tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21602542550259486232024-03-13T21:28:17.079-07:00MitchellAprilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16238721361643243830noreply@blogger.comBlogger83125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2160254255025948623.post-26857357199843114842015-09-04T10:12:00.003-07:002015-09-04T10:12:25.848-07:00Angel Day, Year 3We celebrated Mitchell's Day (Angel Day) this year with joy and gladness. I think Mitchell's Day is one of my favorite days of the year now. We can truly feel the prayers of comfort from many and the resulting peace and joy are such gifts. We appreciate you all! <br />
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This year we read a list of ideas to the kids and of course the winning service project was to volunteer at the local humane shelter. We were oriented with the facilities and procedures and although we were expecting to clean cages and pick up poo, it was towards the end of day, so we had the privilege of playing with the dogs. The children loved it, and I won't lie, it was therapy for me as well. I know Mitchell would have really enjoyed loving on those pups, too. <br />
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A month ago we had a terrible experience with Allegiant Air flying to our nephew's wedding in CA. On those flights we met a very kind man named Monty, who owns Hubby's Pizza here in Tri-Cities. He generously wrote us a coupon for a free pizza and pitcher of pop, which we cashed in on Mitchell's Day. The pizza was HUGE, and delicious--a perfect treat for Mitchell's Day. <br />
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We love to drop off treats anonymously--one of our favorite family traditions--so we did some of that too. Finally, we finished the day watching videos of our little jokester, shed some tears, cuddled, and went to bed feeling grateful for what we have been given in life. There is so much tragedy in this world, but one thing is certain--the family is the most beautiful and sacred gift in this world when we cherish, nourish, and do our best to build it up. I am so honored to be the mother of this little family, even through all of the yucky days and challenges. It is a blessing to be a mother and I do not take it for granted; in large part, thanks to Mitchell. <br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2160254255025948623.post-26398591636984527632015-03-04T14:17:00.001-08:002015-03-04T14:17:19.071-08:00EIGHT YEARSHow can anyone describe losing a child? <br />
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Everytime I pack away clothes too small for my oldest son, I think about how they would have gone to Mitchell next. <br />
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Everytime I see my son with a boy Mitchell's age, my heart aches for not only my loss, but the loss experienced by my son. He will never get to have a little brother to hang out with.<br />
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Everytime we pile in the van for a drive somewhere, I have the momentary worry that we've forgotten one of our children. I can imagine him sitting back there with his brother and sister teasing, fighting, and laughing. <br />
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Every February my heart feels anxious. It's his month. Grief kicks into high gear and I find myself feeling nervous, sad, tired, and reminiscent. My body literally aches to be with him again. <br />
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This February would have been his eighth birthday. What I wouldn't give to have an eight year old in the house! What I wouldn't give to watch two of my sons playing basketball games every Saturday. What I wouldn't give to set up bunk beds in our new home for my boys and listen to them talk late into the night. What I wouldn't give to hear of two boys' adventures every day when they come home from school. What I wouldn't give...<br />
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But as much as I'd like to give, I cannot. It is done. He's gone. Another birthday without him here to celebrate, but one year closer to being with him again. <br />
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Happy Birthday Mitchie. <br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2160254255025948623.post-77676343108181407642014-07-13T22:01:00.000-07:002014-07-22T20:57:21.473-07:00A Mother's Grief, A Heart's MemoryAn <a href="http://www.parentmap.com/article/a-mothers-grief-a-hearts-memory" target="_blank">article</a> I wrote about grief was published via a Seattle parenting magazine, Parentmap. I felt it was important to communicate some of the feelings I have as a parent who is grieving the loss of a child. I also hope I voiced the sentiments of other parents enduring this struggle, as many of us share these similar emotions with grief (although each experience is unique). The article should not make anyone feel guilty or burdened, but rather show ways big and small one can show love and support to families facing grief. It is something that no one can fully understand unless they go through it themselves and I think in particular, the loss of a child carries a unique pain. I know I am a changed person as a result. I like some of the changes, and miss some of my old self too. It's confusing, but we're getting through it, yet will never be over it. <br />
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Thank you all for your continued love and support. I know that from the surface we look like all is smooth sailing, but under the water we are treading for our dear lives. Life is unforgiving and never slows down to a speed we're more comfortable with and I guess that may be good. We are meant to work hard, but every now and again the full weight of grief bears down upon us and knocks us down again. We miss him so, so much. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2160254255025948623.post-35217346423642593702013-08-25T19:16:00.001-07:002014-07-13T21:50:31.324-07:00One Year<div>
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In one week (Sept. 2) a year will have passed since we last held our baby boy. One of the lessons we've learned from going through this experience is that the hardest part isn't losing our child. The hardest part is continuing forward, LIVING without him. It is both a blessing and a pain that life keeps moving forward. I don't know what I expected, but not exactly what we're living. This year I've realized my body DOES have limits, which have been met and maxed. I've learned what intense pain and grief feels like, which I hope will allow me to be there for others going through challenges. I've learned children are beautifully resilient and faithful. I've learned that I really have a long way to go to be the kind of person I know I can be, but also more about how to get there. My only regret in all of this is that it<br />
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took a very, VERY special little spirit to come down and endure tremendous pain and struggle in order for me to get to this point. I will forever be grateful and sorry that my Mitchell went through all that. I hope and pray he is achieving great success in Heaven, knowing that we're working each day to return to live with him again. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2160254255025948623.post-27370876463289423052013-02-20T12:30:00.002-08:002013-02-20T12:30:43.770-08:00Happy 6th Birthday Angel BoyI'm not giving up on this blog. Just been a bit busy with a newborn! Mitchell's namesake, Clayton Mitchell was born Jan. 17th. He's beautiful just like his older brother. <br />
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Today is our special boy's birthday. We're going through pictures, reminiscing and missing him so painfully much; grateful for the time we've had with him and looking forward to reuniting with him again. Happy Birthday little buddy!<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2160254255025948623.post-28735014740271886222012-11-27T19:33:00.001-08:002012-11-27T19:33:12.562-08:00Life Goes On<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhcBIV799zvmqdEuznb1Yd-KwUNVcjrBQSwQgaMmkMW_TSkWZFblZLFSHB9h3I8DvksTuDJavP9y5sjC2u_vMAzYVxwhYui9nfaMPv0Pm9mCJWZpZiSI8ISsDX8PLT_M8FW3MGIf6f5HDx/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhcBIV799zvmqdEuznb1Yd-KwUNVcjrBQSwQgaMmkMW_TSkWZFblZLFSHB9h3I8DvksTuDJavP9y5sjC2u_vMAzYVxwhYui9nfaMPv0Pm9mCJWZpZiSI8ISsDX8PLT_M8FW3MGIf6f5HDx/s320/2.jpg" width="320" /></a>It's not that I want to quit Mitchell's blog, or that I just don't care. It's not even that it's too hard, at least not to my conscious mind. Perhaps subconsciously I don't want to "deal" with any of these emotions so I avoid them instead. I don't know. I do want to keep remembering and maybe this is a good way to do that. <br />
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Our friend, Keith, passed away within one hour of Mitchell. He was an almost five-year-old sweet boy battling medulloblastoma. His mother, Darcee, and I have corresponded for almost two years. She definitely understands how I feel. I hope she doesn't mind me linking her <a href="http://theburnettgazette.blogspot.com/2012/10/keep-moving.html">blog</a>, but if you're interested in reading my thoughts, hers are almost identical. <br />
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We are doing okay; that's the only word that can capture the essence of our feelings. I am mostly grateful for the beautiful life we live; we have the gospel of Jesus Christ, each other, necessities of life, and our health. I am so grateful for my husband and other children--they mean everything to me. Gratitude fills the emptiness in my heart and allows me to continue forward being happy. That being said, there are minutes, hours, and days that come where I feel really sad. None of this seems possible or real. How can he be gone? Why did he have to suffer so much? Although I remember many good, beautiful memories, I am also haunted by recollections of his frail brave body, pushing forward day after day. That breaks my heart and always brings tears. Sometimes I just have to sob and feel it all as much as I try to avoid it. It's hard...there's no way to change that. <br />
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I've dreaded certain days coming, but have been amazed that on those days I don't feel sad at all. Obviously it is a blessing and I am grateful. I admit that the holiday season itself has been a challenge. Nothing in particular sets me off, but there's just a feeling of sadness. I am, however, very proud of myself because I did put up Christmas decorations even though I had about zero desire to do it. I am excited to celebrate with my children and this Christmas we have some service planned that I hope will make things brighter. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTpKQvlzbbRdR7GcCEm4TEcQvCJfMhYovX65rDn585rCH-9CCgboAEG2ZehIoYyVM0yexEzxmj8VySahQMyum7MkAczNk3MGNBB1KvPc17-gXg6su2KMekG3RKPxds45qoTaeFsVaeJbZn/s1600/lllllll+Selah+1+Christmas+Party+12-12-09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTpKQvlzbbRdR7GcCEm4TEcQvCJfMhYovX65rDn585rCH-9CCgboAEG2ZehIoYyVM0yexEzxmj8VySahQMyum7MkAczNk3MGNBB1KvPc17-gXg6su2KMekG3RKPxds45qoTaeFsVaeJbZn/s320/lllllll+Selah+1+Christmas+Party+12-12-09.jpg" width="212" /></a>We continue to appreciate all of the love and support we receive from our family and friends. Whether a text to let us know you're thinking of us, or a treat left on our door step, it all means so much. I was talking to my cousin the other day and she said her friend who lost a child mentioned how those acts acknowledged to her that others still remembered her child. I think an underlying fear for us parents who lose children is that everybody's life moves forward and there's a desperate feeling to keep your child's "life" going. It's just so hard to do because the truth is, the world DOES keep moving forward even though our lives are stopped/slowed. It hurts, but it's just the way it is. That's why it feels so great to read of other's service in Mitchell's behalf. Even though he can't be here any longer, it is nice to see his memory moving forward along with everyone else. <br />
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We pray you all have a safe and happy holiday season. Cherish your time with your loved ones and focus on those things that matter most: the Savior, family, and caring for those who need. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2160254255025948623.post-90200129119415851122012-09-17T21:45:00.002-07:002012-09-17T21:45:38.382-07:00In Memoriam of our Angel<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwkY1jWp3zq-5PRhx8kZQzyS8yfQrN3vePWrYwarzOCxyExteYol7NnkxCV2sGkkq_R-PJTwLzyC6rPPjdkuQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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This is the slideshow Chad made for Mitchell's funeral. It's so beautiful--I had to share. Chad put a handful of the recurring quotes Mitchell always said. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2160254255025948623.post-40441243260225677662012-09-02T23:25:00.000-07:002012-09-17T21:55:26.221-07:00Mitchell Barclay Hatfield: February 20, 2007 - September 2, 2012<br />
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Mitchell Barclay Hatfield came into this world on February 20, 2007. The pediatrician from the first called him "stubborn," which although initially made his mommy mad, in retrospect is very true and a gift. He knew his mission and that he didn't have long to complete it. He was always a very funny, playful little boy who liked attention and to be in the action of things. Life for him changed suddenly in April of 2010 when his first symptom--a droopy, non-tracking right eye occurred. Yet, he was still able to run and play until November of 2010 when he suddenly awoke unable to walk. He was then diagnosed with a brainstem glioma and endured 15 months of treatments. Every doctor and nurse he came in contact with were immediately drawn to his sense of humor, smile, and playful warmth. Wherever we would go, he'd say, "Hi, I'm Mitchell!" and proceed to divulge every detail he had. He loved his brother Jackson and sister Eden very much. He and his brother would often be found sharing the same bed and staying up late talking. Of his sister, he often commented, "Isn't Eden beautiful?" The love was and is mutual. His mommy always knew he was special and laughed at his antics. His dad was and is his best buddy, "No matter what...we just are." Although we are sad that today, Sunday, September 2nd he left our earthly home, we are so grateful for the knowledge that we will be together again. Mitchell was just too good for this world and came to bless our lives and those of all those who met him. We love you always and forever Mitchell! We will miss you; until we meet again!<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2160254255025948623.post-2960486599859487672012-08-28T23:08:00.000-07:002012-08-28T23:08:00.119-07:00Share Mitchell's SmileI know many are anxious for an update on Mitchell since things are always changing. He has seriously declined and as of the last couple of days has not been able/willing to swallow food and drink. This is common as our bodies slow down and prepare for death. He sleeps almost all day and is almost completely unresponsive/communicative. Obviously he no longer "feels" like our little boy, but it does feel like we're holding an angel and we are cherishing these days. While this is obviously painful and heart-wrenching, we are trying to focus on what we know to be true. Death is not the end, but another glorious beginning. Just as when we come into this world, death is the portal to move into the next; a world of peace, free from pain and sorrow and full of joy and love. We have felt angels administering to us and Mitchell in our home and it has been so special to participate in such a sacred sphere. Even still, there are moments of intense sadness, fear for how I can ever let his little body leave my arms--and I KNOW it's just a body!--and pain watching his little body deteriorate. <br />
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One thing that keeps us going is our Mitchell's ongoing service to us. While he can't talk or move, he still tries so SO very hard to smile for us. It is truly inspiring and heartwarming. He has done this all through these past two and a half years and we never cease to be amazed at how he knows we need this and how much it lifts us up. He is totally amazing!<br />
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After weeks of prayer on various issues, one of which is a way to honor Mitchell and who he is, we received a very (and I mean VERY) strong impression that we are to hold a day of service in Mitchell's honor. September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and we feel it is fitting to honor Mitchell as well as all of these amazing souls who have both succumbed to or survived cancer. This service can be big or small; individual or as a large group. We plan to wear yellow and feel that this service will make a big difference for both those who serve and those who will be served. We are working on a website: mitchellsday.org, which should be finished later this week. We also should have some publicity materials, ie video, out soon too. <br />
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The day is SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15th, but if for some reason that date doesn't work for you, please make an effort on a day of your choice in September. We are hoping for people to email us via the website and we'll post your stories: what you did, how you felt, how it impacted your community, etc. We hope this will be an ongoing annual event, and possibly might have a facebook page with monthly ideas of service activities to keep us all going. We believe service more than anything else can change the world faster and more effectively than anything/anyone else and to this end we strive to honor Mitchell's legacy! <br />
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Mitchell's greatest desire in life was to be a missionary, which essentially is a life of service. We know this is how we are supposed to honor him and his smile. PLEASE get out there and "Share Mitchell's Smile" on Mitchell's Day! Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2160254255025948623.post-83748154066516700202012-08-01T13:47:00.001-07:002012-08-01T13:47:42.985-07:00Our Mitchell BoyWe have had a wonderful month of family time. We were able to see extended family members at a family reunion as well as our cousins, aunts, and uncles. Mitchell has a difficult time in crowds because of noise, so we stayed home part of the day so he could relax. We also spent a lot of the month going on and off of medications trying to find something that would bring him relief. He was spending approx. 6-8 hours each day screaming. He couldn't respond to questions so we didn't know how to help him and he didn't like to be touched so we pretty much just had to sit there feeling helpless and frustrated that he has to go through such agony. <br />
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As always we continued to pray for direction in how we can help him and for him to feel how much we love him. We also prayed for at least a level of relief to come to him so he would not feel such suffering. Knock on wood, but we are hoping we've found the right equation of meds for him to feel a bit of comfort throughout the day. It will be a constant evaluating process as to what level of intensity he should be at, but at least we know these particular meds can work. <br />
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We started hospice a couple of weeks ago. They come in twice each week to check vitals and make sure we are stocked with the necessary medications. They also have a person who comes in to talk with Jackson, making sure he is emotionally healthy and well. I feel our family has been blessed with amazing strength through all of this. I do think overall Jackson is doing well, but I also want to make sure he is able to express his deep-down feelings to someone because he doesn't always like sharing them with us. <br />
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Both of our families have been amazing helping us through this. We're very fortunate in that regard. I feel a large part of this trial is learning to allow others to help us, but I am really struggling with how to make that happen. I truly do spend time each day thinking about how someone might be able to help me, but I end up feeling a lot of stress by the end because I can't come up with anything! That is why it is so wonderful when little "treats" show up at my door or random forms of service because I feel the love and it was something someone else thought to do. Does that make sense? We have learned a lot about service and supporting people in trials from so many who have done so much for us. It is a priceless blessing. Just last weekend some amazing individuals spent hours and hours putting on a garage sale fundraiser for our family (and another dear friend going through a similar trial) and it was so touching to see the time and thought put into us. There are so many wonderfully kind-hearted people in this world!<br />
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These are some of the beautiful pictures our very talented friend, Mary Thompson, took for us about a month ago. She captured our family beautifully.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2160254255025948623.post-10614971078777676492012-07-05T23:06:00.004-07:002012-07-05T23:06:48.771-07:00Living in the Moment<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm not quite sure where to begin. I guess I'll start with the June 22nd MRI. The poor doctor filling in for our oncologist (who was on maternity leave until July 2), was sure put in a difficult position. The MRI showed stable results, yet we were telling him all of Mitchell's symptoms, which are certainly alarming. Because of the conflicting accounts he brought the MRI to tumor board the following week and after looking very closely, the team decided there could be growth on the opposite side of the tumor. We went again this past Monday to speak to our regular oncologist, and she basically said that if Mitchell had no symptoms she would just chalk the MRI up to the drug he was on, which often produces sketchy MRIs. But, because his symptoms are so quickly and heavily returning, she agreed the tumor is definitely growing back. </div>
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Our oncologist had not seen Mitchell since February--our last MRI she was present for--and she was very saddened to see the decline he had experienced. She shared that she was emotionally invested in Mitchell and had very high hopes for his outcome. She was very sorry that not only was he declining in health, but that he had experienced such a drastic behavioral change. She agreed that treating the tumor at this point is not worth it, nor would it be extending a "quality life." Mitchell's behavioral challenges are truly a mystery to all involved. They have never heard, nor seen a brain tumor patient have these struggles to the extent Mitchell has them. He was struggling with harming others for several months, but in the past month especially has done a lot of harm to himself. He bites his own arms, legs, hands, etc; tries to choke himself; drown himself; fall down the stairs; and many other random and sad acts. All of this is definitely NOT our Mitchell. He has said he hears voices and often seems conflicted. </div>
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Medically, both eyes are almost completely shut all of the time; his right arm shakes; his balance is gone; his swallowing reflux is disappearing; and his speech is becoming less intelligible. He cries a lot of the day and night (although we just started a sleeping pill--yay!). His doctors said there are no pain receptors in the brain, therefore he should not be experiencing pain, but it makes no sense. He is clearly in discomfort. Despite their claims, we are still giving him small doses of oxycodone hoping to alleviate whatever it is that bothers him. </div>
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I realize this is all quite depressing and dismal, but we choose to be grateful. We are very grateful for the time we've been given with him. He is such a special and powerful little spirit that has brought so much happiness and joy not only to us but those around him. How lucky are we to have been entrusted with such a boy? My sweet husband still continues to hope for a miracle. As he says, the angel didn't come to intervene with Abraham and Isaac until the last possible second. I admire my pillar of strength for his faith and hope. I feel guilty that my hope is so weak. I blame it on the mom in me who is trying to be prepared. I worry for my sweet boy and the pain and suffering he is and will endure. It breaks my heart. I worry for my other children who will be confused and heartbroken to lose their brother. I worry how in the world we will ever be able to do this. But, then I remember I don't have to worry about any of this. Heavenly Father is asking us to do this and He will take care of Mitchell and all of us. He has a plan. He will never leave us and He will embrace my sweet angel boy in His arms. </div>
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Handsome father and his sons. </div>
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Our pup Tucker came for a visit! </div>
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We enjoy every moment, especially the happy ones!</div>
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Grateful.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2160254255025948623.post-63650962629496549712012-06-14T22:23:00.000-07:002012-06-14T22:31:43.605-07:00Our Little Hero<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6M08FKEftbzBqXn71RtYakN8SOHzecbKFd0Vgy8cRICaSn3WgYKy_uv3HR1Dqg50VTZzZPIT5wiVGsSrgoqE0431jx3TGEd4BM1HJsbTN_pWhFftDr08WfJea3OYFFhyphenhyphen5iD6HGI0fAMKe/s1600/selah+days1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6M08FKEftbzBqXn71RtYakN8SOHzecbKFd0Vgy8cRICaSn3WgYKy_uv3HR1Dqg50VTZzZPIT5wiVGsSrgoqE0431jx3TGEd4BM1HJsbTN_pWhFftDr08WfJea3OYFFhyphenhyphen5iD6HGI0fAMKe/s320/selah+days1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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These pictures are from the Selah Days Parade in the middle of May. It was an idea I had for several months, but when it came down to it, I wasn't sure we'd pull it off. We have been so busy and exhausted, but thanks to the help of our family it all worked out and Mitchell had a blast! It was so fun to see him so excited, especially since we hadn't seen that in ages. </div>
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Last update I mentioned we began a medication in hopes of diminishing Mitchell's aggressive behaviors. We've been on it at least a month and unfortunately it has provided absolutely NO benefits and all the bad side effects. His aggression has actually been worse and has turned into self-inflicting harm, which to me is very scary. It's physically exhausting to keep him from his brother and sister so he cannot hurt them, but it's impossible to watch him all day so he doesn't seriously hurt himself. I just have no clue what we should be doing. We're trying to get into a psychiatrist here in town. </div>
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Our next MRI is Fri, June 22. I don't think we're nervous, because we are completely accepting of the Lord's will either way. It has just been so difficult because Mitchell has not been himself for a long time. He is so miserable and tortured and it is so heartbreaking. We love out little boy so incredibly much and just pray that what is best for him will happen. </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2160254255025948623.post-67581166218860308652012-05-20T19:02:00.000-07:002012-05-20T19:02:11.353-07:00Mid May 2012<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; text-align: left;">The first two are facebook posts...</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; text-align: left;"><b>Monday, May 14th: Quarterly MRI</b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; text-align: left;">Just have a second to update, but it was as we expected to hear. Two spots showed up away from the origin of the tumor. It's a 50/50 chance it could be new growth OR pseudo-growth. We knew coming off the avastin, which reduced inflammation, that we could have some tricky scans. It could be that those spots absorbed the contrast more. The origin of the tumor stayed the same, which is usually the most potent and reoccurring location. Also, inflammation is non-existent, which usually goes hand in hand with regrowth. Tough to say. They'll discuss at tumor board and we'll have a follow up MRI in 6 weeks. Neuro-psych evaluations tomorrow and possibly neurology.</span>
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<span style="font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px;"><b>Wednesday, May 16th: After seeing neurologist</b></span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; text-align: left;">Just finished our Seattle trips. Neuro-psych was fine yesterday. Mitchell was able to get through all of the cognitive exams and we'll hear back on the results in a few weeks. </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; text-align: left;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; text-align: left;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; text-align: left;">We drove back this morning to meet with the neurologist and he prescribed risperidone for us. We weren't really expecting to start off with such a "heavy hitter" of a medicine, but they are starting him at a low dosage</span><span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; display: inline; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; text-align: left;">. The doctor said that medication management is a trial and error process, but he felt this particular medicine could really help the range of symptoms Mitchell is experiencing. The thought is that whatever the cause (biopsy, radiation, chemo) the areas of the brain that control impulsivity have been interrupted. The goal of the medicine is to slow the impulsivity so that he has a chance to process thoughts before acting out. We are really hoping this well help. Mitchell is very frustrated that he cannot control his anger. He wants to be happy and have fun with others so badly. We want our little sweet Mitchell back on a full-time basis.<br /><br />Tumor board met today and they are leaning towards thinking it is the avastin wearing off causing an increase in the imaging enhancement. The radiologist that works with the tumor board compared Mitchell's original growth from Apr 2010-Nov. 2010 and this looks nothing like that. Originally the enhancement (or brightness of the tumor on the scans) was the same and the flare (inflammation/size of tumor) changed/grew. This time the enhancement is brighter, but the flare stayed the same. Hopefully that makes sense. In sum, we have to wait for a new MRI scan (June 22nd), but members of the tumor board think that the "new growths" are more likely the results of treatment and not the tumor actually growing. That is what we are hoping for (as the tumor growing would be very very bad news). So, that is encouraging. All in all, despite what the board says or doesn't say, we remain optimistic. Mitchell has beaten the odds so far and there's no reason to stop believing.</span>
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<span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; display: inline; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; text-align: left;"><b>UPDATE May 20th, 2012: On medication 4 days</b></span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; display: inline; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px; text-align: left;">We aren't noticing too many changes yet. If I had to decide, I'd say his behavior is worse--he's done some pretty strange and yucky things the past few days. He does seem to be even groggier and more tired if that's even possible. The dr said it might take a week to see effects, so we're crossing our fingers. His quality of life is terrible and he often cries saying, "I don't want to be angry!/Sad!" It is so heartbreaking. We're trying to not look into things too much, but he does seem to be dragging his left foot a little more and his eyes are not opening as wide anymore (his original symptom of the tumor). We honestly try not to think about the what ifs and analyze what's happening. All we can really do is enjoy the good moments however sparse they may be. We just want this little guy to feel peace. </span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2160254255025948623.post-10959884683788272342012-05-05T23:20:00.001-07:002012-05-05T23:20:07.765-07:00Rocky RoadI'm officially the worst blogger in the world. Before you cross us off your list, please hear me out. Reason #1: We still need to buy a home computer. With so many other priorities in our life, that task keeps getting pushed further down our list. Someday we will and then I will be a great blogger once again. Reason #2: I'm exhausted and truthfully don't know what to say about our current status. <br />
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Our goal has always been to stay positive, be grateful, and joyfully endure this journey. As hard as those first days, weeks, and months were along this road, we believe we've now found the low point. It's like climbing up that hill only to get to the top and realize you are at the base of a mountain. When we first were told the diagnosis, one of the reassurances our drs emphasized was that Mitchell's personality would not be affected. I wouldn't necessarily say his personality has been affected, but maybe that he's added a new one? For some moments he is our gentle giant Mitchell, expressing love and affection to all around him. A split second later he is trying to bite, hit, claw, or pull our hair for absolutely no reason at all. And the crying...oh the crying! In an effort to both teach and control, he has to be isolated quite often so our other babes don't get hurt. We've had some pretty serious injuries and don't want to find out what else could happen. It breaks my heart to put my little angel in his room for so much of the time. Often he'll read books or play with toys to calm down, but occasionally I will go to get him and he's just laying on the floor staring at nothing and it makes me so sad. Then when he cries and says, "I'm so sad!" I want to cry right along with him. He still seems to be so close to the spirit. He continues to offer spiritual insights that amaze us.<br />
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We want to be careful not to label Mitchell or make him sound like he's been spoiled or is just acting out. It really is more than anyone can understand until they've spent time with him. One thing we know for sure is this clearly is NOT our Mitchell. Our hope and prayer is that we will be able to find help for him so that he will be able to live and not be stuck in this miserable half-life. He's such a beautiful, sweet boy and we love him so very dearly. We are going to work tirelessly until we figure out how to help him. Just tonight my brother called who happens to also be a DPT and he mentioned he felt it had to be the amygdalas. As we've been reading we have to agree that seems the most obvious culprit, but then why wouldn't our drs/therapists think of that? Too obvious perhaps, but something to look into for sure. <br />
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One thing we would like to clarify as well is the presence of Mitchell's tumor. We've noticed that many people think Mitchell is great now, no cancer, etc. Mitchell will always have his brain tumor (of course unless a miraculous healing takes place) and will be subject to it for the rest of his life. He will have MRIs every 3 months for the next couple of years and then every 6 months and then every year for the rest of his life. This is never going to "go away." Not only does he have the tumor (which theoretically has a terrible prognosis) to deal with for the rest of his life, but he also will likely have side effects of radiation and chemotherapy to deal with, along with his physical impairments. This behavior issue seems to be a result of treatment. We feel if the tumor was growing it would result in more physical symptoms as it did before. <br />
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Because this is something we will always be dealing with, we will always need prayers, love, and encouragement. We really appreciate any one of those three. We have a lot to be grateful for and know that "this too shall pass."<br />
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I'm so grateful for pictures to capture good moments...it helps make the bad memories go away. <br />
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Beach in CA</div>
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Love this picture from Space Mountain</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRF4tz89nkSCT0frh9ZLTurtO9Le5zamZGC0gUhyar-npSB-ajPEE6F0qoBe5iuBlyXuisN6JhoOViRf-LAA70n1C-hCEuOgImIs5Nh_J-OEtP9fSFkwW7JkmcNI6IP_TxbrwdTtLk3gmq/s1600/image_3.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" mea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRF4tz89nkSCT0frh9ZLTurtO9Le5zamZGC0gUhyar-npSB-ajPEE6F0qoBe5iuBlyXuisN6JhoOViRf-LAA70n1C-hCEuOgImIs5Nh_J-OEtP9fSFkwW7JkmcNI6IP_TxbrwdTtLk3gmq/s320/image_3.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjITa4S12aAblM-VZ7E2Va9NXjMMmzTYzxu-1dh0ZcCY61LWRPgNhZjBCUWANoiTlNFYZKa9WYqeI-k-452z6YAWXzbPuT8ROgsH6w7Mj1AKKyZ4xzyPtMHlr7JnmnEAYflqGfsYlBB5xC-/s1600/image_4.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" mea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjITa4S12aAblM-VZ7E2Va9NXjMMmzTYzxu-1dh0ZcCY61LWRPgNhZjBCUWANoiTlNFYZKa9WYqeI-k-452z6YAWXzbPuT8ROgsH6w7Mj1AKKyZ4xzyPtMHlr7JnmnEAYflqGfsYlBB5xC-/s320/image_4.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2160254255025948623.post-91312770379613485802012-03-26T23:00:00.000-07:002012-03-26T23:00:00.284-07:00Spring 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I am sincerely apologetic to those who are looking for updates on Mitchell's blog. We don't have a home computer, so I really struggle to find time to post updates. Mitchell is doing well health wise. His last scan (Feb. 13th) was stable, which we expected. The May MRI will be much scarier. Physically he is great; his eyesight is stable/strong, and his muscle strength is still pretty good too. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">What we've really struggled with the past six months is Mitchell's behavior. It started with hitting our baby, Eden, and our older son, Jackson. It was mostly occasional and we thought it was just fatigue/moodiness. It has escalated to a very difficult point. He cries A LOT, hits, bites, and tries to run away, which is a problem at school/church/public. We've met with his school administrators/teachers, and are starting an in-home program here in town to help him work through this. He wakes up at all hours, which is both difficult for his and our energy/ability to control himself/ourselves. It's a big, exhaustive, learning process! I have been more of a "strict" parent with high expectations in the past, and have definitely learned to relax A LOT and let things go. As a good friend counseled me, "You can't parent out of fear of what others think about you or Mitchell." That has been hard for me, but I feel like I've achieved a lot of progress there. Mitchell is special and normal parenting techniques do not work with him. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">He is still his sweet Mitchell self a lot of the time too. I think what hurts most is to watch his frustration. I know he is still just a normal little wild boy inside a restricted body. He wants so badly to move freely and interact with people. He's very aware that people--children especially--see him differently. I struggle with my mama bear instincts, wanting to protect him, and with his need to learn and overcome his challenges. We're going through a rough spot, but I know we'll get through it. I have faith that we will continue to be lead and God will give Mitchell all he needs. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA3PgCqlg8gpSjx72P3GVww7DfCNZ1Wyq7xMGuYnKCQbMW4jhyphenhyphenMuhPhhZ5hO75xioYMtmh2S2q2juwH6M4NyzW8gebQRgLkxhE_sc-7EH28Z9xJbNz-vlfQoN9dhv7q3MeBmRBdduoszHK/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dea="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA3PgCqlg8gpSjx72P3GVww7DfCNZ1Wyq7xMGuYnKCQbMW4jhyphenhyphenMuhPhhZ5hO75xioYMtmh2S2q2juwH6M4NyzW8gebQRgLkxhE_sc-7EH28Z9xJbNz-vlfQoN9dhv7q3MeBmRBdduoszHK/s320/photo.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Mitch is taking a break now, but really loved his gymnastics!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmorDeJFJONFtZSNdk0THt9g0KpkzQ31KUwqEwJlwi2TDQSyVi0c5Ze4xzQgXnx8hJtinlwkGtxTvFD4IEDhmy9JXxduaa3nM6Q5yI9mw9AOoAZSeoRf6oZYFeqWDrcZ9-UeHnZhFMCD_0/s1600/image_1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dea="true" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmorDeJFJONFtZSNdk0THt9g0KpkzQ31KUwqEwJlwi2TDQSyVi0c5Ze4xzQgXnx8hJtinlwkGtxTvFD4IEDhmy9JXxduaa3nM6Q5yI9mw9AOoAZSeoRf6oZYFeqWDrcZ9-UeHnZhFMCD_0/s320/image_1.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgD6ElAAo5nk4bhTJ_rT1uCM-pUKyAPqpvnlLYi9GMjxsfKDtWZ4yMYddyqcErIg6DO-bIQLTFO4a4mQJGixFhxDbjldHemuRybwA4-wVam5kkeJaUt7V_cBCdbHnXWs5bGnY23uNBgYlG/s1600/image_2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dea="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgD6ElAAo5nk4bhTJ_rT1uCM-pUKyAPqpvnlLYi9GMjxsfKDtWZ4yMYddyqcErIg6DO-bIQLTFO4a4mQJGixFhxDbjldHemuRybwA4-wVam5kkeJaUt7V_cBCdbHnXWs5bGnY23uNBgYlG/s320/image_2.jpeg" width="239" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Feb. MRI</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2160254255025948623.post-44092085666735111152012-01-23T20:36:00.000-08:002012-01-23T20:36:38.496-08:00"I DID IT!!!"Our brave little guy made it through the finish line! He finished his final dose of chemotherapy today and we are so incredibly grateful and excited to make it to this point. We had faith that he'd make it this far, but certainly had moments of doubt when the facts and statistics glared at us. We don't know exactly what's in store for this gigantic spirit but we are very humbled to be pulled along for the ride. <br />
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Most kids struggle to make it through the entire treatment because the medications are so difficult on the body. The temodar in particular causes a lot of stomach issues and is notorious for crashing the body's immune system. We feel so blessed that Mitchell was able to tolerate the entire 12-month cycle. His blood counts only fell ONE time, (when we forgot to bring his essential oils on vacation with us). It truly is a miracle. <br />
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We know that Mitchell is a miracle, that our Heavenly Father has blessed him to remain on earth. We feel Mitchell has a great mission and pray that we can help him learn and grow so he can discover what that mission is. We know that life is hard and will likely throw a few more curves at us, but we have felt an immeasurable peace through all of this that truly does surpass understanding. <br />
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Thank you all for your love and support in all forms. We feel it every single day. Although these (almost) two years have been the hardest of our life, they've also been the best. <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfQnMHVlk7EbYi6dY6hOp9gsj-dNxrKzlCk4dfzRs2DMy4WGAaA4d49BBQx2Dy6Gtlr4MzktjnEEtO5QXXt6uJ_JS8x0KgWcml_gkW_4j-vyye-iaIad73FAHWhKIoGsFK4h8dqH29b7R3/s1600/image.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nfa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfQnMHVlk7EbYi6dY6hOp9gsj-dNxrKzlCk4dfzRs2DMy4WGAaA4d49BBQx2Dy6Gtlr4MzktjnEEtO5QXXt6uJ_JS8x0KgWcml_gkW_4j-vyye-iaIad73FAHWhKIoGsFK4h8dqH29b7R3/s320/image.jpeg" width="239" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> "I did it!" All done with chemo. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglDN12IQuFwG9tT3kmpwtq_D9g9JVWrTF_MJp_h1WOruZ4pDt-SxuVJvtpVRC5S5pkHZkmWCW7_l-6_hKPB8aSjcPfYBJ2wKBMGX7zi_zcekSnloQV_iYjrOlf4seVF3OSa8L9RGiJyJhG/s1600/image_1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nfa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglDN12IQuFwG9tT3kmpwtq_D9g9JVWrTF_MJp_h1WOruZ4pDt-SxuVJvtpVRC5S5pkHZkmWCW7_l-6_hKPB8aSjcPfYBJ2wKBMGX7zi_zcekSnloQV_iYjrOlf4seVF3OSa8L9RGiJyJhG/s320/image_1.jpeg" width="239" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Last temodar--the most difficult chemo on his body and to swallow!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9WJDrxMyh10JYqJUmifN4ag8nO-H7kfh08JK7-jlf1JVLTTpBnakCLpIKufjYP_K7NYu_BQ0p-hj-GhJk-20EXpozIkIZ8iixPvM_6I1ThPRvOSORIXzBONE1Qz436kSGjdqMiuG78MWs/s1600/image_2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nfa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9WJDrxMyh10JYqJUmifN4ag8nO-H7kfh08JK7-jlf1JVLTTpBnakCLpIKufjYP_K7NYu_BQ0p-hj-GhJk-20EXpozIkIZ8iixPvM_6I1ThPRvOSORIXzBONE1Qz436kSGjdqMiuG78MWs/s320/image_2.jpeg" width="239" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Mitchell has a very important role in our family as middle child. He's both playmate to his older brother and his little sister's sweetheart. She loves her brother VERY much. She's looking at him with googly love eyes although it doesn't look like it. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisctrlE8ky66f7CU1kM9wwhudbKU21NvihDPX88G5CDwWhUihUc_HGgMpdRuIzaPDg3RSybVYogQOI9tCpXUimKbVW75oIeLSjKdmjjuMx0efovoH7nDJhwgNIJLc2XnV_vbO5_uPPoB-N/s1600/image_3.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nfa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisctrlE8ky66f7CU1kM9wwhudbKU21NvihDPX88G5CDwWhUihUc_HGgMpdRuIzaPDg3RSybVYogQOI9tCpXUimKbVW75oIeLSjKdmjjuMx0efovoH7nDJhwgNIJLc2XnV_vbO5_uPPoB-N/s320/image_3.jpeg" width="239" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">He threw up on himself and I forgot extra clothes this day. He wanted a picture to send to his dad. </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2160254255025948623.post-61443961195415429162011-12-09T23:23:00.000-08:002011-12-09T23:23:11.114-08:00MRI and moreI'm so sorry that we haven't updated since our November 28th MRI. It's really hard to update since I don't have a computer at home. The tumor looks stable and although they don't notice a difference, I thought it looks a little better. At this point in the game, the next possible hurdle is the MRI in May a few months after we go off the medications. The tumor might looked flared, but that could just be that a larger amount of blood flow has returned to the area since we will not be taking the med that restricts blood vessel growth anymore. We'll see. It could look great too, which we're optimistically hoping for. <br />
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We got all of his scans on CD and I was hoping to put one on here to show everyone, but it's copyrighted and there's no way to save the images.<br />
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Mitch has been trying really hard to improve his behavior and seems to have suddenly grown up in the past week or so. I was really proud of him the other day at school when one of the little girls was bossing him around and instead of fighting with her, he handled it by soliciting the teacher's help. I know it doesn't sound like a big deal, but it was a glimpse at my old Mitchell a bit older and I loved it. <br />
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Our sweet little friend Luke who has an epyndamoma successfully completed his radiation and chemo this past June after 8 months of treatment and was stable until this past week when they discovered more tumors had grown including one on his spine. Please pray for him and his family. They are really great people and our dear friends during our stay in Seattle. The hardest part about this trial is the constant ups and downs. There's rarely a middle ground and it becomes exhausting. <br />
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Thanks for your support everyone! We cannot do this without all of you. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2160254255025948623.post-13593914749580284342011-11-11T22:25:00.000-08:002011-11-11T22:25:16.424-08:00Finally Pictures!Poor Mitch has had a hard few weeks. Still doing great, just struggles day to day with behavioral outbursts. We'll get it figured out and I'm sure things will be well. Our next MRI is Nov. 28th. Here are pictures from this summer and fall. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEFr0tBPLx11RAIe9BtarwCEv8QgD0W4SyABrxYLFxhALY5eeuCm8EpzVs18Sr4UUtP2SXE4kY0mT4-3uO95ogsPBud2g0ka9J-pJuzMzDBSysYHNrv7fgwlyYVjRrOYBOLm8wlPWGOoHg/s1600/P1020259.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEFr0tBPLx11RAIe9BtarwCEv8QgD0W4SyABrxYLFxhALY5eeuCm8EpzVs18Sr4UUtP2SXE4kY0mT4-3uO95ogsPBud2g0ka9J-pJuzMzDBSysYHNrv7fgwlyYVjRrOYBOLm8wlPWGOoHg/s320/P1020259.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Mitch at the library. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3QtvspJpfzfsEGpu-cMKVmixQ75grpVKKvosv-R3CpRa7aGeRqB_PFesVnAVNfxXiln6-thSJaDaUq7vCzIIDWNLYl-HiGYJ3VqB92UQm-mWA7eT17UZRUuNocVcqk0EyFknS21d-zrhF/s1600/P1020292.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3QtvspJpfzfsEGpu-cMKVmixQ75grpVKKvosv-R3CpRa7aGeRqB_PFesVnAVNfxXiln6-thSJaDaUq7vCzIIDWNLYl-HiGYJ3VqB92UQm-mWA7eT17UZRUuNocVcqk0EyFknS21d-zrhF/s320/P1020292.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Playing with brother and sister.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUec_Be718GsVl7f91oPdktlRpQLxGJnQbWqRDzwkufjxfXvzLR-DMz_X5pfNgVr12KxVb6tNpUgn4Ut6KzEILtFUNKZXIzGxm_8o-3_XpdzOyEYB-PZjAFw1N7ycmw5mNa2RGaANhPGeL/s1600/P1020392.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUec_Be718GsVl7f91oPdktlRpQLxGJnQbWqRDzwkufjxfXvzLR-DMz_X5pfNgVr12KxVb6tNpUgn4Ut6KzEILtFUNKZXIzGxm_8o-3_XpdzOyEYB-PZjAFw1N7ycmw5mNa2RGaANhPGeL/s320/P1020392.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Mitchell and Aunt Sharon's baby sheep.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT8UU0idwESvROysql1zyvWEpolMZylxpvjb3m2OGlHBYVBm8t3LJrhWJbescm3hScA7VyVj2h0YX3ZFqIrTEe2orKR_icLKlyJcRP6DaNI3-4eKSOAnW0jwYA7O2bZwvYFTppT0V6tU66/s1600/P1020396.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT8UU0idwESvROysql1zyvWEpolMZylxpvjb3m2OGlHBYVBm8t3LJrhWJbescm3hScA7VyVj2h0YX3ZFqIrTEe2orKR_icLKlyJcRP6DaNI3-4eKSOAnW0jwYA7O2bZwvYFTppT0V6tU66/s320/P1020396.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Always love the pony rides at Remlinger Farms!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWkJkCTou0STfgp3osiyGGlx7xq1nLl2FYhcl8wCHeotIqH05DSU2-WBIduOt9-GuaZQvSDRyp3TwFSZ5OLOC8S4NOKkk6_Psera0jLsjJaRwnzcVVjnTeF22raTpjTqKkMjaqUeCy2mAK/s1600/P1020399.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWkJkCTou0STfgp3osiyGGlx7xq1nLl2FYhcl8wCHeotIqH05DSU2-WBIduOt9-GuaZQvSDRyp3TwFSZ5OLOC8S4NOKkk6_Psera0jLsjJaRwnzcVVjnTeF22raTpjTqKkMjaqUeCy2mAK/s320/P1020399.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> With cousins Jake and Mackayla</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_10Dl34eWY5tLSu3HQfHDniyHueCG0ct1q2DcKLd_Y3IWD2sjW06lcDjc8Hl6TYxIbiejTyUBibTRBtwwr9r_nwiHmdZxs_v4HP7GjXnCmfa_6lHPI8f4Hz3jDgVJDRcwOWFyer1tfgd7/s1600/P1020405.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_10Dl34eWY5tLSu3HQfHDniyHueCG0ct1q2DcKLd_Y3IWD2sjW06lcDjc8Hl6TYxIbiejTyUBibTRBtwwr9r_nwiHmdZxs_v4HP7GjXnCmfa_6lHPI8f4Hz3jDgVJDRcwOWFyer1tfgd7/s320/P1020405.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjlJSE_YtUsS-DdfjIZJa3SoidIJQ2Wp8RI0hcZT2SF2K-Mc91U3DJMvRhDYffY3OaUTx73-38-3kvSqm91UKow-AUYfUmWJlUCRU-VqXCkNTp5eojjAVz1qpNZP6-heFN-H4NM5pHydhX/s1600/P1020414.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjlJSE_YtUsS-DdfjIZJa3SoidIJQ2Wp8RI0hcZT2SF2K-Mc91U3DJMvRhDYffY3OaUTx73-38-3kvSqm91UKow-AUYfUmWJlUCRU-VqXCkNTp5eojjAVz1qpNZP6-heFN-H4NM5pHydhX/s320/P1020414.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Snoqualmie Falls</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhevzn4acXmQAvsQUckMzzBWk_sc9uiYrhjXounnWivIEOZt3zLa3XKdyVPeH-WYfOquu04zlD2pBZ7nfUGNrk8JTMgeNRwSD6RXdqh6Vere0DW6nh8tnn48Attu5YkLaBeB450PG_dfAmN/s1600/P1020417.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhevzn4acXmQAvsQUckMzzBWk_sc9uiYrhjXounnWivIEOZt3zLa3XKdyVPeH-WYfOquu04zlD2pBZ7nfUGNrk8JTMgeNRwSD6RXdqh6Vere0DW6nh8tnn48Attu5YkLaBeB450PG_dfAmN/s320/P1020417.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghIBNGVi4DiMy8DLfLQDHfr6UL_4utNJxpjjqjOb3O05099vDc8fY4VwfXM0-tMga-N56RJMjiBxhmVWJoZk3dAWqyqihHl5yTJfyWpBIS-fi64IMF4JGxhsOort0P1neGxz8ysG6v8b4C/s1600/P1020426.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghIBNGVi4DiMy8DLfLQDHfr6UL_4utNJxpjjqjOb3O05099vDc8fY4VwfXM0-tMga-N56RJMjiBxhmVWJoZk3dAWqyqihHl5yTJfyWpBIS-fi64IMF4JGxhsOort0P1neGxz8ysG6v8b4C/s320/P1020426.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Cherry Hill</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiidlM6vb-eTIayXq3Vqo6kKqWc4WKwNmDOgqliZzRXP4gFOH3jKjURb4bO2fzTlNGxGy3yiZcrD8yQEDjrX_WL4xeurGlev_07a7JVo-weX3U4srwXNMfNXk4BD8aNxfEkznTeBzMoEpkI/s1600/P1020429.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiidlM6vb-eTIayXq3Vqo6kKqWc4WKwNmDOgqliZzRXP4gFOH3jKjURb4bO2fzTlNGxGy3yiZcrD8yQEDjrX_WL4xeurGlev_07a7JVo-weX3U4srwXNMfNXk4BD8aNxfEkznTeBzMoEpkI/s320/P1020429.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgM_Bx2CyqOxEq5ByCP_Fpi5x9c3VtGyaQccXsQMt6iJSKmC_0S0czP5w9UluW7Sn9O2qayjrHNRz1RQRCkcbzftKb9qk1_q43vQFzxFXK8fX7PEY2JSSGo0V3PxgPw68KZxAB-uEYbGud/s1600/P1020434.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgM_Bx2CyqOxEq5ByCP_Fpi5x9c3VtGyaQccXsQMt6iJSKmC_0S0czP5w9UluW7Sn9O2qayjrHNRz1RQRCkcbzftKb9qk1_q43vQFzxFXK8fX7PEY2JSSGo0V3PxgPw68KZxAB-uEYbGud/s320/P1020434.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcDZUDr7eeGvSJ0f0UO-uCh7PllH2BMv4SCYhOfZjcRzsAUPUkVSWhT8I8fpfY-_kCI_14Ni9W9y8FQ9nSdrkdGN84EMug0fY71cSOsgghiBYPgQsoVdpkOqxDt4YMkmgQcJsmLiDgEamQ/s1600/P1020442.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcDZUDr7eeGvSJ0f0UO-uCh7PllH2BMv4SCYhOfZjcRzsAUPUkVSWhT8I8fpfY-_kCI_14Ni9W9y8FQ9nSdrkdGN84EMug0fY71cSOsgghiBYPgQsoVdpkOqxDt4YMkmgQcJsmLiDgEamQ/s320/P1020442.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> We love to see the temple!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD0SiN5xTihk_ZEBaw0E22Ucn0X24zRGZHUcmmcLBBa9opnpYhS3TLUc-vIajvmNcG3flOhZ5kMfpPcuAIyXP77SvGCWpWrYc-YmsxynWnJNfRnEFZ2x6qy7NeuMZbp1sc9BgeWKG2g_VN/s1600/P1020445.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD0SiN5xTihk_ZEBaw0E22Ucn0X24zRGZHUcmmcLBBa9opnpYhS3TLUc-vIajvmNcG3flOhZ5kMfpPcuAIyXP77SvGCWpWrYc-YmsxynWnJNfRnEFZ2x6qy7NeuMZbp1sc9BgeWKG2g_VN/s320/P1020445.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyeKyaZ8shQbS86eJN47tLw9bql2ctvFRs-QnWxZKcxYWER07hHxjRJXNq4LsisTxHUjoiCg0Du8mmdpfA-ndo1j1xAf1MWZsdEJXB7bIqq_o5wHqiE-dp7kJTsU_FSAYox-Pc4cAUPYm2/s1600/P1020449.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyeKyaZ8shQbS86eJN47tLw9bql2ctvFRs-QnWxZKcxYWER07hHxjRJXNq4LsisTxHUjoiCg0Du8mmdpfA-ndo1j1xAf1MWZsdEJXB7bIqq_o5wHqiE-dp7kJTsU_FSAYox-Pc4cAUPYm2/s320/P1020449.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEg3g_xmEZ6FFXkZeLmPG-fnm0I52ARaOXsqqPmsdOsCWUX5OmTxXox6_ng7BK-C2SE6gtnRYUYktvpWiyozD1I7MEAkOjqkCOYfMNX-Eg2XmX-slrd_darg7THOw-w41RlreAPao-K7Lt/s1600/P1020458.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEg3g_xmEZ6FFXkZeLmPG-fnm0I52ARaOXsqqPmsdOsCWUX5OmTxXox6_ng7BK-C2SE6gtnRYUYktvpWiyozD1I7MEAkOjqkCOYfMNX-Eg2XmX-slrd_darg7THOw-w41RlreAPao-K7Lt/s320/P1020458.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Lagoon! </div><div style="text-align: center;">Thumbs up meant he wanted to go on that ride again, thumbs down meant no thanks.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhce5RP1WQK4aOZKGo0dyYv8p_Rx4SB28e2KnHwj23mmWnEHL5eOUxba-24XzTtQ6qLjx4xG0L_oTGSRXbZ-Ov5fSmqHRsytdFuAknYM1jIQ076Hyt1Wugg_mFPpx_aOW7YBrVGGNQ_HPZ3/s1600/P1020460.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhce5RP1WQK4aOZKGo0dyYv8p_Rx4SB28e2KnHwj23mmWnEHL5eOUxba-24XzTtQ6qLjx4xG0L_oTGSRXbZ-Ov5fSmqHRsytdFuAknYM1jIQ076Hyt1Wugg_mFPpx_aOW7YBrVGGNQ_HPZ3/s320/P1020460.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1AT2aolphE3YRCANhzyUZ-v9VAVMkgfzmvIJg65QCAn-hkgdbpdYt_tWcJrEfzHf0sRv_apnDHVLDfNx82jFN6IhuyTnfJ88XMoWNbXMH79pCbp_P_1JJAVBRw2yuSh5M0XhFrDWG2PRz/s1600/P1020467.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1AT2aolphE3YRCANhzyUZ-v9VAVMkgfzmvIJg65QCAn-hkgdbpdYt_tWcJrEfzHf0sRv_apnDHVLDfNx82jFN6IhuyTnfJ88XMoWNbXMH79pCbp_P_1JJAVBRw2yuSh5M0XhFrDWG2PRz/s320/P1020467.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Cooling off in the fountains with grandma. </div><div style="text-align: center;">This was a double chemo week for Mitch, plus he caught a horrible stomach flu but he was a trooper!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdur0qmjYUjefqcOImkxhvhm2SA9tFVskhBMts0syw5mTE__H6ic2h9RFYNxYYhNwZ4xQwn4VPGxiupQfHB0BvmNHf_O0RcOxDtGj8SkJ8wjry9Uml5RRLdCuy4DnYalgFPes0SnHotiaZ/s1600/P1020471.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdur0qmjYUjefqcOImkxhvhm2SA9tFVskhBMts0syw5mTE__H6ic2h9RFYNxYYhNwZ4xQwn4VPGxiupQfHB0BvmNHf_O0RcOxDtGj8SkJ8wjry9Uml5RRLdCuy4DnYalgFPes0SnHotiaZ/s320/P1020471.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Wipeout course with our cousins.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge91GFnrSpIKJC37dQaRTThNCVLjVHZjxZY_9N12UzEBBhoyNnMBg67I-mOgeFo1rBlU4XO1Jw118V00EOjG1iGrFWzi2L-g-w9elUW0THSgcXT8tWinISMldZfpCOWQtj2_GRbXjK_GpE/s1600/P1020491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge91GFnrSpIKJC37dQaRTThNCVLjVHZjxZY_9N12UzEBBhoyNnMBg67I-mOgeFo1rBlU4XO1Jw118V00EOjG1iGrFWzi2L-g-w9elUW0THSgcXT8tWinISMldZfpCOWQtj2_GRbXjK_GpE/s320/P1020491.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> HAPPY HALF BIRTHDAY MITCHELL!!!</div><div style="text-align: center;">He wanted a water gun fight and we had tons of friends show up to play and celebrate. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSzRKzfhiT3XCSSUZ4KQDS4Z13KLAg_T2BsKfyIPkc020CE6Gm1n9z9DIWFWN8JEBEAIbSrXKp1cZoopX_L_4zidpIGhu81bUYlX5kYng-3__DaWTl4OWjQWdoePJY7tbY1Ztzos5mJVda/s1600/P1020496.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSzRKzfhiT3XCSSUZ4KQDS4Z13KLAg_T2BsKfyIPkc020CE6Gm1n9z9DIWFWN8JEBEAIbSrXKp1cZoopX_L_4zidpIGhu81bUYlX5kYng-3__DaWTl4OWjQWdoePJY7tbY1Ztzos5mJVda/s320/P1020496.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Central Washington Fair 2011</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhMJ5COKnZgVs0KLChi0BbMH8Eq3nuIM8xCfcUASF1DFUeOurBL-KWBYzA5C5mLNOajMBj2BOrkmngMZ1IZgWqXf7ouHpycNrMxOZBSRitl8h-pSgSLwkxEHbtoTMd6z_NMCJXqGTHdZaB/s1600/P1020512.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhMJ5COKnZgVs0KLChi0BbMH8Eq3nuIM8xCfcUASF1DFUeOurBL-KWBYzA5C5mLNOajMBj2BOrkmngMZ1IZgWqXf7ouHpycNrMxOZBSRitl8h-pSgSLwkxEHbtoTMd6z_NMCJXqGTHdZaB/s320/P1020512.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheQULvViLmjTgQZWIWf3bGEv1Q4HOLu0cDHfABNvr78qkh3MqGX3fWbmohjShUmLufdZQIUgagYEUXRqs8mPSzcGD7WXJxFy5HyMh4-e9-3SdYQrF78jIbeQFUbXj8vgKvWMML7V4yqXT6/s1600/P1020544.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheQULvViLmjTgQZWIWf3bGEv1Q4HOLu0cDHfABNvr78qkh3MqGX3fWbmohjShUmLufdZQIUgagYEUXRqs8mPSzcGD7WXJxFy5HyMh4-e9-3SdYQrF78jIbeQFUbXj8vgKvWMML7V4yqXT6/s320/P1020544.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Climbing through the laser beams at Jackson's spy training birthday party.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8aqC7pQQvlo7h4jlk5mXK5db9dIKs63A-CjzVUrEiKcoXhTtH1f9dLvOv06DNDJCBxfwedMs-SbxiQc20nKYbGuJe4ShNcrJ3FSo_hl8HgG3SCcB7wSYX2QJsAlrJYMx-frYlsb_requw/s1600/P1020576.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8aqC7pQQvlo7h4jlk5mXK5db9dIKs63A-CjzVUrEiKcoXhTtH1f9dLvOv06DNDJCBxfwedMs-SbxiQc20nKYbGuJe4ShNcrJ3FSo_hl8HgG3SCcB7wSYX2QJsAlrJYMx-frYlsb_requw/s320/P1020576.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">"Take a picture of me mom!"</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwRMWNQrKKv25nWDJBmOniVDCb8ChdZVlP-81ELh9sGg5kyqbWAm0bImYOhvix-o570wsx_yvhm8OWin2et9Z12hwVfW-sfd3bko6QHpOseSq5RVrk6CwEktgGqxEqF6J4C7X3xrkk4uKA/s1600/DSC_0003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwRMWNQrKKv25nWDJBmOniVDCb8ChdZVlP-81ELh9sGg5kyqbWAm0bImYOhvix-o570wsx_yvhm8OWin2et9Z12hwVfW-sfd3bko6QHpOseSq5RVrk6CwEktgGqxEqF6J4C7X3xrkk4uKA/s320/DSC_0003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZGIYAxb9YESvAZULdv8Av4-WW1B6JZQJjEuPw56GrSegTZYERYjv5HJM1QBbaESvgoSdeabrrBP7qYajdjmq88uW6L9b-UidKZ5IPX_QXDiwBAOAvAFl1CJKlNOSEUQTINrRG1AWXa6x3/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZGIYAxb9YESvAZULdv8Av4-WW1B6JZQJjEuPw56GrSegTZYERYjv5HJM1QBbaESvgoSdeabrrBP7qYajdjmq88uW6L9b-UidKZ5IPX_QXDiwBAOAvAFl1CJKlNOSEUQTINrRG1AWXa6x3/s320/photo.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Happy Halloween MJ!</div><br />
We love our sweet Mitchell dearly. Yes, this is all very hard, but we can do it and we'll keep doing it because we love this little boy "To infinity and beyond!" (Then Mitchell replies, "I love you Woody!")<br />
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On October 23, (Jackson's birthday,) our sweet little friend Peyton passed away. We pray for comfort for her family. I KNOW these special angels who come to earth and fight these battles hold special places in their Heavenly Father's heart. I pray I can care for my little sweetheart as his Heavenly Father would have me do. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2160254255025948623.post-65825578770707575982011-10-06T22:26:00.000-07:002011-10-06T22:26:49.378-07:00Oh-Bla-Di, Oh-Bla-Da, Life Goes OnThe craziness of life seems to have taken on a snowball effect. Although I keep thinking life can't get any busier/crazier, it does. And yet I still think that just around the corner is a patch of easy peacefulness--must be a mirage! <br />
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Our church's general conference was this last week and it was as if I came into sit by the fire after plodding along through a blizzard. I felt that patch of peace; a feeling of optimism that I CAN do all of these things; and such a happy gratitude as well. Now I'm back out in the blizzard with that memory of the fire to keep me pushing forward. <br />
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I've had two dear friends struggling with major illness and I want to serve them and their families. My responsibilities at church are also very important to me, but time consuming. Our little puppy is as good as they come, but still, it's another body to care for. The kids' schedules keep us occupied every night of the week. Not to mention drs appointments and volunteering in classrooms. My house is definitely not as tidy as I'd like it to be these days and my chances to run are few and far between. I know I need to let some more things go.<br />
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Mitchell is doing really well physically. For the past month we've had him in gymnastics and put PT on the backburner. He lost interest in our sessions, and the idea to try gymnastics came to mind. He LOVES it and exerts more effort in class than the rest of the week combined. He has made progress too! He's jumping off two feet now (albeit not very high), and seems more agile to me. Tonight during his class I tried to hold back tears. He tries so stinkin' hard and yet there still is such a large deficit in what he can do and should be able to do. It's so hard not to remember my wild little boy bouncing off the walls and wonder what's going through his mind now as he can't make his body do what he wants it to do. Yes, I am so grateful that he's come this far and yet for him, I'd be so ecstatic to see him free from these limitations. Tonight as I thought about all of this and his innate optimism, I realized that his little spirit is compatible with this trial. I know he gets frustrated, but his optimism will always carry him through and continue to push him forward. That is something to be very grateful for. <br />
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He has also started preschool and seems to really enjoy it. He's spent some time on the "watching chair" (their term for time-outs), and of course I knew that would happen. He's angelic most of the time and suddenly a switch goes off and he loses all control. For that reason I don't like him out of my sight, but I know it's best for him to be in the world and learning how to deal with it. He told me a boy stuck his tongue out at him and that made him feel sad. He also said he plays by himself at recess. All things to be expected, but still so heartbreaking for a mama who is already so scared to send her little ones into the harshness of the world. <br />
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Other than the behavioral outburts I think we're doing really well. We are so grateful to all of our supporters out there! On a sad note, our sweet little friend Peyton (a dipg patient) is declining. I think about her and her family a lot each day. Please pray for them. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2160254255025948623.post-90798771548862524512011-09-25T23:41:00.000-07:002011-09-25T23:41:00.564-07:00September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month!<ul><li><span style="color: #741b47;"><strong>Every day, 36 children are diagnosed with cancer.</strong></span> </li>
<li><strong><span style="color: #741b47;">The average age of children diagnosed is six.</span></strong> </li>
<li><strong><span style="color: #741b47;">More than 40,000 children undergo treatment for cancer each year.</span></strong> </li>
</ul>I am copying this from our friend's blog because she did all the work for me and I couldn't have said it better! Often we don't get involved in causes until we understand exactly what it feels like to be on the receiving end. Take time to say, "Thank you's," for your family's health and then look around you at how you can help and bless others. <br />
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1) Donate money for children's cancer research. <a href="https://www.kintera.org/AutoGen/Simple/Donor.asp?ievent=993420&en=kfLHJLMwHaIHK1NvF4JMJ1NFLoKVIYOvHbIFLWNIKtF"><span style="color: #bb3300;">Curesearch.org</span></a> If you donate $36 this month, you are entered into a drawing for some vacations. Also, donations are matched by sponsors this month!<br />
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2) Volunteer with a local cancer organization. You can volunteer for a fundraising event or a community event in support of families dealing with childhood cancer. If you aren't sure what's available in your area, you can start with the <a href="https://www.acco.org/default.aspx"><span style="color: #bb3300;">American Children's Cancer Organization</span></a>, the largest grassroots children's cancer organization in the U.S.<br />
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3) Give the gift of music. Purchase songs on iTunes through <a href="http://mymusicrx.org/"><span style="color: #bb3300;">MyMusicRX.org</span></a> and iTunes will donate up to 5% of proceeds to the Children's Cancer Association. Other examples of gifting music to local children coping with cancer can be found <a href="http://www.mymusicrx.org/help/"><span style="color: #bb3300;">here</span></a>.<br />
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4) Participate in a Fun Run/Walk, Bike Ride, etc. There are so many out there. Here are a few: <br />
a) Find a <a href="http://www.curesearchwalk.org/htmlcontent.asp?cid=102631"><span style="color: #bb3300;">Curesearch Walk</span></a> near you.<br />
b) You can walk or ride your bike to support the <a href="http://www.braintumor.org/events/current-events/btr.html"><span style="color: #bb3300;">National Brain Tumor Society</span></a>.<br />
c) Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's <a href="http://www.lightthenight.org/oswim/"><span style="color: #bb3300;">Light the Night Walk</span></a> (in Oregon and Idaho)<br />
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5) Donate your hair. Each organization has different guidelines which you can check out by following the links below.<br />
a) <a href="http://www.locksoflove.org/donate.html"><span style="color: #bb3300;">Locks of Love</span></a> For children who have lost hair from various types of medical conditions/treatments.<br />
b) <a href="https://www.clf4kids.org/index.php/donate/donate-your-hair"><span style="color: #bb3300;">Childhood Leukemia Foundation</span></a><br />
c) <a href="http://www.pantene.com/en-US/beautiful-lengths-refresh/Pages/donation-requirements.aspx"><span style="color: #bb3300;">Pantene Beautiful Lengths</span></a> For all cancer patients, not necessarily children. (This is the place I donate my hair because 100% of hair goes to wigs.)<br />
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6) Create your own event. I would like to do this!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2160254255025948623.post-38694533601609255082011-08-28T23:16:00.000-07:002011-08-28T23:16:35.746-07:00YAHOO!!!Post radiation MRI #3<br />
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Stable--nothing new and nothing changed= GREAT! That's our goal. We feel very blessed. Of course no matter what we'd feel that way, because we are. Our Father in Heaven cares for each one of us in the exact way we need to be cared for. Whether or not we see that is up to us. I know He loves us and He REALLY loves my Mitchell. I know angels watch over my little guy all the time and I'm just so thankful for every day I get to be wrapped up in his arms. <br />
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I love the film "Life is Beautiful." Although it's so heart-wrenching and tragic it is such a good example of staying positive and choosing to be happy no matter what challenges come our way. I'm weak and succumb to fear and anxiety at times, but I try very hard to choose happiness and optimism each day because that is power. I know that our Father in Heaven blesses us too as we choose to see all that is good around us. <br />
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Thanks to all! I'm going to continue to hope because isn't it exciting afterall to think of having my little hero defeat the monster? He always tells me he's good at fighting monsters and I believe him. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2160254255025948623.post-51076244247833183592011-08-22T00:40:00.000-07:002011-08-22T00:40:30.661-07:00"Isn't This a Nice Time?"If I had to choose Mitchell's most popular phrase, that would be it: "Isn't this a nice time?" He says it 50 times a day, and although at times the repetitiveness of it gets on our nerves, it has caused us to seriously reflect on the insights of this little boy. Often after that question, he follows it with observations, "The sky is so blue," "It's such a beautiful day," "We're having so much fun," etc. He's our own little Pollyanna. I'm so grateful for that. How could you not be a happy person with an influence like that in your life? Even on days where life just seems a little too much, Mitchell will ask me, "Isn't this a nice time?" and gratefully I'm forced to step back and look at my three little ones around me, my totally amazing husband, and our lovely home then respond with, "Yes Mitchell, it really is." Life is SO hard sometimes, but also SO great! <br />
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Mitchell has his quarterly MRI this Wednesday, August 24th. I don't know how I feel about it because honestly we just try to live in the moment and I've really not thought too much about it. Physically, he's doing spectacularly well. We recently signed him up for gymnastics. Obviously he will need our help to complete many tasks, but I think he'll enjoy the exercise a lot more than traditional physical therapy. Emotionally, he is struggling a bit more. He cries at the drop of a hat and loses his temper quite easily too. Could it be the tumor? VERY possible. Could it be a 4-year-old's moodiness? Absolutely. I remember Jackson causing me some serious grief about this age. Hopefully the MRI will look great and Mitchell will have some harsher consequences for his misbehavior as a result...probably not though. :) I admit, however, I am a bit nervous about sending him to preschool without me shadowing him every second. Yes, call me the helicopter parent--I'm keeping my birdies in the nest as long as possible! <br />
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We appreciate your prayers and support. I am so impressed by how our friends and family continue to walk this path with us because I'm afraid if the role was reversed, I might have abandoned ship by now. It has been a great example to me of enduring service and love. Thank you all!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2160254255025948623.post-15164126026111802032011-08-04T22:49:00.000-07:002011-08-04T23:27:21.956-07:00July 2011Sorry I haven't uploaded any pictures and this one was in my email box! I'll have to load summer pics soon. Here's our day boating. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimWUisL8s27aZrH5oKioxAe1YuSRDoSKtkw05jZp87azW_Hm_Pp4tcX6peGlDOlca-hdccXKFa1WP4NJPbWV_ig0_-hY2-AzN-k1R_oJN3i7KVraACINdR2VY6ko-tsV2t0J4BR7ZL8DUC/s1600/P1020962.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5637249866266603330" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimWUisL8s27aZrH5oKioxAe1YuSRDoSKtkw05jZp87azW_Hm_Pp4tcX6peGlDOlca-hdccXKFa1WP4NJPbWV_ig0_-hY2-AzN-k1R_oJN3i7KVraACINdR2VY6ko-tsV2t0J4BR7ZL8DUC/s320/P1020962.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div>Sorry to all of our friend and family following this! We have hardly been home this past month. We've had cousins visiting and are truly enjoying our summer. We've been to amusement parks, boating, camping, DRIVING (a lot!), and swimming. Lots of fun. Mitchell is doing really well despite getting much less sleep than he was used to during the spring. We're often out past bedtime and he's missed a lot of naps. His behavior was pretty bad for a stretch. It was very concerning, because behavior changes are a sign of tumor growth. It really could be a wide awray of contributing factors, however, so we've tried to not let ourselves get too worried. He took a neuro-cognitive test at the end of June. His knowledge base/skills are average for his age-group, so he is supposed to be fine for preschool. Of course his fine motor skills are lacking. His verbal/word usage was really high. In short, his weakness is in abstract reasoning, which will eventually become math skills/problem solving.<br /></div><br /><div>We've made it through 6 months of chemo, which is the bare minimum, so anything after this is great. We had some rough spots, but we made it through. Mitchell is a champ. He had his first opthamology appointment since November 8th (two days before we discovered his tumor had tripled), and although a bit awkward, we made it through smiling. The dr said his eyesight has improved from patching (yay) and when reviewing Mitchell's scans he said, "With the size of his tumor I can't believe he's doing this well!" Uhhh...what are we supposed to say to that? </div><br /><br /><p>I want to share a quote I found the other day and loved by Elder Scott from the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: "May I share some suggestions with you who face...the testing that a wise Heavenly Father determines is needed even when you are living a worthy, righteous life and are obedient to His commandments. Just when all seems to be going right, challenges often come in multiple doses applied simultaneously. When those trials are not consequences of your disobedience, they are evidence that the Lord feels you are prepared to grow more. He therefore gives you experiences that stimulate growth, understanding, and compassion which polish you for your everlasting benfit. To get you from where you are to where He wants you to be requires a lot of stretching, and that generally entails discomfort and pain." </p><br /><p>Chad and I are reading a book called, "The Price We Paid" about the handcart pioneers who crossed America in 1856. It has been eye opening on so many levels, but I've found myself comparing trials/experiences with them. The trial doesn't matter, but there seems to be the same fundamental principles in trials that we all must learn. I am so grateful because I CAN see that I'm learning them and while I still have a LONG way to go I feel so grateful the Lord has blessed me with enough knowledge for it to make some sense. </p><br /><p>I have a beautifully talented penpal mother I'm corresponding with whose son is also battling brain cancer and she recently wrote this on her blog: "[As we celebrate our anniversary I realize] there's a shadow there that has changed us forever. It hasn't all been bad change. A lot of good change, actually, but still some very real heartache that we didn't anticipate years ago. " Chad and I just celebrated our anniversary too and I agree. I never imagined I'd experience this kind of trial and this much heartache, but from such intense pain CAN come overwhelming joy. I have a better understanding of what an eternal marriage "through thick and thin" means and I am completely devoted to my sweetheart no matter what. I also understand how incredibly blessed I am to be a mother and entrusted with these little precious angels. I have truly savored every second my little Eden Joy is awake and I didn't always do that before with the boys. I just feel so blessed. I don't know what's around the corner, but I know at least part of it will be really great. </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2160254255025948623.post-16295332278924792512011-06-24T17:17:00.000-07:002011-06-24T17:42:57.072-07:00June 2011<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglPzjR9_L8KTnqAZYiaAylCZy53eRQT3EFoXzP1cANB1WSFmsHltB9QGNFqq1gjQPkEDy8N_JUtcgZl9Ir5KC9cRVWLZsCzhWONydb4ak31I7ZwoUDGKDp-B8zlINRnWWMVJ8UZQbXSmlj/s1600/Mitchell+and+Eden.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621944884262458690" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglPzjR9_L8KTnqAZYiaAylCZy53eRQT3EFoXzP1cANB1WSFmsHltB9QGNFqq1gjQPkEDy8N_JUtcgZl9Ir5KC9cRVWLZsCzhWONydb4ak31I7ZwoUDGKDp-B8zlINRnWWMVJ8UZQbXSmlj/s320/Mitchell+and+Eden.jpg" /></a>Has it really been a month since our last post? That goes to show how busy our lives have been. We had some cousins in town at the end of May, celebrated our Grandma's birthday, and Jackson's stellar year in kindergarten. Then we were off to Boise for a week, then my sister and her girls joined us on the trip back and stayed for a few days helping us with our bi-monthly Seattle trip. <br /><br />When we went to Boise, being the absent minded mama I've been lately, I forgot Mitchell's oils. When we first started on the nasty cancer fight in November, my brother who is a doctor of physical therapy and very much into natural medicine, felt inspired to send us some essential oils. Without researching, frankincense and myrrh came to his mind, and then when he did start reading up on them, studies have shown that frankincense in particular is able to move through the blood-brain barrier and has been successful in prolonging longevity in brain tumor patients. So, mostly because I thought, "Why not?" and because I love my brother and respect his passion for natural medicine, I began using these oils on Mitchell's reflex points on his feet and along his spine and neck. Now back to Boise. Perhaps it was a combination of fatigue from playing hard and the lack of oils--I don't know--but Mitchell digressed each day we were there and by Friday was much weaker. He woke up screaming that his leg was hurting and was not nearly as peppy as he has been. <br /><br />We began the oils Saturday when we returned (8 days of no oils) and Mitchell has steadily improved this week. Monday, however, he was still a little lackluster and his blood platelet levels were just below the cut off point to allow chemo so we returned home. Yesterday we had his blood drawn again and they were back up in the safe zone, so off to Seattle we go again on Monday. I know conventional medicine frowns upon assumptions like mine, and perhaps it was a strange coincidence, but from my observations the oils work! <br /><br />The up and downs of this process are very difficult. There have also been several challenges in my "circle of influence" lately that have all culminated in a feeling of standing at the foot of the tallest mountain. It all seems so overwhelming and utterly exhausting. Yes, I am very tired in case you're wondering why I look it. I don't know how anyone could get through something like this without the gospel and a testimony. It means everything to me and although the mountain seems impossible, I know that with the Lord I can do it. Also, lucky me, I'm married to a very patient and loving man who always reminds me to look at the bright side. <br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCpoMj_PmHvq4D-fRgxdXYNXAtEGltNF73o1vTycPlJCGzN1-lWMzCDJ24QdrK52YbiOXsQKnR6DUnOxQLEVCZCRQ4zUn1QGeiSFngqp3clhXGSpA7lJexUIY66sXhb14g2UoOypEgB3FT/s1600/Mitchell+Lamb.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621944876218758130" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCpoMj_PmHvq4D-fRgxdXYNXAtEGltNF73o1vTycPlJCGzN1-lWMzCDJ24QdrK52YbiOXsQKnR6DUnOxQLEVCZCRQ4zUn1QGeiSFngqp3clhXGSpA7lJexUIY66sXhb14g2UoOypEgB3FT/s320/Mitchell+Lamb.jpg" /></a> This last week we went to our cousins the Trees' house to swim and Aunt Sharon brought out her baby sheep. She keeps it in a diaper and has even sewn it a skirt. It was totally adorable and the kids fell in love. <br /><div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2160254255025948623.post-15256177111361793932011-05-24T11:03:00.000-07:002011-05-24T11:16:02.697-07:00MRI Results May '11<div align="left">Good news! Tumor is stable with no new lesions and the degree of enhancement on the post contrast images has marginally decreased. (In layman's terms, his tumor's sponginess has decreased, which means his medicines are working.) We're very grateful and know that our combined faith is contributing! Thank you everyone. </div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaAlGLWAFq6GAU7uGrkIEqiqm7dqHmHVsG_PaFjex9RSkw9BtJ3gx20hlHMXY9e2w-knOe3fraYbZmQ7hFIySgHRxBfLdtj-dh_gycgaVRjY9kVzfWFJXdFCSrzgXynelT_P5aMImkAJup/s1600/Mitchell+05-20-11.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610345825339843058" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaAlGLWAFq6GAU7uGrkIEqiqm7dqHmHVsG_PaFjex9RSkw9BtJ3gx20hlHMXY9e2w-knOe3fraYbZmQ7hFIySgHRxBfLdtj-dh_gycgaVRjY9kVzfWFJXdFCSrzgXynelT_P5aMImkAJup/s320/Mitchell+05-20-11.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2