Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Still Great News



So Kate went back to clinic on Oct 9th for her lumbar puncture, chemo and IVIG. Her blood counts are nearly identical to one month ago and they even had to increase her dosages of medication to account for all her growing! She continues to do so wonderfully, that at times I have to remind myself that we aren't out of the woods yet.

We allow the doctors to pour toxic chemicals into our child's blood stream and inject it into her spinal canal and brain because it is what will save her life. That being said, it is so comforting to see that she is keeping up physically despite the treatments. Academically, Kate is reading at a second grade level and she is a math whiz, with the subject coming as easily to her as it does to Jackson. While that may seem like a little thing to other Mom's, it gives me some hope that all of these drugs won't have left her "damaged".

This week we did have some terribly sad news of the cancer variety. One of Kate's closest friends called us this week to say that they had another friend diagnosed with pre-B, the very same day we were in the hospital getting Kate's treatment. This little 3 year old will be treated at Egleston and be on the same protocol as Kate, so hopefully we'll be able to be of some support for them. I know that for us it was unbelievably helpful to be able to talk with people who had walked down the road that was so foreign to our family. One thing we have learned from all of this, is that there are so many wondeful people in the world who are ready to lend a hand, a shoulder or an ear at any time (and that's a lot of body parts) :) I hope to be one of those people for others.

14 comments:

BIGSKYBLAST said...

Kate is looking SOOOO good. I can't believe what a little GIRL she is. She is growing up way too fast and seems so happy! When I look at her pics I, too, have to remember, it's not over yet. Will results of the lumbar puncture be forthcoming quickly.

So sad to hear about another little one having to go through this as well. I KNOW you'll do whatever you can. It's just who you are.

Unknown said...

Carolyn, I'm glad to hear Kate is continuing to do so well. We miss seeing you guys! - Weatherly

The Smiths said...

I am so glad to know Kate is doing wonderful! She is literally in our prayers every morning and night...my girls love to check out the blog and Savannah is especially a fan of ALL the cute headbands!

Moss & Fern Cottage said...

It's one thing to have sympathy for someone, but an entirely different thing to have empathy. You have been through so much with your own family and I know you will be able to have empathy and true understanding for others and be of great comfort to them.

Kate is looking so happy and healthy.

Kasey said...

Kate, I can't believe how tall and grown up you are looking! So happy to hear you're doing well in school.

I was thinking about you a lot the other day: http://jimmieandkasey.blogspot.com/2008/10/yesterday-i-did-it-for-kate.html

Lily said...

Hi Carolyn,

I wanted to let you guys know that I am running my first marathon for Team in Training (The Marine Corps in D.C) this coming Sunday!

Thank you for introducing me to this amazing charity, and thank you to Kate for inspiring me to do this.

Love you guys!
(Coach) Lily

Anonymous said...

I can't believe I haven't checked Kate's blog lately to get these latest updates. I check the Hansen Family blog at least every other day. I'm so glad she's on track. Although I know she's still on her journey, she looks great -- such a beautiful girl! Love you all!

Kerri said...

I feel like you're describing us in your blogs half the time as we are in the same stage. Izzy is growing so fast now and starting to pick up on the academic side too. I'm so happy to hear that Kate is doing so well. Less than a year left!! Woohoo!

angela said...

love that funky monkey

Lena Hart said...

Thinking of sweet Kate and your family today. Miss you!

rbengtzen said...

Caroline, you already are that kind of people for others. You, beautiful Kate, and your family continue to remind us of things to be grateful for, and how we want to strive to be towards other people.... and you inspire even from across the country! So glad see she is doing so amazingly well. Miss you guys, Rachel and Alan

Shauna said...

Kate I am so glad to hear that you are doing so well! We love you!

Anonymous said...

Kate has been on mind a lot lately as I reflect on the year. She sure has come a long way! I'm so grateful for her recovery and only wish we lived closer to lend a hand. Your family continues to be in our prayers. We love you!

Unknown said...

Just have to say again how beautiful she is and how amazing you have all done through this. I'm still in awe... Love you!