We try to do our best at keeping Cecilia involved in activities she enjoys to make sure she is continuing to get the attention she needs and expand her interests, even in the midst of all of the chaos that has come into our lives. One evening, late last week, Cecilia was participating in a winter day camp and we were talking with the women who organized the activities. When we described Nathaniels situation, one informed us that she knew a family from the Joplin, Missouri area who had a child, Ellie, who had been through an experience with AML very similar to what Nathaniel has been going through and that, if we were interested, we could be put in touch with them. Within just a few days, the family was in the city for a volleyball tournament Ellie was playing in so we were able to arrange a time for us all to get together and talk. We enjoyed our time together on Sunday so much and felt like we were able to relate to their experience. Ellie had, like Nathaniel, been a baby when diagnosed with AML. Her bone marrow transplant also occurred close to her first birthday, at thirteen months and her bone marrow donor, like Nathaniels, was her older sister. Now, about ten years later, she is healthy, active, and really seems to be enjoying life. She and her experience with AML and her recovery following her BMT all are a true inspiration. Nathaniel seemed to form a connection with Ellie from the moment she walked in the door, smiling at and laughing with her. We found talking with her parents, Kelly and Rhonda, to be pleasant and helpful. What they went through and what are currently going through are uncommon experiences capable of leaving one feeling alone in the world, especially if we forget to turn to God who is always there, offering himself and His love. Ellie and her family seem to have ample strength and peace, with their faith in God being the source. Again, we enjoyed meeting this family and hope to maintain an ongoing relationship with them. Nathaniel has been continuing to do quite well. He seems to be in good condition going into Wednesdays bone marrow transplant. Please pray that this continues. Pray, also, that Nathaniels skin heals quickly as the skin on his left cheek and on part of his diaper area may heal quickly, protecting him from risks of infection. Some of the skin in those areas is currently red and irritated. Pray that all goes well with Nathaniels BMT and that it produces its intended effects, especially complete healing from cancer. Cecilia will be admitted to the hospital on Tuesday. Please pray for all to go well in this donation process. Also, please pray for her to feel comfort and peace during this process, despite not being able to understand her great importance in helping Nathaniel. Thank you to all of you for your continued prayers and support!
Posted on: Tue, 20 Jan 2015 06:08:06 +0000