Thank you so much for all of your prayers and support for Spencer and the rest of us during this adventure! We serve a mighty God and he is in control! Hopefully, we can use this to keep everyone informed of what is going on.

ADDRESS
 The Barr Family
22021 224th Street
Maryville, MO 64468

PRAYER REQUESTS FOR OTHERS LINKS TO THEIR WEBSITES

http://www.kyriethome.blogspot.com/

http://www.caringbridge.org/cb/viewHome.do

http://halleyswaronmelanoma.blogspot.com/

PHOTO GALLERY NEW!!

email Spencer at
spencer@bearcatslam.com

October 17, 2007 (BMT +460)

Our trip to Memphis went well and yet again we received another good report. We are so thankful! Thursday was basically a travel day and we were able to catch a movie and get to bed at a good time for our early morning Endo visit at 7am. We saw a nurse practitioner who couldn't figure out why we were there. When asked if I knew why we were there I told her it was on the schedule! LOL We're still not sure why they scheduled us when they told us in July they wanted to see Spencer again in January. At any rate, they checked his thyroid levels again and even though they came back a little low they want to continue monitoring him over a period of time. All his other labs came back good as well. He has grown 2.2 cm since July and 8.6 cm over the last year. In January they will do a bone age x-ray to determine if his bone age is the same as his chronological age. I guess they use that to determine if the growth plates or closed or open. Let's pray they are still open and wanting to grow!

We were disappointed in our visit to B clinic because once again we were not able to see our regular doctor, Dr. Madden. I looked back and realized we haven't seen her since March and now we have learned we won't see her again because she is leaving St. Jude's and moving to Phoenix. Both Spencer and I were heart broken. We snuck upstairs to see if we could possibly see her but to no avail. Hopefully we can find out what hospital she will be working at in Phoenix and see her when we go there for the Super Bowl next year. I was worried about what doctor we would get but was relieved when I found out Dr. Kasow would take Spencer. She is an excellent doctor (as are all the docs!) but Spencer really likes her and so do I. She was the one on the floor when he was inpatient after the transplant so we have already gotten to know her.

Basically our trip was for the sole purpose of checking the labs and getting Spencer re-immunized. This time he received four shots, two in each arm and at the same time. He is such a trooper!

Our flight home was perfect! It left on time and arrived on time. We were so thankful because that meant we had plenty of time to get home for the football game against Savannah. This game was for the sole conference title and we beat them 54-8 even though the game was called due to lightning in the fourth quarter with 11 something minutes still left on the clock. We didn't get the post game celebration on the field like we wanted but we all hung around and congratulated the boys after they came out of the locker room. This week they face Lawson, another undefeated team, but only this is for the district title. We are all so proud of the boys and coaches and hope and pray this continues all the way to state! Go Hounds!

October 9, 2007 (BMT +452)

Heather Stoecklein is a science teacher at Maryville High School and is training to run the Memphis St. Jude Half-Marathon on December 1, 2007. Heather is dedicated to raising funds in support of the thousands of children, like Spencer, who are battling or have battled cancer and other life-threatening illnesses at St. Jude. Their ongoing fight against cancer is her motivation as she trains.

She is hoping you will join her in helping to save the lives of children. Please become a sponsor by sending a tax-deductible donation or pledge in honor of the kids to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. You can also make a donation through her personal web page www.stjudeheroes.org/goto/H.Stoecklein or you can mail your contribution to her home address. Please do not send cash. If you want to write a check please make it out to St. Jude Heroes.

Thank you for helping Heather accomplish her dream of becoming a Hero to thousands of St. Jude kids.

Please let all your family and friends know about Heather and her quest to help kids like Spencer so they can have the opportunity to help her fulfill her dream. Her address is below:

Heather Stoecklein

603 Katy Drive

Maryville MO 64468

660-582-3519

 

October 8, 2007 (BMT +451)

I promised myself to get an update posted before we left for Memphis! Spencer and I leave this coming Thursday, October 11 and will return Friday afternoon. It’s hard to believe it’s already been three months since our last visit. Spencer is feeling great and gradually is getting adjusted to high school. He still does not like homework and will procrastinate as much as possible. He has discovered biology is not his favorite subject but even so, he is still doing pretty well with it.

Homecoming was amazing! Our yard was decorated to the max thanks to Bailey and Brook. Thank you girls for making it so special! The whole week was a blast and ended especially well with a victory over Smithville. The winning streak has continued and the Hounds are sitting with a 6-0 record. They even beat Platte County last week 27-14 on their homecoming! It was amazing to see all the fans show up and support them. Chayse is playing very well and we are very proud of him and the rest of his team. It looks like they have the conference title sewn up. Pray our flight lands on time Friday so we can make it to the game before it starts.

My brother, Mike, is doing much better thanks to all the prayers and the good care he is receiving from the doctors. He is still suffering from short term memory loss but they say it can take up to six months to get it back. I know his wife and kids would like it to be much faster than that so prayers there would be appreciated. His blood pressure still wants to be high so there’s another prayer concern.

My other brother, Ron, left last week for Qutar and will be there for approximately four months. His son, Ryan, has been in Kuwait since the end of August and is expected to be there for four months as well. That leaves Janet at home taking care and running after three kids as well as trying to work. Prayers there would be appreciated too.

Of course, I will try to get another update posted after we return from Memphis. Please continue praying for more good reports. We know it’s the prayers of so many of you combined with the amazing care Spencer received at St. Jude’s that has gotten him where he is today. Thank God for all of you!

September 19, 2007 (BMT +432)

Okay, okay! I’m sorry for not updating in so long! Really, I am! We are back in the full swing of life and you all know how busy it gets. I swore I wouldn’t end up back in the trap of busyness but I’m afraid that’s just what has happened. The good thing about that is it means Spencer is healthy and back to being involved again. He has NOT been cleared to play football this year after all due to the low bone mineral density. Dr. Madden is concerned about bone trauma so she wants him to give it one more year to get those bones strong enough for contact. Of course, that was totally devastating, but we got through it. The one thing we stressed over and over to Spencer was it was just a delay and not a denial. There’s always next year and besides he is much further down the road than he was a year ago.

He has been helping with the practices and plays the role of water boy at the varsity games. He likes being close to the action and being a part of the team with Chayse, especially since this is Chayse’s senior year. He’s also been helping with the freshmen team so he can stay connected with his fellow classmates. The Spoofhounds are off to a great year so far with a record of 3-0. They beat Chillicothe for the first time in something like fifteen years! The seniors are really a tight knit group of boys and it’s hard to believe they’ve been playing together for ten years now. This Friday is Homecoming and they will play Smithville. It will be bitter sweet knowing it is Chayse’s last Homecoming and Spencer’s first. I’m just so thankful we’re home this year and not in Memphis! It was terribly hard being away last year. The next big event coming up for us is Chayse’s 18^th birthday this Sunday, September 23. I honestly do not know where the years have gone! Anyone who has seen him lately will attest that he looks more like 25 than 18 years old! He has decided not to shave until if and when his team loses. I would much rather see his team continue to win! I have to keep reminding myself of that every time I see that scruffy face!

 A lot of time has been going into making yard signs and creating gift baskets for the cheerleaders and dance team girls for Homecoming. It is a lot of fun and brings back many good memories of my high school days. Only back then, the cheerleaders did all the work and didn’t get anything from the football boys. All the yards will be decorated tonight so there’s sure to be the familiar buzz around town once that’s done.

We’ve also been following our beloved Bearcats again this season. They had a heart breaking loss to UNO a couple of weeks ago. The Mavericks came back in the fourth quarter to beat us. Last week we traveled to St. Joseph, MO, to play our rivals Missouri Western. We beat them handily. If you want to get more information on the Bearcats visit www.bearcatblitz.com Rod is doing a great job keeping that site updated and all those pictures are ones he and his dad have taken. Rod has also been taking lots of pictures of the high school games as well as some other events. You can go to www.rbsportspix.com to see his work.

Spencer is slowly adjusting to high school and likes it okay. I think he likes the social part of it best! He is not a big fan of the school work and there is definitely room for improvement with his study habits. He has been tired more since school started but that’s to be expected with not being in a classroom for a year and a half. I pack both boys’ lunches everyday and even send bottled water for Spencer. He had a little bit of a cold right after Labor Day and missed a couple of days of school, but other than that he has stayed pretty healthy so far. Praise God! We head back to St. Jude October 11-12 for his three month check up. They have scheduled another endocrinologist visit so I imagine they want to check his thyroid levels again. I sometimes wonder if that’s not the reason for his lack of energy. If it is then I believe it would be an easy fix.

Now to update you on my brother, Mike. He had a heart valve replacement and an aneurism repaired on August 15 at Creighton Hospital in Omaha, NE. The surgery took something like 7-8 hours and once he was in ICU we decided to go home for the evening. We weren’t back to Mom and Dad’s but a couple of hours when we were called back to the hospital because he was bleeding out. Apparently the stitching on the aneurism unraveled and they opened him back up in ICU. Literally there was a doctor on his chest putting compression on his heart to keep him from bleeding while they wheeled him down the hall to surgery. He was back in surgery another 3 hours but they were able to repair the stitching. The doctors thought it would take a few days for Mike to wake up but it took much longer than expected, and when he did finally wake up he had no memory whatsoever. In fact, he is still suffering from short term memory loss. The good news is they have done brain scans and all have come back normal. They tell us it will just take time and it’s the body’s way of healing from the trauma he went through. Since being home, he has started rehab three days a week. His wife, Katie, was with him the first week and Mom and Dad have been with him during the days while she is at work because he is unable to be alone due to his short term memory loss. Mike had to be on heavy antibiotics for a long period of time and because of it developed C-diff. Over time, the antibiotics kill off both the good and bad bacteria in your body. Once the good bacteria are gone you develop diarrhea and start to vomit. Of course it also made him not want to eat or drink which threw off the Coumadin level that should be between 2.5 and 3.5. This in turn caused him to get dehydrated and very sick. This past Monday Mom took him to rehab and then took him to get his Coumadin level checked, but they could hardly get enough blood to do the test, so they sent him to the ER. They were able to find out his level was at 7 around noon and up to 14 just a few hours later. There were several doctors and nurses who tried all afternoon to find a vein but could not. Eventually they asked Mike to sign consent to do a procedure that would have allowed them to go in through his heart, something they did want to have to do because of the high risk of bleeding and even death. Mike signed the paper and about five minutes later another doctor came in and asked if he could try one more time and low and behold a tiny vein popped up and he was able to get a needle in. Praise God! This was a huge blessing and answered prayer. From there he was admitted to the ICU where they thought he would stay until the end of this week. The really good news is by Tuesday he was up carrying on conversations and remembering things again. He was moved out of ICU to the fifth floor that is not even a heart patient floor. The doctors didn’t feel like it was necessary because the testing on his heart all came back good. They had to give him high doses of vitamin K to bring the Coumadin level down so they want to monitor him for adverse reactions. He is still having bloody diarrhea and they want to do an upper/lower GI and a colonoscopy to see what, if anything, may be causing it. Pray specifically for the Coumadin level to go down to 1.5 on its own so they can do those procedures on Thursday morning. Also, please pray for his wife and two sons, Jake who will be 11 next month, and Connor who is 9. They really don’t understand what is going on and miss their daddy. Mike will be unable to work for several months and that presents some financial challenges as well. We know God is able to do exceedingly, abundantly, above all that we could ever ask or think! Thank you for agreeing in prayer with us that all their needs are taken care of.

I think that just about covers everything we have been up to the last couple of months. I will try to do better about keeping this site updated. Just remember, no news is good news! Thank you all for your love, concern and prayers for both Spencer and our entire family.

July 27 - 10:00 pm (BMT +378)

Hello family and friends! Not really sure where the last two weeks have gone. Spencer continues to do well and stays busy with weight training for football and golf. He gets so frustrated with golf, but keeps plugging away at it. Rod takes advantage of every opportunity to go out with him. Now he has a good excuse to golf!! Chayse and Spencer have also played quite a few times with their friends and have really enjoyed it. It's just good to see them spend quality time together.

I want to update you on my brother, Mike. He had his tooth literally dug out today. Ouch!! He is doing well though and now will wait for the all the infection to be gone before they go in for the open heart surgery. I do want to clarify what is going on with him. He was born with a bicuspid heart valve instead of a tricuspid. We have found out it is something that runs in our family. Many people live long healthy lives with it but others, like Mike, have to have a transplant because it becomes leaky. In the meantime, while we wait for the surgery, please pray for the peace of mind for him and our entire family. We want the surgery to be in God's timing but sometimes it's hard to wait!!

It's that time of year again for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society to have their Light the Night fund raiser. Some of our Bearcat friends are participating in the Light the Night event again this year and are doing so in honor of Spencer. I have copied and pasted the information on Denise's donation site below:

Thanks for visiting my Light The Night homepage. Our NW team is once again walking in support of Spencer Barr, a young man from Maryville who was diagnosed with leukemia in March of 2006. I'm happy to report that Spencer is doing well and is even playing baseball this summer! July 14 marks the one year anniversary of his bone marrow transplant. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Light The Night Walk is the nation's night to pay tribute and bring hope to thousands of patients battling blood cancers and to commemorate loved ones lost.

The Society funds lifesaving cancer research that has contributed to major advances in the treatment of blood cancers and many other types of cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and stem cell transplants that have prolonged and enhanced the lives of patients. New targeted therapies that kill cancer cells without harming normal tissue have already begun to provide drugs and procedures that are improving quality of life.

But more research is critically needed:

• Every five minutes someone is diagnosed with blood cancer. Every ten minutes, someone dies.
• Leukemia causes more deaths among children than any other cancer
• More than 20,000 Americans died from lymphoma in 2006
• The survival rate for myeloma is just 33 per cent

Please make a donation to support the Bearcat walkers in the Light The Night Walk. By doing so, we’ll all be helping save lives. Better yet, come walk with us on Saturday, September 29 at Hyde Park in St Joe. There's a carnival with family activities, music, and food at 6:00 p.m. The walk follows at 7:30. It's easy to register or make a donation online. Our online team name is NWMSU Alumni. Or you can send or give a check to me or any of the St. Joseph Alumni Chapter members. Donations may also be given to Brenda at the Alumni House in Maryville. Be sure to check my Web site frequently to see our progress. Thanks for your support! Denise Kretzschmar  www.active.com/donate/ltnshawne/2098_neener49

Another exciting event is coming up as well. Read below for all the details.

St. Jude’s Pepper Stepper 5k Fun Run/Walk

When: Saturday September 1^st  - 8:00 AM

Where: Chili’s in the Shoppes at the North Village in St. Joseph, Missouri.

Who: Anyone & Everyone is welcomed to participate. There will be  a fun run for kids as well.

Why: Every year Chili’s partners with St. Jude’s to raise funds for  their cancer research center. To date Chilis has raised several          million dollars for the cause.

Please join us for some fun for a good cause. All proceeds go to benefit St. Jude’s. The entry fee is $20 for adults and $10 for children. All entrants will receive a goody bag and race shirt. Please plan to stay after the race for food, live music, and prize drawings.

For more information please contact race director: Bryan Seiter  

Cell 383-3816 Work 279-5750

You can register online at www.active.com

Also, be sure to mark your calendar to eat at Chili's on September 24 as all the proceeds on that day go directly to St. Jude's.

July 14 - 9:00 am (BMT +365)

HAPPY TRANSPLANT BIRTHDAY TO SPENCER!!! It was a year ago today Chayse gave his life saving bone marrow to Spencer. Glory! Hallelujah! Praise God! ALL our prayers continue to be answered. We had a wonderful report from the doctors at St. Jude. The best news of all is that the results from the bone marrow aspiration showed no signs of leukemia!! The MRI reports on his hips and knees came back saying "remarkable improvement over last year" and even the physical therapist was amazed at how strong he is. The doctors want him to continue eating calcium-enriched foods for his bones as well as keeping up the exercise. We believe next year the bone density test will say "remarkable improvement" as well. His eyes and ears tested fine and he doesn't have any cavities in his teeth. However, he hasn't lost two of his baby teeth and they are the ones preventing his eyeteeth from coming in. The St. Jude dentist said we would have to have our local dentist pull those baby teeth and probably see an orthodontist because it appears the eyeteeth are impacted. All four of his wisdom teeth will need to be removed too as there is not room enough in his mouth for them. Anyone know a good, inexpensive dentist? ;-)

Other good news is his T-helper counts are 620, which is that of a normal, healthy child! That means he no longer has to wear his mask because his immune system is strong enough now to fight off infections. Praise God!! It also means we do not have to go back for three months. The plan is to go every three months this year until he reaches his second anniversary and then go every six months. He did wear his mask on the airplane but flung it off as soon as his feet touched solid ground. We are all so proud of him, extremely happy and blessed beyond measure. There's that verse that says God is able to do exceedingly, abundantly, above all that we could ever ask or think! Oh, thank you, Jesus! And, yes! he gets to play football this fall! :o)

The last thing he did before we left were get his first set of immunization shots. There were two nurses on each arm shooting him at the same time. He took a total of five shots and was a trooper. He still has to get two more sets of shots that he will get in October and January.

We also visited with the endocrinologist and everything is going well in that department too. His body is making all the necessary things which means nothing was affected by the radiation. His thyroid counts are a little low so they want to see him again in January at our six-month visit.

This trip to Memphis was more like a vacation than any others. We spent lots of time with friends and had a wonderful time. Jace Trahan and his beautiful mom, Ann, were there this week with us too. Jace had his transplant the week after Spencer and is getting along very well too. We were all invited for supper at Ty Waggoner's house Wednesday evening. We had a fantastic time!! Ty's grandparents and cousins were visiting from California so there was a houseful. It felt like we were with family! We had so much fun and laughed and laughed all night long. Thank you Lee and Gretchen for opening up your beautiful home to us. The meal was out of this world! First coleslaw I've ever ate worth getting seconds on. Yum! Yum! Spencer says Lee has given Rod a run for his money on his pork. May even be better than Famous Dave's?? Thank you all for an evening we will not soon forget! You will have to come north and visit us now.

Thursday evening we had the privilege of meeting Steven "the logger" and Steve "the lawyer" who are two gentlemen involved with Catch a Dream. They took Ann, Jace, Kim, Tori, Spencer and me out to Big Foot Lodge for supper. Tori is a St. Jude patient and Kim is her mom. They were wonderful, sweet people and we enjoyed meeting them. Four of us tried to tackle the "Saskwatch" a four-pound hamburger. Needless to say, we only ate half of it, but it sure was delicious and fun trying! Friday at the hospital we were able to meet Dr. Marty and Tatum, two other people involved with Catch a Dream. They are trying to fill in the gap with kids who want to do a hunting or fishing trip because Make a Wish will not grant those types of wishes anymore. They told Spencer to go on his Make a Wish and then go on a trip with them. These people are great! They really get the kids talking and thinking of what they could hunt or fish and where they could go to do it. We are looking forward to seeing them all again. 

As you can see, we had a wonderful trip full of good reports and good friends. Thank you all for your continued prayers. There are still so many in need of them. Please pray for Jace's T-helper cells to stay up so he can return to school this fall for his senior year. Also, please continue praying for my brother, Mike. He is in the hospital in Omaha for a few days. There is fluid around his heart and lungs and they still need to do a stress test on him. Ever since he was a little boy he has had a fear of doctors and nothing has changed, so please pray against that fear so that peace can calm him and he will let the doctors and nurses do what they have to do.

July 6 – 5:00 pm (BMT +357)

I looked at this website while at work today and was flabbergasted that it has been since June 25 since I last updated. I need to be scolded! I had promised myself it wouldn’t be so long between updates. Well, I guess it hasn’t been THAT long, but there’s something about turning the calendar to the next month that makes you think time has really passed. I’ve taken my calendar out of my purse to figure out exactly what has kept us busy the last week and it’s no wonder I haven’t updated! Spencer’s baseball team held its league tournament last week in Hopkins. It was supposed to start on Wed but due to rain it was pushed back until Thursday, so that meant Friday night’s games were held early Saturday morning. His team played Saturday at 8am and then again at 4pm and then again somewhere after 10:30pm. They played very well but lost in the championship game to a very good Clearmont team. It was well after 1am before that game was over! We had a BBQ for the boys between games and had a great time relaxing and watching the kids enjoy themselves. It was a fun day even though it was long. Even Grandpa and Grandma Barr spent the day with us. We had hoped to make it to Elmo for fireworks that same evening, but missed out again this year. Hopefully next year!

Chayse had his senior pictures taken last Thursday and Spencer was in several shots with him. I am really looking forward to seeing the proofs. From what I could tell through the view finder, they looked great! Bill Bateman took them so you know they will be great. Rod is going to take the outdoor shots but so far it has been too hot to really get outside, but hopefully soon.

This week has brought back memories of our time in Memphis last year. Spencer and I had flown back to Memphis on June 20 for his last dose of chemo and ended up staying for preparatory tests for the transplant. We talked this year about the fireworks we were able to see while down there as a family. They had a huge display on July 1 or 2 and it was so nice to have us four together for it. Rod and Chayse had to go back home the next day so that left Spencer and I alone for the 4^th.  I don’t think I’ll ever forget sitting on the couch at the Target House with the blinds up as far as they would go watching the fireworks in the distance. The whole apartment was dark except for the stove light and Spencer and I sat close together contemplating the upcoming events. Tomorrow, July 7, will the year anniversary of when we checked him into the hospital for the transplant. That absolutely was the scariest part of the journey, but yet even during that time, we had such supernatural peace. I still thank God for that wonderful peace. You just can’t bottle that kind of peace! Spencer and I spent that entire day playing. At that point he was not on a low bacteria diet so we ate out, went to a movie and shopped for hats. The guy at Lids cut us a deal when he learned Spencer’s story. Spencer has accumulated so many hats this past year! He still wears the hats but what have changed are all those curls coming out from underneath them!

So, we are approaching the one year anniversary of the bone marrow transplant on July 14. We will just be getting back from Memphis the night before so we will be doing our celebrating a few weeks later. Spencer and I will fly back to Memphis next Tuesday morning and have appointments Wed, Thurs and Friday and then fly home Friday evening. During our stay we plan on getting together with some friends who will be there for their yearly tests too. We have all been invited to share an evening with another family that lives close by and we are excited about that too. We will be in a house full of survivors! How cool is that?!

We were able to spend some time with my parents and my brother’s family yesterday. We all had lunch together and spent the afternoon playing cards. We always have such a good time when we’re together. Please keep my oldest brother, Mike, in your prayers as he is having a hard time adjusting to the meds and has yet to feel better. He and his family drove to Florida for vacation so also pray for traveling mercies for them as well.

We are adjusting to life with a puppy. Faith is becoming quite the spoiled dog! She absolutely adores Spencer and responds to his voice. She is starting to show some of her natural aggression, but we're keeping a handle on that too. We finally took the advice of other dog owners and blocked off part of her kennel and now she is finding it to be a place where she feels safe and secure. The potty training is going well too with very few accidents. She has been golfing a couple of times too. Rod and Spencer golf and she and I walk, so both of us are getting our exercise. I took some pictures at the golf course and I will have them posted in the photo gallery. I apologize for not posting new photos. Many of you have asked and you're right, I have not done very well doing that either. I guess that means there's room for improvement!

June 25 - 8:30 pm (BMt +346)

I'm sure you can tell by the obvious lack of updates that we've been busy. Spencer has been busy with baseball and weight lifting three mornings a week. He is still behind where he was prior to getting sick, but he is making his comeback slowly but surely. It will just take some time. Praise God he is healthy enough to participate. Saturday his baseball team as some of us parents went to the College World Series in Omaha. Grandpa and Grandma Barr met us there and we all really enjoyed the game. It was a long day though! We didn't get home until after 1am and then, of course, got up for church Sunday morning. Sunday was Rod's birthday and we enjoyed the day together.

Oh, I almost forgot! We have a new puppy named Faith. We got her last Tuesday when she was only eight weeks old. She is a Jack Russell Terrier and is so cute! Cute and ornery! We have been trying to train her to ring a bell when she has to go outside to potty. So far, she is doing pretty well even though she has had a couple of accidents. She is already spoiled rotten and loves to cuddle on your lap. She has been to a few of Spencer's baseball games too and has been a huge hit with the crowd. Spencer wanted to name her something that represented what he went through to get well again. We think it's a pretty appropriate name!

I would like to ask for prayer for my oldest brother, Mike. He has some issues with his blood pressure and heart a week or so ago, and even though the doctors say he is fine, he seems to be reacting to the meds. At least, that's what we're all thinking. He still needs to see the doctor again. His family has a vacation to Florida planned the end of this week and he needs to feel well enough to go with his two boys and wife. Please pray for his health and entire healing. Thank you.

June 16 - 9:30 pm (BMT +337)

Spencer and I returned from Memphis last night. Thank you to all who have been praying for his liver functions because God heard our prayers! There are two lab tests they run every month on it and one came back right in the normal range, and while the other is still a little high, it is much lower than it has been the previous two months. The ultrasound basically came back good as well. Nothing they are concerned about. Praise God! There is nothing like hearing a good report from the doctors! Not only did we get a good health report, but he asked about getting a puppy and was told his immune system is strong enough now to have one. Since we have not had good luck with outdoor dogs we are going to try to find a little indoor dog. Hopefully it will be extremely smart and will only go to the bathroom outside. Yes, you can all pray we find the perfect one! ;-) Spencer is so excited to have a dog again.

We did have quite a time getting there on Thursday. Northwest Airlines boarded all of the passengers and then discovered the intercom did not work. We waited about 30 minutes while the maintenance crew tried to fix it but eventually we were told it was unfixable and was deplaned. We were re-accommodated on American but arrived in Memphis too late for the ultrasound. However, God is so good to us! Even though we were originally told there were not any Friday morning appointments available, there ended up being one after all. We finished all our appointments early enough to relax awhile before we headed to the airport.

Friday night Spencer's ball team had a home game and they won again. They are still undefeated and feeling pretty good about that. He mostly plays first base now and is really enjoying it. He is starting to hit a little better too and another mom commented on how she thought he was getting a little faster too. His body has been through so much and it will just take time for him to get back to his speed before he got sick.

Tonight he is staying over with a friend and hanging out at the park with a bunch of his classmates. I hear a little flashlight tag in on the agenda. It is such a blessing to see him be a normal kid doing normal teenage things. Before you go to bed tonight, hug your kids extra tight and thank God for their health.

Before I sign off for this evening, I want to wish my dad and Rod's dad a very Happy Father's Day! We are so blessed to have two loving, caring and supportive fathers. Thank you both for all you've done for us not only this past year or so, but our entire lives. We love and appreciate you both! I can't forget to wish my two brothers, Mike and Ron, Happy Father's Day too. You both are wonderful fathers as well and I'm proud to be your sister. Thanks for taking care of yourselves so you can live a long healthy life watching your children grow. Keep up the good work! I love you both and appreciate all you've done for us as well. I pray God's continued blessings for all of you.

Lastly, and certainly not least, I want to wish my wonderful husband, Rod, a very Happy Father's Day. You are absolutely the best father to our two sons. Thank you for your unselfish love and attention you continue to give to them and me. I love you more and more with each passing day and I thank God for giving you to me.

June 6 - 7:30 pm (BMT +327)

I have heard comments from several people lately that they are still keeping up on Spencer's progress via this site. I can't tell you how much that blesses me! And, how ashamed I am for not doing a better job! Please forgive me for the lack of updates. I do hope you know no news is good news!

Spencer's baseball team is undefeated and they are all thrilled. He has been playing both third and first base and enjoying every minute. Robert and Scott are amazing coaches and are really teaching the boys a lot. 

Spencer was cleared to participate in football camp this past week, although not to the fullest extent he would like. He still cannot make contact until after his yearly tests in July. Dr. Madden wants to make sure everything tests out okay before she gives her approval. Even though it frustrates Spencer to watch the other boys tackle, Rod and I are thankful Dr. Madden has been so conservative with his treatment. We believe it's one of the reasons he has gotten along so well. That and an over protective mom! Yes, even though he was cleared to go off the low bacteria diet a few months ago, I still won't let him have certain things. He wanted to eat leftover lasagna for lunch today and I wouldn't let him eat it until I cleared it with St. Jude's. Needless to say, he had to eat something else because they did not get back to me quickly enough. The good news is he can have left over pasta as long as it's just a day or two. That will make him happy when he gets home from camp tonight.

He was also cleared to weight train with the football team, so he and Chayse go in Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday mornings. I am so glad Chayse can drive so I don't have to get up at 6am to take them! They both have long days with training in the mornings and camp at night. They are both excited about the upcoming season. We can hardly believe it will be Chayse's senior year. Where does the time go?

Spencer and I fly back to Memphis next Thursday and this time he will have an appointment that afternoon for an ultrasound of his liver. We are praying and believing God his liver is functioning the very way God created it to function and that the ultrasound will show a healthy, normal liver. Again, thank you all for agreeing with us in prayer. I have to admit, Rod and I were concerned last week because Spencer kept complaining of his ankles hurting. I kept fighting the thoughts that it could be damage from the chemo and finally asked God for wisdom. Not really sure why it took me so long to ask, but I am glad I did because we figured out it was his shoes causing the pain. He is wearing his other pair of shoes now and we bought him a pair of football cleats. We had hoped to wait until after he was cleared to play, but the cost far exceeds the peace of mind we now have.

Rod is home now and it's getting time to think about what to make for supper when the boys get home. I will try to update sooner next time!

May 25 - 5:00 pm (BMT +315)

Wow, I can't believe it's already been a week since we've been home from Memphis and last updated. I wanted to let you all know Spencer was cleared to go back to school the last two days this past Monday and Tuesday. I really wanted to post it last week, but he wanted it to be a surprise for his friends, and I think it was. He got along very well and wasn't too tired at all. I felt like it was the first day of kindergarten all over again and had to fight back a few tears that first day.

Spencer's baseball team is off to a good start with winning their first two games. Spencer has done very well considering all his body has been through. He sometimes gets frustrated with himself because of it, but all in all he understands. He is just enjoying getting to play again and hanging with his friends. Oh yeah, and winning. :o) He has not lost his competitive edge whatsoever.

He has been to a sleepover and had friends stay over here. He's also been golfing and swimming. Doesn't sound like a sick kid to me, how about you? Again and again we rejoice over his healing and praise the Lord. He is also taking Algebra this summer hoping to get a jump start on his math credits for high school, but already he is frustrated because the teaching pace is very fast. He is seriously wanting to drop the course and we are seriously considering letting him. No sense feeling lost and frustrated when you don't have to. He can take the class this fall when school starts and be just fine. Dropping the class will certainly free up some of his time. With baseball and football camps coming up, his summer schedule is overwhelming. He has been cleared to participate in football camp but cannot have contact yet. Of course, he is trying to figure out what fun their could possibly be without contact ;o) but he is willing to do all the other things in hope that Dr. Madden will clear him to play after his year anniversary testing in July.

I think that about catches you up on his events this past week. He has a ball game again tonight in Burlington Jct. and is looking forward to that.

Have a great Memorial Day and don't forget to enjoy every minute with those you love. I have a put a link to Brian Halley's website at the top for those of you who also want to keep track of his progress. He was both Chayse and Spencer's 7th grade social studies teacher and is battling melanoma. His wife, Jenni, does an amazing job with the updates and I know they would appreciate even more prayers for his healing.

May 18 - 7:00 pm (BMT +308)

Spencer and I flew home from Memphis this afternoon and then met Chayse for supper. Our visit to St. Jude's was good and I was really proud of Spencer for the way he handled getting stuck to have his lab work drawn. All his tests came back good again and we are so thankful. His liver functions were higher again this month. Actually higher than last months high so Dr. Madden is ordering an ultrasound on his liver next month. I can't help but remember what the Lord spoke so clearly to me before the transplant. No RISCS involved in the transplant. R stands for no rejection, I stands for no infections, S stands for no lasting side effects, C stands for no complications, and S stands for set backs. We praise God and rejoice that this promise still remains true, especially NO LASTING SIDE EFFECTS. I would ask all of you to focus on this prayer need in the coming weeks so that the ultrasound shows no damage to his liver. I truly am at peace but I also know how the devil would like to come in and steal Spencer's healing, and I won't have any of that! I know there are many of you out there that still keep up on Spencer's progress and will lift him up in prayer for this specific need and for that our entire family is truly blessed and thankful.

I am out of time for this update, as I have to get the boy into town for his first baseball game tonight. He is so excited to play again! I've been praying for his protection and that he would just have lots of fun.

May 7 - 5:30 pm (BMT +297)

And the rain came tumbling down....well, I guess so! I didn't think the sun knew how to shine anymore with so many days of rain. It is so good to see it shine this afternoon after such severe weather all across the heartland. Our hearts go out to those who lost loved ones and homes to tornadoes and flooding. We have not gone unscathed, as our family room had about an inch or so of water Sunday morning when we woke up. We wouldn't have discovered so soon if Rod's dad hadn't of called and asked, so thanks, Rick, for drawing it to our attention. We did lose some things, including Spencer's new Playstation3. He had just moved it from his room a few days before so we could watch a movie together. Unfortunately, insurance will not cover the loss.

I decided to take Spencer to our local doctor last Friday because I wanted to be sure his cough was due to allergies, and it was. Dr. Dawson changed his allergy medicine and Spencer has felt much better and even the cough has subsided. Rod, on the other hand, also developed a cough over the weekend and he went to see the doctor this afternoon. His diagnosis was much worse than allergies. He has bronchitis. He has been quarantined to the bedroom and if he comes out he has to wear a mask. Please pray for his speedy recovery and that the rest of us do not get it, especially Spencer.

May 1 - 4:00 pm (BMT +291)

Happy May Day! It's hard to believe it's May already! Where does the time go? I think the busier a person is the faster the time goes, and busy we have been! This last weekend was jammed full of activities. Rod's parents had their household sale on Saturday and prom was also that day. Of course, this was Chayse's junior prom so I helped out at the after prom festivities that lasted until 4:30am. Let's just say it's been a long time since I had pulled an all nighter. It was fun though seeing all the kids have a good time. I think it was close to 6am before I finally went to bed and was up again at 9:30am to get ready to leave for Kansas City. Make-A-Wish had someone donate tickets for the Kansas Speedway Indy races and they were offered to us. We were unable to use them on Saturday so Rod, Spencer and I used them Sunday. I have to admit, I have never been much of a race fan and even after seeing it and experiencing it first-hand, it most likely will be my last time. After the first couple of laps, it was much like watching paint dry, with the exception of a car hitting the wall a couple of times, and then it was when I wasn't watching. Spencer agrees with me but Rod thinks NASCAR may be more exciting.

Rod and Spencer went to Kansas City today for the St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway kickoff. Frank White, a former Kansas City Royal baseball player, was supposed to be the guest speaker as the first person to buy a ticket for the raffle, but at the last minute was unable to come, so Jeff Montgomery took his place. Rod said they interviewed the some of the St. Jude kids there and Spencer was interviewed. Tune into Kansas City channel 5 at 5pm tonight to see it.

I was unable to go with them because I started back to work yesterday part time. I will be working Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 9am to 3pm. I have to admit, I really miss being away from my baby! He was so sweet yesterday to call and tell me he was thinking of me and to have a good day.

And, as always, thank you for your continued prayers for Spencer's complete healing. He has been dealing with allergies and now has a cough with it. Thankfully the cough is getting better. We suspect it is from the high mold count in the air from all the rain.

April 21 - 2:30 pm (BMT +281)

Spencer and I returned from Memphis today. We had to stay one more day because of the line removal, which went great. Spencer, of course, was very apprehensive and nervous about it, but mostly because he did not know what to expect. He did so well and I am so proud of him. A child life specialist came in a few minutes early and talked with him about how other kids described the procedure. I think that helped him, but yet every kid was different and so he still wasn't sure what to expect. After awhile the nurse came in and explained things further to him. She told him the line was very stretchy and that it was possible for the line to break and if it did, he would have to go upstairs to surgery to have it removed. That freaked him out! I looked right into his eyes and assured him that was not going to happen and he responded with "I know". But still...... The plan was for him to count to three, take a deep breath and blow it out slowly while she pulled. They practiced a few times but when it came time, he counted faster than she expected and then held his breath instead of blowing. We were all telling him to blow out. It went very fast and he said it was not painful at all--just weird feeling. There is a little, tiny piece of it still in there that did not come out, and they said sometimes it comes out and sometimes it doesn't. Most generally, it being in there never creates a problem, but once in awhile it gets infected later on down the road and an antibiotic is necessary. In extreme cases, it has to be removed surgically. We are believing God it never causes Spencer any problems.

All of his lab work and counts looked really good again. One of his liver tests was higher than it has been, but still in the normal range. Both Dr. Madden and Dr. Inaba were not concerned at all and reassured me it was fine. Still, I think it is something we really need to be praying about so it doesn't become an issue.

Dr. Madden again told us it was okay for Spencer to play baseball. He was very disappointed when she told him he would have to continue wearing his mask even when he played. So much so that after she left the room he said he wasn't going to play if he had to wear the mask. Oh how my heart sank! I was so disappointed to hear him say that. I didn't say much but rather got pretty quiet. He thought I was mad but I assured him I was not. I told him I could not possibly know what it feels like to be made fun of or stared at because I've never worn a mask. It's easy for me to say it's not a big deal to wear a mask. The good news is he didn't stay in that disposition very long before he said he was still going to play. Oh how happy that made me! But, he had to make the decision on his own and for himself and not for me. Most people don't understand or even realize they are staring. Last weekend while we were in Dallas, someone actually asked him why he was wearing a mask, and he told her it was because he had cancer last year. You should have seen the look on her face! If anything, it is building character in my son, that and so much more. I just pray he has a good experience this summer playing baseball because he is so excited about it. He takes his ball and glove everywhere he goes, even to Dallas and Memphis. We also asked about football this fall and Dr. Madden thought it would probably be okay, but wanted to wait until after his yearly exams in July to give us a definite answer. Please be praying about that as well. That would be so difficult for him not to play this year.

I think that's about it for this update. We were up before the sun this morning to get to the airport, only to have our flight delayed 45 minutes and then to have our gate changed to an entirely different terminal. Ah, the joys of flying! It still beats driving 9 hours any day! At any rate, I am needing a nap! God bless all of you for keeping up on us and Spencer's progress, but mostly for your prayers. We couldn't have come this far without those faithful prayers. Thank you!

April 17 - 10:00 am (BMT +277)

I am sorry for the lack of updates, but we've been busy! Thanks to my parents and their financial help, we were able to spend this past weekend in Dallas. Our friend, Casey Smith, who is the trainer for the Dallas Mavericks gave us tickets to both games this past weekend. Both games we were right in front where the opposing teams enter the auditorium. It was great! Casey even gave us passes to go back so we could see the players after the games. After Sunday's game, Casey took Spencer into the Mavs locker room to hang out with the players. He was able to get lots of autographs and even Dirk and Coach Avery remembered him from Memphis. Dirk even asked where his #41 jersey was! Sunday was my birthday and believe me, I could not have asked for a better gift that to see my son with a head full of blonde curls, blue eyes sparkling and a grin that covered his entire face. Oh what a difference a year makes! I thank the Lord daily for this magnificent gift of healing.

We had such a good time together in spite of the changing weather while we there. Friday night we were surrounded by tornados and Saturday was just as cold as being here in Missouri--minus the snow! We took the boys to a go cart race track and we froze! But it was so worth it to see their expressions when the dragsters they were driving hit 70 mph. There was also a go cart track with powder on it to make it slick and they had a great time on it as well. Afterwards we went to Texas Stadium in hopes to tour it, but they were having cheerleading tryouts and were closed for tours. Both boys were trying to figure out a way to get in to see anyway. :o) Saturday night we took the boys to Comedy Sportz, an improv family oriented comedy act, and had a lot fun there.

We awoke Sunday morning at 7:30am to a blaring fire alarm and a voice telling us to evacuate the building. We were on the 11th floor and would have to take the stairs down. We were only a few flights down when we heard the voice tell us it was safe to return. We suspect it was one of the many volleyball girls staying at the hotel who pulled the alarm. I was shaking from my inner being all the way out. Even though my mind was telling me it was not real, my body was saying something completely different. I hate to say what the adrenaline level in my body was at that time. I just know I was sick to my stomach for quite awhile afterwards. Not fun at all!

Sunday turned out to be a gorgeous spring day with temps in the upper 70's. Sure wish we could have had weather like that the whole weekend! After the game, we had a nice supper and then drove all over Dallas trying to find ice cream. That was when we finally figured out how to really get around in Dallas. A couple of times we were going to give up but Chayse was determined to find a place. It was really quite humorous. Finally around 9pm we found a place similar to Cold Stone. Afterwards we went back to our hotel to get things packed for our early departure to the airport on Monday. It ended up our flight was delayed several times and even the gate was changed. You should have seen us racing to the next gate to regain our first in line status. If you've ever flown Southwest you know what I'm talking about, if you haven't, well you really haven't truly experienced air travel until you do.

All in all, we had a wonderful weekend and made memories to last a life time. Thanks again Mom and Dad! We love you so much!!

Just a few more things and I'll end this update. Happy 12th Birthday yesterday to my nephew, David, and Happy 8th Birthday to my niece Brianna today! We love you both and are looking forward to celebrating with you both soon.

Spencer and I fly back to Memphis Thursday. Yes, we are becoming quite the jet setters! Thursday is a travel day and Friday he will have clinics and also get his central line removed. Usually we would fly home Friday afternoon, but because of the line removal, we have to stay overnight again and fly home Saturday morning. Please pray there are no complications, that his immune system continues to grow stronger, and that all his counts continue in the right direction as well. Also pray for traveling mercies there and back. You all are the best and I thank God for your prayers, love and friendship!

April 10 - 3:00 pm (BMT +270)

Let me start by wishing my parents a belated 47th Anniversary yesterday. We are so blessed to have you as our parents and love you both so very much!

I took Chayse to the doctor this morning as he woke up with a sore throat and was having difficulty swallowing. The strep test came back negative but because there has been other cases going around, the doctor ordered a throat culture and put him on an antibiotic. The results from the culture should be back by Thursday. Dr. Mom here thinks he has a sinus infection and is really glad the antibiotic will also take care of that if it is. In the meantime, Chayse is being quarantined to his room and it is driving Spencer crazy knowing he is in there playing video games without him. He stands at the door and watches him through the mirror. It's so cute it's pathetic! :o)

Switching Spencer to Mucinex D has made a world of difference in the mucus level. I don't know what's in it that makes it so different from other meds, but it works! Thank God! Please continue to pray God's protection over him so he does not get whatever this is Chayse is dealing with.

On another note, Brian Halley received a good report from his MRI yesterday as it shows no cancer! Praise the Lord! The link to his site is above and I'm sure he and Jenni would love to hear from you. Please continue to keep him in your prayers for a full and complete healing. 

April 8 - 8:30 pm (BMT +268)

Happy Easter! I hope you all have had a chance to celebrate the risen King Jesus today and this past week. Tiffany, Harry and Gayle came up from Joplin on Friday evening and stayed the last two night with us. We really enjoyed having them with us, and as always, stayed up late both nights playing games and even dyed Easter eggs. Well, Tiffany and Spencer dyed the eggs. I don't think Aunt Tif will ever outgrow dying eggs, or for that matter, neither will Spencer. It was a lot of fun.

We all spent some time in Iowa at the farmhouse where Rod and Tif grew up. It was an opportunity for them to get some things before the sale on April 28. Needless to say, it was a bit emotional.

Spencer has been feeling better even though he is still dealing with a lot of mucus. Chayse has not felt well since Saturday afternoon. He has been running a low grade fever and has a headache. Poor kid, he has been quarantined to his bedroom until he feels better and the fever is gone. Thank goodness there is not school tomorrow as it gives him another day to get back to normal. Please pray for him and also that whatever he has does not come near Spencer, Rod or me.

Little Kyrie went home to be with Jesus last night. Her grandpa wrote a poem that just tore me up. Please pray for her family as they now must continue life without her.

April 6 - 11:00 am (BMT +266)

Thank you all for your prayers as Spencer is doing better since he took Claritin-D. He is still stuffy but at least he can breath better.

If you haven't checked Kyrie's website lately, you may not know she has only a short time left here with her family. Please pray for them during this most difficult time. Only God can give them the peace that surpasses the understanding our minds so desperately crave.

April 5 - 4:00 pm (BMT +265)

Spencer woke up yesterday morning with nasal congestion and is still dealing with it today. I have called St. Jude's and was told to call our local doctor. Our local doctor has suggested giving it a couple of days as he suspects it is allergies. Spence has been on Claritin since before his transplant last July, but we all know how crazy the weather has been lately. It was 80 degrees on Monday and it dipped down in the 20's last night! I bought him Claritin-D this afternoon and am hoping and praying it loosens the junk up so he can get rid of it. Mrs. Ottman came to administer the MAP test but he only got part way through before he said he just couldn't finish taking it. He says he is light headed and just plain tired. Please pray the Claritin-D kicks in quickly and that it does not become anything serious. No weapon formed againist Spencer shall prosper in Jesus' Name! Also pray that I have wisdom in all matters pertaining to his health. I appreciate your prayers and will keep you posted! God bless.

April 4 - 10:00 am (BMT +264)

Oh how deceiving the weather is this morning! It looks beautiful but it's COLD!!! I turned off the heat last week when the temps got into the 80's but turned it back on this morning when the thermostat said it was 60 degrees in here. Brrrrrrrrrr!

Spencer has been getting excited about playing baseball this summer. We went to a team meeting Sunday night and he was thrilled to spend time with his friends again. He said over and over how much fun he had that night. Of course, he has been digging around trying to find all his "stuff" and has decided he needs some new things. He is just so excited to be able to be with his friends again! I love seeing that smile and hearing over and over how much fun he has with them. It has been two years since he has played and he is a little nervous about it.

Sunday was the year anniversary of when Rod, Chayse and Spencer shaved their heads. I'll never forget it as it brings both happy and sad memories. Spencer's hair was falling out in fistfuls and it was really bothering him. It was planned that all three of them would shave their heads together that weekend. It was also April Fool's Day and the three of them tried all day to convince me Spencer wanted me to shave my head too. I knew something was up because Spencer had told me earlier he did not want me shaving my head, but once Rod and Chayse got there, the story changed. Rod and Chayse tried hard to make the event a silly and happy one! God bless them! I believe there are still pictures posted in the photo gallery. Spencer's hair has grown back soft like a puppy's as well as curly! He finally got his first haircut yesterday and decided to just have it shaped up so he can keep the curls. 

March 31 - 12:45 pm (BMT +260)

Here it is the last day of March, can you believe it? Even though it rained and stormed last night, Spencer and I were able to go outside and play catch in the yard. He has himself a new baseball glove and is diligently working to break it in. So much so that he is even willing to play catch with me! :o) Let's just say it's been a long time since I've played a game of softball. He is very patient with me and we've had a lot of fun.

March 28 - 10:15 am (BMT +257)

My dad just called with an update on my mom. The doctors could not find any blockages in any of her arteries. Praise God! Now they will look for other causes of her leg pain, but we are rejoicing over this good report. Please pray with me for the doctors to have wisdom and that the cause for the leg pain would be revealed and healed in Jesus' Name!

March 28 - 8:30 am (BMT +257)

Good morning! First morning in a long time I've been home all by myself. Chayse is off to school and Rod took Spencer to the university so he can job shadow Josh Lamberson and the NWMSU Athletic Department. He is pretty excited about being there with Bryce and Cole from school. Every year the 8th grade boys and girls get to pick somebody to shadow. I'm sure they will have a great time.

My mom is currently in surgery this morning in Council Bluffs having a peripheral angiogram done. Please pray and be in agreement with me that all the blockages would be opened without anything breaking lose and causing damage.

Chayse had the stitches removed from his knee yesterday and everything continues to look good. He will do one outpatient physical therapy on Thursday, and other than continuing on Aleve and keeping it iced, he should be through with it. Thank you all for your prayers on his behalf as well.

Have a great day and enjoy the weather!

March 26 - 2:45 pm (BMT +255)

I realized I hadn't done an update since before Air Rock on Saturday. I am pleased to report Chayse and is buddies won the Air Rock competition as Lynyrd Skynyrd. They all did so well and they had a lot of fun. Chayse was hardly recognizable in his blonde wig and big glasses. Even one of the judges didn't know who he was. The judges had a lot of pressure on them as all the groups did very well and had a lot to be proud of.

March 24 - 4:00 pm (BMT +253)

Hello! We had a good trip to Memphis and returned last night. The weather there was gorgeous and we both thought it would be nice to stay a little while longer. That is as long as we didn't have to be in the hospital! We took the earlier flight on Thursday so we could spend some time downtown having fun. We took in dinner and a movie and just enjoyed the nice weather into the evening. Friday was all clinics and travel. The day started out in Assessment/Triage where they were concerned that his heart rate was low. After three readings they called the clinic and we were sent right over. Once there, two nurses and Dr. Madden checked it again and actually got a higher reading. Just to be on the safe side, Dr. Madden ordered a heart rate strip test that only took five minutes to do. It did show some PVC's but nothing Dr. Madden or the cardiologist are concerned about. Like we've been told before, many people live absolutely normal, healthy lives with PVC's. His heart rate was lower than it had been in previous months, which actually is a good sign because it had been a bit high. Dr. Madden even commented that his heart rate was more like that of an athelete and that his training with Mike is paying off.

The answer to the big question--did he get his line out? Well, the answer is not this month but next month. We were told he will be in the procedure room when they remove it because of the chance of bleeding. It is also very difficult to get an appointment at the last minute so they have set it up for our April visit. Only one more month of daily line care! He is very excited about that and I can say I am too. He was taken off the Voriconazole which means he is down to only taking Septra three days a week, besides his daily Claritin for allergies. Dr. Madden gave her okay for us to go to Dallas for the Mavericks basketball game in April. However, she didn't think he would be returning to school this school year. Spencer was disappointed about that. We asked again about eating at Taco Bell and she said it would be okay, so guess where we ate on the way home from the airport? You guessed it! I still won't let him have fountain drinks yet even though he has been cleared to have them. Have you ever looked at those things? They just don't look very clean! Okay, so call me an overprotective Momma!

March 22 - 7:20 am (BMT +251)

We leave today for Memphis on the 11:00 am flight. Because of daylight savings time, we decided to go early so we can enjoy some time downtown before appointments tomorrow. Please be in agreement with us that his IVIG levels are good, that Dr. Madden will okay his line removal, and an appointment will be available to do so Friday morning before we return home. Thank you all for your prayer covering as we travel back and forth too. God bless.

March 19 - 9:30 am (BMT +248)

We have just had a wonderful few days as the celebration of Spencer's birthday continued. A "Birthday Season" as a friend calls it. Last Thursday because there was not school on Friday, Tyler spent the night and they played Guitar Hero with Chayse. I believe all three of them were complaining of their hands or fingers hurting after playing so much! Saturday the four of us went to Kansas City to shop for the upcoming Air Band contest Chayse and his buddies are in. We found a costume shop that was loaded with fun things. After spending most of the day shopping, it was time to get the house ready for Sunday's family dinner. Rod decided it was time to decorate the family room again after months of everything being packed away. I have to admit, I didn't think he was going to pull it off, but with Spencer's help, he did, and now it looks more like a home again. We had the whole family here yesterday from my side and only missed Tiffany, Harry and Gayle from Rod's side. We certainly had a house full but also had a lot of fun playing games and cards. And, of course, basketball was on television for those who didn't want to play. We had a great time and are looking forward to the next time we can all get together!

Spencer and I will head back to Memphis on Thursday and see the doctor on Friday. We are expecting his IVIG levels to be perfect so he won't have to have it again. He really wants to get his central line out, so please be praying that happens soon.

March 14 - 9:30 am (BMT +243)

The big day is here! Spencer's 14th birthday! We are so blessed to be able to celebrate another birthday with our precious son. It seems like just yesterday he was scooting around in his walker with diapers, then we blinked and he was telling us "I big enough" so we would let him play big boy games with Ryan and Chayse. Oh how the years have flown! He must have been excited about today because he was up early and said he couldn't sleep last night. We're baking a chocolate cake right now. Yes, I said chocolate! I believe this is his first birthday ever when he didn't have strawberry or confetti cake. Chayse's bone marrow is still growing strong! :o) School lets out at 1pm today so we are picking Tyler and Marcus up so they can spend the day with Spencer. I know we will eat at Paglia's for lunch and then who knows what we'll do afterwards. It will be fun no matter what they do.

Chayse is doing so well and even decided to go to school today. I was so surprised. He thought that since it was just a half day he would be fine. He didn't even need any pain medication this morning. Thanks for all your prayers for him.

I have a testimony to the goodness of God that I would like to share with you. Last night at the hospital while Chayse was in recovery, Dr. Almutter, the anethesiologist, came out to tell me Chayse had done very well. He was doing what he typically does with parents and trying to make things at ease. I said the surgery was not major compared to what our family had been through in the past four years, and he proceeded to ask what I was referring to, so I told him! I told him how I had major back surgery four years ago, how Chayse had two ankle surgeries, how Rod dislocated his shoulder and had surgery, and how Spencer fought through leukemia. He told me he never would have known by talking to me that we had been through so much. He asked how we got through it and I told him "Only God!" and "Without Jesus we would never had gotten through one day". So, as I reflect on the past several years, I am so grateful to the One who gave His life for us so we might live an abundant, healthy life. Have a blessed day!

March 13 - 12:00 pm (BMT +242)

Well, praise the Lord. I was hoping to have a better report from the doctor regarding Chayse's knee, but unfortunately I don't. He is scheduled to go in later this afternoon for knee surgery. The doctor said it was infected and needed to be cleaned out. It shouldn't take very long and will not require an overnight stay. I've already been through the emotions and feel much stronger. As you know, it's been almost a year ago that the battle began with Spencer, and now this with Chayse. Thank God this surgery is minor and Chayse will recover quickly. I told my dad this just reconfirms the Lord has a big plan for our family otherwise the devil wouldn't be working so hard against us. God is still on the throne and no weapon formed against us shall prosper! We appreciate your continued prayers for our family as we continue to serve God and FIGHT HARD in this battle too.

March 12 - 7:00 pm (BMT +241)

We had another full weekend. It started out Friday night going to the Up 'til Dawn celebration at Northwest. Just the boys and I went because Rod had to get up early on Saturday to judge an Ag contest in Iowa. Chayse had a friend come and all three boys had great fun playing basketball and racquetball with other kids there. Spencer's confidence in basketball soared when he won the shoot out contest three times. I still remember the first few times we went to the gym after coming home from Memphis last fall. He was so discouraged because he couldn't make any shots on the basketball court and thought he would never get back to where he was before he got sick. I am so glad he kept trying! Anyway, the college kids worked hard and it really paid off because they raised over $51,000 for St. Jude's! They are an awesome group of kids and I am so proud of them! Natalie and her family was also able to be there for awhile. Her mom, Tausha, was able to share the good news that Natalie will go back to Memphis on March 27 to get her new eye. Please keep her in your prayers that all goes well for her.

Saturday I felt like I was in a fog trying to recover from being up most of the night Friday. I really am too old for all nighters! Marcus came over Saturday afternoon and planned on spending the night until he started feeling sick about midnight. Rod and I hated to take him home, but felt it was the best thing to do to keep Spencer safe. Rod took him home and I disinfected the rooms he was in. Add that to prayer and Spencer has been fine. Thank the Lord!

Today we are all still getting used to the time change. I really dislike getting used to losing an hour, but it sure is nice to enjoy longer hours of daylight, especially on gorgeous days like today. I certainly hope the winter is gone and spring is here.

Tomorrow morning Chayse has an appointment to have his knee x-rayed. About a month ago he fell on it and burst the bursa sac. It has been drained and hadn't been giving him any problems until last night. I'm not sure if the basketball and racquetball Friday night has anything to do with it or not. Whatever the case, he is in pain and has kept it elevated and iced all day. Please pray there is nothing seriously wrong with it. I'll update tomorrow to let you know what we find out. Until then, have a great evening and I hope you've had a chance to get outdoors and enjoy the weather.

March 8 - 3:30 pm (BMT +237)

Wow, what a difference a week makes! Last time I updated we were in the middle of a snow storm, but today it feels like spring! The temps are in the 50's and the sun is shining and it feels wonderful!

I bet many of you didn't realize that today is a national holiday, but it is according to my dad. Today is his birthday, so I will take this opportunity to wish him a "Happy Birthday". He and Mom are out enjoying the day together and I only wish we could be there with them. Next weekend we will all be together to celebrate both his and Spencer's birthdays. Until then, Daddy, just remember how much I love you! xoxoxo

Spencer was able to go to the Bearcat basketball game in Kansas City over the weekend. Even though they lost, he still enjoyed the weekend with Tyler. Those two have such a good time together. I love to hear them talk and laugh. Spencer gets so bored and misses his friends. It's hard for him to understand they have other things to do besides coming over every weekend. I say that, but really he does understand. He is just looking forward to being back in school and living a normal life again.

Tomorrow night is the Up 'til Dawn celebration at the university. The college kids have worked hard all year to raise money for St. Jude's and now comes the celebration. We are invited to go and participate in all the fun. It starts at 10pm and goes until 6am. We only plan on staying a few hours but still it will be a lot of fun.

March 1 - 9:15 am (BMT +230)

Ah, the first day of March and it's snowing to beat the band! I was very surprised school wasn't cancelled since all the schools around us were. Seems like the snow just about melts away and then another round comes.

Not much going on. Spencer has been keeping up with school and we've also been going to the gym where he shoots hoops and I work out on the bike. Spencer's 14th birthday is March 14 and I can't believe it's almost been a year since he was diagnosed. Oddly enough, looking back, it seems like the year has gone by very quickly. We certainly have learned a lot this past year, and are so thankful God was with us every step of the way.  

February 24 - 11:00 am (BMT +225)

We're back! And with good news! Last month Spencer's Helper T cells were at .22 and the doctor said they needed to be greater than .4 and now they are! Praise God! What this basically means is his immune system is getting stronger and can now tolerate things like fresh fruit and vegetables. For those of you who know Spencer, this is a huge thing, especially strawberries and grapes. Of course, we had to buy some before coming home last night. For the most part, Spencer has been released from the low bacteria diet, with a few exceptions. We must continue to be very cautious and careful. Dr. Madden said this was the time when most doctors would also take away the anti-fungal med, but she does not like to do that. She wants to do one thing at a time and see how he reacts. Please pray his body is indeed ready to tolerate the lifting of the low bacteria diet. I asked Dr. Madden if the Helper T numbers were influenced by the fact he had two doses of IVIG in January, and she said no. His body is doing this on its own. Hallelujah! We will go back in a month.

I wish you could have listened to the KFKF radio-a-thon Thursday and Friday. Hopefully many of you were able to listen online and were as touched as we were by the outpouring of support for St. Jude's. In just two days they raised over $332,550, and in the past year KFKF has raised over one million dollars for St. Jude's! Isn't that amazing? We were able to be a part of it and were so very blessed. We were able to meet other families that have also been blessed by St. Jude's. There were seven families represented from the Kansas City area. All the kids except Spencer have or had tumors, and mostly brain tumors. Spencer was the only one who had leukemia. That is one thing he is very particular about. He does not have leukemia anymore and wants everyone else to understand it is in his past, and never to be again.

So, now we are officially a part of the KFKF family of St. Jude kids. It's really not a family anyone would ever aspire to be in, but one that has more love and support than you can imagine. Rod, Spencer and I will be forever changed by our experience there. Thanks goes out to Renee and the entire KFKF staff and volunteers. There really are angels amoung us.

February 22 - 9:00 am (BMT +223)

We're getting ready for our trip back to Memphis later today. We're going to leave earlier from home so we can spend some time in Kansas City at the KFKF radio studio. Today they are having a radio-a-thon to raise money and awareness for St. Jude. This is our first time to do something like this, so we're really not sure what to expect. We may be on the radio telling our story, so be sure to tune in. If that is the case, I would guess we would be on sometime between 1pm-2pm. I have decided to paste the email I received today from Tausha Taylor, Natalie's mom, as well as the one from the radio station below. Please pray for us today as we travel to Kansas City and Memphis, and of course, for another good report from the doctors. Still, even almost a year later, we are overwhelmed with emotion as we remember how the Lord directed our path to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, TN.

Email from Tausha Taylor:

Once a year I forward this email I hope you won't be offended.  St. Jude Children's Research Hospital  has touched my life personally and my daughter Natalie's life more than anyone can imagine.  Please take a minute out of your day to read about how you can help my child and friends of ours that are fighting for their lives, like Spencer Barr (from Maryville).  Please make a donation if you can, do it in memory of a loved one you've lost to cancer and at the same time you'll be saving the life of a child.  No donation is too small!  You can listen as we partner with KFKF 94.1 FM in Kansas City to help raise awareness & money for this wonderful cause (for those of you that are outside of the KC area you can still listen to the radio-a-thon over the internet by going to www.kfkf.com). Natalie will be on the air tonight after 4:30 PM and tomorrow after 3:30 PM.   

Tausha Taylor (AKA...Natalie's mom)            

Here's a note from KFKF:  

Is there anything more important than the life of a child?  Your child.  Your grandchild.  Can you imagine getting the news that our St. Jude parents get?  Your child has cancer and their only hope is St. Jude.  Let that sentence sink in while you're thinking about a child in your life.  Now get some good news... you won't have to pay for the treatment.  You won't have to pay to travel to St. Jude.  You won't have to pay for food or lodging.  ALL you need to do is be there for your child.  Wouldn't that take a burden away?

Twelve years ago, KFKF joined the Country Cares network of stations committed to ending catastrophic childhood diseases. Along the way, we've met great kids like Natalie Caton (from St. Joseph), Dillon Moody, and Jake Lewis (both from KC). These three kids might be your neighbors.  All of these families got that lump-in-the-throat, raise the hair on the back of your neck news. All are doing better today because of what many of you have done for St. Jude.  We also met the family of Jason Sherman early on. He didn't make it.  I have never been sadder than that day I sat in a church in Smithville viewing Jason's open casket.  I hope I never have to do that again.

Today and Friday (2/22 and 2/23) will be our 12th Annual Country Cares St. Jude Radiothon.  Phone lines open at 5am at (816) 822-8300.  Toll Free at 1-800-339-HOPE. We'll also take donations on the web at www.kfkf.com.  I know some of you listen to KFKF around the country and around the world.  We'd love to have your pledges too!!

There are incentives.  All who become Partners in Hope on a credit card at the $30/month level (or higher) will be entered into a drawing for four tickets to see George Strait at Kemper Arena next week.  We have commemorative t-shirts and all Partners in Hope on a credit card will get one of those as well.  The biggest incentive is at the end of this, you'll know you did something to save a child.

If you made it this far in my note you may be saying you want to help but you just can't. I'm asking you to consider becoming a Partner in Hope at whatever level you're comfortable with.  If it needs to be $5 a month, start there. If you can do $10 a month, do that.  Get started and know how good it feels to be part of the solution every month.  Try and increase it every year.  Lisa and I started at the $30/month level 12 years ago and, because God has blessed us, we've been able to increase it every year.  We do it for the St. Jude kids who need us and four our VERY healthy four sons.

One other thing you could do for me is to forward this to anyone who might join our effort in your address book.  Remember... it takes all of us to make this happen.  I hope I don't meet you next year because you're joining our St. Jude families.  I hope we meet to celebrate what we've done for the children. Let's do what it takes to close the doors at St. Jude for good!

God Bless you and thanks for helping the kids!

Dale Carter
Program Director
Country 94.1, KFKF

February 20 - 10:00 am (BMT +221)

We had a nice holiday weekend. Grandpa and Grandma Barr came down Saturday and went to the Bearcat game with Rod. They stopped by afterwards and visited for awhile. Later that evening, Tyler came over and spent the night with Spencer. They had a good time playing PS3 together and catching up. The plan was to go to church Sunday but because of a broken windshield wiper the plans were spoiled. After getting it fixed, it was too late to make it, so we decided to head up to Treynor to visit Grandpa and Grandma Beard. Rod stayed home because he had to work on Monday and besides he was not feeling the best. The boys and I had a really nice time playing games and visiting with G-Pa and G-Ma. We stayed overnight and went to lunch and a movie on Monday before coming home that evening. We really enjoyed our time at their house and look forward to doing it again soon. 

February 16 - 1:45 pm (BMT +217)

I have received an update on Natalie via an email from her mom, Tausha, since she does not have a website. Here is what she wrote:

"We just got back from St. Jude late Tuesday night.  Natalie had surgery on her left eye on Monday morning.  The doctors said that when she was 5 years out from original diagnosis that she could start the reconstruction process because the chances of the cancer returning to the same area would be minimal.  Natalie  really wanted to start the reconstruction process so we made the arrangements for Feb. 12 since we would be traveling to St. Jude just to see the ENDO clinic and we didn't want it to be a wasted trip. Natalie was very concerned about having to miss school because this is the first year that she has had perfect attendance so we scheduled it for a holiday.  Our prayers were answered when her school was cancelled on Tuesday & Wednesday of this week due to snow.  This allowed us time to travel back home & for her to stay home an extra day to rest up from her procedure.  She returned to school yesterday and made it through the entire day without even needing her pain medication.  Kids are so tough & we know all the prayers are working.

We don't go back to St. Jude until the end of March and they will make her a prosthesis that will fit over the top of her left eye like a contact lens (but it's much more complicated than that and too hard to explain especially over email).  She is doing fine & each day when I get home from work I can see a difference in the level of swelling.  For now she is wearing a band-aid type of eye patch that matches her skin and prevents others from seeing the pinkish material between the eye lids when she goes to school & again when she goes to bed to prevent the drainage from getting on her bedding.  She has been having some minor bleeding out of the eye and quite a bit of drainage but the doctors say it's okay as long as it doesn't smell foul or the blood isn't bright red.  Sorry I hope I didn't just gross you out...enough with the details, right.  Anyway, she has to avoid swimming & getting the eye wet until we return next month to TN.  They also restricted her from attending dance classes for at least two weeks because they don't want her to pull her stitches.

She needs continued prayers that she doesn't get an infection, that the swelling will continue to decrease, and that she will be able to tolerate the temporary "shell" that was implanted over the muscle holding her eye.  At this point, we are not sure how her eye lid is going to react after the prosthesis is in place.  This is a major concern for us because the nerve that controls all eye lid movements had to be cut during her original surgery to remove her tumor 5 years ago.  If the new lens doesn't hold the eye lid up in a 'normal' fashion we only have about 4 options that we can try and none of them are very appealing to us.  WE are all hopeful that through prayer and the skilled prosthetician that we might not have to travel down that road."
 

February 16 - 10:15 am (BMT +217)

Good morning! Not much to report on today except it is still bitterly cold! The weatherman is promising warmer days ahead so we are hopeful.

I have added a prayer request section at the top. Right now there are just a few kids that are really needing our prayers. Of course there are many more but not all of them have websites to post. As I learn of them I will post them. Kyrie Thome is related to the Paul and Ann Heflin family and the second one, Taylor Gibbs, is the grandson of Joe Gibbs, the Redskins head coach.

Please continue to pray for Brian Halley (Spencer's 7th grade Social Studies teacher)  as he recovers from surgery where they removed his spleen, 2/3 of his pancreas, his gallbladder, and the remaining portion of his left adrenal gland. Basically the doctors opened him and up and took out everything that had cancer.

While you're praying be sure to give thanks to God for all He has done in the lives of so many, including Spencer. There are miracles all around us and sometimes we have to be reminded to be thankful for them! Hug your healthy children, spouse and parents!

February 14 - 6:15 pm (BMT +215)

Happy Valentines Day! We've had a good day with Grandpa and Grandma Barr. They came down to eat lunch with us and spend the afternoon. It was really nice because even Rod and Chayse got to eat with us. Hope you all have had a nice day with those you love too.

February 12 - 10:00 am (BMT +213)

This morning I have a prayer request. Many of you know Natalie Caton, the sweet little angel who is also a St. Jude patient. She has battled through many tough procedures to rid her body of tumors, especially one that took her eye. Early this morning she went in for reconstructive eye surgery. Following is part of an email Natalie's mother, Tausha, wrote that explains it a little better:

"After this procedure you might not be able to tell that much was done to her eye...but they are going to unstitch the eye lid, go behind the eye, pull the muscle forward and cover the eyeball with the muscle, then after it's tied inside the muscle, they will put a clear shell over her eyeball that is neatly folded & protected within the muscle.  That will be it for this procedure...if Natalie tolerates this shell...we will go back in about 2 months & she will get fitted for a lens that will look like her right eye but it will replace the clear lens.  They probably will not do anything with her eye lid for about a year but it's possible that the new lens may help hold the lid open a little & it's also possible that the eye might stay open a little after the lid is unsown.  It's really complicated but we have faith that they will make the eye lid work somehow."

We are looking forward and expecting a good report for Natalie. She is a very courageous little girl.

Everything else on the home front is good. Rod got home from Indy yesterday morning after a good trip. He was very tired from being woke up in the middle of the night by college students, but I think he had a good night's sleep in his own bed last night. Spencer and I are going to the gym in a little while to work out, so I better get ready. Happy Monday!

February 10 - 10:45 am (BMT +211)

Okay, I'm back! I got scolded a couple of time this week by not updating, so I figured I better get one in. It reminds me that so many people still check on Spencer's progress and continue to pray for his total and complete healing. For that we are all truly grateful.

It seems the question on everyone's mind is how we are doing, and I give all glory to God when I tell them we're doing great! The plan is to go back to Memphis February 22-23 to draw levels and labs. Again, we're going to try no IVIG for a month and then go back a month later to recheck the levels. Please be in agreement with me that Spencer's body is indeed making immunoglobulin and there will not be any bumps along the way, like shingles. Speaking of shingles, the lesions are so light they are barely noticeable. Everyone I talk to says shingles have been horrible for them or someone they know, so again, all glory to God that Spencer's were not so.

I have been in a reflective mood since the beginning of the year, and with good reason. It was four years ago in January that I underwent major back surgery. That same year Rob Brown, a young man who I had known since he was a boy, was killed in a car accident. I still smile warmly as I remember how much he had grown as a person upon returning from the Peace Corp. I will always miss him. Then when Chayse was a freshman he broke his ankle wrestling and had two surgeries. Rod dislocated his shoulder and also had surgery. Throughout this I told Spencer to stay healthy and not break any bones. He didn't break any bones, but he didn't exactly stay healthy. :o)

It was this week a year ago when we first noticed the lump on the left side of his face just below the jaw bone. A visit to the doctor confirmed it was an infected saliva gland and he was put on antibiotics. Looking back I wish I had pushed for a blood test, but everything happens for a reason and God's timing is best. The lump went away but his throat grew progressively worse. We spent the next few weeks on one antibiotic after another with really no improvement. Spencer continued to play basketball 2-3 times a week and looked as white as a ghost most of the time. Then the fevers came, uncontrollable fevers. He was on a regimen of Tylenol and ibuprofen every two hours to keep the fever from spiking to 104-105 degrees. His breathing was labored and I would lay awake beside him waiting for his next breath to come. There were calls and visits back to the doctor and even a test for mono was done. It wasn't until his 13th birthday on March 14 that I insisted he be referred to a specialist. Thank God Dr. King was able to squeeze us in that afternoon. He put Spencer in the hospital overnight to run a series of tests. He really thought it was mono even though the previous test came back negative. Looking back, I think Dr. King suspected cancer, but was going to be sure before he said anything. A gift I will be forever grateful for. He gave me hope for that day and evening. Then the bombshell came the following morning when Dr. King took me out in the hallway and announced Spencer had either leukemia or lymphoma. You can imagine how my world crumbled in only a matter of moments. I felt as if I was trapped in a nightmare and couldn't wake up. But God! God is always faithful and He will lead and direct your path. He led us to St. Jude's that very day. Many things had to be in place to be accepted at St. Jude's and every one of them were. Another sign God's hand was upon us. The rest of the story has been typed here within the contents of this website. A continuing story of God's goodness and mercy. You see, faith came and grew and grew the following minutes, hours, days, weeks and months. I remember visiting with another mom in the waiting room one day and she said her son asked why it was happening to him and her response was "why not?" That bore witness in my heart and I have never forgotten it. We have been in a spiritual battle, one we have won and continue to win. One that has made us stronger than before. The devil tried to defeat us, but could not. This battle only made our faith in God stronger. There is nothing impossible for God! Take Him at His Word! Believe what the Bible says and keep it foremost in your thoughts and hearts. Guard your heart and your mind and do not allow anything that does not line up with the word of God to take up residence there.

Again, I want to thank all of you who keep up on Spencer's progress and to those of you who continue to pray for him and our family. Obviously it has not been an easy battle, and everyone of us were affected by this disease, and in some ways still are. God bless you.

February 5 - 9:30 am (BMT +206)

Good morning! BRRRRRR it feels colder than it's been!! I guess since the groundhog saw his shadow last week we're in for six more weeks of winter. Okay, fine, but does it have to be this cold??

Spencer and the rest of us have been doing well. Rod has been busy with his job as well as taking night classes on Mondays. Chayse has been keeping busy with school and his job at Taco Johns. Spencer continues to do well with his school work and I feel like I am constantly busy chasing after all of them. Dr. Madden did giver her okay for Spencer to start back his workouts this week, so we'll be heading to the gym later this morning.

How about those Colts?!?!?! Anyone else as excited as I am over that win and Peyton Manning and Tony Dungy getting their first Super Bowl wins? What an amazing story of faithfulness for the Dungy family. It reminds me of the sermon Pastor Brian preached yesterday on Job. He was a blameless man and did not deserve any of his adversities yet God allowed them. The key is to not blame God but to trust Him to see you through. Pastor Brian said not to pray for justice but to pray for grace and mercy and then the justice would come. Oh, thank God for His grace and mercy!! I do not know how we would have gotten through this last year without God's grace and mercy. It has certainly sustained us! I would encourage you today if you are going through a tough time to find a time to be quiet before the Lord and let his mercy and grace flood your spirit and soul. God loves you and cares for you more than you'll ever know. He is more and more amazing and awesome than we'll ever know. The adventure is discovering that for yourself. Be blessed today.

January 31 - 3:30 pm (BMT +201)

Wow! 201 days since transplant! Does that sound like a long time to anyone else? We have been so blessed that Spencer has done so well. Even when he had shingles, he was in little discomfort or pain. I've talked to many people who have had shingles and have said it was not the case for them. All I can say is "Thank God!" I've also had questions from many who ask if Spencer is still receiving chemo, and the answer is a big N-O! Yeah! he will never have to have chemo again because he will never have cancer again! He tells me all the time that he is healed and we're in complete agreement with him.

We've really not done much of anything this week. Spencer has been doing homework and playing Playstation. Boring is always good! Tomorrow starts a new month which means one month of winter is behind us and we're that much closer to spring!  :-)

January 27 - 4:30 pm (BMT +197)

Our trip to Memphis was another good one. Spencer was to be in isolation the entire trip because of the shingles. However, the Grizzlies House did not have an isolation room available so they put us up at the Doubletree downtown. We loved it! The room was really big with two beds full of pillows and pillow top mattresses. Thursday evening we ate a nice dinner at TGI Fridays which was located in the hotel lobby. Friday morning we headed to the hospital where again Spencer was in isolation until after he was seen by the doctor where she verified he was no longer contagious. Isolation has its privileges because he was put in a separate room and everyone came to him. We started at 9am and was finished by noon so we got our flight changed and came home earlier than expected. We found favor on our flight home too as the gate agent changed our two middle seats to two together right up front. We're scheduled to go back in a month.

On a sad note, early this morning just after 4am an apartment complex just west of Main Street caught on fire. The entire building was gutted and we've heard 2-3 people lost their lives. One young man who played football for the Bearcats was badly burned and taken to Kansas City. We do not know the extent of injuries or loss, but please be praying for those involved. God is able to do exceedingly, abundantly, above all that we could ever ask or think, so let's pray for miracles.  

January 25 - 10:30 am (BMT +195)

Wow, I can't believe it's been four days since I last updated. Not much going on, so not much to report. The shingles are definitely scabbed over and almost entirely gone. Spencer is ready to get out of the house and do something fun. Too bad we have to go back to Memphis today since there is no school today. He was hoping to spend time with is friends. He has been working hard on his Language Arts paper as well as other assignments. I am so proud of him! With being in the hospital last week he missed out on school time with Mrs. Dempsey, but is working very hard to get caught up.

I better get our things packed for the our trip later today. Please pray for traveling mercies and I'll update when we return.

January 21 - 3:00 pm (BMT +191)

We woke up this morning to about four inches of snow. It's the kind of snow good for making snowmen, so that's exactly what Chayse, Spencer and I did. Of course, it couldn't be just any ordinary snowman, it ended up being a football snowman. Chayse spent quite a bit of time making the head look like a helmet and Spencer looked all over the yard to find the perfect stick to hold a small green football. Of course, the snowman had to have a number and it was unanimous decision it would wear #17 for Josh Mathews, our beloved Bearcat quarterback. Hopefully I can find the cord to download the pictures so you can all see them.

Right now we are all snuggled up with blankets and hot chocolate watching the Bears vs. Saints game. I'm looking forward to the next game and watching Peyton Manning and the Colts beat the Patriots. How do you like that for a faith statement? :o) The Mavericks have already beat the Heat, so we're having a good game day.

As you can probably tell, Spencer is feeling really good and the lesions are looking better every day. We're still being cautious and keeping him away from others, so we did not get to go to church today. Hopefully by next Sunday both his health and the weather will cooperate.

January 20 - 5:30 pm (BMT +190)

Happy Saturday! We're having a typical winter day. I went to Walmart for groceries before the snow came while the boys chilled out. A downright boring day otherwise. We like boring--much better than the alternative. Spencer caught his pinkie toe on the bathroom door last night and both Rod and I thought we'd be making another trip to the hospital. Thank God after putting ice on it, it was determined it was not broke. It sure is bruised today though. The snow started around 4pm and is coming right down. They say we can get two to six inches and the way it looks right now, we'll be getting the six. Chayse has to work tonight until 11pm, so I hope and pray he gets home safely. Take care, stay warm and enjoy your weekend.

January 19 - 1:00 pm (BMT +189)

Ah, how good it is to sleep in your own bed with your own pillow. I think both Spencer and I could have slept the day away, but there is too much to do today after being gone all week. I've already talked with our nurse at St. Jude's and set up our return visit for next week instead of the first week in February. Dr. Madden wants to see Spencer for herself. That's one thing about St. Jude doctors, they are very protective of their "kids". She has already scheduled him to receive IVIG again while we are there. As far as the shingles, the lesions are looking better today than yesterday. They look more pink than red today and are not as pronounced as they've been. Spencer is feeling really good and wants to get out and do something, but I will keep tight reigns on the boy for a few more days. Thanks again for your continued prayers.

January 18 - 12:20 pm (BMT +188)

Praise the Lord! The doctors were in this morning and gave us the good news. Spencer is free to go home today! Yippee! They were very pleased with Spencer's response to the meds and will now switch from IV to oral so we can take it at home. I know this is a direct result from all the prayers, so thank you all very much! I shouldn't be surprised that it was sooner and not later as that's how it has been from the beginning. "A quick healing that would even astound the doctors" has been our prayer. Right now, Rod is on his way and our nurse is trying to get the pharmacy to have some meds ready so we'll have some prior to getting the prescription filled in Maryville. Once again, we are reminded of God's goodness and grace and are so thankful.

January 17 - 10:00 am (BMT +187)

Good Morning. Things are not much different this morning. The lesions still have not popped except for maybe a couple. It's a waiting game. Wait for them to pop and scab and then go home. At least there doesn't seem to be any new lesions which is very good. It is evident there is a little more pain and discomfort when Spencer tries to move his neck and head. He is much more guarded when he moves now. Quite a bit of Calamine lotion was used yesterday to ease the itching. Benedryl via IV works best but it also makes him very tired so he likes to wait until bed time to take it.

Mrs. Dempsey, Spencer has been keeping up with his reading assignment and even posted on the blog last night. We did not bring anything else with us as we did not expect to be here so long. We'll play catch up next week!

January 16 - 10:30 am (BMT +186)

Good Morning. It looks like a sunny day outside, but not very warm. Rod drove home yesterday afternoon and will hold the fort down with Chayse until we can come home.  Spencer had a good night and we both rested pretty well despite all the interruptions. We noticed last night he has some lesions on his face now too. He thinks one on his neck actually popped last night. That's a good sign. The sooner they pop and scab over the sooner he gets released. The doctors did decide to go ahead and give him IVIG yesterday as they thought it would help him recover faster. ANYTHING to help the process along! Thank God Spencer is feeling pretty well with minimal pain and itching. I'm afraid boredom will be his worst enemy if he has to stay too long. He is wanting the computer, so that's my cue to sign off. Please keep the prayers coming! We appreciate them!

January 15, 2007 - 10:15 am

We have made our way to Children's Mercy in Kansas City after Spencer developed a small rash on his neck. On Saturday night, Spencer stated "his hair hurt". Cathy was unable to see anything but when Spencer got up on Sunday morning, he came into our room and said he thought he had some bug bites on his neck. We made the determination that they weren't bug bites but what we thought might be shingles so off to KC we went to trying to beat the weather. The roads weren't too bad until we got into KC but we made it to CMH at about 1:30. After waiting in the ER for 3 hours, Spencer was admitted with a case of the shingles. He feels very good but has been accustomed to home life so he is a bit bored. Treatment will include an anti-viral IV and he will be in the hospital for a few days Just a grain of sand on the road to recovery.

January 6 - 12:00 pm (BMT +176)

Spencer and I returned home last night from our monthly trip to Memphis. Our flights were delayed both ways but still not too bad. Since he was not getting IVIG we had nothing to do Thursday evening at the hospital. Instead we ordered Dominoes and had to wait over an hour and a half for it to be delivered. Let's just say we were both good and hungry by the time it finally arrived!

All of Spencer's lab work continues to look very good. Usually there are several tests that show either low or high results, but this last time it was not so. There were only two that came back that way this time, and one was his red blood count still being a little low and the other a liver test that still shows a little high. But here is my point: both have improved since last month and are now closer to being normal! Praise the Lord!! I know in my heart that very soon all his lab work will be normal. Lisa, the nurse practitioner, also said his T and B cells are bouncing back quite nicely too. All signs his immune system is coming back strong. In fact, she even gave him permission to go the Dallas Mavericks game against the Memphis Grizzlies next month when he goes back. She stressed that him going was a special thing and he was not to make a habit of being around large crowds of people, and that he had to move if people around him were obviously coughing and sneezing. Now Spencer is so excited about going back next month. Imagine that! Rod gets to be the one to get in on the action with him. I figured Spencer would have more fun with his dad than with me. I only wish there was a way Chayse could go with them.

January 3 - 4:30 pm (BMT +173)

Happy New Year! I can hardly believe it's the new year already. Once again, Christmas break went all too fast, and both Rod and Chayse headed back to school. Actually Rod's classes won't start until next week, but there is always meetings and preparations the week prior. Mrs. Dempsey is here with Spencer right and they are concentrating on Social Studies. She brought out his report card and we were very happy to see all A's. He is pretty well caught up with his class in all subjects except for Social Studies where he is two chapters behind them. They plan to work harder to get caught up just in case he gets to go back to school sooner than expected. There is always that hope! We fly back to Memphis tomorrow afternoon and will return home Friday afternoon. We expect it to be a fairly uneventful trip. We won't even go to the hospital until Friday morning and then just for labs and to see the doctor. Dr. Madden told us last month he will not be receiving any IVIG this time as they suspect his body is already making it and the only way to find out is to skip a month. We will find out next month when we go back. In the meantime, we continue to believe God that Spencer's body is producing the immunoglobulin.

December 26 - 10:30 pm (BMT +165)

Christmas has come and gone again this year. The weekend started out by going to Red Oak to have dinner with Grandpa and Grandma Barr. They have been remodeling the house Grandma Joanie grew up in and boy does it look different! It is very beautiful. We enjoyed the time spent there and reminisced about Christmas' gone by. Thank you, Rick and Joanie for a wonderful meal and gifts. The boys sure love those books with money in between the pages! Where did you say you can buy books like that again? :-)

Later that evening we drove to Treynor to spend time with my side of the family. It was good to visit with Mom and see how well she is getting along. We are all so proud of her and the progress she has made. Thank you, Jesus! And thank all of you for your continued prayers. Uncle Ron, Aunt Janet, and the three younger kids were there too. Ryan had to work a double shift and was unable to come. We sure missed him! Most of the evening was spent being silly and seeing how weird and wild we could make each others hair look. Even Spencer got in on the action! It was a hoot! Little Brianna can wrap just about anyone around her little finger as she had Spencer's hair full of clips. It was a fairly early evening as we knew the morning would come quickly and Uncle Mike, Aunt KT, and the boys would be there early. Unfortunately, the next morning Mike called to say Jake was not feeling well and would stay home with his mom while he and Connor came. Mike was not sure if it was something Jake ate or if it was the stomach flu. Even though Spencer's immune system is coming around, Rod and I did not think we could chance it and decided it would be best to take Spencer home. It was heartbreaking not to be able to stay, but we know in our hearts next year will be so much different. We will all be together again and we won't have to worry about weakened immune systems. It turned out Jake did have the stomach flu so the right decision was made. We're praying Jake feels better soon and that the rest of them don't get it! By the way, Mike, I heard rave reviews on your pizza! I guess you're just going to have to make it again when we're back.

Thanks, Mom, Dad and everyone for the gifts. I know we really like them and enjoyed our time with all of you!

Traditionally we go to Christmas Eve services but knew the church would be too full of people to sit off by ourselves. We had a nice, quiet evening with just the four of us. Of course, we made our traditional homemade pizzas and they tasted better than ever. And, of course, we watched The Christmas Story on television and laughed and laughed just like we do every year. Since both boys got their Christmas gifts from us early this year, they were not expecting anything else. It sure was fun to surprise them though with another gift each. Rod was able to get autographed jerseys and the looks on their faces were priceless! The boys surprised me with a Peyton Manning jersey (not signed) but Rod said he was working on getting me one! LOL Instead he gave me a 8x10 picture of him. When I told my mom what I got she asked if they forgot she raised a little girl! LOL I told her they sometimes forget and treat me like one of the guys. LOL No girlie gifts for me this year! Hmmm...I wonder if I should be concerned??? LOL

Christmas day was spent at home enjoying another quiet day watching football. Rick and Joanie were able to come and spend the day with us. Rod grilled a pork loin (yes, the weather was that nice!) and we had a yummy dinner. He joked that the pork was "Iowa turkey".

Thank you all for the Christmas cards and letters. We have enjoyed all of them. Once again, I did not get cards sent out, but that does not mean we don't think of all of you often. I keep thinking someone is going to invent some type of card that is sent just by thinking it done. That guy is going to be a billionaire! In the meantime, we're keeping you close in thought and prayer.

December 21 - 2:30 pm (BMT +160)

It really is beginning to look a lot like Christmas! Besides the lack of snow and cold temperatures, Christmas really is just around the corner. Today was the last day of school until the New Year and Marcus and Tyler are downstairs with Spencer playing games. Their laughter and conversation is like music to my ears! Truly an early Christmas present not only for Spencer, but for Rod and me as well. We love having "the boys" over and have missed times like these the last several months. We certainly look forward to more times like this as Spencer continues to fully recover and as his immune system gets stronger. He and I picked them up at school and it was really neat to be able to see all the other kids as they were leaving the school.

A belated "Happy Birthday" to my oldest brother, Mike. We're sure looking forward to being together with both sides of our family this coming weekend.

The boys are up in the kitchen now looking for something to eat, so I better get in there to supervise. LOL

December 19 - 9:45 am (BMT +158)

Good Morning! Only six more days until Christmas! Are you ready? I'm not! I thought I had lots of time, but with going to Alabama last weekend, I realized I don't have much time left. Oh, what fun would it be to have everything ready weeks ahead? Right, Sandy?

We had a really nice trip to Alabama. Everything about it was great from the weather to the company, except we didn't come home with the title. That was disappointing, but all the same, we are SO proud of our Bearcats!! They only lost 17-14 to the Lakers of Grand Valley State. We're all looking forward to next year and going back. Spencer was able to be on the sidelines with Rod and Grandpa Rick. That was a huge blessing! Perhaps you spotted him on TV! Not hard to miss with the blue mask.

I talked to my dad yesterday and he says my mom is doing very well. She has been going to rehab and is in good spirits. Thank you all so much for the continued prayers on her behalf. The doctor says this new medicine he has her on is very successful in nicotine addictions.

Spencer just walked in and is wanting me to fix him breakfast. You all have a great day and remember the Reason for the Season!!

December 13 - 9:30 pm (BMT +152)

I thought I had better do an update before time ran out and we were off to Alabama for the Division II National Championship game. We are all so excited and can hardly wait to cheer our Bearcats onto victory. The weather forecast is looking very good--another added blessing.

Spencer had his science teacher, Mr. Beatty, as his tutor the first two days of this week while Mrs. Dempsey was out of town. He really enjoyed the one-on-one with him and felt like he learned a lot about science. Of course, he was glad to have Mrs. Dempsey back today.

Rod and I went to a Christmas dinner at Dennis and Janice Padgitt's home this evening, and really had a nice time visiting with his colleagues. Their home is absolutely beautiful and the meal was very delicious.

My mom is doing very well and says she hasn't felt this good in months. We are all so thankful it was caught in time and her heart did not sustain any damage. Thank you all for your prayers on her behalf. As we have learned, prayer changes things!

The next update will come next week after we return from Alabama, and hopefully with a championship trophy! Until then, God bless and good night.

December 11 - 2:30 pm (BMT +150)

Wow, what an eventful weekend! I spoke Saturday morning for a women's group at a local church. It was a great time and I really enjoyed meeting new friends and sharing our story of how God has healed Spencer.

Saturday afternoon I was talking on the phone with my mom when she suddenly had to hang up. Come to find out she was having symptoms of a heart attack, so my dad took her to the ER. Long story short, she ended up with a stint in her heart and had to stay a couple of nights in the hospital. Thank God she was able to get to the hospital in time and not have any damage to her heart. Please keep her in your prayers as it is absolutely imperative she quit smoking.

I drove up to Council Bluffs Sunday morning to be with Mom and Dad for a few hours. After I was reassured she would be fine, I hit the road again and made it back in time for the kick off of the Bearcat game. It was awesome being at Bearcat Stadium under the lights. They played great and defeated Bloomsburg 33-3, so off to Florence we go next weekend. I love to see my boys (and by "boys" I mean all three of them--Chayse, Spencer, AND Rod) when they get all excited. Their eyes just sparkle and they can hardly contain themselves. It's just priceless! We were some of the last people to leave because there was still some of the goal post standing and there was no way we could leave without it! Oh, what fun we are having!

December 8 - 9:00 pm (BMT +147)

We're back home from Memphis with another good report. Once again, all the doctors were impressed with Spencer's progress and said we could wait another month before going back. Usually Spencer gets IVIG but we were told he would not get it during our next visit in January. Rather they want to wait until February to see if his body is making immunoglobulin on its own, which they suspect he is. We are soooo thankful!

December 6 - 1:45 pm (BMT +145)

This morning we went to the Community Center so Spencer could work out with Mike. I think he is feeling better and gaining energy, even though afterwards he doesn't feel the best for about 30 minutes. It is quite an adjustment for his body.

Today we are getting ready to fly back to Memphis tomorrow. The time home has gone by much quicker than expected. A month seemed like it would be a long time! It's just never enough when you're surrounded by the people and things you love most. There is not a day that goes by that Spencer doesn't comment on missing his friends and is looking forward to be healthy enough to go back to school. It's hard when his friends are busy with school and activities and he has so much time on his hands. This is another reason why working out twice a week is good for him. He has been doing very well with his school work, and that too has helped keep him busy.

Last night Spencer and I went to Northwest to speak at the Up 'til Dawn team meeting. We met some really impressive college students who are passionate about St. Jude's. Emily was a doll and was so compassionate towards Spencer and me. I was asked to speak 10-15 minutes and ended up speaking closer to 30 minutes! (Spencer says it was 40 minutes) The time flew and I had no idea I had spoken that long. I love to tell the story of how God directed our paths to St. Jude and how He used the doctors there to heal our son. It reminds me of the scripture God gave me when this whole ordeal started. Revelations 12:11, "and they overcame him (the devil) by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony." Jesus has done all He is going to do--He has suffered and died for the sins of the world and it is finished. But we still play a very important part, and in this case, it's the word of our testimony. We all have a testimony of the goodness of the Lord, so I encourage you to share your story with whoever will listen! I like to think of it this way: it's like putting another log on the fiery inferno the devil will spend eternity in! Amen!

December 5 - 2:30 pm (BMT +144)

What a difference a few days makes in the weather! Despite the wind, the temperature is in the 50's and it's sunny and beautiful outside today. Of course, we are all hoping for good weather for Sunday's Bearcat game. It will be televised on ESPNU at 4:30pm, so be sure to either come cheer the Bearcats on or catch them on television.

Spencer and I went to town to pick up a few groceries, and I ended up buying a few things to make Christmas goodies with. It's hard to believe Christmas is just around the corner. The house is decorated and the traditional Christmas shows are playing on TV. Spencer and I are really getting into it this year. Perhaps because we're not busy with work and school like other years.

We received an update in the mail from St. Jude's and it served as a nice reminder of the Thanks and Giving campaign they are doing. This is the third year the hospital has done this, and basically it is a national initiative that encourages consumers to "give thanks for the healthy kids in their lives, and to give to those who are not, with the hope that some day all children will be healthy." It was developed in 2004 by National Outreach Director Marlo Thomas and her siblings Terre and Tony Thomas, children of hospital founder Danny Thomas. Funds raised by the campaign support the life-saving mission of St. Jude.

This year, 42 companies are on board to support Thanks and Giving, including long-time St. Jude supporters Target, Domino's Pizza, Kay Jewelers, Williams-Sonoma and CVS/pharmacy. New partners this year include Gymboree, Dollar General, Diane von Furstenberg, Saks Fifth Avenue, AutoZone, Club Libby Lu and Sag Harbor.

Our family is supporting this program by shopping with these merchants and we encourage you to do the same. For a complete list of merchants, visit the St. Jude website at www.stjude.org

Another way our family is helping the efforts of St. Jude is by speaking tonight at the Up 'til Dawn All Team Meeting at Northwest Missouri State University. Up 'til Dawn is a national fund-raising program created for college students that unites faculty, students, the surrounding community and sponsors in helping the children of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Just this morning, my parents told me about some friends we've known for a long time who have decided to make St. Jude's their charity of choice. I cannot express the emotions my heart holds when I hear of things like this. To be on the receiving end of world renowned research and treatment is something we do not take lightly. We are extremely blessed that we were able to take advantage of the services St. Jude's provides for their patients and families. They do not charge the families one dime more than their insurance will pay. Not one. They provide the transportation to go back and forth for treatments as well as housing and meals, and still they do not charge the families. St. Jude's operates soley on the support of partners and donations, so please, when you're out shopping this holiday season, remember to buy from the merchants who support the hospital. Before our experience with St. Jude's, we were unaware of what they provided. We went about our busy lives and refused to be moved by the need of so many children. Life has a way of getting your attention and after seeing first hand the beautiful faces of so many children, including our own, we know we could never ignore such a great need again. So take the time to praise God for your healthy children and do what you can to support the life saving efforts of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Many already have and it's the reason Spencer and many other children are able to receive life saving treatments.

November 30 - 9:15 am (BMT +139)

BRRRRRR......I guess we're finally getting a taste of winter and I have to say I don't like it much! I can safely say my husband doesn't either! At least the ice and snow missed us, unlike our friends to the south. Take it easy guys and be safe.

Spencer started working out with Mike Creason earlier this week. The plan is to meet with him two mornings a week to help get his strength and endurance back. Mike says Spencer is still very strong, but is unable to do many repetitions yet. That is very understandable considering all his body has been through this past year. We wanted Spencer to work out with someone who could make sure he was doing everything right and safely. He certainly has been sore!

He was pretty tired after the first workout and was dragging by the time Mrs. Dempsey arrived for school. Part of that was because right after the workout we met with Whitney Keys, a journalist from the Northwest Missourian. It took almost an hour to retell our story from the past several months. She was very kind and took several pages of notes, so look for the article in today's paper. Yesterday we met with the paper's photographer at Lamkin Gym where we met up with Josh Matthews. Josh and Spencer tossed the football around and talked strategy for the big game on Saturday. Every game day, Josh shows his support for Spencer by wearing his Super Barr t-shirt under his jersey. Spencer thinks Josh is very cool and likes him a lot. Of course, so do the rest of us!

November 27 - 10:30 am (BMT +136)

Well, hello again! We have had a very busy and eventful week. Since the weather has been so cooperative, Rod and Spencer have been putting up outdoor Christmas lights. This is something they have enjoyed doing together in past years and definitely wanted to do again this year. We were trying to remember if it had been two or three years since the last time they put them up. Regardless, they have worked hard and are determined to win the imaginary Wilcox lighting contest!

Thanksgiving was simply amazing. How many times have we gone through the motions of day to day living and really not given proper thanks to the One who gave us eternal life. I shudder to think of how many times, how many moments I have taken for granted over my life time. Not that I won't ever again take things for granted, after all I am only human, but I have certainly purposed in my heart to live each day to its fullest and to recognize the gifts and blessings from God. For instance, the gift of family and friends. How wonderful it was to spend Thanksgiving weekend with our families. God provided health to every one---not one runny nose in the bunch!  Even amidst the number of people, God provided quiet moments of cherished conversations that bonded relationships more securely in trust and love. Everything about the day was perfect, from the scrumptious meal Mom prepared to the games we enjoyed both inside and out. 

I also had the opportunity to visit on the phone with my cousin from California. Kim and I were never very close growing up, mainly because she was older and we grew up so far away from each other. Sometimes it's hard to know what to talk about with someone you haven't seen or been around in many years. But, not this time! Kim and I have something very precious in common and that is our love for Jesus and our desire to live our lives for Him. We had a sweet conversation on the goodness of God and all the blessings He has provided for our families. It still amazes me that I can hardly go anywhere without someone telling me they are praying for Spencer and our family and how this simple website has touched their hearts. Honestly, it blows me away how God can use anything to reach the hearts of His children. So, I try to write the things on my heart and hope and pray God will use them in anyway He sees fit. It really is a Romans 8:28.

We had a wonderful time Friday evening with Rod's parents. Rod wanted to fry a turkey so we had another big meal with them here at our house. Saturday was yet another beautiful weather day for the Bearcat game. The Bearcats beat Midwestern Texas 27-0 in the second round of play off action, which means we play another home game next Saturday against Chadron State. A win against Chadron State means another home game the following Sunday evening. ESPN is planning on bringing in lights and broadcasting that game live. How exciting will that be?!

I'm sure I have forgotten a few things, but Spencer is hungry and wanting me to fix him something to eat. Have a blessed day and week, and thanks for taking the time to check in on us! 

November 20 - 10:15 am (BMT +129)

Wow, I can't believe it's been so long since I last updated. Please forgive me. It seems like the days are flying by and we are staying busy. Spencer has been keeping up with his school work while I've been keeping up with the house. Rod and Chayse have been busy with school and work. We are all looking forward to the upcoming holiday and being with our families. We certainly do have much to be thankful for this year. Spencer and I have plans to dig into the storage room downstairs and pull out the Christmas decorations. It may take all week to sift through it all, but hopefully we will have the tree up by the weekend. We are so thankful to God for Spencer's health and continued healing and strength in his body. 

Rod and I had a wonderful getaway Saturday evening and Sunday. Thanks to John and Kris Teale for the Chiefs tickets! We really enjoyed our time together and want to thank you for thinking of us. It was just what we needed! God bless you!

November 14 - 4:30 pm (BMT +123)

I've been holding out on updating until I heard back from the hospital regarding the results from last Friday's procedures. Ruth, our nurse, called this afternoon with the results, and it all continues to look so very good. Praise God! Praise God! Praise God! The lumbar puncture (spinal tap) was negative for blasts, the BMA (bone marrow aspirate) showed no evidence of leukemia, the chimerism tests done in both his line and bone marrow still show 100% donor (thanks to big brother's strong bone marrow), and his T cells are going up. All wonderful news!! Ruth said Spencer is certainly going in the right direction. Of course, we know it, but it's always good to have confirmation from the tests and doctors.

We also received confirmation that Spencer will have his wish of going to the Super Bowl granted, not this year, but next year in 2008. At first he was kind of disappointed, but we pointed out that by 2008 he will no longer have his central line or have to wear a mask. By that time his immune system will be fully recovered and back to normal, so being around large crowds of people will not be a problem. Of course, this gives all of us something very exciting to look forward to.

His home bound tutoring is going very well and he and Mrs. Dempsey seem to get a lot accomplished. We are very thankful Mrs. Dempsey agreed to teach him. Sounds like they may be needing to use the computer, so I better sign off for now. Have a good evening and God bless.

November 11 - 10:20 am (BMT +120)

Hello to all our family and friends! Spencer and I returned home from Memphis last night with a good report. Spencer's immune globulin level (IVIG) looks really good which means he doesn't have to go back for another month! Thank you, prayer warriors for never giving up and still praying until this whole thing is forever behind us. I know it is easy to forget to pray especially when Spencer is doing so well, but it is the reason he is doing so well. God is answering our prayers!

It was a good thing we flew out earlier on Thursday because we ended up spending over four hours in the Med Room instead of just two hours. The nurse forgot to pull the air filter on the IVIG med so instead of taking only two hours to administer it took four. They were concerned he was having a reaction because his skin started looking red and blotchy, so they gave him Benedryl and monitored him before proceeding. It all turned out well and we spent the rest of the evening relaxing at the Grizzlies House.

Friday was an early morning with labs starting at 7:30am. Spencer had a bone marrow aspiration (BMA) and a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) afterwards. Dr. Madden wanted to see him after procedures. She noticed his hands were red and prescribed some ointment because she thought it looked like GVHD (Graft Vs. Host Disease). She also prescribed some pain meds because he was having some pain from the procedures and they did not want him to be in pain on the plane ride home. That meant waiting for the pharmacy to fill them which, trust me, does not happen very quickly at all. In the meantime, we missed our van to the airport. I was not worried because they always schedule your transportation over two hours prior to your flight, and I knew we still had plenty of time to make it. Finally we got the meds filled and headed outside to find another van had just pulled up. It was Ann, one of the drivers we previously met on other trips, and have become friends with. She was more than happy to take us, but first she asked if it was okay she took another family home first. We still had plenty of time and was able to see another part of Memphis we hadn't already seen. I think she would give us a complete tour of Memphis if she had the chance.

Spencer did not need anything for pain and got along very well on the ride home. We stopped and ate supper before coming home and were quite surprised when the snow started flying in St. Joseph. You wouldn't know it by looking outside this morning. The sun is shining and looks beautiful. I hope the weather is as nice in Boliver for the Bearcat football game today. Rod took off early this morning with his dad and hooked up with Jeff and Brandon. In the meantime, the boys and I will hopefully have a nice, quiet, and relaxing day at home. If you can have such a day doing laundry! LOL ;-)

November 8 - 4:30 pm (BMT +117)

Good Afternoon! We have had a wonderful day enjoying the beautiful weather. Our day got started with the installation of our new Internet service, so hopefully now we can respond to emails quicker. After that, we met Rod for lunch and then headed out to Mozingo to hit golf balls at the driving range. Since school was let out early today, Chayse met up with us and he got in on the fun too. Afterwards, Rod headed to Savannah for a meeting and the boys and I went to the Health Center so Chayse could get his flu shot. Mrs. Dempsey did not come today because Spencer will be able to get some school hours in while in Memphis tomorrow afternoon. Our flight departs tomorrow morning at 11:10am and we'll be back in Kansas City at 4:12pm on Friday. Another quick trip, but we're taking the earlier flight out tomorrow so we have enough time to get all the labs and etc. in before the bone marrow aspiration Friday morning. By doing so, we can still get back home at a decent time on Friday. As always, please be praying for a good report and no complications from the aspiration. Just as soon as he is released from recovery, we will head to the airport to fly home. We continue to stand on the promises found in Psalm 91 and believe God is keeping Spencer, and our entire family, under the shadow of His wing where no weapon formed against him shall prosper, and no evil shall befall him. Thank you all for standing in faith with us through out this amazing journey.

November 7 - 11:15 am (BMT +116)

What a beautiful fall day! I can't wait to get out and enjoy it. We have some errands to run in town today and, of course, I will vote before coming home. Spencer is still feeling very well and is looking great. Mrs. Dempsey came out yesterday afternoon and got him started on his school work. He has done very well this morning with reading. It seemed like school  was the first thing on his mind when he woke up and he was trying to figure out what to do first. Since he does not enjoy writing, I convinced him to get his journaling out of the way first. This is something I hope he starts to enjoy. He tried convincing me it wasn't necessary in every day life, but I had the stronger argument. He thinks he is going to start out being the "big honcho boss" and not have to ever write! LOL Oh, the things the boy still needs to learn! ;-)  I better get going if I'm going to get the things I need done before Mrs. Dempsey comes this afternoon.

November 5 - 5:15 pm (BMT +114)

We have had a busy weekend. It started off Thursday night with the Spoofhounds coming away with a victory. Chayse was able to start defense and had an awesome game. He was in on 2 1/2 sacks plus many other plays. Let's just say his entire family is very proud of him. It was one great game leading up to another one on Saturday when the Bearcats defeated the Pitt State Gorillas 41-14 at Arrowhead Stadium. We got there early and set up for our annual tailgating event. "Chicken Rick" fried up chicken, bunny bites, and shrimp. The bean bag toss was great fun as well. It was an all-around great day spent with family and good friends.

At church this morning our congregation celebrated 25 years of being a church. A special choir was put together and sang a medley of favorite songs from over the years. God has built a great church and is continuing to build it. The whole service made me realize once again how very thankful I am that God led us to be a part of this church. 

We had to rush back to Maryville because Chayse had to work at 2:00pm. An enticing aroma is filling the air from the crock pot. I'm trying out a new Italian style roast beef recipe that should be done by the time Chayse gets home from work in about an hour from now. Other than that, it has been a quiet day here at the Barr home. I hope you were able to spend this beautiful fall weekend with those you love.

November 2 - 5:30 pm (BMT +111)

Grandma Beard came down and spent the day with us today. I had asked her to come down to help me clean out a closet, but we found better things to do. We ate lunch out at Paglia's and did some errands. We spent the afternoon making bean bags for Saturday's tail gate event at Arrowhead. Rod is making a bean bag toss game and I was assigned the task of making the bean bags, except they are actually made of corn not beans. It was a group effort with Grandma cutting, Spencer filling the bags with corn, and me sewing them up.

Mrs. Dempsey has kindly agreed to be Spencer's tutor. We visited on the phone yesterday and we're going to try to get started next Monday. It will be good to have more order to his daily routine. I admire all you stay at home moms, and especially those of you who home school your children too. What a huge responsibility that is! All my life I've wanted to stay home and take care of my family and home and now I'm finally getting to do that. I would welcome any tips from all you successful moms! I am on my feet from the moment I get up in the morning until late evening, but I am not complaining, and hopefully my family is enjoying more home cooked meals.

Chayse has a football game tonight--the last one of the season, so I better get ready to go watch him. Looks like I better be finding my long johns to wear! Take care everyone!

October 30 - 11:30 am (BMT +108)

We're back!! Sorry for the lack of updates last week, but Rod took the computer with him on his trip to Indianapolis for the FFA convention. He was gone all week so that meant we were without a computer here at home. Spencer and I flew to Memphis last Thursday evening and arrived at the Grizzlies House just a little after 7pm. We had a good flight without any delays. Friday morning was an early start with clinics starting at 7:45am. All the appointments were on time and everything went smoothly. Spencer's labs and chemistries continue to be good and going in the right direction. His liver tests are a little high but have been stable for the last 3 or 4 times, so the doctors are not very concerned. Dr. Madden did recommend taking him off the Zantac and using only as needed. She thinks this will help those numbers go back to the normal range. We are scheduled to go back in two weeks and at that time he will have a bone marrow aspirate again. Because we want to be sure to get all the lab work done before the procedure, we will leave on the earlier flight that Thursday and still return on the Friday afternoon flight. Pray those flights are all on time with no delays. Our flight home this past Friday was delayed due to mechanical problems so we got in later than we expected in Kansas City.

We were able to catch most of Chayse's football game in Plattsburg though. Good job, Spoofhounds on the victory! It was so good to those boys smiling and having fun both during and after the game.

While in Memphis, Spencer and I got to meet two NASCAR drivers, Kenny Wallace and Carlos. Carlos never told us his last name, but he did say he was #12 and drove the purple Barney car. Kenny Wallace drives the #22 Auto Zone car and really spent a lot of time visiting with Spencer and telling him how proud he was of him. Of course, I have pictures and will get them downloaded soon.

We spent Saturday at the Bearcat game in Warrensburg playing Central. We got there with just enough time to tail gate before the game, and afterwards we all went over to the Harlin's house to eat and hash over the game. Little 3 year old, Nick, was the star of the evening. He loves his "Aunt Cathy" and had to show me many of his things. Of course, I did not mind at all!

Sunday we went to church and Pastor Brian preached his final illustrated sermon for the month of October. It was every bit as good and powerful as the first time he preached it several years ago. The sermon was entitled Tour of Hell and he interviewed four people who made poor decisions and now have to spend eternity there.

Chayse and Spencer carved pumpkins last night. Spencer was the only one to get his finished before it was time for bed. Chayse will have to finish his later, but I will post pictures of his when he does. His is a lot more detailed and will take more time.

Tonight there's another football game in Plattsburg again, so we'll be going to that. I think that's about all that's been going on this past week. We certainly have been given a couple of beautiful fall days. I hope you get an opportunity to get outside and enjoy it.

October 23 - 10:15 am (BMT +101)

Wow, can you believe it? Day 101 and we've already been home over two weeks. What a blessing it has been to be home instead of in Memphis. We truly recognize this as a gift from God! Spencer has been able to do pretty much everything he has wanted to since being home. Thanks to Dr. and Mrs. Hubbard, he was even able to see the Bearcats play in the cold and rain on Saturday from a nice, warm suite. Spencer especially enjoyed Brandon coming over after the game to talk Bearcat football. His eyes just light up when he gets to be around other true blue Bearcat fans. Thanks, Brandon, for taking the time and being with us, we had fun!

Yesterday we were able to go to church and eat lunch as a family again. I treasure the times the four of us get to spend together. With Chayse being a junior I know he will soon be going off to college and we won't have as many chances to be together. Oh, I don't like to think about that! So, instead I will enjoy the time we do get together and try to make every day better than the last.

Today will be a day of playing catch up on the laundry and trying to find places to put away the things coming from Memphis. Yes, Rick and Joanie should be pulling in sometime today with the rest of our things and our van. God bless them! They have done so much and yet keep doing things for us. 

October 21 - 10:30 am (BMT +99)

Spencer and I had a really nice visit with Grandpa and Grandma Beard, as well as cousins Jake and Connor. They did not have school on Friday, so they spent Thursday night too. My parents did not tell them or my brother, Mike, that we were there, so when Mike brought them over, they were all surprised. Mike was able to stay and eat supper so at least we had some time together. Now we're really looking forward to seeing the whole family over Thanksgiving.

Because of this morning's rain, we opted out of the Homecoming parade. The forecast calls for rain off and on all day with temps holding around 50 degrees until tonight when it is supposed to dip down to 29 degrees! BRRRRRRR!! Thanks to Dr. and Mrs. Hubbard for inviting us to see the game from their stadium suite. We certainly look forward to staying warm and dry for the game.

October 19 - 11:15 am (BMT +97)

Thank God for the sunshine and the Son shining this morning! Spencer and I are getting ready to head up to Grandpa and Grandma Beard's for a visit, so the next update may be late tomorrow night or even Saturday. This weekend is Northwest Homecoming and Spencer and Natalie Caton will be representing St. Jude's in the parade.  She is doing so well and also receiving very good reports. I hope and pray Saturday's weather is as nice as today. 

October 18 - 10:00 am (BMT +96)

I have been in kind of a "funk" this morning and not really knowing why. The weather is turning colder and it is still rainy. I finally got a chance to get online and read the updates of some of our St. Jude friends. Praise God, many are doing very well and those who have lost their children are moving on. I really think that is what is causing my sadness this morning. It's like the heavens are still pouring down tears on those left behind, but, nonetheless, cleansing and healing tears. Even throughout the sadness, I know these families, as well as myself, are praising God in their personal storms. I praise Him because He loves us and gives us peace even when we do not understand. There are many more reasons to praise Him, but if for that reason alone, I will continue to live my life for the One who laid down His so that we might have life and life more abundantly.

October 17 - 1:30 pm (BMT +95)

I have spent the day cleaning and going through "mystery" baskets. :o) I have found things I didn't know we still had! As I try to keep the house clean, I think of so many of you who spent hours here cleaning and packing things away, and those who did not come, but provided cleaning supplies. We are still overwhelmed by the outpouring of support we have received from so many. And then there are the people we run into every day who remind us they are praying for Spencer and our family. How can we ever thank you enough? Please know we pray for the blessing of God in your lives too.

October 16 - 3:30 pm (BMT +94)

I'm sorry there was not an update yesterday, but it seemed like the day flew by. We started the day by going to church as a family and believe me, it was so nice. Pastor Brian gave another remarkable illustrated sermon. Afterwards, we drove to Kansas City to eat at Famous Dave's BBQ. It was so worth the wait! Memphis thinks their BBQ is better, but we don't! There's nothing like KC BBQ! After we ate, we did some shopping and stopped by Jeff and Amy's for a short visit. Before we knew it the day was getting away and we headed home. The evening was spent with all of us doing our own thing be it computer work, homework, video games, or reading, but the main thing was we did it all under the same roof. What a blessing!

Today Spencer and I ate lunch with Rod and hung out in town until he was done teaching at 3:00pm. I insisted to get the computer before either of them so I could do this update! :o) That is one thing that is different than being in Memphis. I sure do miss the high speed connection we had there! Tonight we will watch Chayse play football at home here in Maryville. I'm hoping the rain holds off until after the game is over!

October 14 - 10:50 am (BMT +92)

Let me start this mornings update by saying, "HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MOM!!!"  I thank God for you and all you have done for me and our family. Your love and sacrifice has not gone unnoticed and I know your crown in heaven will be full of priceless jewels. We ALL love you very much! Have a blessed day!

Okay, now to how our last two days have been since I last updated. When we arrived at KC we discovered our flight was delayed almost an hour due to weather conditions in Detroit. They were having sleet and snow already! We made it to Detroit and had just enough time to find the bathroom and grab a quick sandwich before the next flight started boarding to Memphis. We arrived in Memphis at 10:30pm and after getting a cab and stopping by the hospital to get a voucher, we made it to the Grizzlies House and were in bed by 11:30pm. It was an early morning with the alarm sounding at 6:30am. For the most part, everything was on time for the clinics, and I even caught the shuttle over to the Target House to get more medical supplies from our storage unit. Good thing I did because after we saw the nurse practioner, Ken, he thought it would okay to go home for two weeks instead of just one. He has only seen Spencer one other time and asked him if he was sure he had a transplant because he was way too healthy. Praise the Lord! That's what we like to hear! You should have seen the smile on Spencer's face when he was told he had two weeks at home. It was priceless! Of course, this meant I needed more meds and even more supplies to get us through two weeks. It all worked out and we got them just in time to catch the shuttle to the airport. Thanks to those of you who prayed for an upgrade because we were upgraded to first class on our non stop flight home. It was so nice, especially since I had middle seats on both the flights the night before.

We are rejoicing and praising God for all the blessings He is bestowing on our family. We give Him all the glory and praise as we know it is Jesus who has healed our precious son.

Today Rod and Spencer are going to the Bearcat game in Washburn and Chayse is hanging out with some buddies. I am going to spend some time with my friends today too. All this is part of the healing process as it is very important to be with people who love and care about us.

October 12 - 10:30 am (BMT +90)

Well, I just found out our flight to Memphis was cancelled and have been put on a connecting flight through Detroit. Instead of getting into Memphis at 6:30pm we will get in around 10:00pm. So much for hanging out at the Grizzlies House and relaxing tonight. We have an early morning so I'm sure we will go right to bed when we get there. As of right now the return flight tomorrow is still due to depart Memphis at 2:45pm and arrive Kansas City at 4:10pm. Please pray for all the flights to be on time and that we get good seat assignments. An upgrade to first class would be nice! :-)

I kept Chayse home from school again today. I think he has been suffering from allergies and has had a headache. I am praying it is not anything else! The weather has been all over the place and he tends to get this way when the seasons change. I have made him wear a mask and have followed him around disinfecting everything he touches. Please pray for him and our entire family to be well. The doctors have told us if one of us is sick we are to leave the house so as not to infect Spencer. That is the last thing I want! I want all four of us to be under the same roof and healthy. I am still standing on the promises in Psalm 91 and believe we are finding refuge under the shadow of God's wing.

I do not plan on carting this computer with us to Memphis so the next update may not come until late Friday night or Saturday morning. Thank you all for keeping our family in prayer!

October 11 - 4:45 pm (BMT +89)

Good afternoon! Finally, it looks like the rain has stopped and the sun is shining, but it is still cold!

Spencer and I went to the junior high games last night with Mike, Michelle, and Lynette. Spencer was the only one who stayed nice and dry in the press box. I was invited to stay with him there, but decided he needed to have time away from Mom. He enjoyed visiting with Robert and seeing all his friends again. After the game, the entire team and many of the parents went to McDonald's. It was a lot of fun watching him interact with his buddies.

We head back to Memphis tomorrow and will be back home Friday afternoon. Spencer has already told me he wasn't going. ;-) He is really enjoying being home! At least from now on we will spend more time at home than in Memphis. The worst is definitely behind us and that makes all the difference in the world! It has been so nice running into different people around town and at the games. I just hope you all know how very important each of you are to us.

October 10 - 12:00 pm (BMT +88)

Let me start by wishing my "other" parents a very HAPPY ANNIVERSARY! I should have said something last night, but the date didn't register until this morning. Rick and Joanie, words cannot even begin to express our love and gratitude for ALL you have done for us not only in the recent months, but our entire married lives. We pray a special blessing on your many more years together.

Plans changed last night as Rod and I made a parental decision to have Spencer stay home and rest instead of going to Platte City for Chayse's game. We have literally hit the ground running from the time we landed in Kansas City Friday night., and it was time for Spencer to slow down and rest. He and Rod went to HyVee and bought some of his favorite snacks and hung out and rested all evening. Rod said Spencer slept the evening away until he had to wake him up at 9pm to give meds. Spencer wanted to wait up for Chayse to get home, but just couldn't stay awake. He said he slept well and feels much more rested today. I know he does because he is onery again!

I spent some time this morning reading the websites of some of our St. Jude friends. I got caught up on Jake and the funeral arrangements. It sounds like they really had a life celebration for him! That is just so cool. What the devil intends for evil, God turns around for good for those who love Him. And love Him, they do! This family is amazing! Jake's Journey touched millions of people and many, many people came to Lord through his short life. As I was reading the warm words his aunt typed, I had tears streaming down my face and prayed that Spencer's journey would do the same thing. I pray for multitudes of people to come to Jesus and that this journey would not be in vain. God bless you and keep you in all your ways.

October 9 - 3:45 pm (BMT +87)

I thought I had better do an update before I got lynched! Just let me begin by saying these last few days have flown by. Our flight arrived Friday evening at 8pm and we were greeted by Grandpa and Grandma Barr to take us back home. We just could not get all the way home without making a stop at Grudzinski's house to say hello. I'm sure the boys could have talked all night but somehow we pulled Spencer away and took him home where he and Chayse played video games until both were too tired to stay up any longer. Of course, Saturday was Bearcat football and Spencer had the privilege of being on the sidelines taking pictures with Daddy and Grandpa Rick. I was very proud of him for making sure he put sunscreen on at the end of each quarter. After the game was over, Spencer was honored by Coach Tjeerdsma and the Bearcat players by joining them in the team prayer. It was a very touching experience for us. Rod said some of Spencer's pictures turned out pretty good and even used a couple of them on Bearcatblitz. If you want to check them out go to www.bearcatblitz.com

Guess where we ate after the game? Yep, you guessed it! Paglia's Pizza. We had a great time with the whole crew. Marcus and Tyler spent the night and the boys had a great time playing video games and catching up.

Sunday morning the four of us went to church as a family for the first time in three months. What a blessing that was. Pastor Brian's sermon was awesome. During the month of October he is re-doing some of his best illustrated sermons. This one was Two Mule Loads of Earth and was based out of 2 Kings 5:17, Hebrews 6:13-20, and Galations 3:39. It is a great story of how Naman wanted to keep his connection to the God of Israel for healing him, so he asked for two mule loads of earth to take back to Syria with him. God always keeps His promises and makes an oath by His own Name because there is no one greater than Him. It is impossible for God to lie! It was a great reminder of our journey and how we have taken God at His word and stood on the promises of healing for Spencer. All of Pastor Brian's sermons are online at www.wolc.com so if you have time go there and listen!

After church we went to Chili's to eat lunch. We sure were surprised when the manager came over with our bill and told us she had taken 15% off because we were a St. Jude's family. As you may recall, Chili's is a huge supporter of St. Jude's so whenever you get a chance, eat there and tell them thank you for their support.

Today, we have enjoyed a day visiting with Grandpa and Grandma Beard. We also had a nice visit over lunch with Uncle Ron and cousins Danielle, David, and Brianna. Soon we will leave for Platte City to watch Chayse play football. It looks like Grandpa and Grandma Barr have arrived, so I better wrap this up.

As you can see, we have been very busy since we got home. We have seen many friends over the last few days and look forward to seeing many more. Daily we are reminded of the many blessings we have and count all of you among them. Thanks again for all your prayers, love, and support. We could not do it without you.

October 6 - 12:30 pm (BMT +84)

Just a quick update before I take the modem back and I'll be without a computer. Spencer is at the hospital in the Med Room receiving IVIG and I'm here at the Target House trying to get last minute things together. So far I'm not doing very well! It's a good thing we don't have to head for the airport until 4pm.

Spencer has a sore on his nose that the doctors wanted a culture from. In the meantime, they have put him on an antibiotic and have cleared him to go home and come back next Thursday. We are both very excited! I'll update again as soon as I get access to a computer from home. Thank you all for EVERYTHING!!!

October 5 - 8:00 pm (BMT +83)

Our little friend, Jake Raborn, earned his angel wings this afternoon at 3:10pm. He and his family has forever changed our lives and we are blessed to have known them. Please pray for his family.

October 5 - 12:15 pm (BMT +83)

Today is a day of getting things packed up and ready to put in storage. The big thing is trying to decide what needs to go on the plane with us and what we can live without for a week or two until Rick and Joanie can drive our van home. I am much more peaceful about going home this week than last week. It just feels right this time. We are really looking forward to seeing our family and friends again!

October 4 - 11:15pm (BMT +82)

Not sure if any of you are still up, but if you are, I would like to ask you to pray for little Jake Raborn. I just read his update for today and he did not have a very good day at all. The hospice nurses were all surprised he made it through the day. His family is amazing and are still FIGHTING HARD and BELIEVING God for a miracle. His website is http://www.caringbridge.org/la/jakeowen/

October 4 - 3:45 pm (BMT +82)

Good afternoon! Spencer had the cardiologist appointment today and we received a good report. The heart holter he wore on August 23 showed no PVC's and the doctor was not concerned in any other way either. He did say they would do follow up visits from time to time just make sure. So, a big PRAISE THE LORD is due!!

Afterwards we went to Walmart to find another big suitcase and again we were blessed. We found a really nice Samsonite on clearance that will work nicely. Anything will be better than my Mississippi Samsonite I used the first time we moved out of Target House! :o)

Okay, so here's the plan! Spencer will have clinics and Med Room Friday morning which should end around noon. We will then come back here to the Target House and get things ready for our flight home at 6:25pm that will arrive in Kansas City at 7:48pm. We sure wanted to get on the earlier flight so we could be home in time for Chayse's football game, but that flight is sold out. We will fly back to Memphis the following Thursday, October 12 in the evening and return back to Kansas City Friday, October 13 on the afternoon flight that arrives at 4:10pm. This will be the schedule we will take every week until Dr. Madden feels it can be stretched to every two weeks.

No labs were drawn today but will be done Friday morning instead. We won't find out until the following week whether or not any virus' were detected. Like I've been told before from the nurses and doctors, if the rash were anything to be concerned with other symptoms would arise, and that's not happening. So, I continue to claim Philippians 4:7 that says, "and the peace of God which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."

October 3 - 3:45 pm (BMT +81)

We just returned from getting groceries and I thought I better do a quick update. Nothing much going on today. Tonight ALSAC, the fundraising side of the hospital, is hosting a dinner here at the Target House. Back Yard Burgers will prepare the food fresh here so Spencer will be able to eat. That will be nice to be able to participate in a dinner for a change.

Spencer has not complained once today about being itchy and I think over all his skin looks better. Thanks for your prayers!

October 2 - 12:30 pm (BMT +80)

I called the clinic this morning about the rash and itchiness. After visiting with the doctors, the nurse called back and they want to wait until tomorrow and see if it gets any worse or better. Spencer has already said he thinks it is better and not near as itchy. Of course, the Benedryl definitely helps the itchiness.

Guess what we're doing this afternoon? Yep, you guessed it--another movie! It's so nice to be able to get out in the day when the theatre is nearly empty.

October 1 - 6:30 pm (BMT +79)

I hope this update finds all of you doing well and enjoying the beautiful autumn day. Spencer and I took in another movie this afternoon. We saw "Flyboy" and both thought it was very good. Other than that, we haven't done much.

The rash on Spencer's body has moved from his back to his legs and arms. The doctors still do not think it's GVHD but rather some reaction to something. Maybe it will continue on down his arms and legs and out his fingers and toes. ;o) As of this morning, he is off another med, this time one for nausea. Dr. Madden said I could start trying to take it away and so far so good. I haven't told Spencer I didn't give it to him yet. I think I'll wait to see if he figures it out.

Rod's parents are coming down in a couple of weeks to Memphis for a conference and are planning on driving our van back home for us. I am so relieved! This way Rod won't have to fly down and make that long trip back home by himself. He has been so exhausted lately and making this trip would not have been good on him. Thank you, Rick and Joanie, for EVERYTHING!! We love and appreciate you!

September 30 - 9:30 pm (BMT +78)

Spencer and I ended up seeing "Guardian" and both thought it was very good. We've spent the evening listening to Bearcat football online and watching Ohio State and Iowa on TV. Our Bearcats beat Missouri Southern 24-7 in Joplin. The Ohio State-Iowa game is still in progress with Iowa behind 28-10 going into the fourth quarter. I'm sure my dad is happy about that!

September 30 - 2:15 pm (BMT +78)

Yesterday afternoon Spencer and I decided to see a movie at the Peabody Place, take in some putt-putt golf, and then found the Memphis Pizza Cafe. It is practically right around the corner from the Target House. Since the restaurant was starting to fill up, we ordered the pizza to go and walked around outside while it was being prepared. It was pretty good, but again, not Paglias! Soon, very soon, we will get to eat there again. Right now Spencer is finishing up some lunch and then we'll head back to the Peabody Place to catch another movie and maybe some more putt-putt. He is raring to go now that Dr. Madden has given him the green light to get out and have fun. It will definitely help to pass the time until next weekend when we will get to come home.

September 29 - 2:30 pm (BMT +77)

We saw Dr. Madden today in clinic and have established a plan of action. We are NOT coming home as hoped this weekend. Instead we are staying one more week due to the fact Spencer has an appointment with the cardiologist next Wednesday, and because Dr. Madden wants to start Spencer every week on Fridays. So, after we finish up next Friday we will get to come home. The plan from then on will be to fly back and forth on a weekly basis, coming here on Thursdays and returning home on Friday evenings.

Yes, we are disappointed we can't see everyone sooner, but we also know God is in control and ordering our steps. We've been praying for God's perfect timing and this weekend is just not it, but hopefully next weekend will be! Please be praying as I know this has been a let down for many people.

Also, please be praying for the family of Don Walk who passed away today. Larry Gray is also in the hospital in Kansas City with heart issues and we want to keep him and his family in prayer as well.

September 28 - 1:00 pm (BMT +76)

I thought I had better do an update before the day gets away from me. Yesterday was such a gorgeous fall day that Spencer and I decided to head out to the Family Fun Center to do a little go-carting and putt-putting. Even though I made him use sunscreen, he is a little pink around the collar. The doctors told us he would be really sensitive to the skin from now on, so pile on the sunscreen!

God sent many of His earthly angels to our house last night and a miracle was performed. I do believe it's probably the cleanest it has ever been! I don't want to start mentioning names as I'm sure I will leave someone out, but I do want to give a shout out to Michelle for getting it all organized. She said if the house didn't get done for Spencer to come home she would be in deep doo-doo with Marcus! THANK YOU TO ALL OF YOU WHO HELPED!!

September 27 - 1:15 pm (BMT +75)

Things are really progressing on the home front to prepare for Spencer's homecoming. It amazes me how many people have shown up to help. Thank you all again! We do not want to take anyone for granted!

I was reminded this morning by a very dear friend that the seasons are changing. Not that I couldn't figure it out on my own! But what she meant was not only are the seasons changing in the natural, but also they are changing in the supernatural for Spencer and our family. I agree with that! The past season is behind us and we are looking forward with great anticipation to the next season being better than ever. I am reminded of the scripture that says God is able to do exceedingly, abundantly, above all that we could ever ask or think. Yes, amen to that!

Spencer is ready for lunch now, so I better get it prepared! Have a blessed day today!

September 26 - 4:30 pm (BMT +74)

I thought I had better take a break from packing to do a quick update. Spencer had school and Med Room today. All his labs and chemistries continue to look very good. We expect to get the green light to come home on Friday. Of course, if we do, we want to drive to Joplin to watch the Bearcats play Saturday night and then come home Sunday. I really hope this works out as Spencer is really wanting to see a game soon.

We are so overwhelmingly blessed by the outpouring of support from so many friends. Thank God for so many who are giving unselfishly to get our house ready for Spencer to come home.

September 25 - 9:15 pm (BMT +73)

It was a beautiful fall day here in Memphis. Spencer and I were able to get out and enjoy it some by doing a little shopping. Tomorrow morning we will go to the hospital for clinic and school.

Many, many people are busy on the home front getting it ready for Spencer's homecoming soon. Thank you to all of you who are working so hard! I don't know how we will ever be able to repay you. God Bless each of you!

September 24 - 8:30 pm (BMT +72)

Hello again from Memphis. My flight arrived around 6:30pm with Spencer and Tiffany there to greet me. It was really good to be home for a few days and spend time with my other precious son and wonderful husband. I also got to see both my parents and Rod's parents as well as many friends. Of course, the majority of the weekend was spent watching football with Chayse Friday night and the Bearcats on Saturday. The Hounds lost but the Bearcats won. We celebrated Chayse's birthday after the Bearcat game with an ice cream cake that had purple frosting. I will post some pictures soon showing off our purple tongues! :o)

Spencer got another good report from Dr. Madden on Friday. She has completely taken him off cyclosporine so we have to really be watching for rashes and other symptoms of GVHD. Tiffany and Spencer were told the T cell survey came back good too. Dr. Madden wants to see Spencer again next Friday and indicated he will get to go "home-home" after that. What we're not sure of is how long the visit will be. It could be 3-4 days or maybe up to 10 days. If it ends up being more than 7 days we will have to move out of the Target House. I hope to get a better understanding on Tuesday when he goes back for clinics.

Dr. Madden told them to go have fun after their visit on Friday so they went to the Family Fun Center and go-carted and putt-putted. Sounds like they had a blast, and of course, Spencer wants to go back again soon.

The house is still pretty torn up but it will be finished and ready by the weekend. Lots and lots of work has already gone into it and we have been blessed by so many to help. It sounds like our house will turn into Grand Central Station this week as many people are planning to come help this week. We so appreciate each and every one of you!! It just could not happen without your help, and it needs done so we can bring our precious Spencer home again. God bless each of you!

September 21 - 1:00 pm (BMT+69)

We're getting ready to leave for the airport in a few minutes so I wanted to do a quick update. Tiffany got in safe and sound around 5pm last night and we enjoyed a nice visit. Spencer is excited to have someone else besides me around to "play" with. She has already agreed to take him on in Playstation, so she has one up on me.

We want to say "Happy Birthday" to Grandma Joanie today. We won't give out her age, but let's just say it's a BIG one! We love her very much and appreciate all she has done for us. You're the best, Grandma Joanie!

Okay, so it's time to get out the door. I will try to update from home, but I'm not promising anything! I'll be back here in Memphis Sunday night so you can expect one then or Monday morning.

September 20 - 9:45 am (BMT +68)

Last night Spencer and I went downstairs to decorate Rice Krispie Treats. We thought we would have individual treats to decorate but that was not the case. We were able to create our own recipes and then volunteers made them for us. We each got a big pan of Rice Krispie Treats to take with us. There was just about anything imaginable there to decorate the top with from frosting to assorted candies. We decided ours were loaded with enough peanut butter and M&M's that they didn't need anymore. Thank goodness I'm going home tomorrow and won't continued to be tempted by them! Spencer and Aunt Tiffany will have to eat them!

This morning we received some sad news as my sister-in-law's dad passed away after battling cancer. Cathy was able to be there with him as he died. Please pray with us that our Heavenly Father will comfort them and give them strength during this difficult time. 

September 19 - 5:15 pm (BMT +67)

Hello! I'm sorry, I just about forgot to update today! We got back from clinics around 2:30pm and we ate a late lunch. Afterwards, I started laundry and Spencer was watching TV. Before I knew it, Spencer was asleep and the time had past very quickly.

The bone marrow aspirate and LP (spinal tap) results both came back good. Praise God! Today they did a T-survey test that will check the levels of both T and B cells. This test will give the doctors a more accurate gage on how well his immune system is bouncing back, and ultimately will help Dr. Madden determine when she will let Spencer go home. The results from this test will not be ready until Friday, so Spencer and Aunt Tiffany will get the news first since I will be home in Maryville.

Last night we decided to bend the rules a little and went to the theatre to see Gridiron Gang with Jace and his mom, Ann. It was a very good movie even though the language was rough. We ended up being in the theatre with maybe three or four other people. They sat down front and we sat in the back row. We brought lap blankets for the boys to sit on and sanitized the chairs before they sat down. We had such a good time and it was so good to see the boys really enjoy themselves. Ann and I thought we were actually in the movie--cheering and clapping! :-) I think we may have embarrassed Jace and Spencer! Good thing there wasn't many people in there! LOL

Spencer also received a nice surprise in the mail yesterday. Our friend, Casey Smith, the trainer for the Dallas Mavericks, sent Spencer a package. It was a game played signed Lebron James tennis shoe--size 16--from the World Champion Games! He also put in a couple of Dallas Mavericks t-shirts and a hat. Spencer was thrilled! 

September 18 - 9:45 am (BMT +66)

A good morning to all of you! It's a rainy day here in Memphis again. Usually we would be in clinics today but they changed our day from Monday to Tuesday, so we will go tomorrow. We'll probably end up going to there today anyway to get our Kroger card to buy groceries, and then we can check in with Miss Kaci, Spencer's teacher. He has been doing pretty well with keeping up on his school work, in great part to Kaci. I hope it continues even after he gets home.

Last night he went downstairs and played pool with Jace and another kid. I told him he needed to be gone more than 20 minutes so he was gone for a little more than an hour. He said there is video game system down there as well so when someone wasn't playing pool the other was playing video games. I was very glad to see him get involved with other kids.

September 17 - 1:45 pm (BMT +65)

Spencer and I watched Word of Life Church online this morning without any freeze frames. Thank you to those at church who made this possible! It was much nicer!

Nothing much else going on except Spencer is keeping track of the football games he and his dad have bet on. I think he said he was up going into halftime. We hope you're all enjoying your Sunday afternoon.

September 16 - 3:30 pm (BMT +64)

We just finished listening to the Bearcats defeat the Truman State Bulldogs 31-10. Next week Northwest will face Missouri Western at a home in Maryville, and I will get to be there! More importantly, I get to spend some quality time with my son on his 17th birthday. It's hard to believe Chayse will be 17. He is growing up so fast! Unfortunately, Spencer will have to stay here in Memphis, but he will be in the excellent hands of Aunt Tiffany. With her nursing background I feel at ease leaving him for a few days. It's the first time I've left him since this all began.

September 15 - 10:00 pm (BMT +63)

After another go-around with the computer, we finally figured out the problem--the router. We were able to listen to the second half of the Maryville vs. Benton game. Unfortunately, Maryville lost their Homecoming 32-21 but not without a valiant effort. It sounds like the Hounds are improving weekly, so keep it up boys!

I also want to clarify that Spencer did not get stuck four times this afternoon, it was actually once for the bone marrow aspirate and twice for the spinal tap. I understood the nurse as saying he was stuck four times for the spinal tap alone! Thank God that wasn't the case! Other than being tired and groggy from the pain meds, Spencer has had a good day and is looking forward to watching the Bearcat game online tomorrow as they take on Truman State in Kirksville. Go Bearcats!

September 15 - 1:45 pm (BMT +63)

We're back from the hospital after clinic and procedures. We've had lunch and now Spencer is nestled on the couch resting until the pain meds wear off. Spencer was poked four times as the medical team was having trouble doing the lumbar puncture (spinal tap). The nurse told me it could have been caused by him being dehydrated, which certainly could be true since he could not have anything to eat or drink until afterwards. Spencer was disappointed he didn't get to see Dr. Madden today as he hoped to pin her down on when he can go home. Looks like he will have to ask her next time.

September 14 - 9:45 pm (BMT +62)

We're just chilling out after a good day of shopping. Mr. Spencer's feet are growing and he needed a new pair of shoes! I told him that was a good thing as it means he will be growing taller soon. We are praying and believing he will grow to his predestined height before chemo and radiation.

I've also spent some time catching up on some of our friends here at St. Jude's. All are doing well, except little Jake is struggling after a surgery to remove five more tumors from his lungs. I'm not sure I've made heads or tails out of all of it, but he has ended up in ICU from bleeding complications. His site hasn't been updated since 4:30pm so not sure what is going on. Please pray for this precious little boy to be completely healed and for his family to have peace and strength. They are an amazing family who has great faith in God. If you would like to visit his website it is http://www.caringbridge.org/la/jakeowen/

Tomorrow is an early day with clinics before Spencer heads off to procedures, so it will probably be late before I update. Thank you all for your continued prayer support.

September 14 - 1:30 pm (BMT +62)

Sorry for being so late with today's update, but I had computer issues again. The service man came and replaced the modem and then had to come back and work on the router. So far so good, but not after losing the first update I did this morning. Spencer and I decided to spend some time working out afterwards. We've both had lunch and now I'm ready to see if I can remember what I wrote this morning!

Six months ago today Spencer turned 13 and I remember it all too well. He had been so sick for a few weeks and had missed so much school. It was the day we finally got into see Dr. Smith in St. Joseph and was admitted to the hospital to run a series of tests. The next morning our lives changed forever and we started on this amazing journey. God has been with us the entire time, keeping us under the shadow of His wing. I retold our story to Christina, another mom I met yesterday who is from Bolivia. She and her 10 year old daughter, Julia, have lived here in the Target House for over two years. Julia has eight weeks left in her protocol and then should be able to go home. Her two other daughters ended up moving here too because they missed their mother and sister too much. Still at home is the father and son. I can't imagine being away from my family or home for that long, but they have learned to adjust and move on. If there's one thing families learn very quickly here is taking one step at a time and one day at a time.

September 13 - 9:00 pm (BMT +61)

Spencer and I met with the Make a Wish lady earlier this evening. She had quite a few questions and forms to fill out. She wanted to know Spencer's first and second choice wishes. Of course, his first wish would be going to the Super Bowl, but if that can't be done, his second wish is going to the NCAA Division I National Championship game. She said we would be notified within 3-4 weeks if the wish would be granted. Either wish sounds pretty exciting to me! If, for some reason, neither one of the wishes can be granted they will give Spencer another opportunity to choose something else. Well, it's time to get Spencer's meds ready! Have a good evening!

September 13 - 9:45 am (BMT +61)

Good morning. It's another quiet morning here at the Target House as Spencer is still trying to catch a few more winks of sleep in between meds. Even though we don't have appointments, we will go back to the hospital today to pick up some refills on his meds and get some supplies. We will also find out his schedule for Friday. I hope it doesn't end up being a long day with procedures. Even so, it's better than going back another day, so we won't complain.

Last night Ann, Jace's mom, made Mexican chicken with side dishes and dessert. It was absolutely yummy! They are our Cajun friends from Louisiana and boy can she cook!

Around 5:00 this evening, Brenda from Make a Wish is coming to visit with us. I'm not really sure what to expect from her visit, but hopefully she will be able to confirm if Spencer gets his wish of going to the Super Bowl or not. Of course, I will keep you posted!

September 12 - 10:15 am (BMT +60)

Wow! I can hardly believe it's been 60 days since the transplant. Every day is one day closer to coming home to Maryville! Spencer has been in such a good mood since Dr. Madden told him the possibility of going home sooner than the 100 day mark. This has really kicked his faith in again and has given him something to really look forward to. Of course, he is trying to guess when the day will be! Hopefully we will know more after Friday's procedures.

September 11 - 2:00 pm (BMT +59)

We're back from clinics and have had lunch, and are now watching some TV. Spencer spent quite a bit of time in school this morning since we won't go back until Friday. Friday Spencer will have another bone marrow aspirate and spinal tap. Of course, we know there will be another good report.

September 10 - 1:45 pm (BMT +58)

We're having another quiet day here in Memphis. We did get to listen to church online this morning and was happy we got a pretty good feed without too many interruptions or freeze frames. We talked to Rod and Chayse this morning just as they were finishing up tailgating before the Chiefs game. Thank you, Jeremy and Jackie for the tickets! Rod said the Relay for Life went really well and was very touching. He did not stay all night, but Chayse did, so he is running on adrenaline right now.

September 9 - 3:30 pm (BMT +57)

We were listening to the Bearcat game online when we lost the feed with 5 minutes left in the game. At that time, the score was 31-0 with Bearcats defeating the UNO Mavericks. Way to go, Bearcats!

Tonight in Maryville is the annual Relay for Life starting at 6pm at Beale Park. There is a very special team walking tonight to honor Spencer called "Spoofhounds for Spencer". Thanks to Jackie Ross for all her hard work to organize this team of football players. Next year Spencer and I will be there to participate in all the events. I understand the weather has been cool and rainy, so for these young men to stick it out is really an accomplishment. We appreciate all of you! Have fun!

September 8 - 10:00 pm (BMT +56)

Our Spoofhounds pulled it off! They beat the Fighting Irish 41-12. Way to go, Hounds!

September 8 - 4:30 pm (BMT +56)

Praise God! Praise God! Praise God! We are so excited and thankful! We met with Dr. Madden today and she has decided to decrease the cyclosporine down to 50mg. She is so happy with Spencer's progress that she said he may even get to go home before the 100 days. Probably at that time we will go home for 10 days and come back for a check up and go home for 10 days and so on. Dr. Madden also wants to do another bone marrow aspirate as well as draw some spinal fluid by the end of next week. We expect nothing less than a clean bill of health!

On the agenda tonight will be listening to the Maryville Spoofhounds vs. Lafayette Fighting Irish online. Go Hounds!

September 7 - 9:30 pm (BMT +55)

Spencer and I took advantage of the ALSAC sponsored bingo game tonight. We did pretty good! We won 6 or 7 times and each time got to pick out a prize. It was a lot of fun as they kept playing until pretty much everyone won. Right now we are watching the Steelers vs. Dolphins game. Tomorrow we will go back to the hospital for clinics so the update may be later in the afternoon. Have a great evening!

September 7 - 10:00 am (BMT +55)

Well, good morning from Memphis! It looks to be another bright, sunshiny day! Yesterday we got out for a little while and went to Walmart. Only by the time we got there, Spencer's tummy was a little upset so he stayed in the van and I ran in and out as quickly as I could. I drove around and around waiting for a parking spot close to the store to open up so he would be safe. 

In the evening, Chili's Restaurant put on a big dinner here at the Target House with ribs, hot dogs, beans, chips, soda, etc. Of course, we did not eat anything but a bag of chips because Spencer is on a low bacteria diet. We did enjoy the magician and being outside. There was also a moon walk, but there were too many smaller children in line. Spencer wanted to go in it with his friend, Jace, but we never met up with him.

Chili's has pledged to donate $50 million dollars over a 10 year period to St. Jude's. September is National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, and Chili's restaurants nationwide are doing the "Create a Pepper to Fight Childhood Cancer" promotion. Guests are able to donate a $1 or more to color a pinup of the signature Chili's pepper. Chili's donates 100% of its profits from one day's sales in September and this year the day is September 25. So, if you can get to a Chili's restaurant on September 25 to eat, please do so! If you can't on that day, try to visit soon and get a pepper to color! 

September 6 - 10:00 am (BMT +54)

Great is Thy Faithfulness! Great is Thy Faithfulness! Morning by morning, new mercies I see. All I have need of Your hand has provided. Great is Thy Faithfulness, Lord unto me.

That's the song I have floating around on the inside of me this morning. I love it when the Holy Spirit puts a song in my heart like that. The words to that old hymn are so very true. God is so faithful and His mercies are new every morning! I just want to shout and praise His name!

A good friend of mine has been sharing a verse of scripture out Psalm 91 with me. It says that a thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right side, but it will not come near you. I've been meditating on that passage and have really gotten a revelation of what it really means. Yes, we are in a battle, and yes, there are casualties all around us, but yet it will not come near us! It's not some hope or pipe dream we are hanging on to, it's the Word of God and it's all about activating it with our faith. Great is Thy Faithfulness, O Lord!

September 5 - 7:30 pm (BMT +53)

Good evening! Sorry for the lateness of this update. We had a very long day at clinics since it was the day after a holiday. Everything was running an hour or so behind. The good news is the nurse practioner did not think the rash looked like GVHD. All of Spencer's labs and chemistries continue to look very good. Praise God! We don't go back to clinics until Friday and then we should see our regular doctor, Dr. Madden.

This evening I grilled a steak for Spencer and made him a baked potato. He almost ate it all! I'm so proud of him and the progress he is making.

One of the physical changes I've noticed is Spencer's eye brows are dark. We've joked all along that once he had Chayse's bone marrow his hair would be dark! Actually, the nurse practioner said it was probably a side effect from the cyclosporine he is on and they may or may not stay that dark.

September 4 - 9:45 pm (BMT +52)

I thought I would do a quick update before bed time. We've spent another quiet day with not much going on. Tomorrow will be a full day of clinics that will last well into the afternoon, so don't be surprised if I don't update until much later tomorrow.

Our gratitude goes out to all of you who helped Rod at the house this evening. What a huge blessing you are to us! Thank you, thank you, thank you!

September 4 - 1:45 pm (BMT +52)

Happy Labor Day! I hope this finds all of you enjoying your day off work with family and friends. Spencer does not have clinics today due to the holiday. So far we've done the same things as any other non clinic day. I've worked out and made Spencer his breakfast/lunch. Breakfast and lunch are always combined because by the time he decides to get out of bed it's closer to lunch than breakfast. :o) I've checked the rash on Spencer's back and it doesn't look any worse than yesterday, so I'll wait until tomorrow to ask the doctor. Other than that, it looks like it will be another quiet day in Memphis.

September 3 - 6:00 pm (BMT +51)

Another quiet day here in Memphis. Spencer and I ventured outside earlier to enjoy the cooler, mostly cloudy 75 degree temperature. Since we get better reception outside, we made a few phone calls. Spencer started not feeling so well so we came back inside and he took a bath. Right now he is resting. I've noticed he has a light rash on his back which could possibly be a sign of GVHD (Graft Versus Host Disease). I put some cream on it before he laid down.  As you will recall, last Monday the doctor decreased his cyclosporine, the drug that wards off GVHD. I am not concerned as they have told us all along that a little GVHD is a good thing. Since tomorrow is Labor Day and a holiday, we don't have clinic again until Tuesday. If the rash gets any worse I will call the Med Room. In the meantime, keep praying it doesn't get any worse.

September 3 - 11:30 am (BMT +51)

Our hearts are saddened today as we learned our friend, Cameron, lost his earthly battle with leukemia at 10:20pm last night. He may have lost the battle, but he now has the victory. He is at peace and his body is whole now. When you know Jesus and have Him as your Savior, you always have the victory.

I've been frustrated with our online service the last couple of days. It keeps cutting out and saying it is unable to find the server. Grrrr!

September 2 - 5:30 pm (BMT +50)

Our Bearcats pulled out the first victory of the season, defeating Minnesota State-Mankato 31-14. We were able to listen to the game online, and even though we had to refresh it several times, we enjoyed it. We are sure proud of Josh Matthews for stepping up and performing well today. Way to go Bearcats!

September 2 - 12:30 pm (BMT +50)

Here we are, half way through! We have to stay in Memphis for at least 100 days post transplant and today we're officially half way there! Praise the Lord!

We have 97.1 the 'vill up and are listening to the pre-game Bearcat show. It sure is nice to listen to familiar voices from home. We're pumped and excited to cheer on our Bearcats! It won't be the same as sitting with our friends but I'm sure Amy, Joanie, and Sandy will yell load for me.

Congratulations go out to Christa and Joe as they get married today. I still can't believe I won't be there as this is the first Smail daughter to get married that I haven't been at the wedding. I'm looking forward to seeing the video and pictures. Hang in there, Sandy and Curt, only one more daughter to go!

I'm also thinking of and praying for my Aunt Sue and Uncle Gary and their family today. It was four years ago today that Richard's life was taken so tragically. I love you guys and know how difficult it still is for you.  

September 1 - 10:00 pm (BMT +49)

Darn! We lost 30-14! Good news is we're a young team and did some really good things. Rod said Chayse looked pretty good as well as all the team. It was just so great to be able to listen to it online, regardless of the outcome. Matt Gaarder gave us a shout out and that made Spencer's face light up. It was just really neat! The next best thing to being there! You can be sure we will be listening to the Bearcats tomorrow!

September 1 - 6:30 pm (BMT +49)

Spencer and I are really excited! Chayse called his little brother right before he was ready to put his pads on. He told Spencer he was playing it all for him and that he loved him. Spencer told him to give them h-e-double toothpicks! Then not long after that, Rod called and told us KNIM now does webcasts so we are listening right now. To top all that off, Spencer received a really cool Superman necklace made from a Missouri quarter from his buddy, Bryce, and a signed football jersey from his classmates. We are really pumped about being able to listen to the game and Spencer thinks the gifts are just awesome! This has already been a great evening! Go Hounds!

September 1 - 3:15 pm (BMT +49)

We had early appointments this morning and should have finished by 11:00am, but that didn't happen. Due to the holiday weekend, all the clinics were short staffed and that put everything behind from the beginning. Apparently, our last clinic paged us several times but we never heard them. Finally, almost two hours later, I asked what the hold up was and we got right in. We sure were glad to have the Skip-Bo cards to pass the time. Again, we praise God for Spencer's healing as the lab work continues to look very good.

Okay, all you Spoofhound fans! It's game night and I'm going to need you all to get out to the Hound Pound and cheer on our team, especially #67! Go Hounds! Beat the Hornets!

August 31 - 9:00 pm (BMT +48)

I don't have anything exciting to report on tonight, and that's a good thing! Nice, boring days of health being restored. Yes, amen!

August 31 - 11:30 am (BMT +48)

Gee, the morning has really gotten away from me! I had a nice with my parents this morning. Spencer is still lingering under the covers in his bed and I'm gearing up to go downstairs and work out. Not much on the agenda today except try to get outside a little to enjoy the beautiful weather. We may venture out to Sam's Club to pick up some water and paper towels. We go through both so quickly that it's cheaper to buy it there in larger quantities.

Our friend, Cam, is still hanging in there. If you would like to keep up on his progress, his website is: www.caringbridge.org/ct/camdalene/

August 30 - 9:00 pm (BMT +47)

Not much going on this evening. Spencer ate a good supper and enjoyed his homemade subs. We finally finished watching the last of the movies we rented so we can return them tomorrow.

As you're saying your prayers tonight, please remember a few of our friends, Cameron and Amanda. Cameron has been battling leukemia for six years now and is only 14. Currently, he is in Denver after attempts here at St. Jude's have failed. There is a study there they were hoping to get him into, but his body is giving out quickly. The doctors have told him and his family there is not much more they can do for him. Cameron is a fighter and when he was told it looked like the leukemia had won, he emphatically told them "No it hasn't". It will take a miracle for Cameron and he and his family are still believing for one, and so are we.

Amanda was the very first angel I met here and just happens to live right next door to us. She just turned 17 last month and is scheduled to have a bone marrow transplant September 14. I talked to her mom today and she is very concerned because Amanda has fungus in her nose/sinus area. Fungus is very dangerous as it can spread to her lungs and other organs. All the meds they have tried so far have had negative effects on her. Please stand in agreement with us as we pray against the fungus and pray she does not have any complications with the transplant.

August 30 - 3:00 pm (BMT +47)

What a beautiful day it has been with temps in the low 80's and hardly any humidity. Today Spencer wanted to walk from the parking lot instead of being dropped off. The cool breeze was just the ticket. All Spencer's labs still look good and he continues to feel good. He spent some time in the classroom doing math review. He did get too hot in there and by the time I came to pick him up, he was getting sick. Just as quickly as it came on, it went away and he was ready to leave. He even wanted to go to Walmart before coming back to the Target House. We picked up items to make our version of Subway's chicken pizziola sub and will have it for supper tonight. 

August 29 - 4:45 pm (BMT +46)

It's been a cloudy, rainy, quiet day here. Spencer and I have played card games, watched TV, and have just enjoyed being together.

August 29 - 9:30 am (BMT +46)

One of the first things I thought of this morning when I woke up was it was my brother's birthday. Happy Birthday, Ron! I love you so much and thank you for leading me to the Lord all those years ago! Be blessed today!

Actually, I have had a myriad of thoughts this morning. Thoughts of how I could communicate to each of you that I really am doing good and so is Spencer. Many of you have known me for several years, but really haven't known me. What you see in these updates is really who I am. This is not some strong, brave face I am putting on to make everything better. This is what living the faith life is all about. Psalm 91 talks about living in God's protection despite being in the midst of danger. Everyday we go to the hospital for clinics or read another child's website, I am reminded we are in a horrific battle. We personally know children who have not faired so well in this battle, yet the Lord continues to keep us under the shadow of His wing. God's thoughts and ways are higher than ours and we must continue to trust Him. Deuteronomy 20:1 talks about going to war against your enemies and seeing horses and chariots and a greater army than yours. But it says to do not be afraid, because the Lord your God is with you. Spencer and I talk all the time and from time to time I ask him if he is afraid, and he always emphatically tells me no. We really are not afraid or worried about the future. We believe what the Bible promises and have claimed them for our lives. Psalm 91:14-16 reads "Because he loves me," says the Lord, "I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name. He will call upon me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. With long life will I satisfy him and show him my salvation."  Please continue praying for us as we walk this journey. God is proving Himself daily and giving us a powerful testimony that we are using to glorify His name.

August 28 - 4:30 pm (BMT +45)

We got back about an hour ago from clinics and the grocery store. Dr. Inaba wants to decrease the amount of cyclosporine Spencer is on because he thinks Spencer is doing very well. Cyclosporine works to prevent GVHD (graft versus host disease). The chimerism level that is checked weekly still shows 100% donor--another praise! All of Spencer's chemistries continue to look good as well. He just needs to continue eating and drinking lots of fluids. It's been a long day and I think both of us are tired!

August 27 - 2:30 pm (BMT +44)

Wow. I just got back from having my very first facial and it was fantastic. It was like having a massage on your face. A local salon comes every so often and offers those lucky enough to get signed up early a free mini facial. God showed me favor and I was first on the list. Okay, girlfriends, this may have to be our new thing to do when I get home!

Spencer is in a good mood and feeling good today. I've been a little concerned about his fluid intake ever since yesterday when the doctor called to check on him. He reminded me to make sure Spencer drinks enough, so that's been my mission. As you know, he can't have anything that has set out for more than hour, so that's been a challenge, and I don't want to nag him all the time to drink either. The smaller drinks that come in resealable bottles have worked well as I can pour a little out at a time and return the rest to the refrigerator for later. I also have a timer that I started setting for an hour to remind us when the time is up.

Please do not let up on your prayers even though Spencer is doing so well. There is still a long way to go before his immune system will be back to 100% (up to one year) and we do not want to let our guard down and allow the enemy to come in. Our family is stronger now than ever before and we praise God for making us such. The devil has tried other ways to attack our family and distract us, but has failed over and over. Jesus is the Lord of our lives and God is in control. We look to God on a daily basis and see where He is developing His character in each of us. But, it is a process and we are not perfect! We thank God we've been in a great church all these years sitting under a great pastor who is not afraid to preach the undefiable word of God.

August 26 - 10:30 am (BMT +43)

Happy Saturday! Hope this finds all of you enjoying the last Saturday in August. Hard to believe, isn't it? Right now Spencer is still trying hard to get a few more winks of sleep even though the dishwasher is running and I'm puttering around on the computer. Not much on the agenda for today, just getting ready to go downstairs and work out. The movie last night was pretty good. It was a good story about character and how a person can achieve greatness in spite of diversity. A good life lesson to learn.

August 25 - 4:15 pm (BMT +42)

When we arrived back from clinics the A/C was fixed. Thank goodness! Now the temp is just right.

Since being off the TPN, Spencer has lost about 5 lbs. The doctor thinks he may be a little dehydrated so we'll work on getting more fluids in him. Other than that, Spencer continues to do very well.

Our plan for this evening is to go to the drive in and see "Invincible" a movie about football. That's the closest we will get to a game tonight, so the rest of you back home in Maryville will have to cheer on the Hounds for us! Yell especially loud for #67!

August 25 - 11:00 am (BMT +42)

It seems like these days are going by as fast as the years are! I'm glad for that since every day means one more day closer to coming home--for good!

The A/C is still not working right. It cooled some last night but by this morning it was mostly blowing hot air. Talk about a turn around! Maintenance has assured me the part will be in today to fix it. In the meantime, they brought us a fan to use and at least it keeps the air moving.

Spencer has clinics starting at 12:30pm today so I better let you go so we can get ready. Have a great Friday and weekend!

August 24 - 9:30 pm (BMT +41)

We just finished talking with Rod and Chayse. All sounds like they are doing fine and Chayse is off to a good start at school. We sure do miss them!

Spencer and I finally turned off the A/C at the breaker this afternoon and left for awhile to warm up. The van needed an oil change, so we drove to Walmart in West Memphis only to find out it would be a two hour wait. Needless to say, we didn't stay but instead drove to Walmart out by Wolfchase. Thank goodness we didn't have to wait. Once we arrived back to the apartment, it was finally a nice temperature. In fact, we didn't turn the A/C back on for quite awhile and probably wouldn't have if it weren't for lack of air movement. So far it hasn't gotten too cold! The part should be in tomorrow so it will be fixed then. Spencer has clinics tomorrow but not until 12:30pm so that means he will be able to sleep in again. Rod said he has a meeting with Spencer's teachers next Tuesday. Sounds like they have a plan of action for Spencer. We now have a webcam so maybe that will be a source of communication with his teachers.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Clint and Lora at the loss of their baby boy. We love you guys and will continue to lift your entire family up in prayer. May the peace of God that surpasses all understanding guard your hearts and minds.

August 24 - 9:45 am (BMT +41)

Not much has changed here overnight as it is still freezing. The maintenance men have been here and determined the sensor needs replaced. They also checked the air temperature and it is 41 degrees--colder than last night. I could have shut the A/C off at the breaker, but decided not to do that because we did for a minute last night and Spencer was already complaining it was getting hot. He likes the movement of air around him. He doesn't seem to mind as long as he has plenty of blankets and we do. I put the heating pad in my bed to warm it up last night and I slept fine. Not too excited about taking a shower and getting wet in this cold! LOL That may have to wait until it's fixed.

August 23 - 7:30 pm (BMT +40)

I thought I would give you a quick update. Not much going right now, except we are FREEZING!!! Something is definitely wrong with the A/C. I finally got someone up here to look at it and she had some device that could read the temperature and it was showing 47degrees! BRRRRR!! She has called the maintenance supervisor and he should be here shortly to fix it. I don't think I can take another night trying to get warm. Spencer has spent most of the afternoon underneath a pile of blankets trying to keep warm. I've been outside a couple of times to warm up, but the outside temp is only in the upper 70's. It really is beautiful outside today.

Praise Report! Spencer is officially off TPN! No more nutrition in a bag at night. Woo-Hoo! Praise the Lord! That should really help him get better sleep now.

August 23 - 11:15 am (BMT +40)

We've already been to clinics and back again. We had to go early to get Spencer hooked up to the heart holter for 24 hours. They are doing it as a follow up from when Spencer was having PVC's. I'm sure they won't find anything as the doctor has been unable to detect any PVC's in Spencer's heart beat. Praise God! Thanks to all the prayers this has been taken care of. Spencer's counts continue to look very good. Really all we are waiting for is his T and B cells to recover which could take 3-4 months, or maybe not as long since he is doing so well. Spencer also spent some time in the classroom doing English review. Until we actually start getting homework from home, this is what he will be doing.

August 22 - 9:30 pm (BMT +39)

Not much going on this evening. Right now I'm just waiting for 10pm to give Spencer his last meds for the day and then go to bed. We have an early day tomorrow with clinics starting at 8am. Hopefully everything stays on schedule so we can be finished by 10am. Spencer has really enjoyed his new game. It sure would be more fun for him if he had one of his buddies here to play with. Soon, very soon. We just have to be patient!

August 22 - 2:45 pm (BMT +39)

Mission Accomplished! We found our way to Walmart and purchased the new Madden game. Of course, Spencer is playing it right now and seems to be enjoying it. It sounds very realistic. He has eaten very well again today so there shouldn't be any reason to not go off the TPN tomorrow.

August 22 - 10:00 am (BMT +39)

Greetings family and friends! Spencer is all revved up and ready to go today. It's Maddenoliday Season! Yes, today is the big day it finally comes out, and yes, we have plans to go to Walmart and buy it. He has already learned the words of the song and is so excited to get it and play. He is pushing me to get ready so we can go, but I want to work out first, so I better get with it so we can leave! 

August 21 - 3:45 pm (BMT +38)

Well, we're back from clinics. The spinal tap results still show some white blood cells, but lower than last time. Because Spencer does not have any symptoms, the doctors all think it is probably from the BMT preconditioning or from radiation and in time shouldl take care of itself. Definitely no leukemia and that's what matters. Spencer's blood work is still showing 100% Chayse, which is exactly what we want. The doctor decided to take Spencer off one of his meds and it looks like only two more nights of TPN. We will visit with the nutritionist on Wednesday to confirm. As a follow up, Spencer will be put on another heart holter on Wednesday for 24 hours. The doctor still cannot hear any PVC's in his heart rhythm and that's wonderful news. Like I said, the heart holter is being done as a follow up from when he did have PVC's while in the hospital. Spencer also got started back to school today with some math review. He will have classroom time again Wednesday and Friday.

August 20 - 1:30 pm (BMT +37)

Hello! Happy Sunday! Not much going on again today. Right now we are watching Georgia and Arizona play in the Little League World Series. Spencer wants to go to Sam's Club later to buy the cheese dip he loves so much. It's almost as good as La Bonita's! He was also wishing he could have Paglia's pizza, but that won't happen for awhile! It's funny the things you miss by being gone for so long.

August 19 - 9:30 pm (BMT +36)

We've had another quiet day. We did spend some time in the work out room, but that's about it. For some reason our apartment has been extremely cold today, so we found ourselves cuddled under the blankets most of the day. I think finally the AC has leveled off so we won't freeze tonight. I knew it was cold when Spencer commented on how cold he was! This coming from a kid who kept his hospital room at frigid! Spencer has eaten pretty good today, or should I say had a good amount of calories. I made him an ice cream shake and added Juice Plus Complete so it not only added more nutrition but calories as well. It took him an hour, but he he managed to get almost all of it down. Tonight he requested chili with Ro-Tel in it. I was not sure he would be able to tolerate it being so spicy. He has complained a little about an upset stomach, but so far has kept it down. Hope you all have a great evening. Until tomorrow, God bless and good night!

August 19 - 11:00 am (BMT +36)

After I updated last night, I decided to check the websites of a few of our friends here at St. Jude's. Cameron is still in limbo waiting to see if he is accepted into the study in Denver. They were hoping to leave yesterday, but have been detained for a few more days. They are hoping he gets the green light and will be accepted very soon.

Our littlest friend, 4 year-old Jake, has more tumors in his lungs. He had a bone marrow transplant in February. His family is so strong, and even though this news is distraughting, they are still believing God for a miracle, and we are too.

Jace, our neighbor while in the hospital, got sprung yesterday. His MRD shows ZERO cancer cells and we are rejoicing with him and his family.

We continue to praise God for His healing being manifested in all these children. We walk by faith and not by sight and claim total and complete healing for all the children. Please stand in prayer with us as we and these families battle this disease. Pray for renewed strength and faith to never, ever quit.

As for our plans for today, we really don't have any. Spencer is still trying to get a little more sleep (oh, surprise!) but did say he wanted to work out later today. I'm going to hold him to that as I want to work out as well. It will be fun to do it together.

August 18 - 11:00 pm (BMT +35)

Not much going on, just enjoying the quiet of the evening. Spencer is already asleep after a fairly quiet day. He has slept quite a bit, but that's to be expected after anesthesia. I did get him out to the grocery store and Target this evening to pick up a few items. It is better to go in the evenings because of the heat. Even though it's cooler outside, it's still pretty muggy. I want to thank those of you who are so faithful to send cards, letters, and emails. Spencer and I always look forward to the short walk over to Target House I to pick up the mail.

August 18 - 1:00 pm (BMT +35)

Hello, again. Spencer and I have been home for a short while after clinics this morning. He had spinal fluid drawn this morning to check the white blood cell level there. We should have the results back from that by Monday. The doctors continue to be very pleased with Spencer's progress.

August 17 - 10:00 am (BMT +34)

Well, Spencer and I got Rod off at the airport bright and early this morning. His flight departed at 8:30am, but with the all the added security we left here at 6:30am. I imagine he is already off the plane and on his drive back to Maryville by now. It was sure good to have him with us this past week and we will both miss him terribly.

August 16 - 3:00 pm (BMT +33)

Good afternoon! This is Cathy again. We've already been to clinic this morning and everything still looks good. We asked Dr. Madden if it would be okay to venture out to the Family Fun Center and got the big "NO" because Spencer is still at risk for viral infections for several more weeks. To help pass the time and relieve some boredom, we went toy shopping and came up with several fun things. We found some pretty cool magic tricks so don't be surprised if Spencer can put on a magic show once he gets home. 

August 15 - 10:45 am (BMT +32)

Good Morning! This is Cathy. Since both Rod and Spencer are still sleeping, I thought I would get on the computer before Rod gets a hold of it for the day. We spent the whole afternoon at the hospital in clinics yesterday. They were having one of those days where nothing was on time. We waited for almost two hours for the Med Room! That rarely happens. We received a good report from the doctor as all Spencer's counts continue to look good. Spencer is doing very well and we are so proud of him. The doctors say he is further along than most kids at this stage. Praise God! We've been praying for a quick healing! When the doctor listened to Spencer's heart he was unable to detect any PVC's. Of course, he only listened for a minute but still only heard a normal heartbeat. The last time they drew spinal fluid there was a high concentration of white blood cells which could mean inflammation somewhere. Yesterday the doctor said the weekly tests they run for viral infections all came back negative even though the monocytes showed 20 "counts". He said everyone has these and didn't seem to be very concerned. I am not wondering if it is related to the white cells in his spinal fluid. Another spinal tap will be done this Friday. Whatever it is, we know God is in control and we are trusting Him for a total and complete healing that will make Spencer completely whole with nothing missing, nothing broken.  Complete restoration in Jesus' name!

Chayse got along okay at practice last night. He did get sick in between the first and second practices but he thinks it was the sandwich he ate. Hopefully he will not have that problem tonight and be able to practice hard again.

Not really sure what's on the agenda for today. I imagine we will make a grocery run and maybe even venture out to Walmart. Yesterday we played Skip-Bo so many times I can't remember. I do remember Rod or I not winning once though. Maybe we can be persuaded to play with him again. :o)

August 14 - 12:00 pm (BMT +31)

Since I failed to update yesterday, I am in trouble with my wife. I apologize. Not much news to report. Yesterday we ventured out to Sam's Club and Lowe's. Chili was on the menu for supper last night and even though it was hot outside, it tasted pretty good. Spencer continues to get back his appetite a bit more each day. We are waiting for our Monday appointments and will be here at the hospital until mid-afternoon. Happy birthday to my dad! Hope you have a wonderful day!

August 12 - 9:00 pm (BMT +29)

Good evening, this is Cathy. Sorry for the lateness of this update, but I assumed Rod had already done one since he was on the computer. My bad. Anyway, we haven't done much today except lay around and relax. Spencer really hasn't had much energy today and has complained about being tired. This could be from getting up several times to use the bathroom last night, slightly lower counts, or both. We did venture out to the playground for a bit earlier where we tossed the football around. It's not quite as hot as it has been but still in the 90's with horrible humidity. Not much else going on, so you all have a great rest of the evening, and God bless! 

August 11 - 1:30 pm (BMT +28)

Good Afternoon! Spencer and I had an earlier than normal morning at the clinic. It seems like we have to wait longer for B clinic than we did for A clinic. The wait gave Spencer a chance to lay down on the new leather furniture in the main lobby and take a nap. His numbers still look good and the doctors even commented on how most kids this far along are still being seen every day, but he isn't. They are happy with his progress and so are we. Spencer says he is still feeling good and I think he is getting bored staying in the apartment. Yesterday we did venture out to the little mall just to walk around and get out. Of course, we spent some time in the massage chairs at Brookstone! One of our favorite things to do that doesn't cost any money. In the evening we went back to the drive in and saw "John Tucker Must Die" which was a cute show. There were thunderstorms and lightning all around us so the air was cool and breezy. It was much nicer than the last time we went.

Next Friday the doctor wants to check Spencer's spinal fluid for white blood cells again. As you may recall, when they did it last week there were a high concentration of white cells, so they want to make sure there aren't still that many. Please be praying about this! Also, Chayse is doing much better and feeling well. He cannot practice again until next Monday but did go to practice last night and watched.

Spencer and I picked Rod up from the airport and he will be with us until the end of next week. I imagine Spencer and Rod will play a lot of PS2 which should help with Spencer's boredom. 

August 10 - 9:30 am (BMT +27)

Good Morning! We don't have clinic today so Spencer will take advantage of sleeping in a little later. That is in between meds and beeps! The TPN pump finished up at 8am with the wake up beep, and then the first round of meds took place at 9am. At 10am will be the next round and then there will be a break until 2pm.

Chayse had a visit to the ER last night as he suffered ailments from the extreme heat during football practice last night. He was put on 2 liters of IV fluids and sent home. I talked to him afterwards and he sounded good. It's so hard being so far away from him and not being able to take care of him. Thank God Rod is able to be there for him. As the ring tone on my cell phone, I have "God Is In Control" by Twila Paris. Every time it rings it serves as a reminder to me that God really is in control and all we have to do is trust Him. Here are the lyrics:

This is no time for fear
This is a time for faith and determination
Don't lose the vision here
Carried away by emotion
Hold on to all that you hide in your heart
There is one thing that has always been true
It holds the world together

God is in control
We believe that His children will not be forsaken
God is in control
We will choose to remember and never be shaken
There is no power above or beside Him, we know
God is in control

History marches on
There is a bottom line drawn across the ages
Culture can make its plan
Oh, but the line never changes
No matter how the deception may fly
There is one thing that has always been true
It will be true forever

He has never let you down
Why start to worry now?
He is still the Lord of all we see
And He is still the loving Father
Watching over you and me
 

August 9 - 2:45 pm (BMT +26)

Ah, as of yesterday, Spencer is officially 1/4 of the way to day 100, the magic day when we can leave Memphis for a visit home! We are so thankful that Spencer continues to grow stronger day by day. He is eating much better and getting more calories with food instead of TPN. In fact, they may take him totally off TPN by the end of this week. This morning I asked Spencer how is was feeling in comparison to pre-transplant and he said about the same. I praise God for that because he did not want to do the transplant because he said he felt so good and healthy. He looks so good and I get so encouraged when someone else comments on how good he looks too. I also think the creams are helping with the red blotchy spots on his skin. The Eucerin cream they prescribed for his dry skin is about the consistency of Crisco and not very easy to rub in. Spencer has been a trooper though and doesn't even complain.

August 8 - 2:00 pm (BMT +25)

Well, good afternoon! Sorry about the late update but we had clinic this morning and then met with the nutritionist. She is cutting the TPN (nutrition in a bag) back to 50% starting tomorrow night since Spencer is doing much better eating and keeping food down. That is is great news as that will mean one less thing I have to do every night and even better, no more beeping! I fixed him a cheese omelet and bacon for lunch and he said it tasted good. Right when I was starting to fix it the fire alarm went off, so off we went down the stairs only to find out it was a false alarm. They told us when we moved in that we were not to ignore any alarm as they really do have fires with so many foreigners living here and not knowing how to use the stove. Earlier today Spencer had a nice visit with Tyler and got caught up on all the latest with football and weight lifting. Later on we will venture out again to pick up a few items at Walmart. Oh, yeah, before I forget again, yesterday a couple of the women wrestlers visited the hospital and took a picture with Spencer. The picture will be posted soon, so when you see him with two very beautiful women you will know who they are!

August 7 - 6:45 pm (BMT +24)

Hello! I had a quick minute between fixing supper and the next round of meds, so I thought I'd update you on our day. It started out with a bit of a mix up on my part as I gave Spencer a med he wasn't supposed to get until after a blood level was drawn. In a frantic I called the nurse and was told we could draw the level tomorrow and not to worry. What a relief! All of Spencer's counts look very good and the report on the bone marrow aspiration was good as well. No leukemia cells in his bone marrow or in his spinal fluid! PRAISE GOD!!!!! Dr. Madden did comment that there were lots of white cells in the spinal fluid which could mean several things such as irritations due to meds, irritation due to radiation, and even sinus irritation. As you may recall, the x-rays showed a thickening in his sinus but the cultures have all come back negative. Allergies are really bad here in Memphis so that's probably the culprit. At any rate, keep praying it's nothing serious. They will do another LPIT (check the spinal fluid) again in another couple of weeks. Spencer's skin is becoming blotchy in places and the doctors suspect it could be the beginnings of GVHD in the skin. Dr. Madden was quick to remind us that they want a little GVHD. We now have different types of lotions to help with it. Well, it's about time to set the TPN out so it gets to room temperature before I give it to Spencer. Have a blessed evening and keep up the prayers as God is answering them!! We love you all!

August 6 - 4:00 pm (BMT +23)

Good afternoon! Spencer and I are spending a quiet afternoon relaxing and watching TV. Chayse, Marcus, Rick and Joanie all left about 9am this morning.  Spencer and I both really enjoyed having them all here with us. Seems like time passes all too quickly when we have company. Hopefully we can see them all again very soon.

It was a very late night after battling the TPN pump until about 2am. After waiting for the second pump to arrive and still hearing that annoying beep, I decided to call the doctor and got the approval to forgo the TPN for one night and restart it tonight. Hopefully tonight things will go much smoother and there will not be any problems with it.

We did end up going to the drive in and decided the movie was not as good as the previews. Spencer was pretty hot the entire time as outside temperatures were still fairly high and running the AC was not workable because the headlights would come on if the engine was running. I've always wondered why that is.

Spencer has clinic tomorrow and by the looks of the schedule, it will be a long day because Mondays are the days they check levels. So, if you don't hear from me until later tomorrow, that's why. In the meantime, thanks for checking in with us! We also want to say thanks for the "Fight Hard" orders we have received! 

August 5 - 9:30 am (BMT +22)

Good Morning! This is Cathy again. I'm going to try to remember to say who is typing the updates as some of you have commented it is sometimes difficult to know who is doing the updating. 

Spencer had a really good night even though he was up every hour and a half to use the bathroom. We both were able to go right back to sleep every time, so that's good. We've had a visit from one doctor who said the cultures are still not growing anything and that Spencer is in good condition. It looks like he'll be discharged today and the sooner the better because he, Chayse and Marcus are all pumped up about the drive in tonight.

Last night, Rick, Chayse, Marcus and I all took the trolley downtown and ate at Joe's Crab Shack while Spencer rested at the hospital. After we returned the boys stuck in a movie and then Grandpa Rick took the two boys back to the Target House to sleep. Grandma Joanie spent the evening resting at the hotel.

Rod made it home safe and sound just a little after 10pm last night. He has discovered going through Springfield shaves off 75-80 miles.

Again, I want to thank everyone for the continued prayers, cards, gifts and support. While you're praying, please add my Aunt Sue as she suffered a mild heart attack last night. Pray there is no permanent damage, no lasting effects and that there would be perfect peace to her and the entire family.

August 4 - 4:00 pm (BMT +21)

Hi, this is Cathy. The bone marrow aspiration and IT therapy went well this morning. Our primary doctor, Dr. Madden, told us that under the microscope the cells in Spencer's bone marrow look really good. "Lots of young cells" she said. We will get the official report probably by Monday. We've also been told that as long as Spencer stays fever free he can be released tomorrow. That was great news especially since we learned from Amy, our child life specialist, that Talladega Nights is playing at the drive in. That news sure brought lots of whooping and hollering from three boys who have been looking forward to this day for weeks. So, if all goes well we will be going to the drive in tomorrow night before Chayse and Marcus have to leave on Sunday. Rod left earlier today so the boys will ride back with Grandpa and Grandma Barr.  

August 4 - 9:30 am (BMT +21)

Although Spencer spent the day in the hospital yesterday, the day was very much uneventful. He is feeling well and does not understand why he has to be inpatient. He was fever-free for the entire day. Last night when the nurse checked his temp, it was 101.1 but after she left the room, Spencer had me check it and it was 98.8. Not sure what the difference was but then nurse said she would check it again in 30 minutes. Not sure what it was then since Marcus, Chayse and I headed back to the Target House. After watching Coach Carter that got over at 11:40, we were all ready to get some sleep. Today, Spencer has a scheduled bone marrow aspiration at 10:00 am. Time for some new specific prayers for Spencer:

1. No graft versus host disease.
2. No blastocytes (leukemia cells).
3. Time continues to pass by quickly.

Thanks again for everything. Our family is so grateful!

August 3 - 9:30 am (BMT +20)

Good morning to all this morning! This update comes with some good news and a little bit of bad news (don't overreact). Let's get the negative out of the way first. In the early morning hours last night, Spencer developed a fever of 101. Any time a fever develops, we get to go to the clinic and last night was no  exception. Spencer's fever was back down to normal within an hour but has been readmitted to the hospital as a precaution. You know Spence, he says he feels fine and wants to go back to the Target House. Now for the good news. The numbers from the lab report look very good. The report confirms that the graft has taken place and the marrow from Chayse is producing both red and white blood cells in Spencer.

August 2 - 7:45 pm (BMT +19)

Spencer has had a pretty good day. Although he had some nausea early this morning, ever since he has felt pretty good. At lunch, he said the chicken nuggets, fries and chocolate cake tasted good. Since then we have been playing PS2 and watching TV. My mom, dad and Chayse arrived around 5:00. It has been  fun to watch Chayse and Spencer. This has been the first time they have been able be together since BMT +2.

August 1 - 10:00 pm (BMT +18)

Not much news from today. After of a morning of waiting for clinic, Spencer spent most of the afternoon resting and napping. He has been experiencing quite a bit of nausea today. Since getting up this evening, we have started a double elimination NCAA baseball tournament and the boys are very surprised that I am undefeated after two games. Just waiting for the elimination games to get completed before I play for the championship. Spencer is pretty excited that absolutely nothing is scheduled for tomorrow. A day without having to go to the hospital.

July 31 - 9:30 pm (BMT +17)

Tonight finds us in the Target House. Although it isn't home, it is much better than the hospital room. Spencer is starting to get hungry but is finding it difficult to find something that tastes good. Marcus and he are having fun hanging out and playing PS2.

July 31 - 11:15 am (BMT +17)

Well, Spencer has been in the hospital 24 days and we will be getting out this afternoon (remember, the doctors told us it would be 4-6 weeks). Spencer's ANC continues to climb, now at 3800, and for the first time we are seeing an increase in the platelet count. Another positive sign that the graft is starting to take. Spencer has completed his PT for the day and is anxiously awaiting his dismissal to the Target House.

July 30 - 10:00 pm (BMT +16)

I am really sorry for updating so late! It seems like the day has flown by with activity. We spent most of the day visiting with Tif, Gayle, and Joanie. We even played a mean game of Monopoly with Spencer causing all of us to go bankrupt and winning the game. While he was counting up his thousands of dollars, Rod arrived with his surprise, which turned out to be Marcus. Spencer's face was priceless when Marcus walked through the door! Those boys were grinning ear to ear. It wasn't long before they were down in the Teen Room playing PS2.

We also were paid a visit from Tausha and Natalie. They are here for Natalie's check up. It was really nice to finally meet them face to face. We took some pictures and will have them posted soon.

It's a very strong possibility Spencer will be released sometime tomorrow afternoon. His ANC is up to 2500 today and is doing very well. They are taking him off the antibiotics and as long as he doesn't run a fever or anything like that he will be released. The doctors want to take a x-ray on his sinus' to be sure there's nothing there since he has been congested for several days.

Well, the boys are wanting me to take blankets down to the Teen Room so they can watch a movie. I hope tomorrow's update won't be so late, but I won't promise!

July 29 - 11:00 pm (BMT +15)

I am waiting for some laundry to dry so I thought I would do an update. Spencer is still trying to find something that tastes good and won't make his tummy upset. The good news is he has only gotten sick once today, so the little has eaten has pretty much stayed down. He kept his promise to his physical therapist and walked twice today. This evening he did one warm up lap with me following behind tending the pole and all the lines. After that first lap he put it into high gear and it was all I could do to keep up with him, especially rounding the corners--sometimes on two wheels! Grandma Joanie slowed down for just a second to look at something and was left in his dust. Many of the other patients and nurses were getting quite a kick out of it.  He wanted to play Monopoly but by the time we got everything done it was 9:30pm and he said he needed to get to bed early because he had to get up early in the morning to walk. I am so proud of him and his determination.

July 29 - 6:00 pm (BMT +15)

Sorry this update is coming so late in the day, but we've been busy! Spencer actually woke up early (just past 8am) and took a bath and went for his walk. He promised the physical therapist he would get two walks in every day, get out of bed for at least four hours every day, and get up before 10am.

Arley and Nancy Larson stopped in this morning for a short visit on their way back from a missions trip in New Orleans. Spencer and I really enjoyed our visit with them. They really worked hard in New Orleans helping several families make repairs to their homes.

It wasn't long after they left when Aunt Tif, Aunt Gayle, and Grandma Joanie showed up. We all visited with Spencer for awhile then the three of us shopped for bargains at the Pavillion here on the hospital campus. We checked in with Spencer before taking the trolley downtown to have a late lunch/early supper at the Rendezvous.

Spencer is doing really good today. Not only did the GCSF he received yesterday raise his ANC level, but it raised it to 1200! God is able to do exceedingly, abundantly, above that we could ever ask or think! All of Spencer's blood counts look very good too. Dr. Hale said again today that we would probably get out of the hospital on Tuesday. That would only make 18 days from the transplant! Remember, Spencer said he would only be in here for three weeks.

July 28 - 4:15 pm (BMT +14)

Spencer's day has been filled with physical therapy, massage, and sitting up in the chair for a couple of hours. He was craving a Twix candy bar and so far has kept it down. They are starting to change him over from IV meds to oral meds in preparation for leaving the hospital by early next week. Dr. Hale also started him on GCSF (Granuliocyte Colony  Stimulating Factor) which will also help to boost his immune system. By putting Spencer on this, the doctors think his ANC may rise to 500 by tomorrow. Overall, the doctors are very pleased with Spencer's progress.  We are getting excited thinking about getting out of here in less than week. We are also getting excited about Aunt Tif, Aunt Gayle, and Grandma Joanie coming tomorrow.

July 28 - 9:00 am (BMT +14)

It's morning again! Not to mention a Friday morning! I remember loving Friday mornings when I was working and always looking forward to the weekends. I hope all you have a great transition into a wonderful weekend.

We had a peaceful night with the only interruptions coming every four hours to do vitals. I was able to go right back to sleep but  Spencer says he didn't sleep very well and wants me to let him sleep some more this morning. I think it could be ploy to keep from getting out of bed! ;-) I did make a deal with him that if he does his mouth care early every morning I would buy him a pair of Oklahoma State pajama pants. I know bribery is not the best form of parenting, but hey, you got to do what you got to do!

Glory to God, his ANC is at 100 again today! No going back down! The nurse gave me a more detailed count list and I'm looking forward to the doctor coming to explain it to me. This one has monocytes listed and I do know those are very important indicators of how well the graft is taking.

We have decided we are not conceding anything to the devil. We are not making any deals with him. He has to give back ALL he has tried to steal from Spencer and our family. We've known from the beginning we had the victory and we're not leaving anything behind! God is a God of total restoration! Amen!

July 27 - 9:00 pm (BMT +13)

I honored Spencer's request and made homemade chicken and noodles. Okay, so not exactly homemade (the noodles were frozen) but Spencer thought it tasted good. Right now we're watching a movie and relaxing. Hopefully I can get him to bed a little earlier so he won't sleep the morning away.

July 27 - 2:45 pm (BMT +13)

Spencer has had a pretty productive couple of hours. He finally woke up around noon and ate a bowl of cereal and then went to physical therapy at 12:30pm. He and Jace played hockey in the hall again and both seemed to really enjoy it. I took some pictures and will try to get them up in the photo gallery in the next few days. Afterwards, much to everyone's surprise, we discovered one of Spencer's lines came undone and there was blood on the floor. Our nurse came to the rescue and had to change out all his lines right there in the hallway. Talk about two competitive boys playing for blood! LOL Once we got back into the room, Spencer did feel a bit nauseated and got a little sick, but nothing a nice long soak in the tub wouldn't take care of. He's even had some chicken noodle soup and the marshmallows from Lucky Charms. He's doing much better keeping food and liquids down. He has requested I make homemade chicken noodle soup for supper as he says mine is better than Campbells. :o)

July 27 - 9:00 am (BMT +13)

As you probably guessed, Spencer is still sleeping. We had a lot of interruptions last night with a couple of the pumps constantly beeping and that sort of thing. He experienced a coughing fit around 2am. I'm not really sure what it was about except he said it felt like something was caught in his throat. At any rate, he was able to cough up some mucus junk so it was good. I have good news again! His ANC is still at 100 and his other numbers look good as well. Glory to God! Oh, and Spencer was able to keep the chicken noodle soup down without nausea and I'm doing just fine with the TPN. I have this song rolling around in me this morning. It is one we used to sing at the church in my home town.

Praise God from Whom all blessings flow, Praise Him all creatures here below. Praise Him above ye heavenly host. Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.

July 26 - 9:15 pm (BMT +12)

Spencer and I enjoyed watching "Benchwarmers" in the Teen Room earlier tonight. After we returned back to his room, he was able to talk with three of his cousins on the telephone. He even received a phone call from Marcus and enjoyed a good visit. Right now he is eating chicken noodle soup and is saying it tastes pretty good. I am praying it stays down and does not make him nauseated. Tonight will be my third "practice" time in hooking up his TPN. I feel pretty confident in everything except drawing up the vitamins because they are in very little bottles and the syringes have much bigger needles! I'll get the hang of it.

July 26 -5:00 pm (BMT +12)

Just to clarify, when I said we may get to go home, I meant the Target House and not home in Maryville. I got some of you pretty excited, didn't I? :o)

July 26 - 4:40 pm (BMT +12)

It's been a really good day. Right now Spencer is in the Teen Room playing PS2 and wants me to join him for a movie soon. I can go in there as long as there aren't other teens in there.

Dr. Madden was in earlier and said she was very pleased with Spencer's progress. She said his monocytes are coming up which is an early indicator that Chayse's marrow is grafting. She said now we need to watch for fevers, rashes, and diarrhea which are all signs of GVHD (Graft Versus Host Disease). Of course, Rod said we weren't having GVHD but rather GLH (Graft Loves Host) instead. Spencer asked how soon he could go home and she told him as long as he didn't have any of the above and his ANC continued to rise, it could be as early as next week. This gives Spencer something to really fight hard for, so keep praying and standing in faith with us! We love and appreciate you all so much! 

July 26 - 11:15 am (BMT +12)

Praise the Lord! Spencer's ANC is up to 100! Woo Hoo! Please continue to pray it continues to rise every day.

His physical therapist, Janet, persuaded Spencer to get out of bed and play hockey with Jace. I don't think Spencer was very excited about it, but he did it anyway. While he was playing I had a chance to take a shower and clean up. Since playing he has been trying to go back to sleep but no one will let him! LOL It is good for him!

July 26 - 9:15 am (BMT +12)

Spencer and I had a good evening watching a movie and visiting on the telephone. He slept well and you got it, he is still sleeping. Well, trying to anyway. There seems to be a lot of activity in the halls this morning, not to mention the lasiks are doing their job. Hopefully I can get him up and get him a bath before noon today!

July 25 - 6:30 pm (BMT +11)

Spencer has had a very good day even though he didn't get up until close to noon. He did his physical therapy and then spent 2 1/2 hours in the Teen Room playing on the new I-Mac computer and teaching Amy how to play Aggravation. While he was off playing, I went back to the Target House to catch up on the laundry. I also swung by the Target store to pick up the newest release, "Benchwarmers" per Spencer's request. He is starting to feel a little nauseated so the nurse is giving him something to help.

July 25 - 11:15 am (BMT +11)

It has been a very peaceful and quiet night and morning. Spencer has slept the entire time except for when we started a movie at midnight last night. I tried my best to stay awake, but finally we both agreed to turn it off and finish watching it today. I have visited with the nurse and the doctors have decided to decrease his pain medicine in hopes that he won't be as sleepy. They are also going to increase the lasiks to two times a day as well as give him something to boost his ALB level. The reason for doing this is because his weight has increased and they don't want his body retaining extra fluids. They will also adjust his TPN as his glucose is a tad high and his vitamin K is a tad low. That's the great thing about TPN, they can adjust it to the patient's levels very easily. Spencer's hemoglobin is getting lower which may also be a contributing factor to his tiredness. It's at 10.8 and they transfuse at 8, so we expect a transfusion later this week. The all magic ANC number is still at zero, but again that's to be expected for awhile longer.

I would encourage you to check out St. Jude's website at www.stjude.org and read the story about NASCAR's #18 J.J. Yeley and 4 year old Jake Raborn. It is a very touching story and not only that, but we know Jake's parents. Jake was just released from fourth floor last week and has been coming back for clinics. He is a beautiful boy with great big eyes and sparkling smile.

Another article you may find interesting on the St. Jude site is the ABC's of Cancer. I've yet to read all of them as it is still very difficult. However, there is one that has touched my heart and I think expresses Spencer's thoughts and concerns about being here away from his friends, and that is the letter W. Check it out if you want.

July  24 - 9:30 pm (BMT +10)

Not much happening tonight. Spencer has literally slept all day and is still sleeping. He got up earlier to sit in the chair and fell asleep and has been there ever since. Rod reminded me of the last time his counts were so low and how he slept a lot. It's the body's way of healing and restoring itself. A praise report. Remember I said I laid hands on Spencer early this morning and commanded his blood pressure to be normal? Well, ever since every time they take it, it has been normal! Praise God! We really do have authority to call things that be not as though they are when we pray in the authority and Name of Jesus! ALL the promises of God are yes and amen. We just have to believe them, and we do.

I am getting completely spoiled. Our "neighbors" in the room next to ours love to cook and they keep bringing me homemade meals almost every night. Ann, the mom, was her son's donor last Friday and usually does all the cooking, but has really been in a lot of pain since. Her step-daughter, Kayla, has been here taking care of her and brought Cajun spaghetti not only for their family but for me and a few others on the floor. They are such nice people! Their son, Jace, was transplanted this past Friday and is doing well. His best friend, Tylor, is going home soon after spending the entire summer here in Memphis with him. Spencer has been jealous because he misses his friends so much. Hopefully, he and Jace can become good friends and hang out. 

July 24 - 5:45 pm (BMT +10)

Spencer has finally gotten out of bed and is now sitting up in the chair. He has eaten very little today as it either comes up or out very quickly. He received platelets around 3pm in just a matter of minutes. The nurse told me they take out all the extra fluids after transplant so it won't make any difference in his fluid intake/output. His blood pressure has been good since about 5am this morning when I laid hands on him and commanded his body to line up with the word of God. That was the big reason why Spencer was so tired today. The nurses were having trouble getting a good blood pressure most of the night. I'm not a fan of the electronic monitors as they seldom give out an accurate reading. I finally convinced the nursing staff to post a sign reminding them to take it manually from his right arm.

July 24 - 2:30 pm (BMT +10)

This was supposed to be physical therapy time, but Spencer is not feeling the best today. He is still really tired from not getting much sleep last night. About an hour ago he got hooked up to the holter monitor for the next 24 hours. The nurse was just in and said the platelets should be up soon.

July 24 - 9:30 am (BMT +10)

Well, it certainly looks like a beautiful morning outside today. I don't think it should get very hot today. Of course, Spencer is still sleeping even though he has been given lasiks (diuretic) again. It's amazing to me how he can get up, go to the bathroom, and then go right back to sleep. Honestly, I'm thankful he can do that with all the nurses in and out, poking and prodding throughout the night.

July 23 - 8:40 pm (BMT +9)

The x-rays showed Spencer's line is in place and not causing any problems. Dr. Gasow consulted with a cardiologist and it has been determined Spencer has PVC (Premature Ventricular Contraction) which is really nothing to be concerned with. Many healthy people have PVC without any cause for concern. I did some research and found there are medications that can even cause it. For example, diuretics. Spencer has had to be on a diuretic off and on since the infusion. Like I said earlier, tomorrow they will put him on a heart holter to monitor how many times in a 24 hour period his heart has this extra beat. We  appreciate you all agreeing in prayer with us that no weapon formed against Spencer shall prosper and that we will receive a good report. Until tomorrow, good night and God bless.

July 23 - 7:50 pm (BMT +9)

Dr. Gasow came in earlier and examined Spencer as she does every night. She went ahead and ordered chest x-rays because she thinks maybe the irregular heartbeat may be due to his line moving. We've already been down to x-ray and now are back in the room watching TV. I don't know if we'll find out the x-ray results tonight or sometime tomorrow. I wouldn't doubt if it is tomorrow due to the weekend. I will update as soon as we find out.

July 23 - 5:15 pm (BMT +9)

Rod got left about a half hour ago after getting beat two games in NCAA baseball. Hopefully he will still get to Springfield in good time. After returning from the teen room, the nurse detected an irregular heartbeat and now Spencer is hooked up to the EKG monitor again. Soon they will do a 12 Lead EKG, again just as a precaution. Tomorrow they have scheduled him to be on a heart holter for 24 hours just so they can monitor his heart rhythms. This was something that was already scheduled. As you will recall, this "irregular" heartbeat was detected last week and was not something the doctors were concerned about.  We continue to thank God Spencer has a strong heart that beats with the rhythm of life. His blood flows to every cell of his body restoring life and health abundantly. Every heart beat floods Spencer's body with life and cleanses him of disease and pain, in the Name of Jesus.

July 23 - 2:45 pm (BMT +9)

Most of the morning has been spent resting and relaxing due to the low counts and the continued pain meds. Spencer says his throat is feeling a bit better but is still somewhat sore. I will be leaving around 4:00 to travel to Springfield for the MoACTE Conference. Although it doesn't get easier to leave, I know that God's healing hands are wrapped around Spencer and he will be closer to being out of the hospital when I return next Sunday.

July 23 - 12:30 am (BMT +9)

It is a late night but that is OK. Spencer has been resting all day and at 9:30 Spencer was ready to go. He challenged me to PS2 and after splitting the first two games 1-0, Spencer fell behind early 3-0. Late in the game, Spencer took control scoring 11 runs in the eighth and ninth inning to grab the 11-4 win. I am claiming that Spencer was under the influence of performance enhancing drugs (each time he hit his pain pump, he took it out of the park). We will be convening a grand jury tomorrow to investigate.

When we were leaving the hospital tonight, we met a father who's son was just diagnosed with leukemia. We know what the family is going through as the situation is very similar to ours. Ty is a 9-year old who is active in baseball, basketball and football with football being his favorite sport. Our prayers are with the Wagner family. Earlier tonight Cathy and I ate at The Rendezvous, one of Memphis' top BBQ Restaurants. We both thought it was very good. Spencer has had a restful day but when the doctor was in, she was happy with where he is at eight days after the transplant. Hopefully the web issue has been resolved and we don't have many more problems.

July 22 - 1:15 pm (BMT+8)

Well, as many of you have found out since last night, the web page was down. Sorry for the inconvenience but the server needed to be upgraded. (if anyone has yesterday's update saved, email it to us). We are up and running now! Spencer is up and about now after sleeping the morning away. He is feeling OK but is complaining of being bored. Yesterday we tried to go to the teen room to play PS2 but it was way too hot in the room. Spencer wants me to go check it out to see if it is better today.

July 20 - 10:45 pm (BMT +6)

I made it to Memphis around 7:15. Spencer doesn't look much different than when I left. I am not sure who was more excited, Spencer or me. We had a pretty good visit before he faded off to sleep due to the pain meds. Cathy and I slipped out to Taco Bell for a supper date:). When we got back to the room, Spencer was awake and is a bit more alert since they switched his pain med. Spencer and I watched the ESPN My Wish with a boy from Minnesota and Roger Clemens. It is amazing the similarities in the story of Matt Vosejpka and Spencer. At 10:00 Spencer started receiving his TPN. I told him that one looks like Mountain Dew and the other like a milk shake. He has fallen asleep and I think that is a pretty good idea and I will join him.

July 20 - 6:45 pm (BMT +6)

Rod should be arriving any time now and Spencer is really getting excited to see him. He's had a pretty good afternoon with dozing off and on. The doctors have decided to put him on non-stop pain meds so his pain can be controlled better. He can still push the button if he needs a boost, but he hasn't had to do that much. The meds certainly make him groggy though. Not so much though that he can't give his nurse a bad time about taking too long to come in when the pump started beeping! ;-)

July 20 - 1:40 pm (BMT +6)

Spencer has gotten up and done his physical therapy and is now sitting in the chair. He tried eating a pudding but it didn't stay down long. The nutritionist came in earlier and told us it was time to put him on TPN. It will be better for now since his throat is so sore. Soon it will be tub time and then I'll let him rest for awhile.

I've been thinking about Ephesians 3:20. "God is able to do exceedingly, abundantly above all that we could ever ask or think." I know our family has great dreams and thoughts about our lives in the future, especially Spencer's. They are great big amazing thoughts and dreams, yet Ephesians 3:20 promises that God will do exceedingly, abundantly more!! It then makes me think of Jeremiah 29:11, "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future."  All the promises of God are yes and amen! We are holding tight to those promises and have expectant hearts to see them through.

July 20 - 9:45 am (BMT +6)

Last night was a little rough as Spencer's throat continues to be very painful. There are many secretions (mucus) in his throat that cause him to make this really weird sound when he falls asleep. The nurses could hear him out in the hall and even came and checked on him. Thank God he is still getting plenty of oxygen as he breathes. He kept waking up and apologizing to me for keeping me up. He is such a sweetheart! Finally at 5am I went to the parent room to get at least a few hours of sleep. His ANC has bottomed out at zero, so now it can only go back up. Pray this happens quickly.

Rod is on his way to Memphis this morning, and Spencer and I are really looking forward to seeing him again. We only wish Chayse could come too. Please pray for traveling mercies.

July 19 - 9:20 pm (BMT +5)

We still do not have the results back from the EKG. However, Dr. Gasow indicated she did not think it was really anything to be concerned with. We have decided to put Spencer on a pain pump so he can control the dosage. Of course, they have put limits on how much he can get and how often he can get it. It gives Spencer more control and is a mind over matter type thing. He definitely has not eaten as well today because of the throat pain. It is a strong possibility he will be put on TPN (Total Parentheral Nutrition) tomorrow. The pain meds have really wiped him out and he is already asleep. I have to wake him to do his last mouth care for the day. Once again, thank you all for your continued prayers and support. 

July 19 - 3:15 pm (BMT +5)

Dr. Madden was just in and said it was not unusual for kids to have sore throats, but to try to keep drinking. The good news is they still have him on IV fluids. He has been working on a strawberry shake, so he's getting something in.

Spencer just told me he wanted me to get window paint for the outside of his windows that face the hallway. He has two scriptures he wants on them. Phil. 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me, and Rev. 12:11 I will overcome by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of my testimony. So, it looks like I need to get busy painting!

July 19 - 12:00 noon (BMT +5)

Just a quick update and call for prayer. The nurse thought she was hearing something unusual in Spencer's heart beat, so she has hooked him up the EKG and printed a report to show the doctors. That was at 11:10am and still the doctors have not come in. She really does not think Spencer is symptomatic for anything and has really cautioned me not to worry. I just wanted you all to know so you can be praying. No weapon formed against Spencer shall prosper in the Name of Jesus! I will update as soon as I know anything.

July 19 - 10:00 am (BMT +5)

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, His mercies never come to an end. They are new every morning, new every morning, great is Thy faithfulness, O Lord, great is Thy faithfulness! I hope you don't mind me sharing that song with you this morning, but it is what is rolling around inside of me today. I love when the Lord puts a song in my heart!

Spencer had another really good night even though his throat is hurting pretty badly. He hasn't quite woke up yet despite all the hustle and bustle of the morning nurses.

Today is massage and physical therapy day. Janet, his PT, has already stuck her head in the door but said she will wait for him to get up. I wonder what fun thing she has planned for him today.

July 18 - 9:45 pm (BMT +4)

While I was at the Target House making supper, I received a call from Mary Jo Barmann who said she was in my son's room. I actually thought she was back home in one of my son's room, but instead she and Mike were at the hospital in Spencer's room. They are in town for a conference and said they couldn't come to Memphis without stopping by. It was so good to see familiar faces from home. From the very beginning, Mary Jo has been a great support to me and our family. For those of you who do not know her, she is the school nurse at Maryville Middle School. We really had a nice visit!

Spencer only got sick to his stomach once today and that was after I bragged to the doctor that he hadn't. No sooner had she left the room Spencer said he didn't feel so well. He always feels so much better right afterwards and was ready to go back to the Teen Room to play his game. He probably would still be there, but the nurse asked him to come back to his room so she could hook up more meds. He is getting some pain killers as he said his throat was really starting to hurt from the mucusitis. Please continue praying it stays at bay and does not get any worse. The more days he is able to eat on his own the better.

July 18 - 3:45 pm (BMT +4)

Spencer is really doing great today. Shortly after the last update, I went back to the Target House to clean up and then to Walmart to get the latest PS2 NCAA football game. As soon as I returned, he was anxiously waiting to get the game in his hands and hurry back to the Teen Room to play. He and Amy (the Child Life Specialist) were in there talking and scheming about how the tournament is going to work. Spencer is so excited and it is so good to see him up and out of the room.

July 18 - 11:20 am (BMT +4)

Praise God for another peaceful night. Spencer and I both rested well and have just finished a breakfast of cereal and milk. Soon we'll both get cleaned up for the day and maybe get in some hockey! Spencer has been coughing quite a bit but the doctors think it's the beginning signs of mucusitis. A little is to be expected as long as it doesn't get worse. His ANC is still at 100 and should be dropping in the next day or so. Again, another thing that is expected. His hemoglobin is still very good thanks to Chayse. All the doctors commented on what good blood and marrow Chayse had to give. The really cool thing is from now on, both Chayse and Spencer will have the same DNA in their blood. It's time for Spencer's bath!

July 17 - 11:45 pm

We've had a nice quiet evening with Spencer mostly playing on the computer. He met the Child Life Specialist today and said he already likes her. Amy really sparked his interest by talking video games and asked him to help her set up a tournament not only on the fourth floor but with the clinic as well. He spent most of the evening on the computer researching what it will take to make it happen. We also played Trouble and Racko and unfortunately for me, I lost every game.

July 17 - 2:45 pm

As I type, Spencer is getting a massage while peaceful music plays in the background. He looks very relaxed and seems to be enjoying it. Right before the massage was physical therapy time. Janet, his therapist, had him doing some basic leg lifts with light weights and then took him out in the hall and they played hockey. He really enjoyed that even though she beat him by one goal. His nurse said she would take him on later. This looks like something we can continue to do to help fight the boredom and also keep him active. We also had a visit from the nutritionist and found out we can request specific foods and they will buy it for us. That will really save me running back and forth to the Target House. I also talked to Chayse this morning and he said his back is feeling better. He had weight lifting this morning but only did his upper body. His coach seems to understand, so that's good!

July 17 - 9:30 am (BMT +3)

Good Monday Morning! Spencer had a much better night without the pumps beeping. The nurse has already been in to get his weight at 8 am and he's already taken one of his oral meds. He wants to wait a while longer to take the other one as his throat is starting to hurt a little. Please pray against mucusitis!! They have also started him on IVIG which stands for intravenous immunoglobin. It is given once a week to help boost his immune system, which is good now that his ANC is down to 100.

Earlier I set forth five things which I felt the Lord showed us to pray against. Since then I kept feeling like I needed to write them down and as I did the Holy Spirit confirmed to me there were NO risks involved with the transplant. Here they are again spelled a bit differently!

• Rejection

• Infection

• Side-effects

• Complications

• Setbacks

July 16 - 6:15 pm (BMT +2)

Wow, I can't believe it's already after 6pm. Spencer slept in quite late due to the fact his pump was beeping all night. Rod said air kept getting in his line which caused the alarm to go off. He woke up before Chayse and I arrived and took a bath but went right back to sleep until right before it was time to take Rod and Chayse to the airport. Once I returned, Spencer and I played a game of computer Monopoly and then I went back to the Target House to make chili and Rice Krispie treats for supper. He sure thought the chili tasted good but it didn't stay down very long. It's amazing how quickly it comes on and how quickly it goes away. Right now he is chilling out watching TV and has promised to go for a walk later. 

July 16 -12:30 am (BMT +2)

Another good night. Spencer ate well and said the pizza tasted good. Chayse painted the windows with different logos (Maryville M, Northwest Paw, Titans, Oklahoma State, Ole Miss and Superman so far). He might do one more tomorrow. It will be difficult for me to leave tomorrow. Spencer gets pretty upset just thinking about it. I plan on coming back to Memphis in 10 days but it might be earlier. We met a couple of parents tonight on the floor. It was good to visit with them and hear their stories of inspiration. You can learn about their kids at the following web sites:

www.caringbridge.org/la/jakeowen
 www.caringbridge.org/visit/jacetrahan

July 15 - 6:15 pm (BMT +1)

Things continue to go well this evening. Chayse is a bit stiff but is starting to feel better than earlier this afternoon. The biggest obstacle Spencer is facing is boredom. Physically, everything is very positive but he is getting a bit restless this afternoon/evening. Cathy went back to the Target House to make homemade pizza as per Spencer's request. As for the short in the AC adapter, nothing that a little black tape and a couple of connectors could not overcome. Hopefully, it will hold until the new adapter arrives later in the week. Thanks to the Merrill family for stopping by yesterday. Spencer loves the bat!!! Some pictures from the past week will be posted shortly.

July 15 - 10:15 am (BMT +1)

I will have to keep this update short as we have computer issues. The AC adapter has shorted out and is no longer functioning and the battery doesn't have much charge left. Chayse is doing well. He and I went to eat at Joe's Crab Shack last night. After coming back to the Spencer's room, he started decorating the windows. Spencer is feeling very, very good. Last night he took me town in Monopoly. We purchased a computer version that he really seems to enjoy. While playing, the adapter shorted out and started to smoke. No fire but we had a good chuckle. Every time it shorted out the Fart Machine went off. Oh yeah, the Fart Machine, Spencer's favorite way to try to pull something on the nurses. And it worked. the night nurse came in and Spence acted as if was asleep. While she was working on his IV pump, he let it rip (he has it under blankets and pillows to make it sound very realistic). The look on her face was priceless. Spencer is doing well and continues to eat a normal diet. I say normal but a junk food diet is a better description. Last night for supper, pizza rolls and a Rice Krispie treat with Gatorade. Sounds normal to me. This morning he is sleeping in. Usually he has been getting up around 11:30 and I don't think that will change. Hopefully I can find an adapter so we can keep everybody updated. Also, we will post some pics as soon as we can. Dead battery, gotta go.

July 14 - 3:45 pm (BMT Day 0)

All of Chayse's bone marrow is just about all infused into Spencer. Spencer battled a bit of cramping in his stomach, but the doctors said it wasn't from the transplant but rather a side effect from the chemo and radiation. I'm sure Spencer did not think it ended soon enough, but it really didn't last very long. A nice warm tub helped as well as some meds. Right now he is resting comfortably in bed as Chayse sleeps in the recliner and Grandpa and Grandma sit by. Rod and I are close by in the parent room. Thank you all for your prayers and support today.

July 14 - 1:35 pm (BMT Day 0)

The infusion of the bone marrow began a little after 1:00 pm. One of the nurses congratulated Chayse saying that it is one of the biggest bags of bone marrow she had ever seen. Chayse is doing well and is up walking around. He walked down to the cafeteria with Cathy and I for lunch. Spencer is just chilling out in his room. His lunch just arrived and I was a bit surprised in his lunch request of shrimp, cinnamon roll and ice cream. Since they gave Spencer Benadryl prior to the infusion, I am sure that he will be sleeping most of the afternoon.

July 14 - 10:10 am (BMT Day 0)

The doctor came in and said that Chayse did well and the collection went just as planned. Spencer has asked to wear Chayse's #67 necklace and is anxiously waiting to see his big brother.

July 14 - 10:05 am (BMT Day 0)

Cathy just came in and said that Chayse will be out of recovery in about 10 minutes.

July 14 - 10:00 am (BMT Day 0)

The big day is here. Not much different yet for Spencer except that he did not have to get up early for radiation. I haven't heard  anything from third floor where the harvest is taking place. Chayse should be in recovery or close to it. Please pray that Chayse has a quick bounce back from the harvest.

July 13 - 11:00 pm (BMT -1)

We have had an excellent day. Spencer completed his radiation treatments with flying colors. We just want to thank the radiation nurses for making his time in radiation enjoyable (even though they don't know if Spencer is the next American Idol). On two occasions today, doctors commented on how well Spencer is doing with the chemo and radiation. One even asked when he started chemo and we told him that it was finished this past Sunday. Chayse and Spencer spent the afternoon together while Cathy, Dianne, Larry and I went out to Chili's (a huge supporter of St. Jude's) to eat.. Most of the emotions have passed and we are ready for the big day. It will be an early morning as Chayse has to be at the hospital at 6:30 am with the procedure scheduled for 7:30 am. the procedure is scheduled to take an 1 1/2 hours and the infusion will take place sometime in the afternoon. Thanks for all of the emails and calls! Your prayers and support is greatly appreciated.

July 13 - 7:00 am (BMT -1)

Good morning (really it's a great morning). Last night was a bit emotional as we talked as a family. We cried and we laughed but most of all we loved together. After a game of Sorry, eating nachos and a game of Monopoly, Spencer and I were able to spend some dad and son time together as I stayed at the hospital over night. I am sure that Cathy and Chayse sharing mom-son time was just as rewarding! As Cathy and Spencer were leaving for the Target House, Spencer was in rare form and shared some of his sense of humor with the nurse. Although I am sure that she thought our family was a bit loony, we had a ball. It was fun visiting and catching up but I think Spencer could sense I was very tired. At one point, he said "Dad, it's time to got to sleep.

Today is the final day of radiation and Spencer will heading down for the first treatment of the day here in a few minutes. He handled yesterday's treatments very well and I expect that to continue today as well.

When we started this journey, I asked people to pray for specifics and I feel led to lay the following our prayer requests to you.

1. Peace for family and friends, especially Chayse and Spencer.
2. All procedures go according to plan for Chayse with the BM harvest.
3. No ill side effects or complications to Chayse or Spencer throughout the BMT.
4.  GLH. We are believing that the graft (cells taken from Chayse) will love the host (Spencer) and GVH (graft versus host disease) will not cause any setbacks.

Today is filled with emotion as we start but God is the same today, yesterday and tomorrow!

July 12 - 2:00 pm (BMT -2)

Chayse and I made it to Memphis. It is a great feeling to see Cathy and Spencer. Spencer was resting when we got here and has requested some pasta salad. Cathy and Chayse have headed over to the Target House to fulfill his request. Even though Spencer would rather rest, the physical therapist has him doing his exercises. He is very strong and made it through his strengthening/balancing exercises with flying colors. He is now riding the stationary bike for 10 minutes and will be finishing up shortly. Both my my sons have made me very proud as we approach the BMT. Their attitudes have been more the fantastic. In addition, I am so thankful and proud of my wife. She is a pillar of strength that we can always count on.

July 12 - 9:00 am (BMT -2)

This morning I have been overwhelmed with emotion as I sense and feel the presence of  God all around us. I am so thankful that God gave us emotions to feel and experience joy, peace, love, and yes, even sadness and pain. It is during these times that our hearts beat with the Father's and we grow closer to Him. We received an email this morning from a close family friend we've known for years but haven't kept in close contact with. Her words were really encouraging as she reminded me of Elisha in II Kings 6: 15-17 when Elisha's servant went outside and saw they were surrounded by their enemy. In the natural, there was no way out and death seemed eminent. Elisha prayed and asked the Lord to open his servant's eyes and told him to fear not for they that be with them were more than all he could see against them. When he prayed that prayer, the Lord opened the servant's eyes and saw that the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about them. This is exactly what the Lord is doing for us. There are literally thousands of people standing in faith and prayer for Spencer and our family and it is quite overwhelming. We thank God for each and every one of you.

Spencer had a really good night and slept very well. He is very tired still this morning as the radiation is doing what it's supposed to do. He has already done radiation this morning and is back in bed sleeping.

As I type this Rod and Chayse are surely on their way to the airport to come here. Spencer has been missing them terribly and is really looking forward to having them here. He is also missing his friends and can't wait to have them come for a visit. In the meantime, he has enjoyed visiting with them on the phone and on MSN. Thank God for technology!
 

July 11 - 8:30 pm (BMT -3)

We met with the radiation doctor before this afternoon's treatment and he said it all looks good. Spencer asked if the treatments would get any worse and the doctor said he didn't expect they would. That sure helped Spencer to hear that. He is really clicking with the radiation techs and is joking around with them. This morning they were teasing him about looking like a turtle because even though his body is strapped down he can still move his head to see what's going on around him. Kind of a long story, but really quickly, they play Carrie Underwood during the treatments and they told him if he would sing a song he would get a prize. Well, I guess we have another American Idol on our hands, because he told them to turn the music up and sang "Jesus Take the Wheel". He chose Mr. Potato Head as his prize saying you can't go wrong with Mr. Potato Head! LOL--My only regret is I didn't get to hear him sing because they don't let parents stick around after the first time.

This evening has been a little rougher on him as he did get sick around 7pm. He hasn't really felt much like eating since but did manage to eat a popsicle. Right now he is resting in bed watching TV.

Earlier today the physical therapist came in and evaluated him. She was pleasantly surprised to see how strong he is and said she wanted to keep it that way. She brought a stationary bike in the room and said she would bring in some light weights and bands tomorrow or the next day. Spencer has been on the bike a couple of times today for a few minutes. I've even been on it a few times and am trying to take the stairs instead of the elevator some.

The doctors also started him on a medicine to help decrease his phosphorous level as it is a little high. He says it kind of tastes minty but still not very good. We have to get one more sitz bath in tonight and there's still laundry to change over, so this will conclude the update for tonight. Once again, thank you all for your continued prayers. Keep them coming!

July 11 - 3:00 pm (BMT -3)

Spencer is having a great day. He has felt good with little upset stomach. In fact, he had me fix spaghetti and bread sticks for lunch and bring it to the hospital. Right now we are hanging out watching TV until the next radiation appointment which is at 4pm but we will meet with the doctor before then at 3:30pm.

July 11 - 10:00 am (BMT -3)

Well, good morning! This is the day the Lord has made, we will rejoice and be glad in it! Spencer had a really good night and would have slept through the night if I hadn't woke him up. I didn't realize the nurses had decreased his fluids and didn't need for him to urinate every two hours. Ooops!  At least I only woke him up once. He woke up in a good mood and ate a cracker before going down to radiation. He was joking around with the technicians and even let me take his picture with my camera phone. Now that we're back in the room, he has eaten Superman Cap'n Crunch and is watching TV. He is wanting me to make a good lunch of either spaghetti, lasagna, or enchiladas. He's also wanting me to get him some spicy hot peppers! Oh, I pray it stays down! 

July 10 - 10:00 pm (BMT -4)

Spencer has had a pretty good evening. He wanted me to bake a frozen pizza and bring it back for him, so I did. He ate good and seemed like it was going to stay down until a couple hours later. The radiation has turned his skin pink and he gets hot off and on. He also said his eyes were whacking out on him and it was hard for him to read the scores on the TV. Please pray his eyes are protected as one of the side effects can be cataracts. We just finished talking on the phone with Daddy and Chayse. He is really missing them and is really looking forward to seeing them on Wednesday. We haven't heard what time radiation is tomorrow morning, but Spencer thinks it will be a little later than it was this morning because he overheard a conversation when he was in radiation this afternoon. We're hoping to get at least another hour of sleep.

July 10 - 5:20 pm

Oh, what a difference from this morning! Praise God! Spencer has handled the second radiation treatment with flying colors. He was concerned about going the second time because he was so sick after the first round, but I told him he wouldn't get sick this time and he didn't. We have a great nurse who worked hard to get the right anti-nausea meds scheduled for him. Right now he is sitting up in bed playing PSP and is thinking about what he wants for supper. He's thinking pizza sounds good, so I'll probably go back to the Target House and make one. 

July 10 - 3:20 pm

We just received word that radiation is running a little behind and may be closer to 4pm before Spencer goes down. Right now he is receiving a massage and looks like he is really enjoying it!

July 10 - 2:00 pm (BMT -4)

You'll never believe who we just met! Faith Hill came to visit and stopped by our room for a visit. I had left the room to get Spencer some crackers and when I got back she was here visiting with him. I would not have recognized her if I didn't know it was her. She had a ball cap on with her glasses. Just like her song says! When I came into the room, she stood up and gave me a hug. She really is very sweet and down-to-earth and was kind enough to take a couple of pictures with Spencer and me. Before she left she told Spencer she would be keeping him in her prayers. Tim McGraw was supposed to be with her but wasn't. Neither one of us had enough guts to ask her where he was! Spencer was going to have him sign his Friday Night Lights DVD. One of the nurses said he may be on a different floor visiting other kids.

Spencer is feeling better and hasn't gotten sick for about three hours. He has eaten some saltine crackers and drank some Sprite. We'll leave for his next treatment in about an hour. I hope the anti-nausea meds and crackers will keep him from getting sick again.  

July 10 - 11:00 am (BMT -4)

First of all, I want to apologize for not updating sooner, but we've been having issues with the computer. Hopefully from now on we can stay connected.

Spencer had a very good day yesterday. He ate good, sat up in the chair most of the day, and even went for a couple of walks around the halls. There is a Ms. Pac Man game in the hallway he likes to play and he even got me to play with him. It's just not fair that he is so much better than me! :o)

The first radiation treatment was this morning around 8:30 am. After the first ten minutes on his belly he had to use the bathroom and was a little nauseated then. They let him rest for a few minutes before doing his front side for the remaining ten minutes. We didn't quite make it back to the fourth floor before he got sick and vomited. Since then he has gotten sick several times, but the good news is it is getting further and further apart. He is scheduled to go back for the second treatment this afternoon between 2:30-3:00pm. Right now he is resting pretty good.

I received a word of encouragement from Rod this morning. He said he was talking with Pastor Shea from church yesterday and Pastor shared with him the same verse from John 11. Rod and I are taking that as confirmation that this sickness is not unto death, but rather to bring glory to God's Son.

Another praise report! Chayse's ear infection is gone and his blood pressure is good too. We thank Jesus for His healing power and continue to praise God for a quick healing.

July 8 - 8:00pm (BMT -6)

Spencer is doing very well and is keeping busy playing his new PSP game, Pac Man World 3. Kind of funny how that game has come back.

Anyway, Spencer has handled the first round of chemo very well and we expect it to continue. I went to the Target House, took a shower, and made supper and brought it back for him. He said the chicken, rice, corn, and rolls sure tasted good and was much better than the hospital food.

He will get the second round of chemo tomorrow at 2pm. In the meantime, they keep the Mesna going as well as the Heparin, which protects his liver. The Heparin will continue all week until the transplant on Friday. I talked to Rod earlier today and he said Chayse's ear was feeling much better. Praise God! He still has an appointment on Monday to get it checked out before coming back here on Wednesday. Chayse's blood pressure was also a little high when he was here and they want to have it checked at home as well. The doctors here thought it was probably nerves.

We're starting to make the hospital room more like home by hanging up some posters. Spencer wants to wait for Chayse to come to do the window painting, but for now the posters help block out the light from the hallways. We're looking forward to seeing how much darker the room gets tonight for sleeping. However, not sure how much sleep we'll get again since he will need to go to the bathroom every two hours. Please don't let up on your prayers as there is such power when we agree together in prayer. Thank you all so much!

July 8 - 2:00 pm (BMT -6)

Spencer is now receiving Mesna via his line. Mesna is a medicine used to prevent damage to the bladder that can be caused by the chemo he will receive next. Of course, there are many possible side effects but we refuse all of them in the Name of Jesus! After the Mesna, he will get Cyclophosphamide, the chemo, which will infuse over an hour. Again, many possible side effects, and again, we refuse all of them in the Name of Jesus! We appreciate all of you standing in agreement and praying against side effects, infections, set backs, complications, and bone marrow rejection. In John 11:4, Jesus is speaking of Lazarus, but I believe He is speaking of Spencer as well when He said, "This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God's glory so that God's  Son may be glorified through it."  We praise God and give Him all the glory for the healing He is doing in our precious son!

July 8 - 10:30 am (BMT -6)

Good morning! It was another typical night in the hospital with sleep interrupted about every 1 to 2 hours to use the bathroom. It was either that or the nurses were in taking vitals or labs. Spencer is still sleeping this morning and I would love to join him, but I always feel kind of funny sleeping in so late while in the hospital.

One thing I forgot to tell you yesterday is Spencer was chosen by the computer to receive both massage and humor therapy. I am so happy he was chosen for this study. Of course, it would have been fabulous if I was chosen to participate with him, but that's okay. I know it will benefit Spencer and that's what really matters. The Bible teaches us that there is healing in the laying on of hands and that a merry heart doeth good like a medicine. I have no doubt this will aid in his healing process. (Proverbs 17:22)

Spencer just woke up and asked for some toast, so now I'm on a mission to make toast!

July 7 - 11:57 pm (BMT -7)

Well, I guess technically it's still Friday, which means I did get an update in today! This has been quite an emotional day. We got an early start with an appointment at 8:30am and then we had a two hour break before the next one. We spent that time walking around Target and checking things out. We finished up with appointments just after 12:30pm and thanks to some great advice from Child Life Specialist, Charlotte, we ate at a pretty good pizza joint before heading off to the mall and taking in the Pirates of the Caribbean. We both thought it was great even though it was 2 1/2 hours long! Spencer rated the pizza 7 out of 10 (nothing comes close to Paglia's) and the movie an 8 or 9. We were supposed to check into the hospital at 8pm but it was closer to 8:30pm before we arrived. We tried our hardest to squeeze in as much fun before coming, and I think we accomplished it.

Things will be different here on the fourth floor. Housekeeping cleans the room two times a day and all linens, including mine, must be washed every day, which also includes any blankets from home. All of my personal things must be kept in the parent room instead of in the room. He can only have two visitors at a time too.

We also found out today that the MRI taken earlier showed small areas of A-vascular necrosis in his hips. large leg bones, and a bit in his knees. Our new doctor, Dr. Madden, said she was not too concerned about it and adding more calcium and exercise will help further damage. Spencer's liver also showed signs of what she referred to as fatty infiltration. Again, she said the levels of his liver are right within the perimeters for the transplant are just very slightly elevated. We are very impressed with Dr. Madden and Spencer already seems to like her quite a bit.

Tonight Spencer will get plenty of fluids before chemo is administered tomorrow morning and again on Sunday. The chemo will be very strong and can really wipe him out and they expect it to do so. They will give him a drug called Mesna to protect his kidneys. Radiation will begin Monday and will continue through Thursday. It will be two times a day for 20 minutes per session. The goal is to totally wipe out Spencer's bone marrow which will compromise his immune system. Rod and Chayse will fly down on Wednesday and then Chayse will donate his marrow Friday morning and Spencer will receive it Friday afternoon. Chayse is still dealing with an ear infection and will see the doctor in Maryville tomorrow. It is very important that it is cleared up before the transplant.

I mentioned earlier that this has been an emotional day. It is very difficult to sit through the doctor explaining all the possible side effects of chemo and radiation. Talk about a battle of your mind! Of course it is necessary to understand what your child will go through, but there's also the fact of God's word. We refuse to receive any and all of the side effects and believe God for total and complete healing for Spencer. Earlier this week the social worker asked us if we were in denial of the sickness, and I told her we weren't denying the sickness, but rather acknowledging the word of God and are standing in faith that Spencer is already healed. Every natural and physical sign says Spencer is healed. He acts normal, eats normal, plays normal, talks normal, etc. etc. It was so hard to sign that consent form today! Rod and I believe God sent us here to Memphis so Spencer would receive the very best care and we know in our hearts that this is a necessary thing for a complete and total healing. We continue to pray for a quick healing that would even astound the doctors!

From the very beginning, God has used songs to minister to us. One in particular has been blessing us and giving us peace and it's called The Voice of Truth by Casting Crowns and the lyrics are:

"Voice of Truth"

Oh what I would do to have
The kind of faith it takes
To climb out of this boat I'm in
on to the crashing waves

To step out of my comfort zone
Into the realm of the unknown where Jesus is
And He's holding out His hand

But the waves are calling out my name
And they laugh at me
Reminding me of all the times
I've tried before and failed
The waves they keep on telling me
Time and time again. "Boy, you'll never win!"
"You'll never win!"

Chorus:
But the Voice of Truth tells me 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 me
I will choose to listen and believe the Voice of Truth

Oh what I would do to have
The kind of strength it takes
to stand before a giant
With just a sling and a stone

Surrounded by the sound of a thousand warriors
Shaking in their armor
Wishing they'd have had the strength to stand

But the giant's calling out my name
And he laughs at me
Reminding me of all the times
I've tried before and failed
The giant keeps on telling me
Time and time again. "Boy you'll never win!"
"You'll never win!"

Chorus:
But the Voice of Truth tells me 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 me
I will choose to listen and believe the Voice of Truth

But the stone was just the right size
To put the giant on the ground
And the waves they don't seem so high
On top of them lookin' down
I soar with the wings of EAGLES
When I stop and listen to the sound of Jesus
Singing over me

Chorus:
But the Voice of Truth tells me 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 me (calling out to me)
I will choose to listen and believe-

I will choose to listen and believe the Voice of Truth

I will listen and believe
I will listen and believe the Voice of truth
I will listen and believe
Cause Jesus you are the voice of truth
And I will listen to you, you are-

We are choosing to listen to the Voice of Truth and know we serve a God of restoration and He is restoring Spencer's health. We believe God's hand is upon Chayse and his ear is healed. God is preparing Chayse for the upcoming transplant not only physically, but emotionally and spiritually as well. Dr. Madden always makes reference to Chayse and what a "big guy" he is and is pleased that he is. Today we talked about all the times Chayse has protected and looked out for Spencer. By giving his bone marrow, this is another way Chayse will do just that, only it will be his bone marrow looking after Spencer from the inside.

Well, it's almost been an hour since I started typing this update. Spencer has finally fallen asleep and I must do the same. I hope this update will guide you in your prayers for Spencer and our family. Now more than ever we need your prayer support. God bless and keep you.

July 6 - 3:30 pm

We just finished up our last appointment for today where we met with Gina, a BMT nurse. She went over everything we can expect once Spencer is admitted tomorrow night. Of course, they have to tell us all the possible side effects, and even though we must be informed we are still standing in faith that Spencer will not suffer any of them. It is very difficult knowing your child must go through this to get to total restoration and healing. Spencer is in total remission and every sign shows he is healed. While pondering this earlier today, I felt the Holy Spirit speak to me and He said Spencer is healed and will continue to be healed even through this process. From the very beginning, we have been praying for Spencer to have a quick healing that would even astound the doctors. That is one prayer we continue to pray and believe. Thank you all for your continued prayers and support. We know this has been a long haul and we cannot express how much it means to our family knowing there are so many of you who are standing in faith in prayer for Spencer and our entire family. God bless you all!

July 6 - 3:00 pm (BMT -8)

Spencer and I are waiting to be called to our next appointment in B clinic. We haven't been doing much except staying up late watching movies. He wanted to pull an all nighter, but this Mom couldn't pull it off. Just too old for that anymore.

July 5 - 8:00 pm (BMT -9)

Talking with Spencer on the phone, he seems to be in very good spirits. Most of the day was spent watching movies in the room at Target House II. Appointments start back up tomorrow and will take most of the day.

July 3 - 1:00 pm (-11 until BMT)

We will be departing shortly for the airport. Our family has had a tremendous time together this weekend. Spencer and Chayse are feeling great about the transplant. It has been fun to see the two of them spend time just hanging out. Cathy and I are so proud of both of them and the way they are handling this situation.  They have always been close and it continues to be that way now more than ever. Chayse and I will return to Memphis on July 12. Spencer will be admitted to inpatient in the evening of July 7 to start hydration for chemo that starts on the 8th, continuing on the 9th. Radiation will start on the 10th finishing up on the 13th with the transplant happening n the afternoon of the 14th.

July 2 - 11:30 pm (-12 until BMT)

Being the last night in Memphis together for awhile as a family, we went out for supper. We went to Blues City BBQ down on Beale Street. It was very good but not as good as KC BBQ in our opinion. After supper we got some ice cream and played putt-putt at the Peabody Place. After returning to the Target House, we played Aggravation with Chayse and Cathy taking home the winner's prize. As for the St. Peter's Picnic, it was hilarious. I don't know if I have ever seen as many politicians gathered in one spot at once. There were more political signs in the Target House lawn than probably the whole town of Maryville. Each candidate had their own tent and people going through the crowd asking for votes. I've always heard about southern politics and now I have a bit of a better understanding. Chayse and I will be returning to Maryville tomorrow afternoon if all goes as planned. Spencer again has tomorrow off.

July 1 - 11:30 pm

Not much happening in Memphis other than it being very hot, 100 degrees +. This morning Brent and Carrie Young along with their daughter Kenzie stopped by on their way to Nashville for a short visit. It was great to see some familiar faces. With no hospital appointments, we spent most of the day watching TV. This evening we grilled hamburgers and hot dogs. Near dusk, we ventured east to Shelby Farms to take in a few fireworks. A huge crowd and a pretty good display. Luckily we were able to beat most of the traffic and make our way back to the Target House in a relatively short manner. Nothing big planned for tomorrow. They are holding the St. Peter's Picnic on the grounds where Target House sits. It is the oldest picnic in Memphis and has been going on nearly 130 years. We will probably visit the picnic but with the heat, air conditioning sounds good to me!

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To make a donation:

Spencer Barr Fund
Citizen's Bank and Trust
First and Main
Maryville, MO 64468

Treynor State Bank, Treynor, IA

US Bank, Red Oak, IA