It seems like we've been waiting forever to hear the results of this second MRD test (like the one we did on day 30 of chemo which gives a count of any remaining Leukemic cells). Come to find out, this test is only done for research purposes behind the scenes and it is not a test intended to be shared with the family. So, that is why we will not hear back from the lab conducting the test this time.
I think we heard the results of first MRD b/c one of the doctors on Natalie's team was also part of the research team (?). Anyhow, long story short... we will not hear the results of the MRD, BUT our oncologist did tell us that when she looked over the sample of cells herself through her instrumentation, that it looked completely clear of any Leukemic cells to her naked eye! So, we are on the right path! Thanks for waiting and praying with us. We are trusting that the chemo is doing exactly what it is suppose to.
We are sill in the midst of waiting for the results from her (3 week ago) MRD scan. If they come back favorable, we will know we are on the right path for treatment. I have to say that I am quite impressed with Stanford Children's Hospital. Though there are a lot of scheduling coordination, I have never felt more part of a medical cause like this one. Since it's so well known, all of the good hearted people nearby seem to flock. World class musicians and vocalists, firemen, sports icons and the like are always seen connecting with kids. It almost feels like we belong to an elite club or special group. During the holiday season or Halloween you can't get out the doors without someone passing some good cheer with a gift or special holiday memento. And wouldn't you know it the Dr.'s are pretty good too (good enough to carry a world renown title).
Thanks for everyone who reads this who's helped us. We are truly better people because of you! :)
test vide #1 from dominick on Vimeo.
Last night was an emotional roller coaster. After laying the girls down for the night we soon discovered that Natalie was beginning to get a little warm. Within a small handful of hours we were only a degree away from having to go to the emergency room. A fever is a serious condition for anyone with Leukemia. They are a potential sign of something bigger - and they only seem to show up at night! I tell you there is no feeling like living a full day only to have to stay up the whole night dreading traveling to the "germ infested" emergency room. About 3am my dad got up to go to the restroom and I asked him to pray for Natalie. Wouldn't you believe (I am not exaggerating) that within 10 minutes any sign of a fever was gone!
I think sometimes my faith is so small. It is so easy to think about yourself in times of stress and trouble. But God was after something else. Perhaps He wanted my dad to know that his voice is heard. I don't know either way, but I am thankful that God wanted to use him in that way.
Even upon writing this, my feelings of stress are surfacing. It is in my experience that once Natalie gets a mild fever, it will come back for a few days following. Wouldn't you believe it that even after experiencing last night that I am beginning to get afraid of another crazy night again. I feel so stripped of myself when I am brought this low. I would ask for your prayers that we would be able to shoulder this load.
I was telling a good friend of mine today that this battle seems to be so much more spiritual that I would have expected. Sometimes, Dana or I don't have anything left to give and only to find out we still have a mountain climb. In a vacuum, fighting cancer seems pretty straight forward but it takes you to your limits, and beyond. Life ever-rushing demand can be brutally relentless. Your prayers are our sustaining bond. Both Dana and I are thankful for your intercessions. MUCH LOVE TO YOU ALL...
There are so many great things that have come from this season of our lives. Perhaps the highlight has been that lives have been changed. There is something about a hard illness that causes people to look hard into their lives. One example is my Father. He has been mad a God for many years. I wouldn't say he deny's Him but he finally made peace with God about a month ago.
My dad (pictured left) will grow in God's goodness in his own time and own pace. My dad has been hurt by church before and he has always said "you don't have to go to church to believe in God." He is right, 100% right. However, he has been struggling with anger towards God for a long time now, especially since Natalie (his granddaughter, my daughter) was diagnosed with Leukemia.
Well, the other day my friend and pastor Andy Lewis felt that God had told him to come over and chat with my dad. Both of us were able to spend some quality time with him out in his workshop. When it was time to leave Andy told my dad that the reason he came over was he felt God has been asking him to pray for one person these past few months. He said that God is reaching out to you and He is not done with you. Andy asked Dom (my dad) to carefully consider to be baptized. Well, he did but it took a whole 3 minutes of thought. His words were "I would like that a lot."
By the end of our conversation everything was set for a winter back yard baptism in the spa! Well I am happy to say that the ceremony was wonderful. And just look at the peace that is radiating from my dads eyes. I tell you, it was a sight to remember for the rest of my life.
It's been 37 years since he as left the church behind (or they left him, if you hear the real story). All of that is in the past and it's time to now pray that all of us can provide a safe place for my dad to be able to work thought those hurts. I also pray that his commitment to "follow Jesus all the days of his life" would become a living and breathing part of him. Praise God, He is good. He is the Faithful One!
DomSr Baptism WebAlbum
P.S. My dad invited his Neice to be baptized too, so it was a double baptism.
Just today a wonderful family who's affiliated with Jacobs Heart stopped buy to drop off some holiday gifts for us. It is such a nice feeling to know that others are thinking about you. Both Dana and I would like to send a special message of appreciation for everyone who's lent us your kindness this past season. Your kindness and goodness is a credit to you and your families.
This year we are thankful for many things. It is an added bonus knowing that there are still good people in the world -- and all of you reading this are among the finest we've met.
From our heart to yours we would like to extend to you our very best this holiday season.
With much love, The Orlando's
If you get a chance look into "Jacob's Heart" it is a great organization to get involved with. (http://jacobsheart.org/facts.php)