understanding will guard you.</strong></em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5235476992593572617.post-25922504431115465082010-01-13T21:00:00.003-06:002010-01-13T21:42:01.942-06:00Waiting...Listening...Hearing!Have you ever stopped and looked back at how fast time REALLY moves. It's already been a week since my last post. Since then the road to recovery has been really hard for Kendall. She continues to struggle through this round of chemotherapy. I talk to her every day and even though I can't see her facial expressions, I can tell that she doesn't feel well. The chemo has really taken it out of her this time. They seem to be getting harder for her every time. She has not been eating very well and doesn't have the energy to do a whole lot. Tammy said she had a hard time going to the doctor today. Her levels were very low today. She had to get 2 units of blood and 2 units of platelets. Tammy said that her color came back a little today after the blood transfusion. As with every treatment, she has always fought back and continues to do so this time. Her schedule is starting to run behind though as her body slowly heals back. Kendall said she is determined to get through the next couple of rounds so she can come home for good. One day at a time seems to be running into weeks. It's all going by so fast, yet sometimes during the day I don't think I will ever get to see the day come to an end. <br /><br />It's been so cold in Gardendale lately, we don't get out but to go to work or school. Plus, with Tammy and Kendall in Houston, it makes for long nights. Dylan and me have been good. The house isn't a disaster and we are managing to do homework, wash clothes and make dinner. What more can you ask for. <br /><br />We still aren't sure when Kendall will try and make a trip home after this treatment. With the schedule running behind, it's harder to try and plan anything. Over the next week, we should be able to firm things up. Although we know that everything can change on a moments notice. We have at least adapted to that.<br /><br />Tammy is holding up alright. She does tell me though that it's hard out there when Kendall is sick. But Tammy has plenty of puzzles that occupy her time. Well, now I'm just rambling so I'll just say thank you for thinking of Kendall and we appreciate all of you more than you know.<br /><br /><br /><em><strong>Job 32:11<br />I waited while you spoke, I listened to your reasoning; while you were searching for words,</strong></em><br /><br />I do that alot...waiting...listening...and understanding...trying to understand what has happened in the past 5 months. I could name a ton of important stuff that has happened in the past 5 months, but probably everyone would forget in the next 5 months. The things that I choose to mention are the love for my family, the warmth from our friends and the faith from God above.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5235476992593572617.post-90778643444221017502010-01-06T06:41:00.002-06:002010-01-06T07:16:17.568-06:00Just a Post, No TitleIs it not normal to assume that the more you do something the easier it becomes to do? That as you develop a routine or a pattern in your life, that you get better at it. Well....this was not the case this past Sunday as Dylan and I came back home from Houston. Kendall was at the hospital starting her chemo. As the time drew near for us to go I could tell by Kendall's facial expression that this was not going to be an easy goodbye. I went to hug her and felt her tears fall on my arm. It was almost more than I could handle. I told her that it's almost over and that she will be home soon. I didn't want to let go because now, I once again felt like I was helpless. She told me she would be ok and to go. I did manage to leave the room before my tears began to fall. I quickly wiped my eyes before I met Tammy and Dylan in the lobby. <br /><br />Dylan and me caught a cab to take us to the airport and as we pulled away I saw Tammy standing on the second floor lobby waving goodbye. This is that part of not getting any easier. It gets harder. But Dylan was excited, this was his first cab ride. And was he ever excited. He watched in amazement as we winded through Houston to the airport. Not only was this his first cab ride but his first airplane ride. We went through check in ok and then boarded the plane. He sat in the window seat and could not have made his smile any wider. He was bouncing around and I had to tell him to be still. The trip was smooth, no bumps and Dylan said from now on that's how he wants to travel...is by plane. <br /><br />Kendall finished up her treatments and is now settling in for the recovery part. She was not feeling good the first couple of days but started feeling a little better last night. I hope this part of it is easier for Tammy and Kendall this time. I still can't help but worry about both of them, though.<br /><br />Dylan and I will have a chance to bond some more with his new Christmas present that Santa brought him.....so Chase...all I can say is "game on". We also will get a chance to enjoy this cold weather for a change...maybe it will snow in Gardendale this time.<br /><br /><br /><em><strong>1 John 4:18<br />"There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear ... "</strong></em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5235476992593572617.post-31021918031988164132010-01-01T14:37:00.002-06:002010-01-01T15:13:00.611-06:00Happy New Year!!!I want to wish everyone a Happy New Year and hope that you all had a very Merry Christmas. As I try and catch you up with Kendall, I also want to thank you for everything you have done for Kendall and our family during this time. The holidays was even more of an opportunity to spend time with family, friends and loved ones. <br /><br />Kendall, Tammy, Dyan and myself made the long drive back out to Houston on December 30th. Kendall was able to spend Christmas and her birthday at home. Which is what she wanted. She was constantly on the go. But her blood counts and energy level were good so she was able to do a lot. None of us were looking forward to the long drive. But Kendall was a little anxious to get started so she can be through. Dlyan is still out of school so what better way than to bring in the new year than in Houston. Ok, so I can think of several things that would be better than having to be in Houston,but we were all together. <br /><br />Kendall did her blood lab workup on New Years Eve and everything is fine. Everything has about returned to normal. We were able to clear up some confusion about the remainder of Kendall's stay. Is it 6 treatments or 7 treatments......well it's both. It's 6 consolidation treatments with 1 induction treatment for a total of 7. So Kendall will have to be out here for another month or so taking it to late March for her treatments to be through. <br /><br />Tammy is going to stay out here with Kendall for the next round so I can be home with Dylan for a while. Besides, I told Kendall that she could no longer be in the bald club unless she cuts her hair. Her hair has started growing in really thick now and I was feeling lonely because she could now brush her hair and I still could not. I guess I really noticed it on her birthday. I had went to work that day and when I got home, I went in her room to see how her day had went. I looked at her and noticed that she had "fixed" her hair. It was brushed down. It was beautiful. Those eyes were so big and bold and she was glowing with her smile. I could tell she was really excited that she was able to "fix" her hair. <br /><br /><em><strong>Numbers 6:24-26<br />"The LORD bless you and keep you;the LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace." </strong></em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5235476992593572617.post-17789757793870767622009-12-21T06:48:00.003-06:002009-12-21T06:57:03.890-06:00Home For The HolidaysI know it's been a few days since I've updated everyone, so I wanted to let you know that Kendall and I drove back in to Gardendale on Friday night. We got home around 3:30am in the morning. This drive was really hard to do. Traffic was terrible. We had a Christmas party at 10:00am so there wasn't much room for sleep. <br /><br />Kendall is feeling really good right now. Her levels are up and she should be able to enjoy Christmas and her birthday. We have to leave on December 30 to go back to Houston. We all are going to go to experience a New Year together. Not too much going on the rest of the week. I will give some updates if anything should change and post again in a few days. I have to get ready to go back to work today. God Bless each one of you.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5235476992593572617.post-8260844810357511212009-12-16T12:11:00.003-06:002009-12-16T12:53:01.419-06:00Thy NeighborThere's not a day that goes by that I don't think about Kendall and her journey. How much it has affected her life...our lives...the life of others. And...life...is what it affects. <br /><br />Kendall's doctor appointments this week have all been good reports. The MRI reports that the tumors are 99% gone. Her blast cells are at 3%, still good enough to be considered in remission. And the physical pain is almost all but gone, with the exception of certain procedures she is still having. Kendall's doctor said she can home this weekend and not have to return until December 30. So Kendall will be able to spend Christmas and her birthday at HOME...with family and friends. That leaves her with just two more treatment cycles to go...January and February. Hopefully after that, Kendall will be healthy enough to come home for good....minus the repeated trips back out to Houston for follow-up testing. But Kendall is ready to move forward and finish strong.<br /><br />The last couple of months have been very hard, physically and emotionally for Kendall. Still she remains dedicated to get through this. Don't get me wrong, there have been some MOMENTS to where I didn't know how we were going to get through it. But we have. And we continue to fight as long as it may take. <br /><br />I read some literature at the hospital over the last couple of weeks and there was one certain question that kept coming up. The question was, "Where is God in all of this?" I read the the responses in their literature but have come up with my own version of where He is. I have heard about God for my entire life. I have been to church. I have been to Sunday school. I have been to all the programs that the church has to get one acquainted with God. I have been Saved. I have been Baptised. But for some reason, God has always been to me....more like the next door neighbor that you occasionally see. They're always there, but you don't always acknowledge it like you should. Since Kendall's journey has begun, it has helped me to start a new renewed relationship with God. I have opened my doors to the neighbor. I have invited Him into my home...into my life. It's a relationship that I have wanted for a long time. Everyone deals with it in their own way and I don't know that any one way is better than another. But I for one am excited about my neighbor. Am I the perfect neighbor? Well, no. But I do enjoy trying to be better every day.<br /><br />What does that have to do with Kendall's journey, well I don't know. But when I look at her, knowing what she has to go through and face every day, it helps to give me strength to be the person...the Godly person...that God wants me to be. It helps me be the better person that Kendall may want me to be.<br /><br />Kendall has one more appointment this week and that is on Friday. She has blood work and a lumbar puncture that afternoon. After that, we plan on driving home for the holidays. Can't wait to see everyone and enjoy your company.<br /><br /><em><strong>Luke 10:27<br />He answered: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind'; and, 'Love your neighbor as yourself." </strong></em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5235476992593572617.post-78901974437713153942009-12-09T19:38:00.003-06:002009-12-09T20:15:37.961-06:00Adventure's In HoustonWell those two days sure did go by fast. Kendall has been feeling really good. I've had her up and moving around and even took an exploration around Houston. I wouldn't dare say it but Kendall says we were lost. But we ended up at the Bass Pro Shops and I told her that was exactly where I was taking her. Somehow I don't think she believed me. But we had a good couple of off days anyway. <br /><br />Kendall has a doctors appointment tomorrow for blood work and a checkup. I'm hoping that since her energy level has increased some over the last couple of days that she won't need any platelets. I even told her that since she doesn't have another appointment until Tuesday, that I would bring her home for the weekend. So we will be driving in late tomorrow night or by Friday, as long as everything goes well at the doctor. We meet the doctor again next week to find out our Christmas schedule and how long she can stay home for the holidays, before she starts the next round.<br /><br /><br />Psalm 105:4<br />Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5235476992593572617.post-25315654249505294052009-12-07T16:44:00.002-06:002009-12-07T17:29:57.551-06:00Monday Can Be A Good DayWho said Monday's aren't good days. Today was a really good day for Kendall. We went to the doctor first thing this morning for blood work. We even got the results back really fast. Her counts are on the way up. Her white blood cells are coming up the fastest. She still needed platelets, but even they were beginning to improve. Kendall had a lumbar puncture scheduled for tomorrow but the doctor said she could have it done today so we can have a free day tomorrow. The procedure went really smooth and no pain. So now we don't have to go back to the doctor until Thursday. After that, if all is still good, Kendall and me are going to take a weekend trip. We thought we would pop in on Gardendale for the weekend and surprise everyone but Kendall let that out of the bag last night. But we are still excited to get a weekend trip. I know its a lot of driving for the weekend, but Kendall has had a hard week and I told her we could do whatever she wanted to do. <br /><br />We didn't do much over the weekend. Kendall hasn't been sleeping well, which causes me not to sleep well. We stayed around the apartment, watched Alabama play football on Saturday and managed to clean up a little. Wow! What excitement. Who am I kidding, we had fun. We even made it to a movie.<br /><br />....Somethings go without being said, but sometimes things need to be said. No matter how hard they are to say. Both parties share an equal hurt and pain. Pain that comes from having to hear the truth. Why does the truth hurt sometimes. Nobody wants to be hurt. Whether your on the giving or receiving end of it. But it doesn't mean that love is gone. It means that love is stronger, stronger than it has ever been. Some of the hardest times we are having to go through are having to say the truth. Truth knowing that it brings pain. Pain knowing that it hurts someone I love. And love....love knowing that it will always be there. <br /><br /><em><strong>John 14:26<br />The Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.</strong></em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5235476992593572617.post-54823606285663485782009-12-04T12:18:00.002-06:002009-12-04T12:51:46.040-06:00Snow Is FallingThursday came and went so fast, I don't know what happened. We went to the doctor first thing Thursday for blood work. Kendall's counts were improving a little but still not as fast as they have been. Her white blood cells doubled to .6 which is still not very good but at least it's on the way up. Kendall had to have platelets so we were able to spend the day at the hospital. So much fun!!! Hopefully this should be the last time she receives blood for this cycle. We went back to the apartment and Kendall took a nap. She has been having some pain over the last couple of days. Kendall stayed in bed the rest of the night except when I had her watch the Gardendale Christmas Parade with me on the internet. Someone had posted a live internet feed to watch it. I really missed being there this year. This is the first parade I have ever missed. I'm usually working the parade at an intersection. I love the parades but am glad I got to see it. <br /><br />So I wake up this morning to snow falling. Can you believe it, snow in Houston? Been snowing all morning and still snowing hard right now. Don't think it's sticking though, the ground is too warm. I ran and got Kendall out of bed and she was excited for about 3 minutes and then went back to bed. Maybe the snow will work its way to Birmingham. I know Dylan wants to see some snow really bad. <br /><br />The doctor called this morning and we talked about Kendall's schedule for the holidays. They don't want to postpone her treatment for too long but it looks like we will be home for Christmas and most likely for her birthday. That's of course still under draft but that's what we're hoping for. Kendall is very excited about that but then she will probably be receiving chemo during the New Years holiday. <br /><br />I'm gonna get Kendall out to the grocery store after while and maybe a trip to Walmart to walk around. Nothing other than that so she can be rested for the big game tomorrow.<br /><br /><br /><em><strong>John 8:12 <br />When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.</strong></em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5235476992593572617.post-73218791278393427712009-12-02T15:37:00.002-06:002009-12-02T16:04:22.121-06:00Plans Are MadeTo Be BrokenOne thing is for sure, that if we try and make plans....they always change. Kendall had a plan yesterday to be in and out at the doctors office and then to do some things around the apartment. Well, after spending all morning checking her blood, she was a few quarts low again. Back to the infusion center where she received another 2 units of blood and 6 units of platelets. I think everyone had the same idea....because the hospital was packed. After it was all said and done, it was about 1:30am when we got back to the apartment. We did watch a movie while we were there, but mostly listened to the tv from the other room because it was so loud. It wasn't so bad except that it was in a foreign language and we couldn't understand it. <br /><br />Kendall has slept most of the day today. She has eaten a little but not much. Me, I haven't done to much except clean up. I can't stop cleaning. I know, Tammy probably wishes I was home while I'm in cleaning mode. Who knows, it may carry over a few weeks. <br /><br /><br /><em><strong>2 Corinthians 1:12<br />Now this is our boast: Our conscience testifies that we have conducted ourselves in the world, and especially in our relations with you, in the holiness and sincerity that are from God. We have done so not according to worldly wisdom but according to God's grace.</strong></em><br /><br />As I continue to learn about my growing relationship with God, I strongly believe that with His help, my plans will always be changing...... for God's grace.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5235476992593572617.post-57592727431948943732009-11-30T22:54:00.002-06:002009-11-30T23:27:03.506-06:00A Better DayToday was an amazing show of strength by Kendall as she continued that good feeling towards the journey's end. Kendall went from not having strength enough to walk or hold her head up to defying to get in the wheelchair and proudly displaying her smile no matter where we went today. <br /><br />We started off by a doctors visit for blood work. Her levels were better with the help of all the blood she received the day before. And being the Monday after the holiday, it was very crowded. We spent 4 hours there today. After that, Kendall wanted to go to Hobby Lobby to look around. So off we went. She looked at scrap booking stuff while I shopped for a Christmas tree. I told her we might as well put a tree up to enjoy while we're here. It's only a 3 foot table top tree but it has lights and Kendall found us some ornaments to paint and put together for it. It should make for a nice little addition to the apartment. Tammy and I put up our Christmas tree at the house after Thanksgiving and her and Dylan put on the ornaments last night. <br /><br />We went back to the apartment after our Hobby Lobby trip and decided to take a nap. Kendall did anyway. She was beginning to look a little tired and besides, I don't want her to use all that blood at once. She needs to save a little to spread out over the next couple of days. Other than that, we spent the rest of the night inside watching tv or movies. <br /><br />We have to go back to the doctor again in the morning to check her blood. Then we should get a break until Thursday. She sure was ready to start the day today after she got up. <br /><br /><em><strong>Isaiah 40:31 <br />but those who hope in the LORD <br />will renew their strength. <br />They will soar on wings like eagles; <br />they will run and not grow weary, <br />they will walk and not be faint.</strong></em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5235476992593572617.post-2525614667542176972009-11-29T22:01:00.003-06:002009-11-29T22:45:48.694-06:00Holiday BluesKendall and I arrived back in Houston on Saturday night. It was after 9pm before we got back to the apartment. Kendall was tired and went straight to bed. I stayed up a little while to try and familiarize myself with the apartment again. I know I haven't been gone too long but still, I wanted to make sure everything was where I had left it. I knew I wouldn't have much of a chance for the next day or so. Kendall had to be at the doctor first thing Saturday morning. <br /><br />Saturday morning, around 7:30am, I pulled into the parking lot of MD Anderson hospital. I was hoping that we never had to see it again. But Kendall's almost through with only two more treatments to go. We went to the lab for them to draw Kendall's blood. I felt like the results were going to be low and that she was assured to get a blood transfusion. After 2 long hours and the lab having to run the blood twice, I was right. The lab said they ran the blood work again to make sure the numbers were not an error because they were so low. Her platelets were at a 3. Normal range according to the lab are in the 150's. So they whisked us to the transfusion room where we began the long day of Kendall receiving blood. She received 6 units of platelets and 3 units of whole blood. I then watched Kendall slowly rejuvenate as the blood went into her body. Her color began to show, her conversation become longer than yeah or whatever and her appetite increased. I knew she was better when she began asking me to go get her something to eat. <br /><br />While all of these improvements were being made, her temperature also started to increase. It came very close to that magic number of 101. It actually got to 100.8 for a couple of hours. I started making sure she was drinking more water and it also began to drop. An ER trip was all she needed now. Well, for now we have avoided that. As we were leaving the hospital, she asked if we could go to Burger King to get something to eat. Appetite is good! Very Good! She always does real good when she has an appetite.<br /><br />So another 14 hour day at the hospital in the books. Kendall sure did break me in quick. No time to settle in or anything. The only thing I need to do is straighten out the stuff at the apartment that Tammy moved on me. I'll have it straight by tomorrow. Not sure of a coming home time yet. Surely over the next week it will lay itself out so we can plan on her next trip home.<br /><br />I have said it before and I will say it again, patience is a constant struggle with me. I am continually working to improve it. Sometimes God shows us the time table he is working with and it doesn't always have the same time as my watch shows. I continue to go through the bible, looking for ways to deal with somebody else's time table. It's always there, I always find something......it's just up to me to look.<br /><br /><em><strong>Philippians 4:6<br />Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.</strong></em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5235476992593572617.post-71035951494409056592009-11-24T18:54:00.002-06:002009-11-24T19:30:04.440-06:00Internet Down!What did we ever do without the Internet? How lifestyles have changed over the years. I have felt so helpless with the internet down, I have had to find things to do. Anyway.....<br /><br />Kendall has finished her next round of chemo and so far, things have been well for her. No fevers and mild sickness. Tammy has been doing really well out there, except for missing me. I'm proud of both of them, they have done really good. <br /><br />As Kendall continues her journey, she must again endure another hurdle. Her father, Keith passed away this week. She will be flying home on Thursday so that she can attend his funeral. Unfortunately, she will have to fly back on Saturday after the funeral. She is right in the middle of her lowest point during treatment and will need a blood transfusion by the end of the week. I will be going back with her this time for the remainder of her treatment. If all goes well, we should be back before Christmas. <br /><br />As this week has began to unfold, I can't imagine how Kendall begins to find the strength to finish the treatments. Yet, she does. Not only Kendall, but Whitney and Bragan and the rest of Keith's family. All of this has been so hard to deal with for everyone. I know that God is out there and that he loves us. No one said that life was going to be easy, and if they did, they were wrong. But we all continue to move in a direction that will give us grace...that will give us peace...and that will give us mercy.<br /><br /><br />Hebrews 4:16 <br />Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5235476992593572617.post-17708133703696231712009-11-17T21:52:00.002-06:002009-11-17T22:08:01.182-06:00Here We Go AgainI took Kendall and Tammy to the airport on Monday and had to watch them leave again. I was going to post on Monday but I figured I would wait until tonight to let you know how her blood tests went. Kendall is ready to get started with her next round of chemo. The doctors said that Kendall can start so they're going to start Wednesday. Kendall's liver enzymes are still are little high and they're going to have to watch them alot closer but they feel like they can control them. As far as Kendall, she is feeling alright. A little tired but doing rather well and ready to continue her journey. I hope that this round goes smoother than the last one. With Tammy being there it will probably go without any setbacks. I'm gonna keep it short tonight but will try and keep you updated a little better now that I have settled in to work. I didn't know that you could pile up so much on a desk. Anyway....thank you for continuing to think about Kendall during her journey and as always...you are in our thoughts and prayers as well.....<br /><br /><br /><em><strong>1 Corinthians 3:16<br />"Don't you know that you yourselves are God's temple and that God's Spirit lives in you?"</strong></em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4