Decision Point

Lydia is doing very well - so well that the oncology and bone marrow teams are considering a bone marrow transplant after this current second round of chemotherapy treatment.  The typical course is to perform three rounds of chemo and then transplant. However, there are studies that show success with bone marrow transplants after only two rounds of chemo if the patient is doing particularly well.  Of course it is a very good thing if you can avoid a round of chemo and the strain it places on the body, especially the body of a little baby who is still developing.  The doctors will be meeting this week to consider the options in light of Lydia's positive condition and the current research available.  This is a critical decision point that requires prayer.  Please pray for wisdom in the minds of Dr. Richie, Dr. Randi, and Dr. Malleck, and that proper decision making is followed with our precious Lydia. 

We all know that God can answer the prayers of the righteous.  Many of you have prayed without ceasing and God has responded.  We are particularly grateful for the following: 

• (1) Lydia has only one more day and then she has completed the second round of chemotherapy.  As you can see from the photos, Lydia continues to eat well.  Being a Pittsburgh girl, she enjoyed pierogies last night (did you know - Pittsburgh consumes 11 times more pierogies than any other town in America); 

• (2) Lydia has once again reacted favorably to the chemo treatment, she has thus far avoided mouth sores, extreme vomiting, and infection; 

• (3) Angela has remained a rock of stability and a fountain of loving attention for all our children; and 

• (4) Lydia awoke happy this morning consumed by the peace and joy that only God can provide.- Praise the Lord!