Journal History
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Wednesday, February 22, 2006 1:43 PM CST
Elijah has finally gotten to meet one of his prayer warriors! Ruben Bean of the McKameys has been praying for him for several years, and The McKameys came to Arkansas a couple of weeks ago. Elijah was able to tell him what God has done for him. I believe it blessed Ruben as much as it did Elijah!
Elijah is now 8 yrs. old and wants to be a preacher when he grows up. His church had a children's service last Sunday where the children are incharge of everything. Naturally, Elijah was the preacher. He did an awesome job! He chose several scriptures that he wanted to use, and he wrote down his own thoughts about the scriptures himself! Each time he read a scripture, he then explained how it related to us, giving examples, etc. I was amazed!
I have a couple of new photos to upload later today. Hope you enjoy them.
Tuesday, November 15, 2005 11:45 PM CST
All is well with Elijah. He is cancer-free and awesome!!! I have uploaded new pictures in his photo album that I thought you might like to see. Elijah reads so well and is very artistic. He's doing great in school.
This week, Elijah and his brother, Zion, had scans. (Of course, they turned out clear!) Zion was 8 mo. old when Elijah was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, and the medical community was so shocked because siblings aren't supposed to get it, (sister Hosanna had been diagnosed before Elijah) So they had Zion go through regular scans, too, and said he would have to keep it up for 5 years. Well, it's only been 4, and they told his parents that Monday was his last scan! We are very happy about that! God has been so faithful through this whole thing! God is a good God.....yes, He is!!!
Wednesday, March 30, 2005 0:16 AM CST
On March 15 we had the annual Hosanna Gospel Singing at the CMA (Christian Motorcyclists Association) headquaters near Mena, Ark. The featured group this year was Christlike, and our hearts were truly blessed by their annointed music. (See photo in Elijah's photo album).
On Monday, Elijah and family went to his grandparents' house for an Easter egg hunt. I told Elijah and Zion to let me get a photo of them with their eggs, and they started acting so goofy! I just had to share this photo with you! (see album)
Elijah was out of school this past week for Spring break. I think he was ready to go back, because he loves school. He does so well in most subjects and we are very thankful for that. Again, I heard on the TV that children who have been through what he has been through are usually developmentally delayed. We give all the credit to God for Elijah overcoming all the hurdles.
Monday, March 7, 2005 7:01 PM CST
Just a note to let you all know that Elijah is doing fine. He is a typical 7 yr. old, going to school and fighting with his brother. Actually, his little brother, Zion, almost has a black eye from their scuffling. But they're both very tender toward Hosanna. It's really sweet to watch them with their sister.
For those of you who don't know, Hosanna's website is back up and running!!! We are so excited because it's been down for over a year. Be sure to go there and brouse through the pages, read the testimonies, and be blessed!
www.singhosanna.com
Tuesday, February 22, 2005 8:58 PM CST
Hosanna was having trouble, and she would cry in pain when we picked her up or changed her diaper, so her mom and dad took her to the doctor. He discovered her leg was broken!! Actually, it was the small bone, so not as bad as it sounds. The doctor set the leg and she got the cast off yesterday. She has been smiling all day! Guess she's just so happy to get it off. Her mom called Elijah at school to let him know Hosanna got her cast off. He and Zion had stayed with me and Grandpa while they went to the doctor in Little Rock. When we took him home from school, the first thing he did when he walked in the door at home (even before kissing Mom and Dad "Hello"), was go straight over and lift up the blanket to check Hosanna's leg!
Both children are doing fine. Scans are clear, and they are very healthy. Elijah's doing so well in school. It's just amazing! God is a good God, yes He is!
Wednesday, November 17, 2004 1:45 PM CST
Elijah and his little brother, Zion, are in Little Rock today going through scans. Elijah has called twice to speak to Grandpa. Whenever he goes to the hospital and anything happens, he has to call his grandpa. Sometimes he is crying because he's scared. Sometimes it's just to report something. Grandpa spent a lot of time with him when he was going through bone-marrow transplant, so he feels he needs his grandpa whenever he's up there. If Grandpa can't go, then he stays in touch via phone.
Zion never had cancer, but because the other two children had it, they check him regularly, too.
Each week, Elijah's first grade teacher draws a name, and that student is the "Star Student" for that week. Last week, when she had the drawing, she looked back at Elijah and he had his eyes closed. She said she knew he was praying, and she did draw his name! He was so excited!I took a lot of photos up to the school for her to use. He was so proud of his board.
Elijah and his sister, Hosanna, are both doing great. God has surely blessed!
Thursday, August 26, 2004 8:03 AM CDT
Well, school is in session again, and Elijah loves it. He is very proud of the fact that he is a good boy in class and doesn't loose any points. He is in first grade this year, and we praise God for that!!! His class is two doors down from his sister's (Hosanna's) classroom. The teacher said as soon as the dismissal bell rings, Elijah is out the door and heads for Hosanna's class. He greets her with a hug and kiss, and he talks to her about the day, how his went and asks how hers went. She doesn't answer yet, but he answers for her. She loves it.
Elijah is doing great healthwise, too. God has been so faithful! Everytime we have testimony service at church Elijah always says "God healed me with no more cancer!"
God is not a man that He should lie, neither the son of man that He should repent. Hath He said and shall He not do it, and hath He spoken and shall He not make it good? Numbers 23:19
Wednesday, July 28, 2004 7:21 AM CDT
Elijah is doing great! He will be in first grade this year and is very excited about school because he loves to learn and loves making friends.
Grandpa is teaching him to play the guitar. He recently spent a few weeks with his "Grammy California", and someone decided he needed a new guitar. He now has a pretty blue one (see photo album).
His mom and dad pastor a small church in Oklahoma, about 30 minutes from here. They have a young man named Caleb who comes from a Christian college to do praise'n'worship on Sunday, (not the Friday night service). Last Friday night, as they were leaving the house, Elijah asked his mom if Caleb was going to come and play his keyboard. Katherine told him no, that Caleb only comes on Sunday. Elijah announced, "I'll do praise'n'worship tonight!" He ran back into the house and brought out his little $10 keyboard I had bought him for Christmas and took it with him to church.
When it came time for praise'n'worship, Elijah sat right there on the front pew and played his keyboard. He has no clue what he's doing, but it did have a pleasant sound, so they let him continue. When it came time to receive the tithes and offerings, Elijah was right there playing. Katherine preached and when it came time to give people a chance to come forward for prayer, Elijah was right there with the music! It was so funny because he knew just when to play and when to stop, right on cue. At times, he will close his eyes and worship as he plays. He is very sincere about this, not just showing off. I wish you could see him. He is always giving God the glory for his healing.
Friday, May 7, 2004 6:20 PM CDT
I know it has been awhile since I have updated this site, but life gets hectic at times. They say, "No news is good news", and I guess they're right. But "no news" doesn't give glory to God!
Elijah's scans remain clear, just as we keep telling the doctors they will. Even they have begun to admit that this is a miracle....under their breath, of course.
The last time Elijah was tested at school, he scored very low. Upon questioning the teachers, Katherine found out that he had been tested right after transplant. They had shown him pictures of things like a comb and ask "What is this?" He couldn't answer them, so they graded him accordingly. The child had been months without hair! He didn't know what a comb was! Well, they recently retested him and he scored well above average in all reading skills! He did score lower in math, but we can work on that. I know that God has touched him.
We celebrated Hosanna's 5th birthday in April. At her party, they were video-taping everyone speaking a birthday wish over Hosanna. When they pointed the caamera at Elijah, he began to preach. Not just pretend preaching...REALLY preaching! It was so awesome! He was quoting scripture, and he went on for a good 5 minutes. (Now if we can just train his dad to preach shorter sermons!) Ha!
We continue to stand on faith in the Word, that Elijah and Hosanna are both healed and will tell you in person one day! God is so good!!
Sunday, January 18, 2004 9:20 AM CST
Elijah wanted me to tell everyone Happy Valentine's Day. I asked what he wanted to say, and he told me to write:
"God healed me with no more cancer. I love everybody. I am having fun at school."
What a blessing he is! What a good God we serve!
Monday, October 27, 2003 8:57 PM CST
Elijah had his regular scans today, and they turned out great! He shows to be all clear. Katherine even heard the doctor mumble the word "miracle"!!!
I am uploading a couple of photos of Elijah's last soccer game. It was so wonderful to see him out there running and playing with his teammates. What a blessing!
Remember when I posted on here about the Special-Ed Coordinator coming to Elijah's school to meet him for the first time? Up until then she had only known him on paper. She told the teacher not to tell her which child was Elijah because she could spot these kids a mile away. She said they were always developmentally delayed. After the forth wrong guess, she gave up trying to pick Elijah out of the crowd. Well, Elijah recently got his first report card, and his grades were excellent!
Elijah had chickenpox last week and had to miss school so his classmates signed a card and sent it to him. He could recognize every child's name, even one that is long and very unusual. I am reminded of when the three Hebrew children were put into the firey furnace, but God delivered them and they didn't even have the smell of smoke on their clothing! God is such an awesome God!!!
Thursday, August 21, 2003 11:28 PM CDT
Elijah's first day of school was great. He learned how to sit cross-legged, which the teacher calls "criss-cross applesauce", and he is learning to be obedient. The teacher has an apple tree for each child, and when a student is acting up an apple falls from his tree. After about 3 apples, then more drastic measures are taken.
Having gone thru all that Elijah has gone thru, he has become quite the prayer warrior. He and his parents pray every morning before he goes off to school. Well, this year his dad started back to college so he asked Elijah to pray for him as HE goes to school.
The prayer went something like this:
Dear God, be with my dad at school today. Help him to keep his hands to himself. Help him to criss-cross applesauce when the teacher says. And, God, don't let no apples fall from his tree!"
Saturday, August 16, 2003 8:00 AM CDT
Sorry I haven't updated lately, but I have been working, plus I went to Alaska for the birth of our twin granddaughters. Mom and babies are doing fine.
Elijah is doing fine. He starts kindergarten on Monday, and he is so excited. he is cancer-free and as wired up for action!
A child here in town was sent to Ark. Children's Hospital and was up on 3-GOLD, the cancer wing. We all went to prayer and it turned out to be a severe viral infection. But before we got word that they had gone home, Grandpa and Elijah went to Little Rock to visit the boy and encourage his family. As I said, they were gone home, but no trip to ACH is a wasted trip! One of the nurses asked Perry to visit with a mother who's son was diagnosed in stage IV neuroblastoma. Perry took Elijah in to see the mother and her son and explained to her that Elijah had the same diagnosis and made it thru, that there is hope, and that we will be praying for little Caleb. The woman was really encouraged. (Caleb's website is www.caringbridge.org/ca/caleb ) Please pray for Caleb and his family. They need a miracle, and we know the Miracle maker!
Friday, July 11, 2003 11:05 AM CDT
Dear Prayer Partners;
Thanks for being such faithful partners in prayer! It is working! Elijah and Hosanna and Zion were all tested this week at ACH and were all given a clean bill of health! Thanks, be to God! The next checkup for Hosanna will be nine months from this week. For a few more months, Elijah and Zion will continue their routinue exams every three or four months. Your prayers and encouragement have been such a blessing to everyone in our family.
The Family of God is so awesome! From a small community in Arkansas, to the far reaches of this world, God has used His people to pray for my precious grandchildren. God has encouraged us thru people who fighting for my grandbabies' future that serve on a tiny island of Diego Garcia to those who live on the shores of the Sea of Galilee.
James 5: 15 And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.
Thanks, for your continued prayers! One Greatful Grandpa!
Tuesday, May 13, 2003 10:42 PM CDT
Elijah is doing great! He has started playing baseball this week. His first game was tonight, but it got rained out. But there will be other games. What a wonderful statement! There WILL be other games, other days, lots of summer fun. Praise God for every one of those days!
Elijah will be graduating from pre-school next week. I posted his picture here so you could see how handsome he looks in his cap and gown. He is also into singing lately. His favorite song right now is:
God is good....all the time
He put a song of praise in this heart of mine
God is good....all the time
Thru the darkest night His light will shine
God is good...He's so good...all the time
God IS a good God...Yes He is!!!!
Sunday, April 13, 2003 8:16 AM CDT
Elijah has done so well in pre-school this year. He came home this week counting to ten in Spanish, and doing a great job of it! Normally children who have been thru the trauma Elijah has been thru are delayed in some areas. The woman who is the Special Ed. co-ordinator came to the school to check on his progress. She had never met Elijah in the flesh before, just on paper. But she told his teacher that she could pick these kids out of a crowd every time. The teacher just smiled and said,"Okay, which one is Elijah?" After the fourth wrong guess, the co-ordinator gave up! Meeting Elijah, you would never guess that he had been thru what he has. Truely, he has "taken back what the devil stole" from him, (his favorite song).
Elijah is so loving toward Hosanna. He will go past her bed and tuck the covers up around her or tickle her until she smiles really big at him. He will also carry on a conversation with her. The other day he walked past her bed, stopped, turned to Hosanna and asked,"What did you say?....You LOVE me?...I love you, too!" And then he kissed her. It was so sweet. Now, if we can just get him to act that way with his little brother, Zion, it would be great!
God is such a good God! We feel so blessed!
Saturday, March 8, 2003 8:02 AM CST
It's been awhile since I have updated, simply because everything is going so well! All his scans continue to be clear. Elijah is looking forward to going fishing with his grandpa, and getting in some swimming this year. Last year he was on maintenance drugs and couldn't get in the sun. Well, not this year! Grandpa and I are going to find the biggest inflatable pool we can afford and those grandbabies are going to have a ball this year! I will try to upload some new photos soon, so keep checking when you come here.
Wednesday, January 29, 2003 at 09:28 PM (CST)
Elijah went to Little Rock last week for his usual scans. After the doctors examined the results, they told his parents they needed to talk. Katherine said her heart dropped for just a second because she knew what that usually means. Then she began to remind God that He said Elijah was healed.
The doctor said they had found a couple of "hot spots" on his scans, meaning the cancer could be back. He did say that it was strange that both spots were in about the same place on each shin. Katherine said she knew then that they were bruises from playing too hard. She and Jason have a peace about it.
Then, his doctor's nurse called yesterday to tell Katherine that Elijah's urine test turned out great! Neuroblastoma shows up in the urine, but there is no sign of it in any of the three children! (Zion has to be checked regularly as a precautionary measure even tho he has never had cancer). We praise God for a clean bill of health for all three children!!! God is a good God!
Saturday, January 11, 2003 at 08:41 PM (CST)
Elijah is doing great! His test are all good, Praise the Lord!!!! He's doing great in school, too.
This holiday season was so special because we have him with us. We are so thankful for that. Perhaps it's his age, but he really got into the holiday spirit this year. Our church takes gifts and food to needy families at Christmas time, and Elijah asked his Grandpa to dress up as Santa. He said it was because his grandpa has white hair! Besides taking the gifts and stuff to the homes, they went around to a couple of local motels and visited some families who were stuck there on Christmas Eve due to weather. They passed out candy canes and small gifts to the children, but I think Elijah had more fun than anyone. Elijah seems to want to share with others and bless people now.
Saturday, December 14, 2002 at 06:18 PM (CST)
I haven't updated in some time, but what can I say when Elijah is doing so well except, "Praise the Lord!!!"
You can see by his picture that he is a healthy, active little boy. We have so much to be thankful for this year. We are so blessed!
Friday, October 25, 2002 at 07:50 AM (CDT)
Elijah went for his regular scans this past week. They look great! I have noticed that he has gained so much weight. A woman I work with told me yesterday that he looks so healthy you'd never know he had been thru so much. All the glory goes to the Lord!!!
Elijah was telling the doctor that he wants to move to Florida, (referring to his Disney World trip). His dad said that when Sissy (Hosanna) gets up they will all go back. The doctor said,"Well, you'd better start saving your money!" That is the first time the doctors have said anything possitive about Hosanna's future. They have seen God do so many miracles in Hosanna's and Elijah's lives that they are beginning to believe it when we tell them Hosanna is getting up and Elijah WILL live! Praise God!
Monday, October 21, 2002 at 07:40 AM (CDT)
Elijah is on his way to Little Rock for scans today. He has them regularly to make sure the cancer doesn't come back. We are expecting a good report and giving God the praise ahead of time. Elijah is doing great! He has gained his weight back and looking so good.
The other night Elijah was talking about what he would take to school for "Show and Tell" the next day. His dad suggested taking something that he got at Disney World on his Make-A-Wish trip. Elijah said,"Yes, I can take that when I show my tail!" Boy! what a 4 year old can come up with!
Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 03:13 PM (CDT)
Elijah had his Make-A-Wish party at Chuckie Cheese on Friday and it was wonderful! Everyone had so much fun! Elijah got a full Buzz Lightyear suit that lights up and all. You can see several shots of him in his photo album. The TV station covered it for the news, but we didn't get to see it because it wasn't our news channel.
On Sunday, the family left for Disney World in Florida. The airlines moved the whole family up to first class instead of coach as planned, and Elijah was invited by the pilot to see the cockpit.
On Monday morning, they had breakfast with Mickey and Minnie Mouse and Goofy.
Today, they all met Buzz Lightyear, Woody, and Jesse, and the family had lunch at Pizza Planet, just like in the movie! Zion has been so excited I can't understand a thing he tries to tell me on the phone. He starts trying to tell me something, but then he gos off making these weird noises. I'm sure he's mimicing something he has seen at the theme park.
While there, Elijah took his final dose of Accutain. A Boy Scout troop was there when he took the final pill, and they had a big celebration with a cupcake and a candle in it. One of the Scouts gave Elijah a kerchief to tie around his neck and made him an honorary member of their troop. I do hope they are getting plenty of photos for us to see.
I want to thank the Make-A-Wish Foundation for making this all possible for this family. God said He would turn the curse into a blessing. Make-A-Wish is a blessing.
Friday, August 30, 2002 at 09:03 PM (CDT)
That Elijah is so funny! His sister, Hosanna, got her trach taken out at the hospital this week, and Elijah was thrilled. He came running up to me and said,"Grandma, ask me 'What's the matter?'" I asked, "Elijah, what's the matter?" to which he replied, "Hosanna got her trach out! Thank You, Jesus!" Then he went dancing around the room.
I have uploaded a couple of new photos of him. Also, someone on the web has made Smile Quilts for him and Hosanna. Please feel free to go and see them at http://smilequilts.com/hosanna.html and http://smilequilts.com/elijah.html . You will also find these links on this front page along with the link to Hosanna's site.
The quilts are so beautiful! You can send a block for their quilts also. If you don't know how to do graphics, just tell them who it is from and they will make a block for you, from you, and put it on the quilt.
Elijah is doing great! That Accutain is really rough on him, however. His lips and skin have to be oiled constantly and he hates that. Just one more session of Accutain and he's done. Yippee!
Thursday, August 22, 2002 at 12:44 PM (CDT)
Elijah started preschool this year. The husband of one of the teachers bought a canopy so Elijah could play outside like the other children, (he can't be in the sun at all while he is on Accutain). He's adjusting pretty well, but still gets teary-eyed when his mom drops him off.
Elijah should be done with Accutain before his trip to DisneyWorld. He is so excited about getting to meet Buzz Lightyear.
We are so thankful for what God has done and IS doing in the lives of these babies. I appreciate all the prayers that go out for them, too.
Thursday, August 15, 2002 at 02:21 PM (CDT)
As I said in my last entry, Elijah and Zion went to the hospital for their scans this week, and everything was all clear. Their mom was taking them up on the elevator to say hello to Elijah's nurses, and Elijah wanted to push the button. Mom told him to push the #3 for third floor, but he couldn't figure out which one was the #3. On the way down, she told him to push the #1 for the first floor, but he couldn't figure out which button had the #1 on it. Mom was very upset about him not being able to recognize his numbers because the family has been so tied up with medical issues that she hasn't had time to work with him on it.
But then the boys went in to do the scans. Zion was laying on the table and the nurse was intent on watching the monitor as she viewed Zion's scan. With no prompting, Elijah said,"See, Bubbie, this is your heart and this is your kidney, and this is..." The nurse's mouth dropped open and asked Mom, "How did he know that stuff?!!" Mom began to laugh! At 4 years old Elijah may not know all his numbers, but he has his medical terms and the human anatomy down better than most 20 year olds!
Another good report... Hosanna had to be on Accutane , a preventative drug, for a year, 2 weeks on and 2 weeks off. We thought Elijah would also have to have it for a year. It is a VERY expensive drug as the co-pay on that drug alone is over $800 per perscription! Now, we find out that he only has to have 6 mo. of it, which is 2 more 2-week sessions! THAT is a blessing! Praise God!
Monday, August 12, 2002 at 10:39 PM (CDT)
A short update for now. Elijah had his usual scans today and everything looked great. As you may know, we had a couple of times this month where we had to call on you for prayer, but it was just Satan jumping out from behind a bush and hollering "BOO!" He is doing wonderful, and all the praise and glory goes to God. Thank you for your prayers.
Make-A-Wish Foundation is taking the family to Disney World next month. Elijah can't wait to meet Buzz Lightyear. I do hope they get lots of pictures of everyone!
Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 08:16 AM (CDT)
Elijah is doing great. His next set of scans is scheduled for next week and we are expecting a good report. He can't get in the sun while he is on Accutain, so when he does go outside he has to play in the shade. We have a large toy that is a pirate ship in our yard, so we moved it to the shade so he could enjoy it. And enjoy it he did! Grandpa hooked the waterhose up to the sprayer on front of the "ship", and Elijah had a ball spraying everyone, especially Grandpa! (See new photo)
I thank God for what He has done for Elijah and Hosanna. Every day is such a blessing!
Monday, July 01, 2002 at 07:25 AM (CDT)
Just wanted to update you on Elijah. He's doing great! He is taking Accutain right now, which has become a cause for concern. It is a medication for acne, but it helps prevent cancer from coming back or something. Katherine found out from the pharmacist that it causes birth defects, so they are tightening up on perscribing it. Elijah has to take 12 doses of it, two weeks on/two weeks off. They can't give him any more until he gets approved for it, and he starts another dose in two weeks. I hope they get the mess straightened out before then. Hosanna had to take it, too, but she is done with it.
Elijah's hair is back. It is darker than it was, but it is still red and curly, just like Hosanna's. I'll try to get a good picture to upload in a day or two.
Monday, June 17, 2002 at 12:29 PM (CDT)
Just a quick note. Having computer problems, but wanted to post and let you know all is well. Elijah had surgery on his teeth a couple of weeks ago. The chemo caused a lot of damage to his teeth, so he will have extensive dental work over the next couple of years. They also took his line out of his chest because he had an infection in it. They normally leave it in for a year after chemo "just in case". Will do a more extensive update when I get back online. God bless.
Thursday, May 02, 2002 at 02:47 PM (CDT)
Elijah had bloodwork done this week and they are saying it still isn't normal. We need that blood to line up with the Word of God and be normal! Other than that, he is doing great. Look at his picture in the photo album and you will see that his hair is coming back in red! Praise the Lord! Some people have a totally different hair color and texture after chemo, but both Elijah's and Hosanna's hair has remained red. That is something we asked God for. He has given us the desires of our heart. My family is planning a trip and may be gone for a month. If I can, I will update from a library computer somewhere. Elijah's and Hosanna's Grandma
Monday, April 22, 2002 at 04:03 PM (CDT)
Elijah went back to Children's Hospital for tests and scans today. Such a great report!! His platelets which were going up and down too much are now up to 147 (150 is normal!), and the scans show that the bones are healing! I won't go into a lot of details, but let it be known that God is a healing God!!
Tuesday, April 09, 2002 at 07:41 AM (CDT)
Elijah had a temp on Saturday night, and the doctor wanted him back up at Little Rock if it didn't go down. We prayed and contacted some prayer warriors. The temp went down that night. Any mother knows that a child's temp usually goes UP at night. The doctors also says his platelets aren't holding like they should. She said they are not down to the danger level, but just not up where they should be. Satan just has to hear it again..."Not so!"
We went to the nursing home to hold services yesterday. Elijah wanted to go and preach with his grandpa. He greeted the people by shaking hands with some of them, took the mic and sang "Enemy's Camp" and "I Feel Batter", and then "preached". His sermon was short..."Cancer all gone! Thank You Jesus!" Then he crawled up in my lap and went to sleep,(it was past his naptime). I thank God everyday for sparing Elijah.
God has really been dealing with me about reminding Him of what He has promised. I was watching a video tonight about a man who was raised from the dead. His wife got the news that her husband was at the mortuary, and she began to cry out to God and remind Him that in Isaiah 61 He promised that no violation would come against her home again. This was a violation of her home and that it wasn't going to happen. GOD RAISED HIM FROM THE DEAD!! There are more details, but what caught my attention is that she "reminded God of the promises He had made".
When Satan comes against me with fear and doubt, I simply remind God that He promised to heal these two babies of ours, and that our trust is in Him. Sometimes it seems I can hear God chuckling and saying, "Yeah, I did say that didn't I. Well Honey, you hang in there and I'll do it!"
Thursday, April 04, 2002 at 09:41 PM (CST)
Elijah went to Little Rock for a check-up today. Everything looks great. We were expecting a good report and got one. He doesn't have to go back for two months!
God has really been dealing with me about reminding Him of what He has promised. I was watching a video tonight about a man who was raised from the dead. His wife got the news that her husband was at the mortuary, and she began to cry out to God and remind Him that in Isaiah 61 He promised that no violation would come against her home again. This was a violation of her home and that it wasn't going to happen. GOD RAISED HIM FROM THE DEAD!! There are more details, but what caught my attention is that she "reminded God of the promises He had made".
When Satan comes against me with fear and doubt, I simply remind God that He promised to heal these two babies of ours, and that our trust is in Him. Sometimes it seems I can hear God chuckling and saying, "Yeah, I did say that didn't I. Well Honey, you hang in there and I'll do it!"
Friday, March 22, 2002 at 04:25 PM (CST)
Well, Elijah is done with chemo, bone marrow transplant, and radiation! God has seen him through this thing, and has been faithful! At this time I want to repost the prophesy that was spoken over Elijah more than a year before he or Hosanna was diagnosed.
I have had some people ask me how I can be so sure that God is going to heal these two babies when other children die of the same thing. Well, the number one reason is I know what the written Word of God says. The number two reason is that God does not give you a prophesy about your future if He doesn't intend for you to have one! This prophesy was about Elijah's future.
"Behold, my son! You shall find as you begin to develope in the things of the Spirit of God, a love and a desire for the Lord and a desire to grow up and to walk in the statutes of your dad. You shall begin to hear my voice even as a young lad, even as Samuel heard the voice of the Lord. As a young lad, you will learn to hear the voice of the Lord and move. And even as a young man, you will be known as a prophet of the Lord for the Word of prophesy shall come strong within your life." HOSANNA !!!
Thursday, March 14, 2002 at 09:41 PM (CST)
Elijah is doing great! He is finishing up his second week of radiation, and will come home for the weekend. Next week, he has 4 days of radiation and then he is all done! He has done so well thru this whole thing. I know that has to be God! If you haven't viewed his photos lately, I uploaded a new one this week, and hope to put on a couple more in the next day or so. If you would like to see another miracle, click the link below and go to Hosanna's page and look at her new photos! Now THAT is a mircale. God has been faithful and is working a miracle on both these babies. We are so excited!!!
Friday, March 01, 2002 at 07:47 AM (CST)
Elijah is scheduled to start radiation on Monday. We have no idea how many sessions he will need, so we don't know how long it will take. He has to go back to the hospital today because he needs more platelets. They think his immune system is fighting off the platelets by mistake. This situation is treatable, however, so just keep him in prayer. Other than that, he's doing great.
Friday February 15, 2002 3:06 PM CST
All is well with the babies. Elijah has lost a lot of weight,(4 lbs. is a lot for a 4 yr. old), but Grandpa is trying to put it back on him. They just left to go to McDonald's. They will go thru the drive-thru so Elijah doesn't have to be around a lot of people.
They haven't scheduled the radiation for him yet. They should have a conference with the doctors to make those decisions next week. Katherine was so upset when they said he would have to have it because they found live cells in the tumor they removed from Elijah. But then the people at CARTI (the place that does the radiation), told Katherine all the benifits that are available to the children who have come thru that place. For one thing, they get all kinds of scholarships to college, every year they take the kids on a great vacation,(one year they went to NY, another time to Disney World), and many more things. The Word says "...I will turn your curse into a blessing...!" So God will bring something good out of this.
Hosanna is doing great, too. She got a new nurse last week. This nurse told Katherine that she had prayed about this job before she moved here from Texas. God led her to Hosanna! God has given us some wonderful nurses. One RN asked when the doctors were planning to re-evaluate Hosanna, because we have seen so much progress just since the last time she took care of her. Katherine told her the doctors refuse to even discuss it. They don't believe she will improve. BUT GOD......!!! Hosanna is aware of what is going on around her, she gets mad and cries when you lay her down, she knows people's voices, and so much more! Now, when Elijah passes her bed he commands her,"Sissy, get up!" and walks on by. Right behind him is his "shadow", Zion, commanding "Deeyup!" You can see Hosanna straining to sit up. She gets frustrated, but she keeps trying. Katherine says the first thing she is going to teach Hosanna to say is,"Na-Na-Na-Na-Na-Na!" to the doctors and to Satan!
I want to thank all of you who have so faithfully stood with us in prayer for these two babies. They have come a long way and still have a way to go. But I think we can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. Keep praying, please! God bless!
Saturday February 9, 2002 8:26 AM CST
I can't believe it, but Elijah is finally home! The transplant went well. There were some scary moments, but nothing the doctor didn't expect. They are still planning to radiate, but that won't start until he is totally stabilized, (could be a month). He will have to stay in Little Rock for that, but not in the hospital.
I give the doctors credit for doing all that they could for Elijah, but it was God who saw him thru this. The doctors have done the same and more for others, but they didn't survive. God has been faithful to keep His promises that we have stood on. He will do the same for you if you will just stand and trust Him.
Sunday February 3, 2002 9:27 AM CST
Elijah is still in the hospital, but should get out anyday now. They just want to make sure he is eating right before releasing him. He will have to stay in Little Rock for a couple of weeks, but at least he will be out.
Hosanna and Zion both have to go in tomorrow, (Monday), for scans and tests.
The other day Katherine was in the hospital room and got to thinking about things, and she began to cry quietly. Elijah saw her and asked, "Mom, what matter?" Katherine told him she was just frustrated.
Elijah said, "Mom, come here." Katherine went over to him, and he put his hand on her cheek and said,"You want Zanner to get up? You want me to eat?"
Katherine answered "Yes" to both questions.
Elijah, with his hand on her cheek, bowed his head and prayed,"In the Name of Jesus! Zanner get up, go play, me eat! Amen! See, it's okay, Mom!"
When Katherine told me that, I cried! Thru this whole situation, Elijah has learned that God answers prayer. Isn't that what this is all about, anyway?
Saturday January 26, 2002 8:22 AM CST
Elijah had a great day yesterday! He hasn't been talking because it is so painful with all the mouth sores, but yesterday he started talking again! He is doing so good, according to the doctors. They say everything is "textbook",(meaning everything is going as it should). He is in isolation until his counts (immune system) come back up. He spiked a temp once, (it was 102), but the next time they took his temp it had gone back down. I believe prayer took care of that. God has had His hand on Elijah throughout this whole thing, and He didn't bring him this far to leave him now! We still have no idea how long it will be before Elijah gets to come home, but I just feel that it won't be too long now.
Thursday January 17, 2002 9:29 PM CST
Well, Elijah is done with the transplant and he went thru the procedure with flying colors! The doctor left the room shaking his head in amazment at how well Elijah did. He never even lost his smile until he went under the anesthetic. Now, we just have to wait until his counts (immune system) come back up and he can come home. From what I understand, he will still have to go thru radiation, but that's not as rough as chemo. We are so excited to be done with all this. We want to thank all of you prayer warriors out there for holding our family up in prayer. Please continue to do so, as we still have a ways to go. Had it not been for a man named Jesus...!!! God bless all of you.
Saturday, January 12, 2002 at 03:09 PM (CST)
Today is Elijah's last day of chemo, and he has done great! After today, he will rest for three days. Then on the 8th day, (Wednesday), they will inject him with the cells that they harvested from him a few months ago. It is a critical day, and we would like for everyone to be much in prayer for him thru that day. The doctors can't believe that Elijah isn't sick and that he is still eating. They said most kids are throwing up at the very thought of food. Elijah is eating just fine and has even GAINED 2 ounces! Perry,(Grandpa), was at the hospital and went to check on Elijah, who was in the playroom. He found him there with an extention cord attached to his IV pole. When Perry asked what that was for, the aid told him they had to put that on to be able to keep up with Elijah! He is very active, eating well, and doing great. God is a good God, yes He is! Not just because Elijah is doing good, but because He has kept His Word and has shown Himself to be faithful. We give Him ALL the glory!!!!
Thursday, January 10, 2002 at 06:27 AM (CST)
This will be Elijah's third day of chemo, and he is doing great. Not much to report at this time, but I do appreciate all of you being so faithful to pray for him and for our family. Tomorrow will be the last day of chemo, then he will rest three day. On the 8th day is when they will give him back his cells that they harvested from his bone marrow a few months ago. God has been with him all along this journey and will continue to be there for him.
Saturday, January 05, 2002 at 10:27 AM (CST)
Looks like Elijah will go in for the bone marrow transplant on Tuesday. The doctors have changed the plan so many times now, but perhaps they will follow thru this time. I am not complaining, because we had a wonderful Christmas with both of the babies home. Had the bonemarrow transplant taken place before Christmas, that might not have happened. Elijah is doing so good. We pray that this is all over soon, and that Katherine and Elijah will be home quickly. Elijah and Katherine could be at the hospital for a month, and then have to stay within a 50 mile radius of the hospital for another month. It all depends on how quickly his counts, (immune system), come back up. I will try to keep everyone updated here. Thank you for standing with us in faith for his healing as well as for his sister Hosanna's healing.
Saturday, December 29, 2001 at 08:52 AM (CST)
Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas! We sure did! Elijah and Hosanna were both home, the family was together, and God has been good!
Elijah is doing great. His hair is coming back in and he makes sure to tell everyone. We went to the nursinghome this week to hold services, and Elijah wanted to go with us. We sang songs out of the songbook for the people, then Elijah and his cousin, Zachary, wanted to sing a couple of choruses for the people. They sang "Enemy's Camp" and "I Feel Better". Elijah had to holler out,"Cancer all gone!". Then they had to do the "Goofy dance" from the Goofy movie. (Not very spiritual, but the people enjoyed it.)
Not sure when Elijah will go back to the hospital for the bonemarrow transplant. Will post as soon as we find out. God bless all of you prayer warriors.
Sunday, December 23, 2001 at 04:35 PM (CST)
Elijah wants me to wish all of you a wonderful Christmas and to thank you for praying for him and for Hosanna this past year. God has blessed us! Elijah was in stage 4 of neuroblastoma, the last stage!, when he was diagnosed. The doctors didn't give him much hope....BUT GOD!!! Elijah is healed! As I said on Hosanna's page, The Word says to call those things which are not as tho they were. The Word also says,"Let the weak say,"I am strong", let the poor say,"I am rich", let the blind say, "I see". He isn't telling us to lie. He is merely telling us to walk by faith. In the Name of Jesus, Hosanna is healed. By the words of our mouth, we are made overcomers. The Word says we can have what we say. I'm just calling it the way Jesus gives it to me! Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good! He does not lie! HE WILL DO WHAT HE SAID HE WILL DO!
Sunday, December 16, 2001 at 07:54 AM (CST)
Elijah is coming home from the hospital today! He had to go back to the hospital because he got an infection in both his port and his central line and they had to surgically remove both of them. Then, they waited a few days and went back in and replaced his central line. The bonemarrow transplant has been put off until after Christmas, which is fine with us! Looks like the family will be together for Christmas! God gave us the desires of our hearts. Those nurses are going to miss Elijah! He has really been "entertaining the troops" with his antics. He loves the Goofy Movie, especially the scene where Goofy is holding the corners of his collar and patting his foot to the disco music. Elijah loves to get all the nurses together and dance like Goofy for them. The medical staff is amazed at how well he is doing, even thru chemo. God has really seen him thru this, and for that, we are thankful! Please be sure to check out the new photos in Elijah's and Hosanna's photo albums. Merry Christmas to all of you, and have a blessed New Year!
Tuesday, December 11, 2001 at 09:54 AM (CST)
Elijah is having surgery today to have another line put in. He had an infection in both his other lines and had to have them removed. After this, he will have another round of chemo and be home for Christmas. They have put off the bone marrow transplant until after Christmas. Hosanna got an infection, too (not connected with Elijah's), and had to be brought up here, Saturday. Last night they were put in the same room. At least they can all be together instead of running up and down the hall from room to room. But it looks like we will all be home together for Christmas, and for that we are so thankful! God is a good God, yes He is!
Monday, December 10, 2001 at 06:32 PM (CST)
Elijah is still in the hospital, but not for the bonemarrow transplant. He got an infection in his lines and had to have both his port and his central line removed (surgery). Now, they are waiting for him to get over that so they can go back in and put another line in thru which they can give him the chemo. Yes, he is going to have more chemo. Then, after Christmas, they will probably do the transplant. It just depends on how things go. I'll try to let you know, but I won't be posting as often as I'd like to. That's really about all I know right now.
Thursday, November 29, 2001 at 01:41 PM (CST)
Elijah had a temp of 104 on Monday, so Katherine took him to the hospital here. They gave him antibiotics, then Katherine and Jason took him to Little Rock. He stayed there until Wed., then let him go. This puts off the bonemarrow transplant, of course, because he will have to be on the antibiotics for 10 days. Not sure how long it will be now. I pray that they are not in the hospital over Christmas. They will also have to radiate at some point.
Sometimes it seems like this is a neverending process. Will we ever be through with these hospital stays??!!! I know it is all in God's timing. Actually, we are very fortunate. Some of these children have to go throught treatments for years. God really has been good to us and I thank Him for that.
Friday, November 16, 2001 at 06:02 PM (CST)
Elijah came home this afternoon. The surgery went well, but he isn't feeling like jumping off the furniture like he usually does. When he shows you his scar and you ask him what happened, he says,"Oow, ooh, ouch! I fell!" I have no idea where he got the idea that he fell, but he will also tell you,"Cancer's all gone!" He's actually doing great, and we are so thankful that the whole family is together tonight. For those of you who haven't checked this site in awhile, they took the tumor out that was pressing against Elijah's kidneys. It was still the size of a large hen egg. We still don't know when they will start the bone-marrow transplant, but I'm sure it will be after Thanksgiving.
Thursday, November 15, 2001 at 12:03 PM (CST)
Elijah's surgery went well. They removed to tumor, and it was still the size of a large egg. They looked around while they were in there and said all looked good. Looks like the family will be together for Thanksgiving, and for that we are ever so thankful! Not sure yet when they will schedule the transplant, but I'm sure it will be after Thanksgiving. God gave us the desires of our hearts in letting him be home. He is such a wonderful God!!!
Friday, November 09, 2001 at 09:06 PM (CST)
Haven't updated because I didn't know what to tell you all. Seems like everytime I tell you something lately, the doctors change the plan. Elijah was supposed to go in on Monday for transplant, but scans showed that the tumor is still there. It is very small, but it has to be totally gone before they will do a transplant. So, he will go in for surgery on Tuesday. Then he has to be completely over the surgery before they start transplant. Looks like they will be home for Thanksgiving after all! We have so much to be thankful for this year!!!! God is a good God, YES HE IS !!!!
Sunday, November 04, 2001 at 07:56 AM (CST)
Sorry I haven't updated you on the babies lately. I have had Hosanna and Zion here at the house, and Zion is at the stage where you can't take your eye off of him for a minute. He is into everything. He is like sunshine to our lives right now, though.
Elijah just finished the last round of chemo. We thought he would go in for the bone-marrow transplant on Monday, (tomorrow), but they haven't gotten the results back on his scans which were done on Friday. They have to check and make sure the last tumor is gone before they transplant. If the tumor is not gone, they will have to operate to remove it. We are expecting a good report, so hopefully they will start the transplant next Monday. We want him and Katherine home for Thanksgiving. I have posted a couple of new photos on here. We finally got to celebrate Elijah's birthday. He is now four years old. Thank You, Lord !!!
Saturday, October 20, 2001 at 12:11 AM (CDT)
Well, today is a great day because Elijah will be done with chemo! Now all he has left is the bonemarrow transplant in Nov. Praise the Lord! Elijah has done so well. I know it was all the prayers that have gone up for him over these months. Thank all of you for your faithfulness.
He will turn 4 years old this week. These babies have sure been thru a lot in such a short time. But God has been with them all the way.
Wednesday, October 10, 2001 at 11:03 AM (CDT)
Elijah is home now. They harvested his cells, so now he has one more session of chemo next week, then the transplant in Nov. He's doing so well! Haven't gotten the latest report on how the remaining tumor has shrunk, but we're expecting a good report.
Sunday, October 07, 2001 at 02:40 PM (CDT)
They are beginning to harvest Elijah's cells for the bonemarrow transplant in November. Please remember to pray for him throughout the month of Oct. and Nov. especially. He is doing very well with everything. God has really kept His hand on him. I'll try to get some new photos to upload in a couple of days, soon as he comes home from the hospital.
Wednesday, September 26, 2001 at 04:13 PM (CDT)
Ready for some good news? Elijah's bone marrow is clean! That means it is free of neuroblastoma. They have scheduled him for a transplant the first week of Nov., which means he will be home for Thanksgiving! He will have to go back after that, because he has to stay within a 50 mile radius of the hospital for another few weeks.
The doctor said he couldn't feel the last tumor anymore, either. If the tumor totally goes away, they won't have to do any radiation. That would be a GOOD THING!
Elijah is finishing up the 4th round of chemo this week. Just one more to go.
Also, he has gained another pound! We are really pumped up about all this good news. God has been so faithful, and we just want give Him ALL the praise and glory!!!!
Wednesday, September 19, 2001 at 10:59 AM (CDT)
Dear Friends ;
I received and unusual e-mail from the island of Diego Garcia on July 15th. It was in response to the news that our precious grandson, Elijah was diagnosed and it was posted on the internet website. Somehow it was read by a Navy Chaplain who is the pastor of the naval battlegroup stationed there. He was moved by the Elijah and Hosanna ordeal. His navy personnel felt moved by the story and responded with an e-mail and eventually a love offering to my precious grandchildren! I still am amazed at how God works!
I don't know if you heard it on world-wide news networks, but this is the battlegroup that makes up the aircraft carrier group that now is heading into Afganistan to take out Osama bin Laden! Needless to say, Sue and I as well as Kathy and Jason are asking you to pray over this group of precious people who have really shown us Christian love. Pray that no loss of precious lives will be experienced by this group of sailors and aircraft pilots.
The Chaplain wrote me a few minutes ago and is requesting prayer for his parisherners . Tomorrow is the deadline the Taliban has been given to hand over Osama bin Laden! We need to be praying over these precious Christian armed forces personell as they fight for our country. They are the pointy end of the spear! (Using the Chaplain's own words)
Please pray for all of our armed forces and especially these folks! Perry and Sue Hart
Sunday, September 09, 2001 at 08:26 AM (CDT)
Haven't posted lately because we had an emergency here with Hosanna and haven't been able to take the time.
Elijah is doing fine! He has gone thru a third round of chemo, and hasn't been near as sick as they expected him to be. They did a scan of his bone marrow, and have decided to put off harvesting his cells for the transplant until after the next chemo treatment. They still saw about 3 little dots of the neuroblastoma and didn't want to chance it. God has certainly touched him!
Elijah's Great Granny Hart and Great Aunt Dee have sent him new pajamas, robe, and slippers. He has had a ball changing from one pair of pajamas to another.
Elijah's next appointment for chemo is in two weeks. We are expecting good reports!
Monday, August 27, 2001 at 04:31 PM (CDT)
Katherine just called from the hospital. They did a CT-scan and a bone scan on Elijah today. First of all, the tumor that was behind his heart is either totally gone, or it is very minute, because they can't see it anymore. The tumor behind his kidney has shrunk 2/3 in size. It was bigger than the doctor's fist. They expect it to shrink another 2/3 in size, or even be totally gone with this week's treatment! The lymphnode there is no longer enlarged.
As for the bone, the lesions where the cancer had started to eat away at the bone are starting to heal. The doctor said it could take years to heal completely, but you can tell they are healing. They will do the bone marrow test tomorrow, and they expect to find it clear so they can start harvesting cells for the transplant.
This is all exciting news! We are so thrilled with what God is doing here. He is a good God, yes He is!! Praise His holy Name!!!
Sunday, August 26, 2001 at 02:06 PM (CDT)
Elijah goes in tomorrow for another round of chemo. That should take about 5 days, then he comes home until his counts drop and begin to rise. When they do rise, he will go back to the hospital so they can begin to harvest his cells for a bone marrow transplant. Please keep him in prayer for the next few weeks, that he has no ill effects from these processes. We are anxious to get this over with. God has been so good to watch over him this whole time. He hasn't been near as sick as the doctors said he would be, and for that, we are so thankful!
Sunday, August 19, 2001 at 10:38 PM (CDT)
Elijah had another blood transfusion this week. He came thru it great. He's bouncing off the walls, as usual. Katherine brought him to church, tonight, while Jason stayed home with Hosanna. When they pulled up in front of the church, Katherine said Elijah started screaming,"That's my church! I'm going to praise God! I'm here!" He was so excited. (Don't you wish more of us could be that excited about going to church!)
Elijah goes back for another round of chemo on Monday, the 27th. I thought it was this Monday, but it isn't. He will be halfway thru with the treatments, then. Thank you for keeping him in prayer. God bless.
Wednesday, August 15, 2001 at 09:24 AM (CDT)
Just talked to Katherine. Elijah is scheduled for a bone marrow transplant in late Oct. or early Nov. It usually takes about 30 days in the hospital, then 30 days where you have to stay within a 50 mile radious of the hospital. That's in case something happens, they can get back to the hospital within an hour (I guess). Elijah needs a lot of prayer during this time. We need to bind this cancer away, in the Name of Jesus. The Word says that whatever we bind on earth shall be bound in Heaven.
Also pray for Katherine during this time. It is very tough sitting in that tiny hospital room day after day for a month. You have to be very careful about germs, so you can't have much visitors. Wish I could afford to get them a laptop or something. I'll probably keep Hosanna here with me during this time and Zion, when both of them are up there with Elijah. (Such torture! Ha ha!).
Thanks for all the prayers and support.
Tuesday, August 14, 2001 at 10:07 PM (CDT)
Elijah is doing great! The doctors were telling us the chemo was really going to make him sick last time, but he was only sick once. The rest of them time he has been bouncing off the walls. His immune system counts are back up now, so he's not neutropenic anymore. We can take off the masks around him. Please pray for strength for his body, and that the chemo does just what it is supposed to do. The doctor has said he can no longer feel the tumor that was pressing on his kidney. That means it has shrunk. We are hoping they will do another scan when he goes back on Monday.
Just a note on the photo I uploaded of Elijah behind the pulpit at church. The pulpit was built about 1952 for Elijah's great-grandfather, M.L.Hart. I often wonder what Dad would say now if he could see his great-grandson standing behind it trying to minister at 3 1/2 years old.
Friday, August 10, 2001 at 11:34 AM (CDT)
Elijah's immune system counts are down to .7 now. That is almost non-exhistant! Everyone around him has to wear a mask. The last time he did chemo, they got down to .5. For those of you who don't know, the normal count is around 13,000.
He is due to go back for another round of chemo next Monday, the 20th. He has done so good with this chemo that even the doctors are amazed. Elijah will tell you real quick that it was Jesus who helped him!
They are still talking about a bonemarrow transplant in November. Please keep this a matter of prayer.
Monday, August 06, 2001 at 10:56 PM (CDT)
Elijah is home now, and his counts are dropping fast. When they get to 500 and below, everyone has to wear a mask around him. He is playing and laughing, and seems to be feeling great. In fact, he was jumping off the furniture and showing me how to ride a skateboard when I was at his house today! (See photo I added).
The doctors are surprised that he is feeling so well. Remember I told you we had prayed for his appetite because we wanted him to gain back the pounds he had lost? Well, the chemo made him sick this time and he still wanted a cheeseburger!
Please be sure to keep him in prayer the next few days, for his immune system counts to come back up quickly. God bless.
Thursday, August 02, 2001 at 05:36 PM (CDT)
We went to the hospital today and saw Elijah. He is going thru his second round of chemo this week, and he's doing great! We prayed for his appetite to return, now he's eating everything in sight. He is walking better, so we know that tumor has shrunk. In fact, the doctor said he couldn't feel it anymore when he checked it.
Elijah was picking fights with Grandpa and his cousin, Zachary, too. He and Zach had a wonderful time. He should be coming home on Saturday.
Tuesday, July 24, 2001 at 01:53 PM (CDT)
Just got word that Elijah has to go back to Little Rock on Monday for his next chemo treatment. His counts are back up, so that is good. He is beginning to lose his beautiful red hair, so Jason took him to get it all cut off. At least we know the chemo is working. Also, he had lost a total of about 8 lbs., not 6 as I had thought, but he has now gained back about 4 of those lbs. Grandpa is bringing him donuts every morning trying to fatten him up. I don't hear Elijah complaining!
Please be in prayer this next week as Elijah goes thru his second round of chemo. It will probably take 5 days. We know that God's hand is heavy on Elijah and that all will go well, but it still hurts to see him go thru this.
The baby, Zion, has been tested and shows no signs of cancer, but they want to do a CT-scan just to make sure. We expect a good report there.
Please don't forget to check out Hosanna's update website, (see link below). Thank you for stnding with us in faith! God bless.
Friday, July 20, 2001 at 10:03 PM (CDT)
Elijah is doing so good! He had lost a lot of weight, but has gained another pound of it back today, (a total of 3 out of 6).
They gave him a blood transfusion. We prayed that his counts would come up so that wouldn't have to happen, but God had other plans. One of the nurses whom Katherine had only met one time was telling her about how she had gone home and told her family about Hosanna and Elijah and how they are watching the websites for updates on the babies. People around the world are watching to see what God is going to do here. Another woman told us she had heard the doctors talking and that they are amazed at Hosanna's progress.
So many times we pray that we will not have to go thru something, but if we can keep our spiritual eyes open, we will see that God is just gathering an audience. What good is a miracle if it is done in secret and kept a secret? God will get the glory for all of this, and it will be known around the world!!! This is not just a Hosanna and Elijah thing. It is a dynamic miracle that God is doing in this day and time to further the Gospel and to show people that He can be trusted!
Monday, July 16, 2001 at 07:08 PM (CDT)
They took Elijah to the hospital here to have his counts checked. He is neutropenic, meaning his immune system is very low. Actually, his white blood counts are at .5, almost non-existent. He may need a blood transfusion at some point this week because he is so anemic, so we are praying that those levels come up. He is doing great, no fever, and he's eating good.
I uploaded some new photos a couple of days ago. One is of him and his Elmo afghan a woman made him. He loves that afghan and he calls it his "blankie".
Thank you for your continued prayer support.
Friday, July 13, 2001 at 09:49 AM (CDT)
Elijah has finished his first round of chemo, (five days), and came home yesterday. He has lost 6 lb. and that's a lot for a 3 yr. old. But Grandpa is stuffing him with all his favorite foods, (bacon, potato chips, etc). I plan to cook him some corn-on-the-cob today. He loves that, too.
The doctors are talking about five sessions of chemo and then a bone-marrow transplant. I pray that he doesn't have to have that because it is really rough. We are looking for a miracle on this one, just as we are for Hosanna. God is faithful!
The prayer service in the park here in Mena went well. There were 14 churches represented, and each pastor took a turn to pray. I have had computer problems, but as soon as I can find the time, I will load up a photo or two of the prayer service.
Thank you for standing in faith with us for healing for the two children. Thank you for holding up our hands when we are weary of the battle. We will not give up the fight because we sense the wall of prayer around us! God bless.
Don't forget to check Hosanna's website for the latest on her. (See link below).
Saturday, July 07, 2001 at 12:24 PM (CDT)
Elijah has started on chemo today. They are starting him off on the hard stuff because of his diagnosis. Then they will observe him for a couple of days to make sure all is well. Then, they will continue the treatments Mon., Tues., and Wed. So Elijah should come home for three weeks on Thrus. or Fri. They are hoping to take care of this in 6 treatments. We are BELIEVING for a healing in the meantime! Please believe with us!
On Monday night, July 9th. at 7:00 PM, there will be a prayer meeting at Jansen Park in Mena, Ark. The churches of Polk County will get together and pray for healing for both Hosanna and for Elijah. If you cannot travel to Mena, perhaps your church will join other churches in your area at the same time for prayer. We need all the prayer power we can get to bombard Heaven for these babies!!!
Wednesday, July 04, 2001 at 08:05 PM (CDT)
Elijah had to have a blood transfusion today. He hasn't begun his chemo yet, but his blood count was low, so they decided to give him some. It's really hard for me to post right now, so I will make this short. God is still God, and He still heals. I have had many people say that this time will be different and that Elijah will come thru this quickly and be just fine. I receive that, in the Name of Jesus!!!
On Monday night, July 9th. at 7:00 PM, there will be a prayer meeting at Jansen Park in Mena, Ark. The churches of Polk County will get together and pray for healing for both Hosanna and for Elijah. If you cannot travel to Mena, perhaps your church will join other churches in your area at the same time for prayer. We need all the prayer power we can get to bombard Heaven for these babies!!!
Monday, July 02, 2001 at 11:33 PM (CDT)
Elijah went thru more tests today. Neuroblastoma has four stages. They say Elijah is in stage four. I believe Satan is trying to destroy our family, but he has picked on the wrong bunch! The more he attacks us, the more we are going to stand for God. We will not be defeated! God's word says that Elijah and Hosanna "...shall not die, but live and declare the works of the Lord." We have stood in faith that Hosanna would be healed and we will stand all the more for Elijah because we have seen God's glory! It's just another opportunity for God to show up!
On Monday night, July 9th. at 7:00 PM, there will be a prayer meeting at Jansen Park in Mena, Ark. The churches of Polk County will get together and pray for healing for both Hosanna and for Elijah. If you cannot travel to Mena, perhaps your church will join other churches in your area at the same time for prayer. We need all the prayer power we can get to bombard Heaven for these babies!!!
Sunday, July 01, 2001 at 12:23 AM (CDT)
I am starting this journal after midnight, but the date was actually June 30 when Elijah was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, cancer. I can't believe it, because his sister, Hosanna is still fighting her battle for her life. This is day one. We shall see what it holds for us and for our precious Elijah.
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