Sun, 12 Dec 1999 21:03

BMT delay and Make-A-Wish

Hello,

We had told you that Logan's transplant would probably be around Christmas. Well, we learned that Bone Marrow Transplant wants to wait 4 weeks after his last radiation (on December 22, 1999). This puts BMT around January 20th, 2000. Logan's next MRI is scheduled for January 18th, 2000. Please pray for complete tumor shrinkage from radiation and no new tumor regrowth. If the tumors don't shrink enough, there will be no BMT, and all 'standard' treatment options will have been exhausted. At that point, Logan's neuro-oncologist would give his blessing for any phase II or I studies (which are considered experimental or investigational).

On a positive note, Logan's neuro-oncologist has recommended Logan as a 'Make-A-Wish' candidate and our social worker has filled out all necessary paperwork. It looks like Logan will be granted one 'wish' at some time during this 4 week break from treatment. We will let everyone know more after our interview with Make-A-Wish. Apparently, most children choose a family trip to Disney World.

My (Laura) BSF (Bible Study Fellowship) leader reminded me of this important truth: "When I read that December 22 could be the end of the radiation, I was reminded that we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, because He is unchanging, while everything else is subject to shift."

Also, regarding Logan's "special needs" resulting from the brain radiation, I (Knocker) received this encouragement from a friend: Every one of the children God gives has special needs. How true! We can remember Logan's unique needs even before all the cancer stuff started. And Adam has his own unique "challenges". Even as adults, each one of us has special gifts, and each one has special needs. Praise the Lord who gives gifts and supplies needs!

We are so thankful for this break and especially for the timing of it--allowing us to enjoy Christmas together as a family.

Knocker and Laura