Friday afternoon from Batson:

Maggie had her clinic visit with Dr. Collier this morning (more on that in a minute), and we came prepared for admission. Her pain and discomfort have steadily worsened requiring more strong pain meds to keep her comfortable. Through many tears yesterday we became resigned to missing the Orlando trip. (Molly will still go and be our eyes and ears on the ground). Phil loaded our bags in the Tahoe and we arrived at the Children’s Cancer Clinic (CCC) for our 10:00 consult. I think the best way to describe our joy and peace in being back is experiencing “medicine for the soul.” Have we mentioned how much we love Batson? (You don’t have to answer.)

We were not only on the same page with Dr. Collier – we’re keyed in on the same word. We agreed on the treatment plan – Folfiri (which is a 48 hour infusion of three separate drugs: 5-FU, Irinotecan, and leucovorin given every two weeks). This is the regimen that brought her to the point of being – what we thought at the time – in remission in April 2016). This chemo cocktail never stopped working as we discontinued it due to her full response to it. Tumor activity started only when it was withdrawn. As we discussed pain management it became apparent Maggie would rest better if admitted with a PCA. This also would allow her to have her initial CT scan and get started on Chemo this weekend (the alternative was Monday). So, we’ve settled in on 3C with a pain pump, laptops and books. We’re thankful admission was handled through the clinic – for quick and smooth process. Now we don’t have to dread the thought of another ER admission.

I do have to brag on UAB and MDA. They were super responsive to our request to have all recent records sent to Batson. That was done ASAP with assurances of providing anything we needed. Dr. Collier had all relevant information to research our options and guide us in a decision. We were on the floor by noon. Now we relax and let the Lord and good medicine do its work. I can’t impress upon you strongly enough how relieved we feel to have chemo starting in 24 hours. Please pray it works to quickly begin shrinking all tumors – especially the one with a stranglehold on the bile duct – the probable source of the pain. We are thankful Maggie’s labs all came back pretty solid. Her liver chemistry is normal indicating a functioning bile duct. Her blood chemistry is in a good position for the start of chemo. Please pray also for minimal side effects. We know from past experience the drawback of this regimen – nausea/diarrhea. And please pray her appetite continues to rebound. Good nutrition is vital to keeping her strong through the rigors of chemo.

As we settle into our 3C room we also sense our spirits on the verge of finding a new/old routine. We are comforted gaining a foothold on familiar ground. We’ve missed that for the last few, turbulent months. Home is where our hearts find rest.

We’ll keep you posted.