overcoming

Just a quick update for you, dear friends:

Isaiah had an in-clinic chemo session today. He came home very tired and queasy. Still wanting to dress for his t-ball game, he slowly gathered his things and met me at the field. He wanted to play but had to leave in the top of the first because he felt sick. I thought Carmen took him home.

I was surprised when he made it back in time to bat last at the bottom of the first. He hit a line drive. From then on he stayed in the game, made a couple good defensive plays and finished the night with a home run shot over second base.

Ya, I'm proud of this kid. He gets Vincristine in the morning, feels sick all afternoon, but still comes out swinging. His passion for life stirs me and deepens my longing for him to be free of this pain.

first game

Isaiah really enjoyed his first game tonight. He got a couple solid hits. We were all so honored by all our friends from Emmaus and family who came out to cheer him on. You guys know how to show the love!

playin' ball

Several of you have asked us whether or not Isaiah will be able to play ball this Spring as hoped. Despite his multiple compression fractures, his back alignment is good. So we're cautiously moving forward. I'm coaching his t-ball team (the Dodgers...sweet); we've had about 6 practices so far and our first game is Thursday, March 20. Thanks to all Isaiah's friends, especially the Gray boys, for praying for strength to play ball.

3 appointments

We've got a full week of trips to the doctor: Monday was a long consultation with a couple doctors regarding future treatment options, followed by a scan of Isaiah's nasal cavity (checking for infection). Thursday we see the orthopedic surgeon regarding Isaiah's compression fractures. We're all having a tough time coming to terms with the complex and difficult realities of our situation. We would really appreciate your prayers for perspective and healing.

spinal

Friends,
We're off to Sutter for a scheduled spinal tap and chemo which means we're fasting (a tough reminder at breakfast time.)

We need extra courage today...Isaiah is just so tired of his treatment.

He had a hard moment last night when his mom reminded him about today's plan. He said, "I'm angry and frustrated!" Later he came into the kitchen and asked me if we could "set up a time to pray together."

Thanks for staying with us!

truckee

We had a great Presidents Day visiting good friends and playing in the snow.

Isaiah's liver has been stressed and has been functioning at 20 times normal. We've been concerned, of course. He had a special appointment Tuesday with several tests. Things seem to have calmed down a bit, thankfully. Please pray for his body as it continues to process all the chemotherapy.

quotes

Carmen and I took Isaiah to his appointment today. There was lots to do so we teamed-up. Throughout the day Isaiah had quite a bit to say.

"Do you know General Grievous?"

- to his nurse, refering to one of his new favorite Star Wars characters

"At least I have something to cheer it up!"

- after handing-out Hershey's valentines kisses to all the kids, nurses, and doctors in the clinic

"That's OK. I was sniffing for gas. I have a good nose."

- after being reminded that he had not looked both ways before crossing the street

"See these glasses? They make my pills look like dessert."

- as he began his nightly regimen wearing 3D glasses

"Dear Jesus, please let the day that I'm all done with leukemia come very, very soon."

- praying before dinner