Day 2
Dear Friends,
Never in my life could I have imagined writing what I am about to write. Before I go into the details, I want you to know that everything is going to work out just fine.
On Tuesday, Robin was diagnosed with leukemia (“Pre B ALL”, to be exact).. This is the most common and the most treatable of all the types of childhood leukemia. Our journey began with an infection on her knee over the weekend, a mild fever, and a feeling of fatigue. We were sent to Children’s in Anderson for some blood work yesterday afternoon. Just 10 minutes after leaving the clinic, our pediatrician called to tell us Robin’s hemoglobin levels were critical and to go to the main hospital. We learned her white blood cells and platelets were also low. She began receiving blood and platelets. We were in the ER for about 6 hours before being transferred to the Hematology-Oncology floor.
Despite being poked and prodded (she is receiving IVs in both arms), Robin is in incredible spirits. She has more energy that she has had in awhile. She is her usual sweet, happy, loving self. We are amazed by the kindness of all of the people at Children’s, from the folks in the ER to the doctors, nurses, and the “toy ladies.” There is actually a job at Children’s to bring kids toys! There is a playroom right across the hall from Robin’s room filled with games, puzzles, a play kitchen, movies, paints, and much more. She had a good time in there today. And the food is even good! She has had mac and cheese, spaghetti, and ice cream at every meal! She said today, “I never ever want to go home!” I hope she changes her mind.
Things are happening very quickly. She will have bone marrow removed on Friday for further testing and will probably begin chemo then too. Sometime over the weekend or early next week she will have surgery. It is going to be tough for awhile, but we will make it through. The doctors hope that by “Day 28,” the leukemia is gone.
We have been advised to tell people that childhood leukemia is very different from adult leukemia. They tell us it is entirely curable. For accurate information, you can go to www.curesearch.org. I really don’t know what Robin understands at this point. So far, she thinks she is in a hotel for kids!
We don’t know how long we’ll be at Children’s, but it is going to be a long haul. Thankfully, Henry can be with us in her room. So far, he and I have come home at night and Jon has stayed overnight with Robin.
On another note, the doctors fully expect that Robin will be able to start pre-school on schedule this Fall. She loves school already so that will make her very happy.
We will continue to keep you posted and are working to set up a blog where you can access the latest information.
Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers and send all of your fighting spirit her way. Thank you.
Love,
Sara & Jon
