Kaitlyn's Journey

841 days ago (2 years, 3 months, 21 days) Tonight it ends..

2008-08-18T18:10:00.000-07:00

Well. We aren't 100% done but tonight is pretty special. April 29th 2006 (843 days ago) Kaitlyn was diagnosed with ALL Leukemia. tonight she takes her last Chemo pill!!

We are so excited, and to top that off it happen to coincide with our trip to Black Butte Ranch

Here are some shots of Kaitlyn today as well as two of the first photos we posted 2 years ago

Our first 2 photos posted about Kaitlyns journey

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2008-05-26T21:28:00.000-07:00

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jhfvjhgkjgkjg

Snow Day

2008-05-05T21:37:00.001-07:00

Happy Valentines

2008-02-05T19:31:00.001-08:00

Kaitlyn and I went to Babies'R'us (with out Daddy knowing) and got such a cute picture we couldn't resist showing....
Most of all Kaitlyn was so excited to have her own photo shoot, she's such a ham!
Over Valentines we are going to be hanging out with her buddies making valentines cards and continuing to go strong!
Next week we have another appointment and just ask for prayer that she will continue to do well and that the steriods will not affect her to much.
God Bless

Cheeze

2008-02-03T22:33:00.001-08:00

Cheeze!! (This is madeline taking a picture of Kaitlyn on their lil digicam)

Christmas time

2008-01-12T16:23:00.000-08:00

Kait, Kait about to open her gifts
Merry Christmas!!
Kaitlyn had a wonderful Christmas and a very quite New Year :)
She got tons of great gifts and is still enjoying all of them with her sister!!
Kait is continuing treatment and doing great! Once a month we go to CHOC and will continue till some time in August..
As we begin this new year we are so thankful for all the blessings and good health!
We have only 7ish months to go and we are starting to count down!! Thank GOD!!
We love you all!!

Kaitlyn and Madeline in front of the tree before we open gifts

Kaitlyn was sleepy that morning and so cute with rosy cheeks

More Hawaii

2007-12-01T00:10:00.000-08:00

Turtle Bay Preview

2007-11-26T19:46:00.000-08:00

Ok here is a sneak peek of Turtle Bay, we just checked in today but it is amazing.. If you ever visit Oahu, Turtle Bay is a MUST STAY location. We have had such a blast with family the last week, experiencing all Hawaii has to offer, and now begin our veg week.

Our balcony with the girls

Our baalcony at sunset

Sea Life Park

2007-11-26T17:57:00.000-08:00

Sorry, we are still catching up on the ole blog, but hope you enjoy these pics from Sea Life Park (you might recognize it as Adam Sandler's work in "50 first dates"). We got to swim with dolphins, but the park staff were being camera nazzis (i.e. had to buy their shots and can't scan them in)

Hawaii

2007-11-24T00:34:00.001-08:00

Aloha!! We made it! The girls did amazing on the plane! We have been having a blast with our cousins for Thanksgiving and going a 100 miles an hour each day, but wanted to take a little time out to throw up a few pics.….

Kait is feeling great and just loving every minute of time together! We are so blessed to be hanging with our family in Hawaii and will update as we can ☺
Love to you all!!

Hawaii 2

2007-11-24T00:34:00.000-08:00

Hawaii 3

2007-11-24T00:33:00.002-08:00

Hawaii 4

2007-11-24T00:33:00.000-08:00

Hawaii 5

2007-11-24T00:32:00.000-08:00

Halloween

2007-11-01T22:08:00.000-07:00

Well I know I'm SUPPER biased but have you seen a cuter Mini Mouse? Or a more perfect look alike Alice in Wonderland??? I don't think so!! :) We had SO much fun dressing up and showing off our looks for the night.... I'm kinda worried when I see both my little girls with make up on but they loved it!!! I'm pretty sure that was the best thing about last night for them, oh and all the CANDY!

Cotter Carving

2007-11-01T17:46:00.000-07:00

This is the 5Th annual Cotter Carving. Mommy and Daddy are supper competitive but I told Daddy he better watch out the girls are about to start giving him a run for his money. This year they both told me exactly how they wanted the pumpkin faces....Already showing true Cotter creativity :)

Pumpkin Patch

2007-11-01T17:36:00.000-07:00

We are off in Harvest fashion to our regular pumpkin patch (same as last year) and it was so much fun to look back at last year and see how much she has grown! The girls already know our family traditions and always can't wait to get started :)
Kaitlyn couldn't stop talking about our family fun and a little bunny that got out of the cage. We all tried to rescue the little guy...but couldn't. They both have such sweet harts and want to help anyone or anything that needs it. It's great to see them growing little by little :)

Two thumbs up!!

2007-10-28T00:40:00.000-07:00

Some times the two thumbs up I give Kaitlyn gives her so much Joy!
I get so wrapped up in all the errands and house work and laundry and schedules I forget to slow down to look at my special girl and smile and give her two thumbs up.
She's never going to be 3years old again. She's my biggest fan and said the other day how much she wants to be a mommy just like me....and she will (Thank God)
I thought wow, if she wants to be just like me I need to slow down, pray lots more and spend time loving and encouraging this girl! Time is flying by and in a blink of an eye she will be a mommy :)

This last week we got the ok to spend Thanksgiving in Hawaii and we are so so excited!! God is so good to us and we would have never expected to be headed on a family trip a year and a half ago but we are and we are thrilled!! We hope to send you some pics of Kaitlyn being a bathing beauty on the beach.....we are rejoicing in God!! She is healthy and we will be spending time as a family!! Thank you to all that continue to pray for Kaitlyn!!

Look I'm dancing!!

2007-09-24T23:01:00.000-07:00

Kaitlyn has been doing great! God continues to keep her healthy and strong! We started her in dance class, something she has wanted to do for a long time :) It's so fun to have something that she's doing that's all her own and normal!! It's just sooooo cute to watch!!

Tomorrow we start another round of chemo and she gets a spinal tap, please pray that all goes well! Our appointment is at 9am and will last for a few hours....

I started a woman's bible study that has us learning a verse every week, this last weeks verse was supper specially to me when Kaitlyn was first diagnosed and it's still encouraging to me even now!!

"Thank you God for sending out your word to encourage us!! "

Joshua 1:9

'Be strong and courageous, do not be discouraged, do not be terrified, for the lord your god will be with you were ever you go.'

VBS (vacation bible school)

2007-09-11T23:20:00.000-07:00

One of the biggest blessings for us this summer was having a chance to attend Vacation Bible School! When I remember back to last summer we couldn't even make it to the concert one night and this year we were able to go the entire week with out getting even a cold!! It was truly a gift from God!
I was able to be a teacher with both girls in my class and God used me so much throughout the week showing other kids His amazing love! To know that Kaitlyn's buddies were with her having fun every day was so fun to watch! You never grow tired of watching kids worship with unabashed joy and they did that! We listened to Jana Alayra's music day in and day out!! We could sing it in our sleep! Some times I would grown and then catch myself, I knew that this was such an important time for us all to be together worshiping God and I couldn't have asked for more fun! Just when I think I'm going in to be the teacher those little guys always teach me something.... Jana was like the beetles to thees kids they just wanted to touch her and watch in wonder as she performed but I think mostly they saw her joy and excitement for God and a way to express that and they went for it with out holding back and I know God wants me to do the same!! To jump for Him and point to him and dance for him in front of everyone.... and our girl was with the best of them and I said to God

"thank you, thank you for saving her and letting us be here together worshiping you the way she wants with out holding back at all!! "

Fun times....

2007-09-11T22:51:00.000-07:00

With Mrs. 'B', her Sunday school teacher, who made every Sunday amazing and full of God's love!!
Making silly faces at mom with big sis!! I just loved this one....so goofy and full of LIFE!!
Being so cute holding a new puppy (don't worry not ours) :)
Love faces to mommy always makes my hart melt.....and can get her pretty much anything....

End of Summer

2007-09-11T22:38:00.000-07:00

Train ride at Irvine Park
Modeling for mommy at home
Out to dinner on a summer night
Pony ride at the farmers market

My Big sister....

2007-07-23T18:39:00.000-07:00

Early this morning the girls came into our bed, which happens more than not :) I woke up and couldn't resist snapping a quick picture. God is so good to us and every day is a new day full of fun and joy and time spent together.
Kaitlyn absolutely LOVES her big sister and if she could she would spend every night snuggled up with her...
God knows exactly what we need and he brought our Madeline long before Kait Kait was even born. He knew she would need someone to make adventures all over the house and life full of fun! I think that maybe when they are in their teens fighting over clothes I'm going to show them this picture and remind them that God gave them something that is so special and God given!!
Kaitlyn is doing great! She goes to the clinic once a month and continues her oral chem at home. She still struggles during the steroids week and can use your prayer but over all she is doing wonderful and we thank God for each and every day!!

Having fun this summer

2007-07-01T10:51:00.000-07:00

So my house may not be as clean as I like it and I know I have tons of laundry to do but God has blessed us beyond all we could have imagined a little over a year ago....Kaitlyn is feeling great and it's been such a good lesson for us! We are taking time to enjoy our girls and have some fun this summer! Kaitlyn has turned into such a little social butterfly and we LOVE it!

Angel game!

Lego Land!

The Beach

Road trip with my cousin

Pool time

2007-07-01T09:00:00.000-07:00

As the summer starts to heat up Kaitlyn only wants to be outside! We got a blow up pool (like we do every summer) and she has been begging me to swim as soon as she pops out of bed in the morning all the way till bed time! She is so active and doesn't want to bother with watching TV or staying inside, there is way to many fun things to do out side....Daddy gets a kick out out of all the fun faces that Kait Kait and Maddie make.....endless fun and pictures!!

hanging with friends

2007-06-20T09:56:00.000-07:00

Hanging out with friends even at Costco....
This is Justin she calls "her buddy"
Always silly and tons of fun with the Fly boys :)
Love's to cuddle with her puppy

Look my hair is so cute!!

2007-06-20T09:30:00.000-07:00

Getting all cute with my jewelry at home.....
Trying to look just like my big sister and making her laugh.....
Hanging out with my cousin at church......
Being such a love with my mommy

Kait Kait's 3rd Birthday

2007-04-29T20:07:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago Kaitlyn turned 3!! Praise God!! She has been going strong and having so much fun! We tried to make her day (March 30Th) as special as can be......
We started the day with an old family tradition of birthday pancakes and boy does she love those!! As soon as we could get dressed we headed down to the mall for her first present. Birthday earrings! In order to get them she paid the lady with her most prized possessions.....HER BINKY'S!! We didn't expect the strong determination to do what needed to be done, but again our little feisty one past that box over and said ok mommy I want to get my ears pierced....
To dry the tears the best way a Daddy knows how, we headed over for a nice lunch and a big birthday Sunday... The party kept going through the night (she would have it no other way) with close family and friends over for some cake and presents.
Kaitlyn will continue to blow Eric and I away with her love for life and people. Around her Mommy and Daddy and Sister have all been sick and she still stays strong. To say that we feel God daily working in our little girl is an understatement!! Thank you for all who continue to pray and support us!!

As far as treatments go she is still going in once a month and taking oral chemo at home! She is so wonderful with her pills every night! It truly is a family event as we cheer her on each night. The appointments have gone well and it feels we have entered an new normal in the Cotter home. It's different than before but feels normal and ok. We feel so confident that God will be beside us each and every day, every time we are stopped and asked how she is we love to share the new ways she is making us smile. We will continue to do our best and let you know how this cute little feisty girl brightens up each day!!

2007-04-29T19:43:00.000-07:00

2007-04-29T19:32:00.000-07:00

Friends and Getting the right meds

2007-03-05T20:10:00.000-08:00

Above is a pic from last weekend when the Morales' came visit us. We had such a fun time hanging out. Kaitlyn is powering through every thing like always..

This past week was a little weird. We accidental missed a dosage of her weekly CHEMO (it is every Tuesday, and we missed it 2 weeks ago) we notified the Dr's the next day and they said she would need to skip and just take it normally the next Tuesday.. Well here is the interesting part. Next Tuesday rolls around and she has a Spinal Tap and LABS.. The spinal tap goes well, but we find out that her counts are around 600 (last time they had her skip a dosage for genetic tests she went to 5,500) and judging by her actions (as seen in the pic above) we would have never guessed it, she seemed beyond good.

Any how. . We are praying that the doctors will get the Chemo dialed in and she would be able to prevent re-lapse, but not have so much that it destroys her immune system further due to her genetic makeup.. In the end God has brought her to this place to day, and it is by his grace that she will continue, but we plead to him none the less..

PArk & Comments are fixed

2007-02-19T18:53:00.000-08:00

SO hopefully the comments are fixed, "would someone mind testing?"

Any how, we hit the park up today (AGAIN) and had a great time,

Kaitlyn is 1 week into month 2 of maintenance. We had a bumpy start,

it seems (after getting results of a genetic test) that Kaitlyn is unable to absorb (or some other appropriate word) one of her medicines, Methotrexate.

They gave her a 1 week rest and her ANC shot up to 5000, the highest yet. Any way, now that I have probably confused most of you, I will just let you get to a few pic's

Enjoy ;-)

Crazy Girls

Kaitlyn is ALL business when she gets "Park DAys"

Madeline posing as usual

My favorite Girls!!!

She's feeling better! (another park day)

2007-01-28T00:14:00.000-08:00

Praise God!

Last weekend when we posted things were hard. We were definitely blindsided and feeling so down. Thank you all to those that prayed, sent letters or called us with encouragement! It comforted us all tremendously!

A women I look up to so much wrote a letter with scriptures and quotes to encourage our family.... to be reminded of God's ever presence can some times be just what I need! So often I loose sight of God. I allow my own emotions to take over forgetting the power of His words! His promises to never leave us or forsake us......

Some of what she wrote was:

"When you pass through the waters...they will not sweep over you." (Isaiah 43:2)

"God does not open paths for us before we come to them, or provide help before help is needed. He does not remove obstacles out of our way before we reach them. Yet when we are at our point of need, God's hand is outstretched." (Streams in the Desert, by J.R.M)

"This is the blessed life-not anxious to see far down the road nor overly concerned about the next step, not eager to choose the path nor weighted down with the heavy responsibilities of the future, but quietly following the shepherd, one step at a time." (J. Danson Smith)

"You have been in the storm- swept by the raging winds. Have they left you broken, weary and beaten in the valley, or have they lifted you to the sunlit summits of a richer, deeper more abiding womanhood? Have they left you with more sympathy for the storm- swept and battle-scarred?" (Selected)

"God is....an ever present help in trouble" (Psalm 46:1)

"For I know the plans I have for you....plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11)

"Weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning" (Psalm 30:5)

"....In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength...." (Isaiah 30:15)

Out at the beach....

2007-01-21T23:36:00.000-08:00

We went to the beach today. It was SO beautifully! It felt magical driving down the hill were we could see the water I felt a peace. I know that's God's creation and how he wants us to find joy and peace from what he made for us and the beach definitely did that for us Cotter's today....

This week has not been all that we expected, you can't tell from the sweet smiles or the fun we had today but it's been hard with Kait at home. She is now taking steroids five days a month and that started when we entered maintenance. About two days into the medication the hunger and frustration kicked in like crazy....

I think it really took us all by surprise. It's so hard to prepare your self for the unknown and especially with everyone responding differently to the steroids. I (Mommy) have been so tired and Daddy is not always sure what to do because Kaitlyn only wants me and sister Madeline gets a bit less attention and has to be supper flexible (and she great at that)....

I know a lot of this just takes time and getting use to the new phase but we could just use some prayer for the adjustment. We feel so blessed by all our dear friends and we were so bummed to miss church this week! With the ups and downs in Kaitlyn's emotions we didn't think it would be good to push it to much.

Please pray for strength for me I've been getting tired at a time I felt like I would be up and running....discouraging since that's not usually me. My worrying has reached and all new high and it's the same with Daddy....so many questions about how is she? Is this going to be ok? Will she make it smoothly? Will we end up back in the hospital? Is her body holding up? Is she looking ok physically? She seems tired should we be doing something more?.... the list is endless and that makes it hard to relax. We know that our God has taken us so far but some times telling our emotions that can be another thing.....

We just celebrated our six year anniversary this last week on
top of it all. We tried sneaking out and it was small and simple but so nice to be together. It's so rare and precious to us! Please keep praying for our marriage too. We are so empty, Daddy (Eric) is working so hard for our family and has two jobs going. I can't say enough good things about how hard he works! For those of you who don't know he works for a photography company in Huntington Beach http://www.ericjweddings.com/ on nights and weekends and that business as you know is so big in the summer time and we are trying to hang as much as we can now before it gets going. We know we can make it but we SO appreciate all your support and prayers!

We love you all!!

Maintenance

2007-01-17T15:45:00.000-08:00

SHE MADE IT!!

We officially started yesterday!!! Kaitlyn was given a spinal tap and quite a few directions for medications at home! We are so thankful to be at this new phase!! The brake we had, while her counts recovered, was nice but we are so excited she is strong enough to be moving forward! Kaitlyn is so excited to be going to church and on play dates with all her cousins and friends.... she has mommy quite busy for the next few weeks! (not complaining)
Her schedule with the Dr.'s has gone down SO much! We made an appointment for a month from yesterday! Mommy kept pacing yesterday not sure what to think of all the free time!
We all have learned so much thees last 81/2 months most of all that God has walked beside us every step of the way! Family and friends have shown so much support and we will be forever thankful!
We will continue to update Kait's progress, most of all because she is so cute and we love to share that with all of you!
Thank you again for all your prayers we feel them daily!

Walk to the park

2007-01-14T19:56:00.000-08:00

We'll what is hopefully the last Sunday before maintenance, what better to do than to take a walk to the park!!! We had a blast getting there (all though Daisy and Daffodil made it interesting)

The girls had a ton of fun on the swings and slides, and posing for the camera. The walk home was event full to say the least, but we made it back safe and sound

Please take a moment to pray for Kaitlyn as tomorrow we are hoping that her counts are high enough for Maintenance..

Thank you~!!

I'm so cute!

2007-01-12T20:06:00.000-08:00

Showing off my cute dimples....

Counts still low....

2007-01-10T18:29:00.000-08:00

Kait's counts were still quite low and not ready to start Maintenance. (the next faze) Even though it's common we're praying that she would grow stronger so her body could heal more and more. She is on the way up and we are hoping they will be good by next week. We will head in again this next Monday to see how they are.....

Please keep praying for her :)

Thanks

Heather

Walks and staying home

2007-01-07T21:57:00.000-08:00

We have been spending lots of time at home and going on walks. With Kaitlyn's counts being low we have had to stay in except for the occasional walks. But it's actually been nice. It's allowed us to slow down stay home and enjoy one another.

This is totally Kait Kait. Taking a walk totally determined and doing it by herself! :)

I had to add this picture, staying home in our jammies with Daddy has become so much fun....and if you look close she has some peach fuzz coming in!! She is walking around letting us know her hair is growing in and she is PRETTY!! I hope and pray she will always be this confidant!

Please pray about tomorrow. We go to get her counts again and last week she was really low. If she is still low that will not be a surprise, we are just most concerned that she will get strong for the next faze!
Thanks again!
God Bless!!

Maintenance update

2007-01-04T22:14:00.000-08:00

Just a real quick update, Kaitlyn's counts were mid 100's so we need to wait one more week.. We do thank God though because both Heather and Madeline have been a lil sick the past two weeks and Kaitlyn didn't contract anything. I'd take her health over a week or two of waiting any day

Thanks again for your constant support and prayer.

Happy New Year!!

2007-01-01T15:23:00.000-08:00

Ten Things We are Thankfull for From 2006

1.) Our family & friends
2.) That Kaitlyn is so strong
3.) Snuggle times
4.) God teaching us so much
5.) Sisters
6.) Choc and it's staff
7.) Joy
8.) God's never ending blessings
9.) Tickle attacks
10.)Making it threw eight months

* We find out tomorrow if Kaitlyn's counts are ok to start maintenance. We will let you all know when we get to that stage and how that will go. Thank you all so much for all your prayers! We have made it so far and God has walked beside us the entire time....
We know 2007 will be a better year :)
Thank God!!

Figgy Pudding

2006-12-27T19:17:00.000-08:00

Here is Kaitlyn singing "we wish you a merry Christmas"

The last line is her version of "bring us some figgy pudding"
Heather and I crack up EVERY time she sings this

press play above

Kaitlyn is getting really close to maintenance, her counts have to be 750 by next Tuesday the 2nd and her counts are at 380 now, so she has a little ground to make up, but if she doesn't by then it actually wont be that uncommon.

Please pray for her these next few days, that she wont get sick and her immune system gets better get better

Thanks to EVERYONE's for the support and prayers. We hope your holidays were terrific!

Kaitlyn can swallow pills now!!

2006-12-17T14:54:00.000-08:00

Kind'of wierd that we get excited about this, but kaitlyn is now a professional "pill swallower"

Kaitlyn the POP STAR

2006-12-17T14:50:00.000-08:00

From her recient cover photo shoot

Rockin out the shades

.
Kaitlyn is invented the
3 finger peace sign!!

This is the Blue Steel!

Then there was Miss Sophistication

Kaitlyn at the clinic

2006-12-09T14:28:00.000-08:00

Press play above

This is Kaitlyn at the clinic. We are so excited to be moving forward in our treatment. This last month has been hard. Kaitlyn had a rash (so I thought) on her front and back, waist area. We had already been delayed one week because her counts were low and then she developed this rash that was really hurting her bad! She normally doesn't complain even when they are poking her with needles so when she was crying out in tons of pain I knew something was wrong. She ended up getting a fever early Sunday morning and we rushed her to the hospital. She was diagnosed with shingles which is in the chicken pox family. If you have Leukemia and get chicken pox or shingles it can be extremely serious. God was with us the entire time.
They quarantined Kaitlyn and would not allow Eric or Madeline to come and see her at first. They were telling us it would be at least 3weeks. Those were dark moments! I was litterly sitting in the dark, Kaitlyn asleep in the bed next to me and I flipped open my daily devotional for that very day and it said "when I sit in darkness, the Lord will be a light to me." I felt week at that moment, I called out to Him and He spoke to me! I will never forget that moment!! God's peace continued to steal over us!! Thank you to all that heard and prayed!

Kaitlyn time and time again amazes us and the Dr.'s! After only five days she was scabbing over and healing wonderfully!! Thanksgiving day they allowed Eric and Madeline to see her and to our surprised let us go home!! It was such a huge answer to prayer! We were so overjoyed to be able to spend part of Thanksgiving at home! Just to be in our own home with our girls close by to hug and love is more than Eric and I could have ever wished for!!
This clip was just this last week when we had a nine hour day at the clinic. Christy Campo, who is a child life worker at the hospital who helps kids deal with going through a traumatic time, was sent from God! She and I went to church together in college and it is such a blessing every time we see her!! Kaitlyn adores her and in this clip she is helping her to clean and give medicine to her baby just like they do to her.....Thank you Christy we love you!! (George is the IV machine

Few Photos

2006-12-07T22:13:00.000-08:00

Just thought I would upload a few photos of Kait-Kait from 2nite

Quick Little Update

2006-11-23T09:18:00.000-08:00

Maddie and I are headed to the hospital for thanksgiving with Mommy and Kaitlyn.

It turns out that Kaitlyn had Shingles and the Chicken Pox at the same time.. (both REALLY tough to deal with while you are undergoing chemotherapy). I had a small rash under my arm so they said I couldn't see her until it was ruled out. As of yesterday I had not been able to get the results from the lab, but thank God, our Dr. gave me permission to see her because even if I was positive, the antibiotics I have been on would have made me non-contagious.

Please pray that Kaitlyn and Heather would be able to go home soon... Due to her skin condition being highly contagious to immune suppressed people (side effect of chemo) Kaitlyn has not been able to leave her room since Sunday morning..

Headed to the E.R.

2006-11-19T02:48:00.000-08:00

I know it has been a while since we posted, but it is 2:40am in the morning and I just watched Heather & Kaitlyn head out for the ER room to be admitted due to a fever..

Kaitlyn has had a pretty irritating rash and the Dr tends to think that it could be causing the fever. Please keep our little sunshine in your prayers as well as strength for Heather, these long hospital nights really taker their toll on her

Kaitlyn's Appetite

2006-10-18T15:19:00.000-07:00

Can you all take a moment to pray for Kaitlyn's appetite.

Heather called me at work and asked that I put the word out. She has been eating VERY sporadically, but only a matter of bites. She usually has a LARGE appetite, and with the steroids she is on, she should actually be eating more than normal..

It isn't to the point of a HUGE alarm, but we don't want it to get there either.

Thanks Guys
~Eric

Comments are now working

2006-10-15T22:16:00.000-07:00

Ok daddy made a mistake and set "comment moderation" to ON

basically every comment was going into a black hole.. but all is not lost, I found and approved them all and successfully re-set the moderation switch so please talk to us.. these are SOOO encouraging, they get us through several a tough night

;)

2006-10-15T22:03:00.000-07:00

Ok so after an awesome day at church. (Kaitlyn's first time to Sunday school since diagnosis, and on top of that some great prayer-time with the whole congregation, we decided do go to the pumpkin patch. The kids were AMPED to say the least. Tomorrow we start delayed intensification with Kaitlyn. Right now her counts are up so we thought we would make it a complete day..

Here they are going NUTZ in the back seat on the way there

A little photo in front of Mr Scare Crow

Kaitlyns FIRST time on a horse. She was a bit timid at first,
but as soon as she got on, she was hooked.. it was hard to
get her off the poor pony.

Madeline is a HORSE NUT.. I think she might move back
to Kern county just to be able to raise them.

Then they CRASHED

2006-10-15T22:00:00.000-07:00

The night before Delayed Intensification

2006-10-15T18:10:00.000-07:00

It's late and I know Eric posted pictures of our Kait Kait but I just had to write!

We had such an amazing morning of encouragement at church! We have been so humbled by the prayer and support of family, friends, acquaintances and even strangers we have never met....pouring out the love of Christ on our family and especially Kaitlyn! Thank you!

Thank God!

Tomorrow is a hard day and the beginning of many to follow, I have had such a hard time sleeping and spending late nights journal and praying and daily giving Kaitlyn over to God. Tonight is no different! I have lots of fears and God always brings me to his word when I have feelings of doubt or fear! I have a book called 'Daily Light for every day' it's just his scripture for every day and this was today's encouraging scripture and I know God led me to read this and I had to share how many times He is walking with me and holding my hand and leading me to His promises!!

' The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; the God of my strength, in whom I will trust; my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold and my refuge; my Savior. The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in Him, and I am helped; therefore my heart greatly rejoices, and with my song I will praise Him. When the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord will lift up a standard against him. We may boldly say: "The Lord is my helper I will not fear. What can man do to me?"The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds His people from this time forth and forever. Because You have been my help, therefore in the shadow of Your wings I will rejoice. For Your name's sake, lead me and guide me.'

My Birthday

2006-10-05T14:27:00.000-07:00

But now, thus says the Lord, who created you...and formed you..:"Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers. they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned. For I am the Lord your God....; you have been honored, and I have loved you." Isa. 43:1-4

This morning I woke when it was still dark, curled up beside me was Kaitlyn and next to her with her arm around Eric was Madeline. Eric whispered "Happy Birthday" and I closed my eyes and thought my Birthday was perfect. Every gift I could ask for was right there with me! "God" I said, "I'm so rich! I'm so blessed! Your taking care of us and I know your with me!"....... No amount of money or gift could ever replace my family and I think today watching the sun rise through the window next to my family thinking of how much God takes care of us and holds us in his hands will be a memory I will never forget!!
Eric wrote in my birthday card this morning...." One of these days when we are old and gray, we'll look back at these times and sob. Even though they are hard, they are so 'life defining' " and that is so true!
I just wanted to thank my family!!!

Tuesday Morning

2006-09-28T12:10:00.000-07:00

A fellow Leukemia patient’s mom April wrote me an email saying

" Our Heavenly Father has to be our ultimate Doctor. Our faith in God and His plans for our lives and our children’s lives is were our heads need to stay. But we have to remember we are human. Our faith will be tested over and over again and at times we will fail and we will question and we will not trust. But we will always come back to the truth. HIS WORD."

Just this last Tuesday morning my faith was put to test in a way that April said would happen.....

While I was in the other room, Kaitlyn fell out of her seat onto her head. When I found her she was awake but limp and began to throw up. Her eyes were dilated and I knew she was not good. We rushed her to CHOC were they began a C.A.T. scan to see if there was internal bleeding. In many ways they were preparing us for that. The nurses and Doctor's felt something was not good. Eric stood out side of the ex-ray room and prayed with all his might!! It was a scary time for all of us!!
With in an hour we found out everything was fine!! Praise God!! She was monitored for the day and we were sent home Tuesday night....
Kaitlyn is amazing! By the time we left she was running around the hospital talking to her favorite nurses like nothing ever happened. She is so tuff and so full of life! This is what makes up Kaitlyn and makes her such a fighter! We are so blessed that she is such a normal active two year old.
Our faith was tested and we are still dealing with such an emotional day....
Thank you for all your prayers and support for those that heard and please continue to pray that we will trust God with what ever up's and down's continue to come!
We are quoting GOD's words....
"Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified, do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9

Just showing off my big smile!!

2006-09-13T15:38:00.000-07:00

"Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the holy spirit. " Rom. 5:5

Praise God we are doing good. Kaitlyn is in interim maintenance a period of a few weeks were her counts are good and we can get out and do some "normal things" We have been trying to make this time as fun as possible. We called up all her friends to play with her and so far she has been having a blast!! Praise God.She is as joyfull and independent as ever. Two times she developed a cold and we thought for sure we would end up in the hospital but by God's mercy she was able to fight off the infections (which can be done but is not common)
I have kept the website pictures to our family but this time I had to show some of her best friends who make this journey possible for her!!
Haley, Chloe, Phoebe, Gracie, Haley Noel, Jordan, Jeremy, Jackson, Justin, Jadon, Kylee, Jonas, Kaden, Kaia.....
Kaitlyn is so blessed with so many loving friends and family that I can't even begin to put enough pictures up! Thank you so much for all your prayers and support!!
We will begin Delayed intensification in mid October. God has a plan that we can not predict but we will trust him all the way!! The name for this part of the road map speaks for it's self from what we have heard it is extremely hard and intense. Please continue to keep our Kait Kait in your

Playing at home with my sister

2006-09-13T15:35:00.000-07:00

Hanging with my friends

2006-09-13T15:28:00.000-07:00

Going to Balboa Island with my friends

2006-09-13T15:18:00.000-07:00

Playing in the water with my friends

2006-09-13T15:14:00.000-07:00

At the park with my friends

2006-09-13T15:10:00.000-07:00

Proverbs 16:9

2006-08-16T09:38:00.000-07:00

9 In his heart a man plans his course,
but the LORD determines his steps.

That verse really spoke to me this morning.. any way I just wanted to update you all. Kaitlyn's counts were hovering around 100-200. She was supposed to start another round of treatment two Thursday's ago, but her counts needed to be >700. Last week the counts rose, but only to 500ish, so again the treatment was postponed (the Dr's mentioned that it is very common that if they miss one week that they will miss the second.)

That brings us to yesterday, he counts were 2200+ so she will begin treatment again. The only thing is that now she has a few procedures that need to take place, and the clinic is full on Thursday, so there is a chance the procedures will have to be done in the hospital and that is no bueno...

The clinic

2006-07-29T23:36:00.000-07:00

"But let all those who take refuge in you be glad, let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you." Psalms 5:10-12NIV

I wanted to send pictures of the clinic so that you could see our day to day. I wrote this verse about joy because as you can see Kaitlyn never ceases to smile! Her joy is so contagious! She spreads God's love every day with out even realizing it. I know God has great plans for her and I'm so excited to be apart of her journey even now make such a difference!! This last week we spent 4 hours waiting to be seen at the clinic. Normally we will wait any were from 30min. to 2 hours!! It was insane! When we walked into the clinic and it was standing room only I knew we were in for a long day.... But God is so good! Even though my attitude was grumpy Kaitlyn was an angel!! She played and laughed and talked her way through the entire day with no problems at all! God really is working on my heart, I know that I need to go with the flow and have joy in any circumstance!! The prayers of so many really get us through thees day to day grinds! Thank you Thank you we feel your prayers!!

Sisters

2006-07-29T23:32:00.000-07:00

A few pictures of the girls together...at home Madeline is such a big help with her sister, she is always taking her off to play. She never looks at her and thinks Leukemia instead she sees sister, playmate, partner in crime, and best friend!! I prayed that God would show me how to keep Kaitlyn active and He answered that in Madeline.... they really never stop. God has brought so many days of joy and fun into our day to day stuck at home. Eric and I are so blessed and our hearts swell with pride when we look at pictures of our two girls together!! Thank you God for bringing thees girls into our lives and for allowing them to teach us so much about your love for us!! p.s. the one of them sleeping is real.... they actually slept for hours holding hands!! So cute!!

Hottest Day Ever!!!

2006-07-29T23:31:00.001-07:00

Daddy grew up in Wasco California, so having the weather well into the 100* is nothing knew for our "farm boy" us girls on the other hand did not know what to do!! Daddy took us for Slurpee's and a drive in the air conditioned car.... what a day! God was watching out for us even then when we prayed like crazy she wouldn't have to go in to the hospital with a fever due to the weather!! Thank you so much for all your prayers!!

Our smiles

2006-07-29T23:31:00.000-07:00

So I know that the girls look like Eric but maybe they have my smile? No matter what I think us cotter girls just love to smile for Daddy!!!

Few pics from the backyard

2006-07-17T18:46:00.000-07:00

Ok I had a tough day at work, so what better to do than
come home and take pictures of my beatiful family

Here ya go ;-)

No news is good news (i guess)

2006-07-07T11:07:00.000-07:00

First of all I wanted to thank God for where we are in Kaitlyn’s treatment. I was sitting by her bed last night watching her sleep, praying for, and rubbing her head. God is totally in control of this situation and we thank him for each day.

I really apologize for not updating you all but the thing is that we don’t know much either. Throughout this journey, it seems that we have only received “real detailed” info when she is not doing well. On the outside that doesn’t seem like a big deal, but as parents it is almost harder to process the unknown then the “bad known”. Please pray for us in the continued weeks/months in regards to this issue. For me this has been one of the most challenging weeks….

4th o'july

2006-07-04T11:53:00.000-07:00

First of all I am sorry I/we haven't posted in a while.. but to be honest that is a great reflection of how things have been.. Basically just a grind, i think this might be our most challenging times as a family because this battle becomes so monotonous. On the good side you can know nothing bad is happening. Kaitlyn (and Heather) have a pretty long week ahead with a few "in hospital" treatments and a few 7 hour ones.. please keep them in prayer this week.

Well here is Kaitlyn's 4th of July outfit.. Notice she still hasn't lost 100% of her hair, some kids don't until 3 months, some do at day 5.. Ya never know

It's been a while

2006-06-12T20:20:00.000-07:00

Well (Eric here) I'm sorry it has been a while since our last post.. I wanted Heather's words to stay at the top for a while..

Any way.. I'm writing this about 50% choked up.. Nothing to do with Kaitlyn's progress, but just a little thing she said before she went to bed 2nite.. As Heather was walking in the room with her, she said.. "Daddy, I a little sick...." I said "what honey?" she said again... " I a little sick".. I went over to her (up in mommy's arms) and rubbed her back. I said "What is the matter babe, why are you sick.." Her response nearly burst my heart.. "I have ookemeia" I looked to Heather and back to Kaitlyn and said "what hon?" "I have ookemeia Daddy"

WOW.. as my eyes tear up right now (it's becoming more and more rare) I don't even know what to say. Last night we looked at pics of the girls before this whole ordeal. It was almost like watching some other family on screen.. Kind of like they were characters that we knew, and knew well.. but were much to distant from our curent lives to be us.

My little baby girl is growing up in the face of adversity. She is maturing well beyond her age of 2. Yeah of course she still acts and looks in many ways like a little 2year old, I don't know how to say it, but she is just a little older. My prayer for her is that her heart, innosense, fun, childlike faith, and spunk are spared as much as possible. Of course we would trade each and all for her health, but tonight it was a little more difficult, face to face with them.

As I rubbed her back and said "You have Leukemia?" I said, Yah that's right but you are going to be alright, because you have Jesus in your heart". "Where?" Kaitlyn said, "In your heart and up in the sky".. I looked her straight in they eye and believed those words more than most that I have spoke thus far.. God has the ability to heal her in an instant and at his discression he will work with her and move in her as he sees fit.. I can't define God's goodness by her progress nor if he heals her.. but through his orchestration of our whole journey thus far I(we) do know this.. He is a GOOD God.. He works all for good and according to his plan, and that evidence helps our faith

As I can't do anything to spare my daughter, I do know she is in the best hands of anyone in the universe..

Locks of Love

2006-06-02T12:19:00.000-07:00

I can't believe we are home!! I have waited to write this post at a time when I had a moment and that has been few and far between.... God has been so good to our family! He has brought his body around us to support us and lift us up in a way that I have never seen before! Every day since Kaitlyn has been diagnosed God has shown His amazing love to us through other people! The phone calls, letters, e-mails, packages, gifts, food, house cleaned, laundry done, new beds for the girls, air purifier, nurses who believe in Him, fellow ALL mom's, and prayer prayer prayer ....etc.As a mom more than ever you want to take care of your family and especially your little baby who's sick. Not really fully understanding the depth of what that meant over whelmed me at times. But God is so faithful! When I couldn't see what the future held he would bring so many others to guide us all. Thank you to so many who have made the beginning of Kaitlyn's journey possible!!!When I was at the hospital these last few weeks, nights were the hardest for me. Kaitlyn was finally asleep and I couldn't chance waking her up by calling anyone and it really became a time of relying on God for strength. Allot of the hard questions came to me at night and the only place I had to go was his word for comfort. Many scriptures spoke to me but the one I would like to share today is Psalms 34:1-5,7&8,15,17-19 I know that seems choppy but when ever I'm trying to understand a scripture I write it out and these words latterly brought me to my knees! He's so faithful we may go through hard times but he will never leave us! Part of the scripture says "I sought the Lord and he answered me, he delivered me from all my fears..." We have such a long journey ahead and I know that this is just the beginning. I know I will have really hard days but I know Eric and I will choose to follow him no matter what!! "The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and he hears their cry...." Yesterday I cut my hair off. Many of you have heard how long I have tried to grow healthy long hair and the one that loves it the most would be my husband. But being at the hospital around so many kids young and old I was so moved by the impact this must play on the teen girls going through the process of loosing their hair. I called my wonderful friend Grace who immediately had me come over and cut my hair right off. I have exactly 10inches which I will be donating to locks of love. If anyone is interested in doing this go to www.locksoflove.com

Having so many amazing people support us has taught me so much about the body of Christ and what it truly means to help those in need. Thank you to so many for being such a huge example to me, Eric and our girls! These times are changing us and growing us in so many amazing ways! I love you all!!

I had to snap a few pictures today

2006-06-02T11:24:00.000-07:00

I couldn't resist sharing these today

Celebrating no MRD!!!!!! with spagetti

2006-06-01T22:44:00.000-07:00

NEWS!!!!

2006-06-01T19:33:00.000-07:00

100% Rapid responder!!!!!

MRD test came back negative...

THANK GOD !@!@!@!)*)WDFK@N#RT@!#F)SF)ADCKANDSA$RKH@Q#$R#@!%ADF)

^that is me jumping up and down ;-)

Day 29 update

2006-05-31T12:01:00.000-07:00

Well Kaitlyn went to clinic yesterday for her day 29 update (actually it was day 30 but due to the holiday they delayed it 1 day)

Before we left the doctors were throwing around the idea that we could not leave the hospital until her ANC (Absolute Neutraphil Count http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=20030 ) exceeded 500.. However the counts we were seeing ranged from 0 on most days to 14ish on better days.. Because it didn't look like she would hit the 500 mark very soon, the Dr(s) decided to release her when they noticed an upward trend in the counts. The Sat that we were set to go home, a nurse practitioner (more than a nurse but not quite a Dr) stopped by... after Heather mentioned that it looked like we were going home, the Practitioner (based on the old 500 release mark) said wrongly "It doesn't look like you are going home any time soon. 500 is a long way, and unless there is some sort of small "miracle" it is going to be a while..

The 500 mark was soon sorted out and the Dr(s) stood by their statement of letting her go based on an upwards swing, but what we took from that is that Kaitlyn was a decent way from hitting the 500 mark

All that to say,.... Her day 29 results are sent to Jon Hopkins Cancer institute for a test that is basically the only one of it's kind in the US..

BUT

We did recieve her ANC from the blood labs they performed yesterday, and her ANC is 504!!@!@@ we were REALLY EXCITED

Finally home again

2006-05-27T21:15:00.000-07:00

Well our second trip to CHOC started 2hrs before mothers day (Sat May 13th @ 10pm) and lasted 15 days..

I was shooting a wedding today when Heather text messaged me "WE ARE GOING HOME RIGHT NOW!!! I was frustrated that I couldn't be there to bring all the Cotter girls home, but to be honest it had little effect on the joy my heart had.

Unfortunately we can not have any visitors for a while.. The reason we were able to come home (in addition to her blood counts coming up a little) was that at least at home we can control the amount of people that Kaitlyn is around. Her immune system is SO low that any little thing can put her into a fever fight mode.. and you all know what happens then.. So we kept telling the doctors that it doesn't make sense. "you want us to be secluded but you are making us stay in a hospital where we have to share a room???".. We were blessed with AWESOME roommates, but there is still that fear of the unknown, and also the statistical risk goes up with the more people that come in contact with her..

Thanks again you all for your prayer and support..

Kaitlyn goes into clinic on Tuesday for her day 29 procedures and tests.. Day 29 will mark the completion of induction and the tests done that day will solidify whether or not she is a rapid or slow responder to the Chemo...

WE will keep you posted

2006-05-27T10:13:00.000-07:00

Click to play a movie ;)

Few more pics

2006-05-27T10:10:00.000-07:00

Few more of kait kait today

2006-05-21T20:12:00.000-07:00

Kait Kait loves In-N-Out

2006-05-21T20:11:00.000-07:00

Little update

2006-05-21T14:54:00.000-07:00

just a little note..

We are still at CHOC, and it looks like the Dr's want to keep Kait Kait here untill day 29 (Monday May 29th) it is really dificult for heather, but we have been at peace with what ever the Dr's have discussed this far. And another blessiing is that day 29 is also memorial day, so we will be able to leave as a family (it is a holiday for me)

another thing (little miscomunication) Heather was under the impression that the marrow tests had not even 1 cancer cell, but actually she was at 2%. The threshold was 5%, so it doesn't really change anything from a medical treatment.

Your comments here have been such an encouragement. Thank you all for your continued support and prayers

love
~The Cotters

--
via Treo

Kaitlyn's treatment plan

2006-05-19T13:05:00.000-07:00

Here is a link for those of you interested in kaitlyn's treatment plan/clinical trial

http://www.acor.org/ped-onc/diseases/ALLtrials/COG0232.html

She is undergoing the DC arm of the trial

A TON of info

2006-05-18T08:17:00.000-07:00

Ok first of all I am sorry for not updating you all on Kaitlyn. It has been a whirlwind and she is still in the hospital.

That said I'll explain why she is still there first and then I have some encouraging information.

The thing with chemotherapy is that it blasts the rapidly growing cells in your body, they can't pinpoint cancer cells, but they can narrow it down to only those cells that rapidly multiply (cancer cells generally multiply faster than "normal" cells). Because of this method a lot of "normal" cells get caught in the line of fire. When Kaitlyn came into CHOC she reached a white blood cell count (white cells are responsible for fighting off infection etc..) of around 56,000 (95% of those were bad cells). A normal person has between 4,500-10,000 white cells. Through the chemo process her whites has dropped to around 300 or 0.3k, it is good because the chemo has been killing the bad guys, but a by product is that the body has no way of fighting off anything.

The reason we went into the hospital on Sat was because her fever was spiking. The fever is generally the only outward sign that she might have infection (which the body can not fight in this state) so ultimately they have to preventive treat her as if she had infection as soon as they see the fever, because if they wait the risk is to high. The hospital has a policy that you can not be released for 48hrs after the last fever spike (because infection etc.. can hide in the test results for up to that 48 hr time frame) . Up to this point she has not had a fever for about 24hrs. Unfortunately they will have to keep her a little longer than that rule because she received an antibiotic on Sunday that needs to be monitored in the hospital for a min of 7 days. In regards to infection/fever, they have run TON's of tests on the blood, stool, urine etc.. and they even did a CT scan yesterday (she didn't cry one time thanks to my awesome wife Heather!!) ALL of those tests have come back negative, not showing ANY abnormality!!! Praise and Thanks to GOD for those...

Ok HERE is the MEAT of the story

As I mentioned in previous post(s), with childhood ALL Leukemia, it is usually under 5% in the bone marrow by day 29. The treatment plan of chemo etc is 2.5-3yrs regardless of how soon she responds. If a child has less than 5% blastocysts (bad cells) in the bone marrow by day 15, they are candidates rapid responders, (basically a sign that the chemo is really resonating with her system).

The day 15 bone marrow results came back yesterday (on Maddie's b-day) and they could not find 1 cancer cell in the entire bone marrow sample!!!! so basically she is 0% @ day 15, and if she passes 2 other tests at day 29 she is in the rapid responder group.!!

although they consider the <5% to be "remission"... in childhood Leukemia, the HUGE part isn't getting them in remission, but the entire cleanup process.. so we have won a large battle, but we are still fighting a HUGE war!.. The reason this is such a long process and they do not really use the remission as a goal/milestone, is because of relapse.. If a child relapses the chances of recovery/2nd remission are MUCH lower than the original. So we are basically (after day 29) entering a 2.5-3 year process of chemo that will clean her system out entirely.. Of all the cells in her body, if they leave just one tiny tiny tiny remnant of a cell, it can cause an entire relapse.

OK I typed that in about 5 mins and don't have time to proof it, so I apologize if I rambled, but basically we have won some major battles but we are still smack dab in the middle of the war..

Thanks to all of you for your prayers thoughts and comments on this blog.. They are priceless to us and we treasure them immensely.

Through this whole process, God is good!! He is not safe, but he is good, not because of our results or Kaitlyn's progress, but just for the fact that he is good and he is there. Regardless of where this journey leads and ends, God will be there. He will be the same for good or bad news, He will be just as loving, caring, and mighty if she is healed or not. Our finite understanding of his entire plan, limits our understanding of Him, but we believe in him and all that he has done and will do, for Kaitlyn, us and everyone. Our love for him is not dependant on her progress or positive/negative results.. but we praise Him for every battle we win in his name.

Sincerely
~Daddy

Back to the Hospital

2006-05-13T21:59:00.000-07:00

It's 10:00pm Sat night... Heather and Kait Kait just left the house to go to St Josephs Hospital (she can not be admitted directly to CHOC after hours).

She has been running a fever, and with her White Blood cell count being 0.3k she can not really fight infection or bugs so the Oncologist advised that we bring her in for evaluation and "rule-out" of infection..

She will be at the hospital a minimum of 48hrs after the fever goes down.

Going Home

2006-05-11T20:12:00.000-07:00

First of all, I am sorry that I am just getting the chance to post some pictures of Kaitlyn going home.. Here they are.. but just an update on the day 8 tests. I'm sorry I didn't update you sooner, but we didn't get the results until yesterday evening.. Her bone marrow after 8 days has 12% blastocytes (bad guys) down from 90ish% that were in the original test 8 days before.

The doctors say that she is still responding well to the treatment and they gave her a "once over" today when Heather and her went to CHOC for the clinic LAB's appointment. They go back Monday for another dose of Chemo and her day 15 tests..

Thank you all again

Pics from bath time 2nite

2006-05-11T19:30:00.000-07:00

Kaitlyn being silly in the bath
(you can see a little bit of her incision and the bump of her Port)

Kaitlyn looking at her sister (Madeline) endearingly

Showing her Fishy bath toy

Peeking around Maddie's noggin

2006-05-11T19:29:00.000-07:00

Madelines "up-do"

Kaitlyn playing closing her eyes and counting to 10
while mommy hides the fishy toy

looking for the fishy

2006-05-11T19:27:00.000-07:00

Daddy being a dork

2006-05-08T22:41:00.000-07:00

First off, I just wanted to share with you a little about our treatment plan. Kaitlyns treatment will consist of chemo on and off for about 2.5-3 years. The Dr's expect that she will loose her hair soon, (we are asking God for mercy on that one, but we will gladly take that in return for the benefits of chemo if need be). This 2.5-3 year plan consists of about 95% outpatient clinic visits.. 1-2 times per week.

Well that said.....

We GOT TO GO HOME TODAY!!@!!!@!@!@

We are still awaiting the results from the day 8 tests (the going home and tests were completely separate) to see from the bone marrow, definitively how she is responding to the chemo (the blood labs they have taken give hints, but the marrow is the real tests) Thanks again to all of you, we are still a LONG way from done and her treatment still comes with the same risks/odds regardless if we are at home or the hospital. Thank you for the continued prayer and support, please don't think this is anywhere near over, just a little bit easier to manage

Another thing to keep in prayer if you can, I start my new job tomorrow. for those of you that don’t know, I accepted a new job about a week before any of this happened, so needles to say I’m a little nervous, wanting to give them my best while my wife is at home taking care of Kaitlyn.

Tomorrow and thanks!

2006-05-07T23:04:00.000-07:00

As I said, please remember to pray tomorrow for the “day 8” tests (actually it is day 7 but they are running them tomorrow)
I just wanted to take some time out and share how blessed our family has been through this time.. First of all, our parents, siblings and extended have been an incredible support, thank you all.

We have been humbled that people all over Orange County, the State, and even the entire country (will other countries for that matter) have been touched by Kaitlyn. Not only have we been humbled by their prayers, but the way they have shared the story and this blog to others, I can’t begin to count the tears and prayers from people that do not even know us.. It blows us away.. seriously!! I can not tell you how many emails and conversations we have had where someone has said “well you have people praying for you here”..

Also our house has been basically cleaned and sanitized with a fine tooth comb (ok maybe they used a rake first, but you get the picture), every ounce of laundry has been taken, washed folded and put away, (dry cleaning as well) . We have groups and people pledging dinners for months out. A young marrieds’ group gathered some $$ and bought not only a brand new twin bed for Kaitlyn to rest her little body on when she comes home, but they also donated enough for Maddie to have the exact same bed, (and full bedding as well). The list is endless.. Thank you all.

Thank you to the ones that have been noticed and thank you to all those “little ol’ ladies” (as we refer to them sometimes in the church) praying their hearts out.. Trust me, the impact of all the prayers is felt every day and is evident in Kaitlyns day to day life and her treatmet.

Thank you all

34"Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.'
Matt 25:34-36

Here is where we have practically lived the last 10 days

and these are the moments you have been praying for

Thank you all again, and remember Kaitlyn on Monday

2006-05-07T23:00:00.000-07:00

a friend of mine also sent me this tonight.. meant a lot to me

a screen shot of his computer background he made

Day 8 tests

2006-05-07T15:54:00.000-07:00

it looks like all of Kaitlyns day 8 tests will actually be done tomorrow afternoon. We still might not get the results until Tuesday (the actual day 8) but we just wanted to keep you all updated so you can devote your prayers tomorrow..

Thank you all for your amazing love and support.. God Bless you all

--
via Treo

quick prayer request

2006-05-06T11:43:00.000-07:00

please pray for Kaitlyn to not get a fever in the next 2 days. It is a big part of the evaluation.. Also that Heather would remain healthy, she is a little worried that she might be getting a little sick, and we really don't want that to happen right now...

Thanks

--
via Treo

Super C and Dance Class (words from Heather)

2006-05-05T09:48:00.000-07:00

I am typing this with tears all over my face as I hear my wife tell me what she has written for me to post..

these are Heather's words

a week ago today I heard words that changed my life forever.... ("she has leukemia")

I was at dance class, we had just had bagels. Kaitlyn begged to have her own "Super C " Smoothie, and to stand on a chair to watch her big sister dance through the window.
I always joked that my life is so boring, I don't have much to talk about...

I would give anything to go back and just do nothing with my girls.

I'm so numb... even in writing this I am not sure how i feel.

but I do know one thing. I will continue to fall at my heavenly father's feet... totally
broken, he will sustain me. he will be my guide. I don't know the future but I do know
that he is there.

2Cor 12:9
But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."

2006-05-04T23:14:00.000-07:00

Sorry I just wanted to post one more..

See that little IV on her arm.....

look in the pics below this one....

ITS GONE!!! FINALLY
(because they think her port finally healed)

Pictures

2006-05-04T23:00:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share a few pictures with you all..
You can see why she is our little "Kait Kait"

5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
6 in all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make your paths straight.
7 Do not be wise in your own eyes;
fear the LORD and shun evil.
8 This will bring health to your body
and nourishment to your bones.

2006-05-04T22:59:00.000-07:00

another day

2006-05-04T17:35:00.000-07:00

Well it looks like her port is healing. It helps sooooo much to see that. Kaitlyn was doing so well with chemo, it is encouraging to see that the port will be healed so she can just fight the treatment itself.. Dr Shin and Dr Kirov came by today and they both have said she seems to be getting good results with the chemo treatments.. Her white blood cells are down to 1.3 and Dr shin said that might be her baseline. Today I was encouraged by 1 Peter 3:15 "but in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.

--
via Treo

white counts and comments

2006-05-03T16:19:00.000-07:00

ok first of all im posting this from my phone so we'll see if it works. And second of all I apologize for a lot of you not being to comment w/o registration.... It should be fixed
just a little update.. We have a real heck of a time with her portocath. We have had to change her dressing several times and the incision doesn’t want to stop bleeding. But the surgeon came bye today and said that there isn't much to do and to let it take care of itself..
on a more positive note,

Dr Shin came bye today and said that the chemo is reacting well with Kaitlyn. She was diagnosed to be "high risk" because her white blood cells went over 50.. They stabilized them at around 40 they said. Dr Shin said that after about 32hrs of chemo the whites are at 2. Also she hasn't gotten sick either. Not that she won't, but we are encouraged by the progress.. It is definitely a result of a ton of prayers...
-- via Treo

2006-05-03T01:55:00.000-07:00

Oh what we would do to haveThe kind of faith it takes To climb out of this boat we're in, on to the crashing waves

To step out of our comfort zone, Into the realm of the unknown where Jesus is, And He's holding out His hand, But the waves are calling out our name And they laugh at us, Reminding us of all the times We've tried before and failed. The waves they keep on telling us, Time and time again. "you'll never win!" "You'll never win!"

But the Voice of Truth tells us a different story. The Voice of Truth says, "Do not be afraid!" And the Voice of Truth says, "This is for My glory" Out of all the voices calling out to us, we will choose to listen and believe the Voice of Truth

Wow..... where do I start?!??

I am posting this after a 4 day blur... The blur all really started back on Thursday (4.27.06) when Dr. May mentioned there was a small chance that Kaitlyn had leukemia (Such a foreign word that i still have to spell check it). but in the same breath he figured she just had a low platelet count and maybe even still it was just that she was a rough and tumble kid..

The next day at about 10:00 we got the news that it was looking a lot like leukemia and he would try his best to admit us to CHOC asap (Children’s Hospital Orange County)...

Wait let me say that again "I't is probably leukemia and I will try my best to admit you guys to CHOC asap)

I really want to go into detail, but basically Kaitlyn has "High Risk" Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia or "A.L.L."… Among the darkness, one of many blessings and the first positive news we had with this monster, is that he Nervous system and Brain had not been affected by the leukemia, so we are on a road map that mainly consists of Chemo / steroids treatment.

Kaitlyn took her first round of Chemo last night and he second dosage of steroids 2nite. She is SUCH a fighter, trooper, spunky, amazing, inspiring, innocent, sweet, and loving child, daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece, and friend!!!

IT is 1am and I would like to write more details and let you know more, but that will come in time, we just wanted to post some info and pictures for you to keep in mind and pray over... The next 29 days (of the 2.5 to 3 year process) are a VERY important treatment and we ask that you please specifically pray for days 8, 15 and 29 (and please in that order).. We thank you all for your prayers, love, prayers, generosity, prayers, concern, prayers, kindness and last but not least.. thank you for your prayers..

It is amazing to see God in the foundation and how he is woven into the threads of this process, and I am (with mixed emotions) eager to share all that he has done, and at the same time share some reality as we feel a little bit like David in this time... We rejoice in God through this but we feel we are walking through the valley..

we want to thank all of our family, our friends that have become family.. church family at Eastside, Christian family EVERYWHERE, OSP, and all those that Kaitlyn has already touched

Here are some pics from Saturday

Little "Kait Kait" sweeepeey

Kaitlyn and her AMAZING older sis Madeline
(or MA-MA as she likes to call her)