Lauryn's LightGOD, make my life a little light,Within the world to glow; A little flame that burneth bright, Wherever I may go. Thank You for your thoughts and prayers for Lauryn Cassiday Wood. THE WOOD FAMILY
Friday, April 4, 2003
Click to see photos of Lauryn April 2003
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God,
which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Lauryn's visit to the doctor to evaluate her scans and tests shows no cancer. She is clear!!! We are so excited. Please continue to pray for normal growth in her teeth and jawbones. You cannot know how precious all of you are to Lauryn, Jeff, Cindy and their family. Your faithfulness through this whole journey has made it possible to get through with praise to God. Thank you so much for everything. God bless, Lauryn is scheduled for scans on April 21, 2003, and a doctor's appointment on April 22, 2003. Lauryn will be evaluated regularly and considered "cured" after 2 years of clear tests. I know that Lauryn is healed. For those of you with children of your own, these evaluations are going to be stressful for Lauryn, Jeff and Cindy. Let us keep the Wood Family covered in our prayers as the time for scans approaches and they wait for the results. Let us pray that the peace of God, which surpassess all comprehension, will guard their hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Thank you so much to each and every one of you who have faithfully prayed for Lauryn and her family. She celebrated her 5th birthday last month and it was a celebration in more ways than one. God bless you, Print out a Prayer Card to carry with youPRAYER NEEDS:
Wednesday, September 4, 2002
"For You have been my refuge, a strong tower against the foe." "God has surely listened and heard my voice in prayer. Praise be to God..." Lauryn is officially "off treatment". Her scans do not show any cancer activity at this time. Our journey is not over, but Team Lauryn, we are at the top of the mountain...Praise the Lord forever, the glory is His. Love, "Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim You, who walk in the light of Your presence, O Lord." The Lord has heard and answered our prayers. Thank you, Lord! For those who are willing, could we continue to keep Lauryn, my brother and my sister-in-law covered in prayer. If Lauryn stays cancer free for two years, she is considered cured. Well, we know she is cured, but let us continue to keep the healing covered in prayer that the enemy would not come to attempt to steal it away. Let us keep faith in our hearts, and our prayers aimed heavenward as we believe for perfectly healthy growth in Lauryn's jawbone and skull, and continued perfect health. Thank you for your faithfulness in this journey toward health and healing. God bless you all,
Friday, August 30, 2002
"We live by faith, not by sight." With faith you see such a bigger picture...oh, what the Lord has shown each one of us through Little Lauryn. I remember the tears as we pondered Lauryn's mission last year, but with faith we let Him do His work. The message she carried to each of us was different. The Lord used his small messenger, because He knew her impact would be great. Believe it or not, I am appreciative for my experience with cancer over the last year...I will never be the same. I am stronger in faith and gentler in spirit. Lauryn had a CAT scan of the head, neck, chest and abdomen on August 15th and a bone scan on August 29th. We are scheduled to see her doctor on September 3, 2002 for her treatment evaluation. I am praying for cancer clear news. We have already begun to take our lives back from cancer. (Yes, there is hair peeking out of Lauryn's little head!!!) Lauryn started preschool August 22, 2002. It was wonderful to go back to where we left off a year ago. Her teachers were waiting for her and the other children in the class accepted Lauryn as just another friend. It truly feels like the transition back to normal life. Keep your faith lights burning. Love,
Tuesday, July 23, 2002A photo journal of some of God's messengers of mercy at Children's Hospital Los Angeles! For he will command his angels My heart sings to the Lord...I am a witness to his faithfulness. Thursday, July 18th was Lauryn's last inpatient chemotherapy at Children's Hospital Los Angeles. It was bittersweet in the fact that we rejoiced in our last admission to the hospital, but I felt a tinge of heartache about leaving so many friends. There are many other brave children and parents that I will continue to hug in prayer everyday, until I hear of their complete recovery. We have come to know and love many of the nurses that have been devoted to Lauryn's care over the last year. I truly believe that each one of them answered the Lord's calling to help others and they will be rewarded in Heaven someday for their service. (CHLA Angels, you gave us hope, made us feel loved and in turn we fell in love with you.) Lauryn is now in the recovery cycle of her last chemotherapy treatment. Scans and tests are being scheduled for the middle of August 2002 to evaluate Lauryn's treatment. If all is well, Lauryn will be "off treatment", her central line will be removed and she will be intensely monitored for the next five years. Prayer warriors, Heart to Heart blood donors, sweet friends and loving family---Team Lauryn---we are almost there. Thank You. Lauryn's Light let it shine...for Him. Love,
Friday, July 18, 2002Lauryn did go in for her final chemotherapy treatment. I will update you as soon as I know any more. Please keep Lauryn in your prayers, for her blood marrow to gain new strength supernaturally by the power of God, for her white blood cell count to miraculously bounce back, and for her red blood cell count to go up. Most of all, let us continue to entreat our Heavenly Father for Lauryn's complete healing. Thank you to all of you who have faithfully prayed for Lauryn during her treatment. As family members, it is sometimes too painful to pray, and knowing that others are holding Lauryn and our family in prayer is beyond words. Thank you so much. God bless you all,
Thursday, July 11, 2002
"...I tell you the truth, if you
have faith
This mountain is enormous...we are weary. Lauryn is approaching week thirty-nine of her forty-two week treatment protocol. In a perfect treatment plan the treatment weeks would coincide with the actual weeks "on treatment". As we all know this is not a perfect world. The treatment weeks can only be counted when Lauryn has received the scheduled treatment. The scheduled treatment can only be given when Lauryn's body is ready to receive it. I was told in the beginning of this journey that the farther into the treatment protocol Lauryn got the longer it would take her body to recover from treatment to treatment. She was doing so well staying on schedule that I thought she would sail through until she was "off treatment". Well, we hit the wall and now Lauryn is experiencing big delays between chemotherapy treatments. Her bone marrow is tired and just isn't getting her white blood cell count up to the level that is required for her chemotherapy to be given every three weeks as prescribed. Her week thirty-three chemotherapy treatment recovery period took six weeks instead of the usual three weeks. On June 24, 2002 Lauryn got her week thirty-six chemotherapy treatment...she is in that recovery period now. All in all, Lauryn has been on treatment for forty-four weeks, but is only approaching week thirty-nine of her treatment protocol. Clear as mud? So many special people renew our spirits everyday with prayers, "Heart to Heart" blood donations, sweet thoughts, words & hugs. Lauryn is scheduled to get her last inpatient chemotherapy treatment on July 18, 2002. Only the Lord knows if she will make that scheduled treatment on 'our time'...while we are waiting we will hold hands, enjoy each moment and follow His guiding light. Thank you all for your strong support and walking the journey with us. Love,
Tuesday, May 21, 2002
""Be joyful in hope, Thank you for your prayers. I see the results of the Lord's work everyday. The review of the April 2002 Cat Scan showed the tumor site unchanged from the November 2001 Cat Scan. That leads the doctors to believe that the abnormal mass at the tumor site area is scar tissue. I am so thankful that we live in this day and age. Little Lauryn is truly the beneficiary of cancer research, your prayers and most of all God's tender mercy. Lauryn has had several outpatient treatments over the last few weeks. As Lauryn's red blood cells are depleted by the chemotherapy, her skin and lips get so pale. After she receives a "Heart to Heart" blood transfusion she has such rosy cheeks, pretty red lips and lots of new found energy. Waiting, prep time and the actual blood transfusion can take up to eight hours. Last week while Lauryn was receiving her eleventh "Heart to Heart" blood transfusion, she played endlessly with a beautiful activity quilt made for her by Aunt Michele & Friends. The time flew by as we played with the chalkboard sewn into the quilt, the stuffed animals "sleeping" in all the pockets of the quilt, and the number games in the quilt's felt panel. The quilt reminds us of far away family and friends that love Lauryn. It is very special and was the rave of the clinic. When Lauryn was finished for the day, we folded up the quilt and put it back into it's matching carrying bag. Needless to say, the quilt will go with us on every trip to Children's Hospital. We are in week thirty-four of Lauryn's treatment. Last weekend we finished another inpatient chemotherapy. It is getting harder and harder to get into Children's Hospital on time for Lauryn's scheduled inpatient chemotherapy. There are so many children being treated there that an open bed is hard to come by. When a bed is open and a new patient slides into it, it is usually still warm! We tried for a few days to get into our regular floor, the solid tumor treatment side, but we were unsuccessful. We finally were admitted onto the floor, but had to go to the blood disease (leukemia, etc.) side. Lauryn received the same quality care, but we didn't get to see many of the familiar nurses that we have grown to know and love. However, some of the charge nurses from our familiar side found us and stopped in to say "Hi" and get butterfly kisses from Lauryn. Our stay at CHLA was overnight, before they kicked us loose on Sunday afternoon. We headed for home like we were shot out of a cannon and landed in our sweet home that evening. We are back to the "shut in" mode and the daily injections of the medicine to stimulate those fighting white blood cells. I dare not say we are comfortable with this way of life, but at least we are in tune with what should happen next. If all goes according to plan we have eight weeks left before we can take our lives back from cancer. I will never stop praising the Lord for all the things he has shown our family & friends with Little Lauryn's sweet life. Through Jesus your lights have kept us warm & lit our path...we are grateful for your faithfulness. Love,
Tuesday, April 17, 2002
"...Your love, O Lord, reaches to
the heavens, "Hope is contagious...Daffodil Days...these daffodils represent a contribution to the American Cancer Society." Lauryn received two bouquets of daffodils during the American Cancer Society's Daffodil Days. The flowers filled our house with beauty and the sweet perfume of hope that someday there will be a cure for cancer. Daffodil Days are beautiful days. March 25th was Lauryn's fourth birthday. Ladybugs donned Lauryn's birthday cake and decorations. The day was filled with anticipation, surprises and squeals of excitement. The birthday party was set for the evening, but Lauryn's first birthday gift came as a surprise in the afternoon. I got a telephone call from Children's Hospital while we were decorating her birthday cake. Lauryn's blood test for that day revealed that her white blood cell count had skyrocketed and I was instructed to stop the injections of the white blood cell stimulating medicine. I hung up the phone and told Lauryn that God had given her white blood cells for her birthday and she didn't have to have a shot that night. The news made Lauryn squeal, clap and dance with glee. I laughed at the sight of her reaction and I know the Lord was smiling at that moment too. Tender mercies...it cannot be denied, He thinks of everything! Lauryn's birthday was definitely a celebration of her life by everyone who has been touched by her. The celebration of life continues...March 28th, Easter 2002, because Jesus lives we can too...John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." We met with Lauryn's doctor on April 2nd, everything was still on track for the April 5th cat scan and inpatient chemotherapy. However, her red blood cells were low and had to be raised for the sedation she would need for the cat scan. On April 4th, Lauryn received her ninth "Heart to Heart" blood transfusion. (Bless all the "Heart to Heart" blood donors, I love you.) The following day, the cat scan was completed without incident. Lauryn was admitted to the hospital and the inpatient chemotherapy was given at about eight o'clock that night. Lauryn did experience some nausea from the pre-medication drug before the chemotherapy drugs were given. The nausea subsided during the night. We were discharged April 6th and went merrily on our way. There aren't any weekly chemotherapy sessions scheduled until after the next inpatient chemotherapy on April 26th. The reason for the break is to give her body a rest from the weekly drug to avoid high toxicity levels of the drug in her system. Lauryn seems to tolerate the weekly chemotherapy drug pretty well. Some children have reactions to the weekly drug so the break is built into the treatment roadmap. We will meet again with Lauryn's doctor on April 23rd, when we will discuss and compare the new cat scan with the old ones. The Lord keeps my heart peaceful. Let your light shine. Thank you for keeping Little Lauryn in your prayers. Love,
Tuesday, January 29, 2002
"...The Lord your God is with you, On January 9th, our community held a blood drive at the local elementary school. Sixty people gave blood to the American Red Cross in Lauryn's honor that day. Because of the people in our community, many hearts in need will receive the gift of a giving heart. The blood drive was a beautiful tribute to Lauryn. There are several "Heart to Heart" directed blood donations in reserve for Lauryn at Children's Hospital if she needs them. One of Lauryn's "Heart to Heart" blood donors told her that she made him brave...I think she has made a lot of people brave. It is such sweet comfort to know the Lord is guiding so many people to touch and be touched by Little Lauryn. On Friday, January 10th, Lauryn was admitted to the hospital for in-patient chemotherapy. The weekend chemotherapy treatment was coordinated with the Monday through Friday radiation treatment to avoid the risk of nausea with sedation. Before being discharged from the hospital on Saturday, January 12th, Lauryn received a "Heart to Heart" blood transfusion to carry her through the last week of radiation treatment. Lauryn received twenty-eight doses of radiation treatment over a six week period. She sailed through the treatment without incident, until the last day, Friday, January 18th. Finally, the radiation took its toll on Lauryn. On Friday afternoon (after her last radiation dose) she got a fever and was taken to the local emergency hospital that evening. After several hours in the emergency room, she was allowed to go to Children's Hospital. We arrived at Children's Hospital at 3:00 a.m. on Saturday morning. There were several sores inside her mouth and her jaw appeared to be frozen shut on the left side. She could only open her mouth slightly and was in severe pain while eating. Due to the fact that her white blood cells were low because to the recent chemotherapy, her body could not repair the damage from the radiation. The doctors gave Lauryn morphine for an entire week to manage the pain. Family and friends warmed our hospital room with their love and care the whole week. As her fighting white blood cells came back her pain subsided and we were finally released on Saturday, January 26th. On our way out of the hospital, we stopped for a brief moment in the hospital lobby to tell the fish in the salt water fish tank all about our last week. Then quickly we scrambled for the door. Lauryn's dimples and smile flashed all the way home. Right now Lauryn's jaw looks and is functioning normal. Only time will tell the long term effects of the radiation on the bone growth and her permanent teeth. At this point I don't like to dwell too much on that, because it causes too much doom and gloom. Besides the Lord is so awesome, he surprises me a lot...because I'm always thinking the worse case scenario. A short term effect of Lauryn's treatment that could use some prayer however is the fact that the chemotherapy drug that has been omitted during the radiation treatment will be starting up again with her next in-patient chemotherapy treatment. Supposedly, that drug has "radiation recall" and could cause her to experience mouth sores and the frozen jaw every time she receives that drug through the rest of her treatment. We will not know how she responds to that drug until it is given again next week. And of course we could always use prayer for support and guidance to make the best decision regarding future treatment and situations regarding Little Lauryn. Who knows what will happen next. But, through Jesus and with your prayers, we have climbed a mountain on this journey. The radiation treatment is over, the Lord got us through without losing any ground during the treatment. That was against all odds and can only be described as a miracle. My faith light burns brighter everyday. Stay warm in His light.
Tuesday, January 8, 2002
"...Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." 1 Corinthians 10:31 The Christmas season is always special, but Christmas 2001 has had a lasting glow at our house. Our family and friends across the nation contributed to uplifting our spirits during the Christmas season. Several friends brought holiday festivities to Lauryn through our living room window during December. Because her immune system is vulnerable due to chemotherapy, Lauryn cannot be in close contact with a lot of people. However, she was delighted to interact with people even if a window pane separated them. Our neighbors, the Oak Park community and the local elementary school have embraced Lauryn with love and contributed to her well being in every way. So many friends graciously communicated, sang carols and loved Lauryn through our front window. My eyes welled up with tears when during a Christmas carol, I saw an eleven year old girl blow Lauryn a kiss and touch the window with the palm of her hand. The young girl's touch stimulated Lauryn's response to touch the window back...thank you, everyone, for showing Lauryn the true meaning of the holidays--love. Lauryn is scheduled to be admitted to the hospital for chemotherapy at the end of the week. The "Heart to Heart" blood reserve is holding several directed donations if needed. Lauryn has nineteen radiation doses behind her and nine more to go. So far, Lauryn has not complained of pain or soars that are expected from the radiation treatment. She is eating and has not lost any weight. Her weight is critical right now, because if she stops eating or loses too much weight there could be an invasive nutrition line inserted into her stomach. Over the last few weeks, I have fretted so much about the radiation and its effects. Everyday, I have to give my fear to God...and then I give Him all the glory for how this is unfolding before my eyes. The power of prayer is phenomenal...I am a living witness of answered prayers. My hope for 2002 is that Lauryn's light burns bright and reminds everyone of God's gift. (John 3:16) Happy New Year. Love,
Friday, December 21, 2001
"A cheerful look brings joy to the
heart..." Christmas time, a season to remember a miracle, renew hope...and to fall in love again with a baby sleeping in a manager. I love sharing the Christmas story with Lauryn. We've enjoyed our daily trip to Children's Hospital since December 4th. The traffic is simply overlooked as we talk about Baby Jesus, sing Christmas carols, and lightheartedly discuss the season's fables. On several days over the past few weeks, Lauryn and I have been treated to the company of family and friends which has made the transition to radiation treatment easier. Lauryn's face lights up when she recognizes a familiar face at the hospital. We've greeted several "Heart to Heart" blood donors that are helping to maintain Lauryn's blood reserve during radiation treatment at the hospital. Surrounded by the familiar faces remind us that we have a lot of support and Children's Hospital, Los Angeles is a good place to be. The Lord is faithfully guiding each member of Team Lauryn on this journey. We are into week fifteen of Lauryn's cancer treatment. Lauryn was admitted to Children's Hospital on Thursday, December 20th for an inpatient chemotherapy treatment. She also completed her twelfth dose of radiation while being a patient at the hospital. During the radiation treatments, Lauryn's chemotherapy treatment is significantly less than the weeks past. Until week nineteen, she will skip her weekly outpatient chemotherapy drug, and the inpatient chemotherapy is two drugs instead of three. Lauryn is tolerating chemotherapy pretty well. The doctors and nurses are now familiar with how she reacts to the chemotherapy drugs. Medication to counteract the chemotherapy nausea helps Lauryn sleep through the night and ultimately allows her to be discharged within a day or two. She was discharged from the hospital on December 21st. We will have four days off before we have to continue radiation treatment. It will give Lauryn a much needed break and best of all we'll be home for Christmas! Lauryn's spirit is so admirable and she has such a merry heart. We can learn so much from small children during the holiday season. Study the children in your life...love them, enjoy them, and spark their faith lights. Love,
Wednesday, December 11, 2001
"In all their distress He too was
distressed, The Lord carried me over the last two weeks. I knew week twelve and its decisions were coming, but it was always far away. Until now...Lauryn had her neurological base line test and a cat scan within the last two weeks. The neurological base line test was to determine Lauryn's brain functions before radiation therapy. Because the tumor was very close to her brain a small slice of Lauryn's brain will receive radiation treatment. The cat scan showed a remarkable reduction at the tumor site. However, there are still some abnormalities in the bones and tissue at the location. The doctors cannot determine if the abnormalities at the site are still tumor cells or scar tissue. Radiation therapy is mandatory in the treatment of this type of tumor. With the Lord's help, I had to come to terms with Lauryn's radiation therapy. Lauryn and I visit the chapel (God's house) in the hospital everyday before she goes in for her treatment. The radiation therapy will consist of twenty-eight doses. The treatment is approximately thirty minutes long, every day, for six weeks. We get the weekends and holidays off. Lauryn has received three doses so far. Because Lauryn has to remain very still she must be sedated during the treatments. One difficulty with sedation is that she cannot eat or drink for hours before the procedure. The Hospital staff tries to get us in early in the morning, but sometimes that does not work out. There are times when Lauryn is eating dinner at midnight or breakfast at 5:00 a.m. To shift to a positive light, as you know, Lauryn is so fearful about having anything involving tape removed from her skin. Well, I have been changing Lauryn's central line dressing and taking off her shot band-aids while waiting for her to wake up in the recovery room. When she wakes up I must look like the cat that ate the canary. I must admit, I do feel pretty smug. Lauryn received another "Heart to Heart" blood transfusion last week on the first day of her radiation therapy. The radiation doctor requires her red blood cells to be maintained at a higher level during radiation than what is required during chemotherapy. I was told she could receive as many as two to three transfusions a week if her red blood cells fall below the required level. Many wonderful people are giving Lauryn the precious gift of blood. It always brings tears to my eyes when I find out about someone directing a "Heart to Heart" blood donation to Lauryn's account. I tell Lauryn who her blood donors are and she remembers them. While talking about family and friends or looking at pictures, sometimes Lauryn will recognize names and/or faces and say proudly "That's my blood donor." That makes me smile... This leg of Lauryn's treatment will be very challenging for Lauryn and her support team. I was told the other day "Lauryn belongs to so many people, because so many people care." How true that is...Thank you for the care and prayers. Keep your heartlights burning, the view is beautiful from here. Love,
Wednesday, November 28, 2001
Childrens' children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children. Psalm 17:6 Over the last week, Little Lauryn has enjoyed many of her family members. On Thanksgiving Day, we celebrated our family and blessings at G-Mom and G-Dad's house. Jeff and I did Lauryn's central line dressing change at home on Thursday. The dressing change tape removal is still the most traumatic procedure for Lauryn at this point. We got through it, but we all dread "the dressing change" on Mondays and Thursdays. Due to the holiday, Lauryn's chemotherapy was scheduled for Friday, November 24th. We went to Children's Hospital outpatient clinic early Friday morning for a blood test and chemotherapy. Everything went as expected and we were heading home within an hour singing "No shot tonight." On Friday night we picked up a special visitor, Grandmama (Kathy Barner) from Texas at Burbank Airport. Lauryn was excited to "go" somewhere other than Children's Hospital, but promptly fell asleep in the car. When she woke up we were at home again and she could not take her eyes off Grandmama. It was sweet to witness a Grandmother and her Grandchild fall in love. Over the next few days, Grandmama experienced life with Lauryn. The experiences included Lauryn's loving moments, cancer treatment maintenance and temper tantrums. She/Grandmama was very understanding, loving and quick to forgive and forget. Tuesday, November 27th, we met with Lauryn's doctor at Children's Hospital. He examined Lauryn and determined that she could proceed as planned with her twelfth week of chemotherapy. The twelfth week is significant in the fact that it is a re-evaluation period during the treatment. Lauryn is scheduled to have a CAT scan on Thursday, November 29th, before the inpatient chemotherapy. After the CAT scan the doctors will review and compare the new scan with the first CAT scan taken in August when the cancer was diagnosed. A neurological base line test is scheduled for Lauryn at Children's Hospital on December 4th. After the scan reviews and neurological base line test the doctors will determine the radiation treatment schedule. The Lord is faithfully guiding us along this journey. He sends signs of his love and presence through all the special people in our lives. I am helped and encouraged everyday by friends and family. These things remind me that we are not alone on this path. Keep the faith lights burning. Love,
Wednesday, November 21, 2001
Shout for joy to the Lord, all the
earth. "I thank my God every time I remember you. It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart..." Philippians 1: 3,7 On Thanksgiving Day take the time for a sweet reflection of all the blessings in your life. Last week was a busy week for us. Thursday, November 15th, Lauryn went to Children's Hospital for her tenth week of chemotherapy. Due to past history, I thought she may need a blood transfusion that day for red blood cells. I was prepared to stay the entire day at the out patient clinic. I had food, and toys, toys, toys. After the chemotherapy, the blood count test revealed an acceptable level of red blood cells, so we were sent home. Going home that day was bittersweet, because I knew Lauryn's red blood cells were dropping. Everything was smooth, until Sunday night when Lauryn spiked a fever. After several conversations with the doctor, at 11:00 p.m., we were instructed to take her to the emergency at Children's Hospital. Jeff helped me load the car, but he stayed home due to the fact that he had to go to work early Monday morning. So Lauryn and I were off, she slept while I drove. We checked into the emergency room at 12:30 a.m., November 19th. We waited in isolation for blood and urine test results. The tests did not alarm the doctor because Lauryn's white blood cells were bouncing back. However, the blood test determined her red blood cells were down to a level requiring a transfusion. She was scheduled for a blood transfusion on Tuesday, November 20th. We were sent home at 4:00 a.m. in the morning. Again Lauryn slept and I drove home. My eyelids were screaming to slam shut...It is amazing what you can do for your child. Today, November 20th, Lauryn received another "Heart to Heart" blood transfusion. I can't say I'm getting used to seeing blood transfusions; but I do take comfort in knowing that friends and family are donating the precious gift of their hearts to Little Lauryn. During the procedures that Lauryn must have, we have met so many wonderful friends. There are many doctors, nurses and parents that greet us with enthusiasm at Children's Hospital. And there are also many other sweet, brave, inspirational children fighting their own cancers that need prayers too. Children like Hannah , Ryan, Samantha and Devin...I love them, hug them, admire them and pray for them, as we walk forward one day at a time. May the Lord guard you in His light. Love, Print out a Prayer Card to carry with youKnow that Jeff, Cindy and Lauryn can give thanks to the God of all Creation this week. Their faith is strong, and their joy is obvious to behold. Let us offer a special prayer for Cindy this week for extra grace and supernatural strength to continue on without growing weary. God bless you all, PRAYER NEEDS:
Tuesday, November 13, 2001
Cast all your anxiety on Him, November 8th, week nine, Lauryn was admitted to Children's Hospital for inpatient chemotherapy. She was pre-medicated with a sedative before the chemotherapy to reduce the nausea effect of the drugs. The determination of a three year old mind to fight the sleep inducing sedative was amazing. For hours, Lauryn hung onto the bed rails, held up heavy eyelids, and resisted sliding into the bed like a wet noodle. During that time of course, her primary words were "I'm not sleepy!" Well, it finally got the best of her, but I had to admire that fighting spirit. The nausea caught up with Lauryn on Friday, November 9th. However, the resident doctor felt Lauryn was ready to be discharged that evening. We were home and slept in our own beds that night. There were several cards and packages waiting for us upon return. Oh, the power of love, through Jesus, in stimulating holistic healing is such a miracle to witness. The messages and gifts of well wishes Lauryn is receiving from across the nation are not only heartwarming, but strengthens her mentally for her everyday battle. There have been several "Heart to Heart" blood & blood platelet directed donations to Lauryn's blood reserve at Children's Hospital over the last two weeks. Lauryn's support team is made up of so many special people. I am overwhelmed, appreciative, and so grateful for the care each individual in our family has received from friends and family during this challenge. The Lord is working through all of us to keep Lauryn prepared physically and mentally for the journey. Thank you for your sweet prayers and soft candles glowing for Little Lauryn. Live, Love and Grow in His Light. Tuesday, November 6, 2001
We wait in hope for the Lord; Last week was a perfect week for us. On October 31st, we were treated with the love of dear friends. Those sweet friends were not going to let any festivities and fun pass Lauryn by. She carved a friend's home grown pumpkin into a jack-o-lantern and dressed up as a Bumble Bee. (Bumble Bees are scary, you know, because they have stingers!) Lauryn watched through the window as friends showed her their costumes and treated her with candy and gifts of love. She was delighted to be remembered and the memory of that wonderful day will last a lifetime. Our visit to Children's Hospital for Lauryn's outpatient chemotherapy and blood tests went smoothly on November 1st. We were in and out of the clinic, visited the saltwater fish tank in the lobby, and were on the freeway heading home in record time. Lauryn's white blood cell count was up, so the instruction to stop the daily injections of white blood cell stimulating medicine was music to our ears. Over the following few days, Lauryn enjoyed walks around the block, an afternoon at G-Mom & G-Dad's, and visiting her beloved horse "Bill". Technically, Bill does not belong to us. However, a three year old child is not technical, therefore Bill belongs to Lauryn's heart. Today, November 6th, Lauryn was checked by her doctor at Children's Hospital. Her social interaction progress with her doctor, nurses and the child life therapists is unbelievable. They are getting a glimpse of the real Lauryn Cassiday and enjoying her. She was cleared to be admitted to the hospital for another round of chemotherapy on Thursday, November 8th. We will continue to treasure each day and rejoice in the Lord. Through Jesus, your prayers are working and touching us. Each night, we also pray the Lord keeps you and posts his angels to stand guard over you in your endeavors. Be warm in His light. Love, Cindy Tuesday, October 30, 2001
Bless this Little Child, LordLord, look down from heaven above When you read this poem, please think of your children. Every child is a kiss from Heaven, blown from the hand of God. My heart sings because our kiss is Lauryn Cassiday. Thursday, October 25th, Lauryn went to Children's Hospital for her outpatient chemotherapy, blood tests and her central line dressing change. Things went smoothly, but before we left I wanted to check on her blood test for blood count results. Of course her white blood cells were low, as expected, but her red blood cells had dipped below the normal range also. She needed a blood transfusion. "Blood Transfusion"...those words always give me a sinking feeling. Because we were there, the clinic had space available, and Lauryn had a directed blood donation waiting for her in the blood bank at Children's Hospital she received her "Heart to Heart" blood transfusion that afternoon. I took comfort in knowing Lauryn's "Heart to Heart" blood donor and thanked God that the sweet gift from a heart was there for her. As the Lord would have it, another "Heart to Heart" blood donor directed a blood donation to Lauryn's account that day. The new blood donation filled the void and replaced the one she used. I wanted to laugh and cry at the same time...He does not fail you. We drove home that evening thrilled with the Lord, friendship, and full of red blood cells. The rest of the week Lauryn will play indoors waiting for those fighting white blood cells to multiply. If the pattern repeats itself, we anticipate a good white blood cell count on Thursday, November 1st. The tumor is almost unnoticeable when you look at Lauryn. Her spirit is merry and keeps us joyful. Thank you for your hugs, whether they come physically or in prayers. God is working through you to keep us moving forward on our journey. Our path is lit by love. Enjoy your kisses, Tuesday, October 23, 2001
"Children's children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children." Provervs 17:6 We are finishing up week six of Lauryn's treatment. Thursday, October 18th, Lauryn was admitted to Children's Hospital for her inpatient chemotherapy. The hospital had a bed available for Lauryn early in the day, so she was ready for her chemotherapy by early evening. The effects of the chemotherapy were faster and harder on Lauryn this time. She started to experience effects of the chemotherapy in the evening and had to be given medication to reduce the nausea. The medication also helped her drift off to sleep. The next day Lauryn received a lot of fluids to bring her hydration back to a normal level. Twenty-four hours after the chemotherapy ended, the dreaded daily injections of the white blood cell stimulating medicine began. On Saturday, October 20th, Lauryn was discharged from the hospital in the early afternoon to go home. Going home is always a celebrated event. Our little family walks out of the hospital with soaring spirits and lots of suitcases! At home, we started Lauryn's care routine again. Lauryn's white blood cells will be declining for approximately seven to ten days. Lauryn will be getting her daily injections, oral medications for general maintenance and the flushing maintenance care of her central line access devise. We will remain inside while her white blood cells are declining and recovering. Thanks to the thoughtfulness of so many wonderful people, we have a lot of inside activities to do to keep us busy. We read books, do artwork, watch videos, sing, dance and whatever else suits our fancy. We also have a lot of windows in our house. We enjoy looking outside and seeing the sunshine, cars, a "big" orange pumpkin on our porch, dogs and neighbors walk by. There are never any inactive moments in our days. We enjoy every moment together. I thank the Lord daily for Lauryn's progress and the many gifts he has given us. Among the gifts the Lord has given us are family, friends, and supporters that have taken Lauryn's well-being to heart. Your love and prayers are working through Christ and have given our family strength...Thank you. Burn your heartlight for those who need a warm place to go. Love, Cindy Tuesday, October 16, 2001
"And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love." 1 Corinthians 13:13 Sometimes it seems like the days go by so slowly, yet the weeks seem to swiftly pass. Thursday, October 11th, we returned to Children's Hospital for an outpatient chemotherapy, blood tests, and a consultation with the Doctor in charge of the radiation department at the hospital. Lauryn received the chemotherapy and had her blood drawn for a white blood cell count test. Lauryn 's blood test results were very good and we were instructed to stop the daily injections of the white blood cell stimulating medicine. That is always welcome news. Our consultation with the Doctor of the radiation department gave us information of what is to be expected in Lauryn's treatment. Starting the twelfth week of the chemotherapy treatment, Lauryn will start radiation treatment. Chemotherapy shrinks the tumor, but is not an absolute guarantee that every cancer cell has been stopped. Therefore, radiation is mandatory in Lauryn's treatment of the cancer. The radiation will stop reproduction of the tumor cancer cells and any cell that has been left behind during the tumor shrinking process. Because of the danger of cells being left behind, the radiation must encompass the entire site the tumor touched when it was at it's largest size. The radiation treatment consists of approximately thirty minutes of radiation five days a week for six weeks. Radiation effects, short and long term, were discussed along with options for dealing with the effects. Lauryn will be sedated during the treatment, because she must remain very still. Her pink blanket and the Lord will be her company during radiation treatment. No other humans can be in the room during the treatment, due to the intensity of the radiation energy. Needless to say the Lord will also be my company in the waiting room. Today, October 16th, Lauryn was examined by her Doctor and will be admitted to the hospital this Thursday, October 18th. The hospital admission is for the inpatient cycle of the three drug chemotherapy. Lauryn has a "Heart to Heart" blood donation from a friend waiting at Children's Hospital if she so needs it this time. How do you ever repay someone for that gift from the heart? I'm sure the reward will come in Heaven. Anyway, we still have today and tomorrow with lots of fighting white blood cells, high energy, and things to do..the days will not be wasted with fretting or anticipation. Our small family continues to be embraced by love from family and friends across the United States. Although we cannot respond to everyone, the well wishes in phone messages, cards, e-mails, and gifts for Little Lauryn are a constant reminder that we are surrounded by the Lord through many, many wonderful people. Jeff and I participated with family and friends in the "Relay for Life", an American Cancer Society event last weekend. There were so many life lights burning in honor of and in memory of cancer victims that night. A small flame in the darkness can be seen from a great distance. I can see the lights for Jesus burning along the path of our journey...Thank you for your prayers. Love, Cindy Tuesday, October 9, 2001
"A cheerful heart is good medicine..." Proverbs 17:22 After Lauryn's hospital stay during the first of October, we were home for two days. On Thursday, October 4th, we headed back to Children's Hospital Day Clinic for Lauryn's next round of Chemotherapy. Children's Hospital Day Clinic is for out patient chemotherapy and procedures. Lauryn's out patient chemotherapy is a relatively quick "pushing" of one drug through her central line device into her bloodstream. The other procedures included: blood withdrawal for blood count testing, and the central line access device dressing change. Lauryn is still very fearful of most of the procedures, and honestly says she cannot be brave. She is braver than she will ever know! Chemotherapy kills the fastest multiplying cells in the body. The cancer cells are killed, but so are the "good" white blood cells. The white blood cells are the body's defense for fighting infection. On October 4th, Lauryn's blood count testing confirmed that her white blood cells were declining. During the white blood cell decline, Lauryn is at high risk of infection. A daily drug injection helps stimulate the bone marrow to manufacture white blood cells. (Lauryn frets so much about the injections it is heartbreaking.) Little Lauryn will be a shut in until we get the word that her white blood cells are up to "fighting numbers". The tumor is noticeably shrinking. The Lord's will, the wisdom he has given Lauryn's doctors and the power of prayer are responsible for this miracle. As we walk this journey, hand in hand, we are surrounded by the love and support of our families, dear friends and friends we have yet to meet. However, outside of the cancer situation, Lauryn is a typical three year old. Funny how one little person/angel can bring so much laughter and enrichment into our lives. A cheerful heart, truly is the best medicine. Stay in the Light. Love, Cindy Tuesday, October 2, 2001
On Thursday, September 27th, Lauryn was scheduled to be admitted to Children's Hospital, Los Angeles for her second round of chemotherapy involving three drugs. Because the hospital is so full, a bed was not available for Lauryn until late in the afternoon. Lauryn was admitted to the hospital at 5:00 p.m. The chemotherapy was given at 1:00 a.m. on Friday, September 28th. Friday was a day of nausea and rest. Lauryn spiked a fever Friday evening, so the hospital stay was extended for tests to determine the cause of the fever. Saturday night the fever spiked again so we could not be released until Monday. It was determine the fever was probably a result of a virus. Monday rolled around and we were finally going home. A last minute check on Lauryn's blood counts showed her red blood cells below the amount that was considered safe. Red blood cells carry oxygen to the body. Red blood cells have a longer life than white blood cells, therefore the body does not manufacture red blood cells very quickly. Lauryn had to have a blood transfusion. Lauryn was blood typed with A positive blood. A blood match was located for her in the blood bank and she received the transfusion. Lauryn can have family and friends donate blood specifically for her, but we didn't expect to need a transfusion so quickly. We will have to start building Lauryn's blood reserve. Needless to say, I had many serious prayers with the Lord over the last few days. He used doctors, nurses and other parents to speak to me, calm me and reassure me that through him everything will be okay. And of course his hugs come from Lauryn. She remains cheerful and uplifts my spirit when it starts to sink. Children are such sweet gifts from Heaven! Hug and enjoy your children everyday. Keep your lights/lives burning for Jesus. Love, Cindy Friday, September 28, 2001
"Give thanks to
the Lord, for He is good. His love endures forever.
Give thanks to the God of gods. His love endures forever. Give thanks to the Lord of lords. His love endures forever. To Him who alone does great wonders, His love endures forever." Psalm 136:1-4 (NIV) I have such good news! Lauryn's tumor has shrunk noticeably after just 3 weeks of chemo. Some hearing has been restored in her left ear -- oh, what a miracle! And that's not all: Lauryn's white blood cell count is so high that she no longer requires the daily shots that caused her so much pain and trauma. Finally, she is not experiencing negative side effects from the chemo! Your prayers are being answered. Let's not stop here! Let us press in with petitions to the Lord on Lauryn's behalf. Let us continue to pray that the tumor would be gone in Jesus' mighty name. If the tumor is not gone from her jawbone at the end of the first 12 weeks of chemo, they will most likely start radiation therapy. This will stop the bone from growing. In other words, her jawbone would not grow in the future as she grows causing disfiguration and requiring plastic surgery. I feel strongly that we are to pray that the tumor would be completely gone from Lauryn's jawbone before the end of the 12 weeks. I have such strong faith in the healing power of my Lord, that I feel we can boldly request this on Lauryn's behalf. Thank you to all who have committed to praying for Lauryn. Your prayers are working! The outpouring of love, support and prayers touches our hearts so much. Jeff and Cindy are so blessed as are Grandad Skip and Grandmama. God bless you and keep you; may His face turn toward you! Tuesday, September 25, 2001A prayer is a wish on wings sent to
God. Lauryn has lost her hair but not her joy! Thursday she goes for the more powerful chemotherapy which requires admission to the hospital. Please be praying for minimal side effects, her ability to handle the procedures with courage and strength. Lord, we thank you for healing Lauryn! We thank you that the cancer must be gone in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, Lord of All!
Tuesday, September 18, 2001Lauryn has RHABDOMYOSARCOMA a soft tissue cancer Lauryn has chemotherapy every Thursday and has had two chemotherapy sessions so far, one a week for the past two weeks. She is scheduled in groups of twelve weeks of chemo. She has one where she gets three powerful drugs, then the next two weeks she gets only one drug at a time. The fourth week it starts over again. For the 3-drug chemo, she must be admitted to the hospital, the other two are done on an outpatient basis. Lauryn is to have chemo for 48 weeks in four groups of 12 weeks. She has been tolerating the chemo well at this point, no throwing up, etc. Her mom, Cindy, told me that she is expected to start losing her hair in the next few weeks and that the Leukemia Society is sending her a cute hat with some human hair on it. After this 12-week group of chemo, she is to be re-evaluated. She is also scheduled to begin radiation therapy at this time. We are believing God that this tumor is going to shrink and be gone in the name of Jesus! Cindy and I cried together on the phone yesterday afternoon about our hope and faith in the Lord, and Cindy told me that she knows that Lauryn has a mission from God to fulfill. We both remarked how strong our faith is about her forthcoming healing. Cindy says that she takes care of Lauryn, never leaving her alone when they are in the hospital, and Jeff, Lauryn's dad and my brother, takes care of Cindy so she can eat and take showers. When Lauryn is at home, she acts just like any other 3yo until they have to do any kind of procedure including her daily shot of a drug which must be given subcutaneously for effectiveness, this drug being vital to Lauryn's body being able to manufacture white blood cells which are destroyed during the chemo. PRAYER NEEDS:
Lauryn was admitted to the hospital this past Sunday, September 16th with a fever which has now come back down to normal after a round of antibiotics and when I spoke with Cindy yesterday, they were waiting for a fresh chest catheter dressing then were going home. Thank you to all who are praying for Lauryn and her family as they go through this challenge. God is near to them and has them in His mighty hand of love and comfort. Jeff, Cindy and Lauryn are surrounded by loving family and friends and the care of complete strangers who have taken Lauryn into their hearts with compassion and intercession. Thank you. |