On our way..sort of

Overall, today was a really good day. While Elena's ANC dropped from 660 to 620, the rest of her counts were good. So, Dr.Lew wanted to go ahead with the sedation, but hold off another week before giving her the rest of the scheduled chemo drugs she would have received today. Bottom line, Elena received one fourth of her scheduled chemo.
The sedation went just fine, Elena has never had any trouble being sedated or waking up from sedation. She is definitely ready to eat and drink something as soon as she comes to. She doesn't really care for the required 'stay lying down' time after. She constantly asks, "How much time left now?". Maybe next time I should move the bed so she can see the clock. : )

Last night, we were feeling rather tired and defeated. Today, we woke up strong and ready!
Thank you for your emails, calls, prayers, and concern. We were definitely lifted by them and reminded that God is faithful and his compassions are new every morning (Lamentations 3:23). Our prayers were answered, we had peace of mind and heart, patience, energy and joy. God is good!

The joy part of the day came when Elena was able to leave the sedation area and move to the regular infusion part of the clinic. Our favorite CURE ladies were there, with sweet treats of course, our favorite CHOA volunteer, Trina, was there, overflowing with love and joy as usual, and the added bonus...a couple from the Songs for Kids Foundation were there. If you remember Elena had a ball singing with them back in November. Needless to say, she had a great time singing with them again today. She sang about eight songs with them! It definitely felt like a party in the gathering area today. It is amazing to see the smiles on all of the children's faces, thanks to all of these wonderful volunteers. At least for a little while, it was a happy, rocking place today in the lives of these children.

Elena's next step will be another counts check first thing Monday morning. If her ANC has recovered, she will return to the clinic on Tuesday to continue the treatment she began today. So, until then, we will love every moment we have and put it all in God's hands.

Thanks for taking the time to check in on us.
In Him,
The Tates

"For the angel of the Lord guards all who fear Him, and He rescues them. Taste and see that the Lord is good. Oh, the joys of those who trust in Him!" Psalm 34:7-8