My darling mother, who often serves as my “right hand man“, was gone for a whole month recently. By the way, when I say “who often“, I mean “who constantly“. It took many, many people to stand in the gap as she was gone and as I was trying (very inadequately) to thank all the gap-standers and stretcher-bearers I found myself flipping back through my calendar and the mountain of discharge papers to put together a list of the 31 days. A thumbnail sketch of our bigger picture. I’m posting it because the numbers are real and yet another glimpse of our cancer life.
In the last 31 days…
18 days were spent in the hospital.
There were 2 surgeries/surgical procedures.
There were 4 IVs placed and lost.
There were 10 days of chemo infusions.
There were 3 separate trips to the ER.
There were 7 blood and platelet transfusions.
There were 14 lab appointments, dressing changes, or other doctors’ appointments.
…in addition to multiple oral and IV medication given round the clock, the necessary medical care for a child with a central line/IV nutrition, finishing the year of home schooling, taking care of the house, and daily life with four little kids.
The crazy part of this is that I started counting on May 13th, so this list doesn’t even reflect all of Chase’s central line issues before that date or the multiple transfusions/days in the hospital/labs, etc that have happened since.
This isn’t meant to draw attention to our busy schedule, or indicate that we’re above average in any way – as I mentioned at the beginning: I had amazing amounts of help and cancer or not, everybody’s busy. I just wanted to share these numbers because they’re real and they’re intense…and in a very small way, they explain why I haven’t blogged as much recently, why we have dark circles under our eyes, and why Chase cries more now when we’re at the hospital.
Throughout the 31 days, I have continued to be greatly comforted by Deuteronomy 33:27:
The eternal God is your dwelling place, and underneath are the everlasting arms.
Those arms are strong enough to carry the cancer numbers when we can’t.
Moment by moment.
We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us, if we just ask. and ask, and ask. love always to Chase and all you babies. hugs to you as well. maralee green
Dear Ellie,
I am praying for you this morning and your dear and precious Chase. I am thinking of the words that the Lord spoke to (then) Abram after he had just been through some difficulties. “Do not be afraid, Abram (Ellie). I am your shield (and Chase’s), your very great reward.” Gen. 15:1
I really can’t imagine or understand. Just praying.
Julie, thank you so much! Greatly encouraged by the goodness of the Lord even in these hard days.
So encouraged by your faith and perseverence, Ellie…you are such a testimony to all of us. Blessings on you all – may God’s strength and mercy fill you to overflowing each moment. You are loved.
Thank you, dear Kate! Love you guys!