Here is Rachel’s update:
"Last week's MRI results are in and we're relieved and delighted to know that it's all clear with no signs of any growth! Her hearing test was the same as the last one so no further damage has been done. But her kidney function has declined further to the point where it is no longer safe to use Cisplatin for this cycle of chemo - instead she'll be given Carboplatin which is less damaging to kidneys and hearing, but more damaging to bone marrow. This means she'll likely take longer to recover from this cycle, ie stay longer in isolation while blood counts are down and she has no immunity. It also means she'll need more platelet transfusions and blood transfusions, which have previously sometimes caused itchy rashes. Please pray for the patience to endure the next several weeks well! Thanks."
We are so grateful for all the wonderful support we’ve been receiving over the past months, and ask you to keep going with us until the treatment is complete. We are all tired – physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually! Phoebe continues to amaze us with her resilience and usually cheerful spirit but obviously this year has taken a terrible toll on her in every way. Even though in many ways it feels that the end is in sight, it will be a long time before she has a healthy appetite and the energy she used to enjoy.
Matt is recovering well from hip surgery – another two weeks on crutches though! Reuben is back at nursery on weekday mornings, and rugby on Saturdays. He is happy enough with us, but often asks when Mummy or Daddy are coming home so it’s clear that he is really looking forward to life getting back to normal.
Last Sunday we were encouraged by the sermon at church from 2 Corinthians 1:3-11 on the subject of God's comfort. You can listen to it at www.thecrowdedhouse.org/project/gods-power-in-our-weakness/
We thank you again for all your prayers for Phoebe, Rachel, Matt & Reuben and ourselves.
