Saturday, September 15, 2007

Busy Hands


Bella has some very busy hands. She has learned how to say "more" by using sign language. Of course she uses the same sign for paddy cake, so you have to figure out which she wants. At times, she gives the sign for "more" and you have no idea what she wants more of, but it is exciting to see that she has figured out the power of language. She's such a smart cookie!

We met with her new oncologist at Vandy and have some promising news. She will be going on a different chemo drug than what she was on before, and this drug has shown to be very effective. I know it is no magic bullet, but there is always hope. Bella is so strong and is such a fighter. She alone gives me hope.

In two weeks Bella will have surgery to have her port put back in. After that, she will begin chemo again. This next chemo drug possibly will have fewer side effects than previous drugs. That's always a blessing. But even better it is administered with just a push instead of a drip infusion. Before, she was hooked up to an IV for two hours, now she will just have to sit still long enough to have the chemo injected in to her port. This is such a blessing to me because I've been wondering how I'm going to keep a very active two year old sit still for a few hours.

In other news, I fried my cell phone when on vacation. I've lost some numbers, so if you don't hear from me, you'll know why.

Love to all,

Jen and Bella

Monday, September 03, 2007

New Challenge


We found out last week that Bella's tumor has shown a slight change. The main portion of the tumor has not significantly changed, but the wall of the tumor has thickened slightly. Her oncologist in Louisville has recommended that Bella go back on chemo. Since we are now in Bowling Green Bella will now be seeing an oncologist at Vanderbilt. Her first appointment with the new doctor will be this Thursday. We don't know yet what her new doctor will recommend, but we'll keep you updated. Please keep Bella in your prayers.

Jen