Much Improved

Christen is feeling much better this evening. She started doing much better by about 10 AM, so thank you very much for the prayers.

Today she had to get an x-ray in preparation for the knee surgery in April. The picture was taken down in the x-ray department with the RN Vanessa who took care of Christen today. Also, we all met with Dr. Dormans and the nurse practioner. That was very informative, and we are feeling very comfortable with the care Christen is receiving here. The tentative date for knee surgery is April 2nd. She is resting comfortably in her room now, watching a home re-decorating show on TV. We will have to stay one more night because we need to receive training on care of the broviac central line tomorrow at 9:30 AM. After that we will be free to leave the hospital. Please pray that Christen will be comfortable during the 3 1/2 to 4 hour drive home. We look forward to getting home with all of our other children.

We are beginning to get a more detailed understanding of what we are up against over the next 9 months or so. The chemo therapy is going to present significant challenges. She will have to be admitted to the hospital for anywhere between 2 and 5 days for each chemo infusion. She will have a new infusion every 2 to 4 weeks depending on her numbers. We are planning to have the chemo administered at UVA hospital. Today we also got to see an example of the endoprosthesis device that will be put in her leg to replace her knee joint. It was actually encouraging to see the device. It is quite sturdy and looks like it will work very well. It is a huge blessing to have access to excellent medical care. Next week Dr. Dormans is arranging for Christen to meet a young woman who is now a teacher and had an endoprosthesis put in 6 or 7 years ago. The Dr. said this is her way of giving back -- to encourage others in the same situation.

Louie, Hannah, and Ruth are headed back home this afternoon.

We can't begin to tell you how much all the expressions and demonstrations of support have meant to us. We would never want to walk through this alone. You guys are truly the hands and feet of Jesus for us.

Steve & Debbie and family