Maggie finished her screening tests Friday morning, and we drove home to Hattiesburg for a long weekend. As I mentioned in the last post, the trial team was unable to schedule the initial biopsy until she passes all screening. Interventional radiology staff called during our drive yesterday to schedule a consult for Wednesday and the actual procedure for Thursday – which puts us returning to Houston this Tuesday and staying through Friday. We have been assured the procedure carries a low risk for complication. We’ve heard that one before – taking it with a big grain of salt. And praying we will be clear to return home Friday without trips to the ER or admissions to divert us. We’re flying to Houston this time to save some wear and tear on the car and these aging bodies. It really takes no more than three or four hours of straight driving to stiffen the legs and have us walking like Frankenstein. (Can I get a witness?) The future seems set, at least on our calendars: The week following the biopsy, Maggie will officially start the clinical trial with her first treatment. Houston will see us for five straight weeks. We’ve decided to travel home for most if not all weekends. We won’t need to rent an apartment. After the first month, Maggie will have visits for treatments/clinic visits every other week with only occasional scans/tests to push the requirements for staying beyond one day. We feel confident she will still be able to make the Orlando mission trip later in June (but we’re not letting down our guard to stop praying).
So what’s on tap for this weekend? A birthday. I suppose nineteen years ago this evening, I was making plans to enter Forrest General to be induced the next morning. Maggie was the perfect completion to our family – a sister for Molly, confirmation of Phil’s status as fully engaged “daughter” daddy, and fulfillment of my wish for a green-eyed little girl. We often call her Buttercup – a perfect summation of her sweet disposition, tender heart, and radiating smile. While her older sister wants to blaze her own trail, Maggie is more prone to follow an established path and make it her own through style and grace. At one time timid and unsure, she has blossomed, through soul-searing adversity, into a confident and engaging young lady. I’m continually in awe of her strength and resilience. I love you, Maggie. Happy Birthday. The picture I’ve posted was taken last week while celebrating two May birthday girls – my mom and Maggie. 
Thank you for your continuing commitment to pray and encourage while traveling this difficult road by our side. We are forever indebted to the kindness of friends.
Maggie, may you have the happiest of birthdays and a wonderful restful weekend. That last part is for you too, Mom. And happy birthday to Grandmother too.
Happy Birthday Maggie!! I admire your strength and faith –wisdom well beyond your years and such a cutie!-Enjoy your day/weekend!???
Happy Birthday, Maggie!!! Praying all the plans get the stamp of approval from above. We can truly say amen to the stiff legs etc… from travel. We are in Colorado as I type. So thankful I can get updates while traveling. God bless you all in every way that you know you need and especially those you don’t even realize. ❤️????
I love the Birthday Girls!!!!!
Happy birthday Maggie! Eat lots of cake!
Prayers to all and a BIG Happy Birthday to one special young lady❤️❤️
Happy birthday Maggie and enjoy your day to the fullest. You deserve it. May God continue to bless you and your family.
For one Maybabyto others, Happy Birthday to Nanny and Maggie!
Have a great celebration of your special day while celebrating your cousin’s rebirth into God’s family!
Prayers for great results from the trial and strength and endurance for all of the traveling!
May our great God, the God of Heaven’s armies, continue to sustain you and encourage you all!
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Happy Birthday, Maggie! We ALL claim you as our own precious 19 year old!!! Imagine if we were all there to celebrate with you??? What fun!!!! Well, we are there in spirit, so consider yourself entered into the Guinness Book of World Records for largest bday party!!! We love you and prayers continue!!
Happy Birthday sweet Maggie!! May your day be as big as your smile. Eat lots of cake!!
Happy Birthday Maggie! And Happy Birthday to Mrs. Cranford (my birthday soulmate!)
Happy birthday Maggie. We are praying for you daily.
?Happy Birthday, Maggy?
So glad to hear the plan for the up coming weeks.
Maggie you are an inspiration of true Christianity. Have the happiest of birthdays?????
Happy Birthday Maggie??????
Happy Birthday Maggie! Continued prayers ……
Happy birthday to you! You are fearfully and wonderfully made, a child of the Most High God!
Happy birthday Maggie!??.. Praying daily.
We love you Maggie!!! Happy happy birthday!!! Praying God sees fit to let you go to Orlando!!! We will continue to lift you in prayer!!!
.Happy Birthday Maggie! Praying for God’s healing touch and strength for you and your family
Happy birthday to all the May babies. Maggie, you are still my HERO, Stronger than any man. Enjoy your adventure and keep a diary for yourself. Love to all of you and many prayers just for you. Just think what a medical background you are getting. Wow, what a head start if you decide to train in some form of medicine!