Thursday, January 29, 2009

change of plans

Just a quick update: Isaiah was up most of the night with a really bad cough.  We've moved his spinal tap to Monday so he doesn't have to fast while he's feeling so bad.  Thanks for your comments and prayers of support!

Wednesday, January 28, 2009

spinal tomorrow


Thanks for checking in on the Oates!  Life is full!  Every day fills up fast with learning, big decisions, ongoing efforts to support the needs in our community, and the darn kitchen (I swear I just cleaned it!  What happened?).  

Isaiah is fighting a pretty bad cold and isn't feeling too well.  We're scheduled for a spinal (fasting) tomorrow.  He teared up when we told him - didn't cry - but definitely felt the weight.  He's getting tired of the on-going, relentless nature of this battle and is really longing to "be done with leukemia."  

I'm praying this for him today, and for us:  "When I called, you answered me;  you made me bold and stouthearted."  - David, Psalm 138:3  

Peace.

Sunday, January 18, 2009

good week


We're having a good week.  Isaiah is feeling well.  On Wednesday, as he was leaving for his appointment, I said, as I often do, "Be strong and courageous."  He responded, "You be strong and courageous too."  

Saturday, January 10, 2009

way, way up


I'm really sorry I didn't update this sooner.  I had actually started a couple days ago but got distracted.  We got good news Wednesday: Isaiah's counts have soared to 1900 from 300 just one week ago.   We celebrated by going immediately to a big public pizza place with a big group of people!  He's been able to play with cousins the last couple days and is excited to go to Emmaus tomorrow.  I asked him why he was excited.  He replied, "I've missed a lot of Sundays, Dad!"

Tuesday, January 6, 2009

appointment tomorrow (wednesday)


Isaiah is feeling a bit house-bound after several weeks of low blood counts.  He's actually looking forward to his appointment tomorrow because he's confident his counts will be up and he'll be free to play with friends outside and to "go do stuff" with others.  Much thanks to those of you who have helped with groceries during this season!  We really appreciate your support.

bike ride near our home - late November