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Monday, August 18, 2008 8:01 AM CDT

"LANA'S LOVE FOUNDATION"......

Tee it up for Lana's Love...
Lana's Love Foundation
Golf Tournament
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Windstone Golf Course
Lunch is served at 11:30. Shotgun start at 1:00.
Go to www.lanaslove.com for more information and for a registration form.

Lana's Love is already financially helping children and their families in their fight against cancer. Help us to help them.










If you would like to purchase a "Lana's Love" t-shirt ($10) or bracelet ($3), email Jennifer at jgreer@bbschool.org or Holly at hshull@bbschool.org. All proceeds go to "Lana's Love Foundation."

If you would like to make a donation to "Lana's Love" send checks to FSG Bank, c/o Robyn Thomas-McWherter, 817 Broad St, Chattanooga, TN 37402. The Webster's plan to do great things by providing financial help to other families fighting the Neuroblastoma beast.

Thursday, July 24, 2008 8:34 PM CDT

Lana's Love Foundation is underway!

We had a meeting tonight to plan our first Lana's Love fundraiser golf tournament!
Invite your friends and make your plans to attend........

Tee it Up for Lana's Love

Tuesday, September 16th

Windstone Golf Course

$125.00 per person (teams of 4)
Shotgun start at 8:00 and 1:00
Opportunities to give at the Platinum, Gold, Silver levels... sponsor the range or hole... buy a flag!

More information will soon follow! The foundation's website will soon be up and operating!

Lana's Love is already financially helping children and their families in their fight against cancer. Help us to help them.





"LANA'S LOVE FOUNDATION"......
If you would like to purchase a "Lana's Love" t-shirt ($10) or bracelet ($3), email Jennifer at jgreer@bbschool.org or Holly at hshull@bbschool.org. All proceeds go to "Lana's Love Foundation."

If you would like to make a donation to "Lana's Love" send checks to FSG Bank, c/o Robyn Thomas-McWherter, 817 Broad St, Chattanooga, TN 37402. The Webster's plan to do great things by providing financial help to other families fighting the Neuroblastoma beast.

February 1, 2008

"LANA'S LOVE FOUNDATION"......
If you would like to purchase a "Lana's Love" t-shirt ($10) or bracelet ($3), email Jennifer at jgreer@bbschool.org or Holly at hshull@bbschool.org. All proceeds go to "Lana's Love Foundation."

If you would like to make a donation to "Lana's Love" send checks to FSG Bank, c/o Robyn Thomas-McWherter, 817 Broad St, Chattanooga, TN 37402. The Webster's plan to do great things by providing financial help to other families fighting the Neuroblastoma beast.

Monday, October 29, 2007 12:03 AM CDT

The Make-A-Wish Walkathon was a great success! The Webster's want to send a thank you to everyone who either walked or donated money! Lana Beth was well represented! Team "Lana's Love" had around 30 walkers and we raised $1500 ! We wore Lana's Love t-shirts and bracelets! The money we raised will help make a wish come true!

I have posted a Halloween picture from last year and added some pictures from yesterdays walk.

Please say some extra prayers for the Webster's this week. This Saturday, Nov. 3rd is the one year anniversary of Lana Beth receiving her wings. Any calls, cards, prayers, words of comfort and support will help them greatly during this time.







"LANA'S LOVE FOUNDATION"...... If you would like to purchase a "Lana's Love" t-shirt ($10) or bracelet ($3), call Jennifer or Holly at Boyd-Buchanan. All proceeds go to "Lana's Love Foundation."
If you would like to make a donation to "Lana's Love" send checks to FSG Bank, c/o Robyn Thomas-McWherter, 817 Broad St, Chattanooga, TN 37402. The Webster's plan to do great things by providing financial help to other families fighting the Neuroblastoma beast.

Tuesday, October 23, 2007 12:10 AM CDT

MAKE-A-WISH WALKATHON, SUNDAY OCTOBER 28TH AT 2:00......
We are forming a team to walk in the Make-A-Wish Walkathon this Sunday, October 28th at the Riverpark. Registration starts at 2:00 and the walk starts at 3:00. So far we have several families walking on team "Lana's Love." If you would like to join us, call me @ 240-1699. You can register at the walk or come by Boyd-Buchanan to pick up the paperwork. We also have t-shirts and bracelets for the team to wear. Lana Beth's Make-A-Wish trip to Atlantis (2003) continues to be a special memory for the Webster's. We would like to help this organization provide wonderful trips for other children and their families.

Please continue to keep Jim, Cindy, Alan, and Cole everyday in your prayers. The anniversary of Lana Beth's death is coming up (November 3rd). Cindy said today that every moment, every day is different. Some are so more difficult than others. They need extra prayers, love and support right now and would appreciate cards or calls.
Jennifer Greer




"LANA'S LOVE FOUNDATION"...... If you would like to purchase a "Lana's Love" t-shirt ($10) or bracelet ($3), call Jennifer or Holly at Boyd-Buchanan. All proceeds go to "Lana's Love Foundation." If you would like to make a donation to "Lana's Love" send checks to FSG Bank, c/o Robyn Thomas-McWherter, 817 Broad St, Chattanooga, TN 37402. The Webster's plan to do great things by providing financial help to other families fighting the Neuroblastoma beast.

Friday, September 7, 2007 3:41 PM CDT

Happy Birthday Lana Beth!!!
So many people wore purple & green today! Or their Lana's Love t-shirts! And their Lana's Love bracelets! You are missed by so many people! Especially today on your birthday - we are remembering the great birthday parties last year! :) The Lookouts game and the pool party were so much fun! Your laugh, your smile, your funny sense of humor, your opinions (Ha), your faith, your spirit, your strength, your love for others... you touched so many lives - and continue to do so. Love you sweet girl!

Tonight is the first home Bucs football game. Alan is in from college and Jim, Cindy, & Alan will be at the game cheering Cole on! The football players will have a "LB" sticker on the back of their helmets and the cheerleaders plan to wear purple & green ribbons in their hair. Some sweet hospice workers are sending over some purple & green balloons to mix in with the blue & gold.

Send the Websters your love with a phone call or letter letting them know you are thinking about them. Please continue to keep them in your prayers.

If anyone would like to purchase a Lana's Love t-shirt ($10) or a Lana's Love bracelet ($3) call me or Holly at BBS (423) 624-9065. Proceeds go to Lana's Love Foundation. Or feel free to make any donations: Lana's Love, FSG Bank c/o Robyn Thomas-McWherter, 817 Broad St. Chattanooga, TN 37402. The Websters plan to do great things helping others fighting the Neuroblastoma beast. Keep praying!
Jennifer Greer

Friday, August 17, 2007 1:16 PM CDT

I am so sorry that we haven't updated Lana Beth's website in so long! It's so hard to put the feelings and days into words. Thanks so much to those of you who are still posting messages, still praying for the Websters, still keeping Lana Beth and her family in your thoughts and hearts... The Websters summer was filled with mixed emotions. They struggled with not having LB in the pool, on the trampoline, at the beach on vacation... We all have so many sweet precious memories of LB - and it is heartbreaking that we won't be able to make more memories with her. I personally have missed her so much with this new school year starting. Last August she was able to come to school maybe 4 or 5 days. Maybe a few more. Not really for a regular school day in class. Mostly hung out with me in my office or with Julie Mathis in the gym!:) She is missed in an unbelievable way by so many people. And so many people have things that remind them of her daily, purple & green, same consecutive numbers on the clock, her favorite movies, stars... (Feel free to post good memories on the site!) My sweet Kay said out of the blue on vacation this summer in Texas looking at the bright, canyon sky, "Mommy do you think that really bright star is Lana Beth?" LB continues to touch so many lives. Well... Alan is back at college. If you would like to send him a note send it to: James Alan Webster, University of West Georgia, PO Box 11408, Carrollton, GA 30118. Cole is back in school at Boyd (11th grade). Cole is still playing football for the Bucs! BBS plays tonight at 7:00 at Findley. Go Cole! Jim is at The Barn and Cindy is working on getting LB's foundation up and running. Please continue to keep them in your prayers. They are struggling. Lana Beth's birthday is September 7th and she got her wings November 3rd. So many important dates are coming up. Please send them notes of support and encouragement. Send them by mail to their house at 902 Channel View Lane, Chattanooga, 37415. Cindy isn't able yet to get on the website often. Also, please remember that you can make donations to "Lana's Love" Foundation. The Websters plan to do great things to help others fighting the Neuroblastoma beast. Donations can be mailed to: FSG Bank, c/o Robyn Thomas-McWherter, 817 Broad St. Chattanooga, 37402. Keep praying. Jennifer Greer

Monday, May 7, 2007 2:16 PM CDT

Lana's Love Foundation
Join us at the Chattanooga Lookouts game
Chattanooga Lookouts vs. Mobile Bay Bears
May 21st at 7:15.
Purchase your tickets for $4.00 each at The Barn Nursery or Boyd-Buchanan School.
All proceeds go to Lana's Love Foundation to help children and their families battling Neuroblastoma.
Remember to wear your purple and green!

Friday, May 4, 2007 9:03 PM CDT

It's Jennifer... updating for Cindy.

Thanks to the BBS 4th/5th grade girl scouts for their donation of $250.00 to Lana's Love Foundation! And thanks to BBS FCA for their $1500.00 donation from the sale of Lana's Love bracelets!!! Go Bucs! BBS LOVES LB!!!

"LOOKOUTS FOR LANA BETH"..................
We wanted to let you know about an important date coming up! Mark your calendars... May 21st will be "Lookouts for Lana Beth" at the Lookouts game! We have lots of tickets to sell to the game with proceeds going to Lana's Love! Tickets cost $4.00 each and will be on sale at Boyd-Buchanan School and The Barn. The game starts at 7:15 and the players will wear "commemorative jerseys" to be auctioned off after the game. Feel free to call me if you want tickets for your family or if you want tickets to sell at your place of business - 423, 240-1699. We also have purple and green "Lana's Love" bracelets that are $4.00 each - sizes youth small, adult medium and adult large. Make plans to attend the game and support Lana's Love Foundation - we have great plans to help families and children affected by cancer!

Monday, April 30, 2007 6:32 PM CDT

Well, today was my birthday & Saturday was Jim's. We went to church Sunday and the "Garden Wall" for Lana Beth was completed. I had no idea that it would be finished at EBCC, but it was, and it is beautiful!!! Thanks to everyone who made the "Garden/Prayer Wall" so beautiful!!
Cole is still doing rehab on his L shoulder but it is not bad, he should rest more but he is too hyper (wonder where that comes from?). We went to West Georgia today and saw Alan and had a quick lunch with him. Frank is still working hard at The Barn Nursery and we are all haning in there with Spring being here!!! We hope to have a "Lana's Love" baseball game at the Chattnaooga Lookouts soon, as usually we are doing this on short notice.

Hannah Kate gave us something wonderful the other day, she asked Jim and I to join her for "grand-parent's" day and we did @ Baylor. We said we were her "god-parent's, but it always feels so great being around kids, especially HANNAH KATE!!!!

Continue to pray for us we plan to go to Emily Ransom's "Pink Ball" this week-end. It's hard to think that little Emily has been in Heaven over a year and Lana Beth is there with her. Life goes on, so keep praying for a cure and give BLOOD if you can!

Also one of our good friends mom passed away The Orr's so please think of them also in your prayers. Love to all, Cindy, Jim, Alan, Cole, Frank, and always our LANA BETH

Friday, April 13, 2007 1:35 PM CDT

This is Jennifer - If you haven't been to the site lately, read the previous first! Jim got to throw out the first pitch at the Lookouts game Wednesday to open the new season. (Lana Beth threw out the pitch to end the 2006 season). He was joined on the field with Cindy & the boys... and all of their "neices & nephews"! :) Lana Beth's pictures of her pitch last season was on the big screen, while they introduced the family and announced Jim. It was so great to remember her on the field - so happy and smiling. Everyone had a good night - eating hotdogs, peanuts, Cracker Jacks, ice cream, cheering the Lookouts on, remembering... A huge thanks to the Lookouts for such a special night. Please continue to pray for Jim, Cindy, Alan, Cole, Frank, Luke... the whole family!

*** Check out the pictures from the game! I love the one of Jim pitching, the ball in midair, with LB on the screen!

*** Remember to send donations to:
Lana's Love
FSG Bank
c/o Robyn Thomas-McWherter
817 Broad Street
Chattanooga, TN. 37402

Great things will be done through Lana's foundation! Her life on earth was short - but she was able to touch so many lives! We all love you LB! So much! And miss you terribly!

Wednesday, April 11, 2007 8:33 AM CDT

This is Jennifer - Cindy asked me to do a quick update to tell everyone to go to the Lookouts game tonight! Lana Beth threw out the last pitch to end the 2006 season and Jim has been invited to throw out the first pitch tonight to start their 2007 season! In keeping with Lana Beth's zest for life and love of sports, this will be an honor for Jim and for the Webster family. Alan is coming home from college for the game. We are planning to be there around 5:30. Jim will go to the field around 5:45 and throw out the pitch around 6:00. All of these times are approximate -from the Lookouts. The game is scheduled to start at 6:15. Come and support the Websters (and the Lookouts)! Lana Beth will be smiling down, so proud of her family - and thinking her pitch was better! :)

Remember to send donations to:
Lana's Love
FSG Bank
c/o Robyn Thomas-McWherter
817 Broad Street
Chattanooga, TN. 37402

Great things will be done through Lana's foundation! Her life on earth was short - but she was able to touch so many lives! We all love you LB! So much! And miss you terribly!

February 3rd, 2007

We are hanging in there, please keep praying. It has been 3 months today since Lana left us and it is so hard to even type it much less really have it as a reality.

Keep us in your prayers and right now I am "safe" at home. I am knitting my stupid finger off! (Ha Ha) I am proud to say that Alan is doing well at West Georgia and is making great grades and has meet a lot of great folks. Cole has been "invited" to some Nike camp. Jim says it's big deal to be invited to these camps. So Go Cole, I think it's in Atlanta and around Feb. 10th?

As for Jim and I we are hanging in there, the hardest thing has been, of course, not seeing Lana, hearing her, touching her, watching her smile, etc., I won't go on, there is something in my eye, Love, Cindy

Friday, November 24, 2006 1:59 PM CST

Hi everyone, it's Cindy. Our Thanksgiving was a good one. The boys have been hunting and we have been watching some of LB's favorite movies.

Nothing can bring her back, but one thing she asked me several months ago: "Mom I want to live in a world without cancer". I told her I want to also. I knew her time was running short for the Earth but in Heaven in Jesus's arms she has gotten her wish! A world without cancer! You know everyone talks about going to Heaven but no one wants to die! Funny?

Lana's Love Foundation will forever help kids with cancer and maybe, just maybe, her wish will come true one day: A world without cancer. I love that little girl, if I haven't talked to anyone lately it's because I'm haning low. But I am so happy for the "men" in my life. We made it through Thanksgiving because we know we will see Lana Beth & we are ever so thankful for Jesus! Without him we don't have everlasting life!!! Big hugs to all, Jim, Cindy, Alan, Cole, Frank and LB (she is just one step ahead of us) as usual.

Tuesday, November 21, 2006 10:24 PM CST

Hello friends,
This is Beth. Today I was able to go and spend some time with Cindy and Jim. It was so nice to give my sweet friends a hug. This was the first time I have seen them since Lana Beth’s service. I know so many of you want to know how they are doing. That is something that is really hard to define because at this point there just aren’t words to describe how much they hurt. What I can tell you is that I continue to stand in awe of this families strength, faith and grace. Some days (or moments) are really hard, while others are filled with thoughts of Lana dancing around heaven and smiling that beautiful smile. Of course they miss her terribly, but they know that they have to find ways to still find joys in life without her here.

Frank has continued to stay at the house which has been such a blessing. He has been a huge help. He is a wonderful young man and I pray for him each day as well. Alan came home today from school for the holiday. I know Cindy is just so happy when he is there. Cole is doing good, easing back into school this week. Their plans for Thanksgiving include some hunting for the boys in the morning, then spend time with family in the afternoon. I’m sure this day will be very emotional so please pray for God to comfort them and for them to feel Lana Beth’s presence all throughout the day.

Cindy and I talked a little about some ideas for Lana’s Love. I know that many wonderful things will come form this and from the generosity of so many of you who have contributed. Expect to hear much more about this after the first of the year. Please feel free to share your memories or stories of Lana Beth with everyone who reads here by posting them in the guestbook.

Many of you have asked about Jack and our visit to the hospital last week. He had a good visit and everything is stable. While we were there we were able to meet a couple of new families who children were recently diagnosed with neuroblastoma. I am so thankful that I can meet these families and let them know they are not alone and yet in makes me so sad that this disease continues to invade the lives of so many. Please continue to pray for all the families fighting all childhood cancers. You can find out more about these kids on Jack’s Caring Bridge page. ( I list the address in the previous entry)

This Thanksgiving will be different for all of us who knew Lana Beth. I know for me I won’t worry about the small things. I won’t worry about the table setting, or the food, or the decorations. I won’t care that my house isn’t spotless. What I will do is spend the morning in my pajamas with my family and I will truly be thankful for them, my friends, and for the small things I take for granted each day. I hope you will too.

We will update soon. May God bless each of you and keep you and your families safe this weekend.

Friday, November 10, 2006 8:44 PM CST

This is Beth. It is hard to believe that it has been one week since heaven turned green and purple with the arrival of our sweet girl. Some moments it feels like it has been so much longer than a week since we held her hand and kissed her cheek, then at others I feel she is still right here.

I’ve talked to Cindy several times this week. At times the pain is unbearable but they are all doing their best to try to learn to live without her here. Alan went back to school earlier this week and Cole has been at school as well. I’ll post Alan’s address at the end of this message. I’m sure he would really appreciate words of encouragement while he is away from home. Cindy wanted me to thank everyone again for all the sweet cards and letters they have received. She said the mailbox has been overflowing each day.
She has loved getting pictures of Lana Beth so many people have sent.

It is rare that I am at a loss for words, but I just don’t know what to say. I guess all I can say is, we miss you Lana Beth and we love you.

Cindy did ask me to let you all know that Jack and I will be traveling to Memphis (to St. Jude) Sunday night. He will be having his six months scans next week. I know all will be fine, but we would love prayers offered our way for safe travel and good scans. Jack's webpage is www.caringbridge.org/page/jackwhite

Thank you to all who have made a contribution to Lana’s Love. Your kindness and generosity will help other families in our area who are battling childhood cancer.

James Alan Webster, Jr.
University of West Georgia
PO Box 11408
Carrollton, GA 30118

Lana’s Love
c/o FSG Bank
Attn: Robyn Thomas
817 Broad Street
Chattanooga, TN 37402

Sunday, November 5, 2006 6:38 PM CST

A Celebration of Life….Lana Beth Webster

Wow! What an incredible past two days it has been. The amount of people who came last night to the visitation and to the Celebration of Life service today was amazing! Jim, Cindy, Alan, and Cole are overwhelmed with the outpouring of love that has been shown to them. Thank you to all who were able to share in this special time. It was only through the grace of God and a host of earthly angels that made it all possible. It was beautiful. I believe Lana Beth was smiling. Thank you for sharing what you will always remember about Lana Beth. If you were not able to attend I encourage you to write down your special memories of Lana Beth and share it with the Webster’s. These memories are being complied in a book I know they will cherish forever.

Though her time here with us was way too short, her work is not done. It is now our responsibility to share the lessons we learned from sharing in her life and share them with others. Her life has made such a difference in the lives of so many people. One way this will continue is through the foundation established to help other families in our area battling childhood cancer. Though Jim and Cindy do not yet know what they will be doing, Lana’s Love will have a great impact on the precious families it will serve. To help make a difference you can mail contributions to :

Lana’s Love
c/o FSG Bank
Attn: Robyn Thomas
817 Broad Street
Chattanooga, TN 37402

Lana Beth we will forever miss you. An empty space will exist in hearts always, but our journey here has not ended. A new chapter has begun.

Friday, November 3, 2006 11:56 AM CST

PLEASE CHECK THE FOLLOWING FOR ANY REVISIONS IF YOU HAVE READ THIS INFORMATION PREVIOUSLY. -BW


Webster – Lana Elizabeth, age 11, beloved and cherished daughter of Jim and Cindy Webster, of Chattanooga, earned her angel wings on November 3, 2006.

Lana Beth attended Good Shepherd Pre-School, Fairyland Elementary School and Boyd-Buchanan School. Since February, 2002, Lana Beth bravely battled Neuroblastoma- a childhood cancer. Lana Beth loved soccer, animals, and her family and friends. Most of all Lana Beth loved life and she always lived every moment to the fullest.

She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Frank and Wanda Webster.

In addition to her parents, she is survived by loving big brothers, Alan and Cole; maternal grandparents, Bob and Winnie Watkins of Rossville, GA; several aunts, uncles, cousins and many special friends.

Visitation will be Saturday, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at East Brainerd Church of Christ.

A Celebration of Lana Beth's Life and Memorial is planned for Sunday at 2 pm at East Brainerd Church of Christ with Minister Tom Norvill officiating. Feel free to join us in wearing Lana Beth’s favorite colors, purple and green.

The Webster family has established a foundation to honor Lana’s life. Her fight with Neuroblastoma was long and courageous. Lana’s memory will last forever and help other children win the battle against this disease. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to, Lana’s Love-c/o FSG Bank, Attn: Robyn Thomas, 817 Broad Street, Chattanooga 37402.

Friday, November 3, 2006 4:36 AM CST

Lana Beth bravely earned her angel wings around 1:55 a.m.


We will post visitation and Celebration of Life service arrangements later today.


Please respect this families need for privacy and we ask for no visitors or phone calls today.

Thursday, November 2, 2006 12:09 AM CST

Night Update: There have not been any changes. We getting ready for the night. I'll update in the morning.

Lana Beth is truly amazing. Even though small changes continue to let us know that she is moving in the direction of being free of this earth, she is fighting and hanging on. I spent a little time with her today and she is resting very peacefully. The Webster's are camped out by her side. Cindy wanted me to tell you they have brought Lana Beth's "Love Sac" into the living room and Alan, Cole, Cindy, Jim, Frank and Kasey are all there with her. Someone is contantly holding her hand letting her know how much she is loved and how much they will miss her, but that it is OK for her to go. I can't begin to guess how much time she has here, because, frankly we are on Lana Beth time! We all know she does things her way!
I have told her about all the sweet messages that have been left here for her. Continue to pray as you have been.

May God grant peace and comfort to all.

Wednesday, November 1, 2006 8:49 PM CST

Thursday morning update: Things are about the same. Lana Beth had a quiet night. Keep praying.


Cindy asked me to post this message.

"Lana Beth is such a fighter. She is not giving up. Jim and I taught her many things during her life, but we never taught her how to quit."

Cindy asked that we all pray for Lana Beth to peacefully leave our world to be with God where she will be free.

Wednesday, November 1, 2006 3:27 PM CST

Just a very quick update. I have spoken with both Jim and Cindy and they really seem to be doing as well as they can. I know they are exhausted, but they are still staying strong. Cindy asked that everyone please PRAY specifically that when the time comes that Lana Beth will pass quickly and peacefully.

Once again, I will update as often as I can.

Beth

Wednesday, November 1, 2006 8:41 AM CST

I received an update a little while ago and there has been no change. The Webster family enjoyed some very wonderful times yesterday. They truly appreciate your understanding in respecting their privacy right now. I know that there are so many people who are so very concerned for this family. Let me assure you that as Jim and Cindy wish information to be shared, it will be available on this website. Please come here for the most up to date information.

Beth

Tuesday, October 31, 2006 1:31 PM CST

Just wanted to let you know that Lana Beth is about the same. The family has shared wonderful quality time today. Please no visitors at this time as they are cherishing every moment with her. We will update as we know more. Thank you for your continued prayers.

Monday, October 30, 2006 9:38 PM CST

It's late and we are all very tired. It has been a long, difficult day. Lana Beth is resting peacefully. Throughout the day her changes have let us know that heaven is getting closer. Jim, Cindy, Alan and Cole have respectfully requested that everyone respect the family time they have left with Lana Beth. They ask for no visitors or phone calls at this time. We will update as often as possible. Thank you all so much for all of your prayers and guestbook messages. Continue to pray for peace, comfort, strength, and understanding.

Monday, October 30, 2006 5:58 AM CST

PRAY right now and don't stop today. I am at the Webster's now and Lana Beth is having a very hard time. The Hospices nurses are here and her family is with her. Please keep praying. She needs the prayers from everyone to ensure that she soars from this life to the next with our savior, Jesus Christ.

Sunday, October 29, 2006 9:25 PM CST

This is Beth. I just wrote a long update and I was typing the last word, the page timed out and I lost it all! So this will be short as I am way too tired to type it all again tonight. Lana Beth is going to have some more blood work in the morning, so we should have a better ideas after we get those results as to how things have gone this weekend. She is having a hard time with nausea, but other than that she is really about the same.

I promise to write more in the morning. Keep praying!!!

Love from the Websters to all of you!

Saturday, October 28, 2006 8:30 AM CDT

Dear friends,
This is Beth. I have been sitting here staring at this computer screen for quite some time now. Writing this is one of the hardest things I have ever done. This is an entry no one wants to write, but I know there are so many people who come here everyday who love Lana Beth, Jim, Cindy, Alan and Cole and they want you to know.

The past few days have been very difficult. Lana Beth’s platelets are not holding and she needed to get them twice this week. When Lana Beth had surgery to remove her original tumor almost 5 years ago they had to take one of her kidneys. Her remaining kidney has worked as hard as it can, but is showing signs of failing. Her time here with us may not be much longer. The Hospices nurses were there this evening and she is now on IV pain meds and she is not in pain.

Alan came home today and they will all be spending this time all together. Please pray without ceasing for each of them. We will update as we can. The words are just very hard to find right now.

Friday, October 27, 2006 1:10 PM CDT

This is Beth updating for Cindy.

I just spoke with Cindy and they are at the clinic. Lana Beth needed more platelets today. Please keep praying. I'll update more as I can.
Beth

Tuesday, October 24, 2006 7:31 AM CDT

This is Jennifer - quick update for Cindy.... Lana Beth fell getting out of Jim's truck Saturday. They are doing an xray today at home and she will go for an ultrasound sometime this week. They want to make sure that she didn't hurt anything when she fell..... Say lots of prayers. LB is looking forward to Halloween. She plans to be a fairy. She got a Tinker Bell outfit yesterday. Alan's birthday is Wednesday (Oct. 25th). He will be coming home Friday for a birthday weekend! Alan's address at school is:
James Alan Webster, Jr.
University of West Georgia
PO Box 11408
Carrollton, GA 30118
Feel free to send encouraging notes or cards - or just a hello to brighten his weeks at school. Cole is still in football season at Boyd. I heard that his grades were great this first 9 weeks! (Good job Cole!) Please continue to pray (without ceasing!)for Lana Beth, Jim and Cindy, Alan and Cole.

Saturday, October 14, 2006 8:54 AM CDT

Good Morning. This is Beth updating for Cindy.

If you or anyone you know is blood type B positive, please give platelets for Lana Beth. Because of the reactions to platelets she has had in the past it is very important that she receives type specific platelets.

The Webster's returned home from the beach Thursday night. They had a nice time, but Lana just really didn't have much energy to do the things they hoped to do. They went to the clinic yesterday morning and her hemoglobin and platelets were both low. She did get both, so hopefully she will feel a little better over the weekend. The doctors feel that she will be dependant getting both blood and platelets and that her own marrow just can't work effectively to supply what she needs. So PLEASE give if you can. If you are not B positive, you can still give, it will help someone else. Pain management continues to be ongoing with adjustments being made as needed.

Thank you so much for all of you who have helped in so many ways. Right now we have meals scheduled through the end of October. I'll e-mail those who signed up a reminder of your day. You may e-mail me at bethstamps@comcast.net if you want to help and haven't already done so.

Keep praying!! Always BELIEVE in miracles! Remember to keep each member of this precious family in your prayers. Pray for strength and guidance. Pray that each of them can see God's loving plan during this difficult time.

In HIS love,
Beth

Friday, October 6, 2006 1:01 PM CDT

yesterday wasn't the best. Lana had a reaction to the platelets, we got home around 6:30pm and was @ clinic @ 1pm. All the meds make her feel "weird" and bless her little heart, all she wants is"to go to the beach with my family and feel better". God I love her soooo much, pray that we will have fun and keep stress down. She wants to hear the waves and lay on the beach. I'm so thankful that we are getting to go. The boys will be out of school for fall break, Lana is getting weaker, she tries so hard to keep going! There is something in my eye, you know it happens ever time, for those of you that remember the song, you understand. Pray she gets a huge burst of energy while at the beach! She weights 63#!!!! Dr. Melvin, from Kids are Special too, has her on 2mg of decadron and that helps her to eat. Dr. Eric and Dr. Bhakta used decadron from time to time and it works!! Now that chemo isn't in the picture it is easier for her to eat. We have Lynn Pettway cookies!! She ate almost 3 of them in a roll yesterday, and she looked at me and said "I think I'm going to be sick". I said "na", we just need to eat one at a time. They are so big!! (she didn't get sick). Keep praying, We joined EBChurch of Christ this past weekend! They are wonderful folks, our old church I hope won't miss us too much. Love, Cindy

Wednesday, October 4, 2006 10:25 AM CDT

This is Jennifer - thought I would do a quick update. Lana Beth's platelet count is low. She will go to clinic for platelets tomorrow at 1:00. Cole has an appointment with an Orthopedist today at 12:15 - he may have broken his leg at football yesterday. His initial X-rays last night looked good - but they think he may have a bone chip or break. Start praying for both of these doctor appointments!

I have updated her pictures with some Chattanooga Zoo pics! Lana Beth had a special "private" night at the zoo (last month?) with guides and all! It was GREAT!

Will update more when we know more!

****Wednesday 3:30 - the doctor said that Cole's leg is not broken just badly bruised! Thank you for praying!

Saturday, September 30, 2006 7:39 AM CDT

Hello, this is Beth. I thought it was time for an update. This week has been OK. Lana Beth has had some rough times when her leg has really been hurting a lot. She has been up a lot at night and uncomfortable during the day. Lana Beth is such a fighter though. I know she made at least one trip to her favorite restaurant, Los Compadres and she went over to the Mathis' house and fun hanging out with Julie and the girls the other night. I knew Cindy needed some TLC so with the help of some friends, and some very sweet angels at Natural Body Spa, we arranged for a massage therapist to come to the house on Thursday evening. I was working on these arrangements Thursday morning. When I went over to the house Cindy's back was really hurting. I told her what was in the works and her face lit up and she said, "Oooh, can she come today?" The massage therapist did and Cindy said it was wonderful. Jim didn't get left out either! Thank you Natural Body, it was a much needed treat.

I got to hang out with Lana Beth last night while the rest of the family was at the Boyd homecomming game, which they WON!! YEA!! Cole apparently made some great tackles in the game, but also was an escort for one of the girls (I am so sorry, I forgot her name)on the homecomming court. Cindy was very proud and if any of you were at the game last night I am SURE you heard her!! Also, at the game last night a student, Elizabeth Garey, organized an "Alex's Lemonade Stand" in honor of Lana Beth. Alex Scott was another little girl with neuroblastoma who during her illness set up lemonade stands to raise money for neuroblastoma research. When news of this little girls courageous fight spread, many people began to join her in having their own lemonade stands. Since her death her parents have continued their fight in finding a cure. You can read more about Alex, and her lemonade stand at http://www.alexslemonade.org/
Cindy told me the lemonade stand at Boyd was awesome. They had beautiful pictures of Lana Beth set up. I LOVE the beautiful frame that had a picture of Lana Beth throwing out the first pitch at the Lookouts Game in it. Lana really liked it too!! Cindy said they raised about $800.00!! That is fantastic. Thank you so much to everyone who supported this and bought lemonade on a cold night.

Lana Beth, Jack, and I had a good night. The power went off and we made a quick dash to my house for a little while. Later on we went back to their house once we knew the power was back on.

I am working on list of people who would like to provide some meals and other help to the Websters. I have many of your e-mail adresses, from the guestbook, but if you could e-mail me your phone numbers also it would help. I talked to Cindy and she said it would be really helpful to have meals brought on Monday and Thursday. If you want to help in this let me know and I will send an e-mail with details soon. You can contact me at bethstamps@comcast.net and at 553-0422.

Keep praying!! I know GOD is listening to us. There have been a few times this week that something was needed and they way it worked out could only be God's hand in it. Please pray that Lana Beth has a good week without pain.

Much love to you all.

Monday, September 25, 2006 4:07 PM CDT

(Note from Beth: I know there are many of you want to know of ways you can help and things you can do for the Webster's. I have many of your e-mail adresses from the guestbook, however, I am trying to compile a contact list. If you are interested, please e-mail me with your information. This way I have it all together! Thanks!-bethstamps@comcast.net)

Lana was up often during the night; but she still wanted to go to school! She tried, but Jim brought her home around 10:00am. Lana was just tired. She enjoys seeing Alan home on the week ends (we all do!). We are on a roller coaster, some days we are up and other days we are up-side-down. But it's okay, her blood work was good and the "Kids-R-Special Too" nurse, Janet came by today just to check in on her and everything was fine.

Kasey came by this past week & was able to spend a couple of nights with us!! That always brings a smile to LB's face! She is working hard at her job but we miss her!!

Cole turns 16 on the 6th of October! He will be driving, the Boyd game was on TV this Friday night and Lana watched some of the game. She was hanging with Ramsay for awhile after school and then went to be with "Miss Jennifer", (The Greer's) I think she had rather be with them than with us (ha-ha).

Thanks for all the cards that folks have sent, Lana reads everyone! She is going to try and go to the Lookout Mountain Festival tomorrow with MaKayla. She misses her buddies from the mountain, but we are all so busy!!

Lana loves to have friends spend the night, so if you are up to it, (and want to skip school) just kidding, let you mom & dad know and maybe someone can come over and hang one evening. Lana is a night owl!!! Keep praying. . . love to all, cindy

Tuesday, September 19, 2006 11:31 AM CDT

Hi friends!
Well the rest of the weekend went pretty well which is such a blessing. LB has been feeling pretty good. She went to a friends house last night to play! Tomorrow Lana has an appointment at the clinic to have her port acessed and flushed. Then later in the afternoon they have an appointment with the radiologist. So maybe we'll have some more news after that. Keep those prayers comming. I know God hears us!
Beth

Sunday, September 17, 2006 12:10 AM CDT

***Check out the family photos under the "links" section. They are BEAUTIFUL!!!!!***

Hi friends, this is Beth updating for Cindy. This may be a long entry or I may burn out early and not say all I want to. This has been a very emotional weekend for me. Friday night I was blessed to get to spend the evening with Lana Beth while Cindy went to the Boyd football game. Jim had to have some minor surgery on Friday and was at home sleeping off the sedation. Alan came home for the weekend and has been a big help in taking care of Jim while Cindy has been very busy with Lana Beth. Of course Cole is always a big help to Cindy. Friday night Lana Beth was in great spirits. We had a great time doing some crafts. Lana Beth even painted my fingernails blue! Then we went to dinner and to Wal-Mart to buy some more craft items. Lana Beth is definetly a Bloomingdale's girl! She was a bit apprehensive of the late Friday night Wal-Mart crowd! Unfortunately there was little else open. I left around 12:30am and LB was doing great. Saturday morning I got up and spent about an hour on the computer researching more treatment options. I e-mailed our doctor at St. Jude some questions and told him how I just wasn't going to give up on LB. That there just had to be something out there to help her I just needed to help find it. I just can't except the fact that this disease is robbing this precious child of the life she deserves. She was so beautiful and amazing and full of life and spunk. What I didn't know then was that around 2:00am she had a big spike in pain and had a very hard time. She and Cindy didn't go to sleep until around 5:00am. Through out the day yesterday her pain level was very elevated and Cindy was having a hard time keeping her comfortable. Cindy and Jim have turned to a wonderful program called Kids are Special Too! These are the nurses and doctors that can help Lana Beth at home so that she doesn't always have to go to the clinic. I went over to the house around 4:30 and Lana Beth was resting but obviously very uncomfortable. A very sweet nurse, Barbara, came to the house with some new pain meds. Lana Beth is very afraid of new medications. Because she has had some reactions to different things in the past, new things are very difficult for her. But she was very brave and she did take the new medication which was liquid. (yuck!) It really helped and before long she perked up and was doing much better. Of course a visit from Jennifer Gannaway (not sure how to spell that, sorry Jennifer) was a very welcome blessing. Jennifer said she was staying the night with Lana Beth which gave Cindy a chance for some much needed sleep. I cooked some dinner for them and helped Cindy fold a mountain socks. Of course, this is the Websters, so the story doesn't end there. I mentioned earlier that Jim had some minor surgery on Friday. Just about the time Lana Beth started feeling better, Jim started feeling worse. His temperature went up and he was sick to his stomach. Of course we feared he was getting an infection. Not wanting to spend the evening at the ER Cindy gave Jim some Tylenol and Zofran. I am happy to say that the report this morning was much better. Jim is feeling better and Lana Beth had a good night. Her pain seems to be much more manageable.

Now I want to tell you about this amazing petite blonde women I am honored to call my friend named Cindy Webster. I know that she is lifted up in prayer daily by many of you but I don't know if you truly understand what she goes through. Being a wife and mother is hard work for all of us. Add moving to a new house, a son who is off at his first year of college, another son who is very active in many activities, but still needs his mother, and a very sick daughter who needs around the clock attention. To all that add just the daily everyday chores like laundry, grocery shopping, cooking, etc. Not only does Cindy do all these things, she does it with grace. She is incredible, but even the strongest can crack. So please keep praying, because we know that God does not give us more than we can handle. (Even though His version and my version do not always agree) He also gives us the ability to help those in need. It is the little things that make a big difference. If you have time this week to help make a difference I encourage you to. Go by (just make sure to call first) and fold some socks (they have a lot of socks!), offer to go to the grocery, send her a note of encouragement. Think about how much this family means to you and how much them sharing their journey with us has blesed our lives.

I can't end without asking for prayer for another family as well. I told you this has been an emotional weekend. There is another little girl named Christi Thomas. She was diagnosed with neuroblastoma 4 years ago and I have been following her ever since. She and Lana Beth remind me a lot of each other. She is very near the end of her life here on earth and I am sure her parents would appreciate the prayers for peace and comfort. Her website is www.christithomas.com. I can't really even express to you how I feel to watch these beautiful children suffer from this disease. It is a pain so deep that there are no words for. There is no reason why some survive and others do not. It is just not right.

Thank you for your loyal support and prayers. May your relationship with Lana Beth bless your lives as much as it has mine.

Beth

Sunday, September 10, 2006 9:49 PM CDT

Just a quick update for Cindy - Lana Beth had a good day today. Alicia Henderson went to their house to take some family pictures while Alan was in from college. LB got hot during the "photo shoot" :) but was a trooper and had LOTS of pictures made! I will try to post some as soon as they get them. Alan went back to college this afternoon, Cole went to football practice tonight.. and LB went to church and dinner with us. Everyone at Soddy loved getting to meet her - she has been in everyone's prayers there too! She has been really tired lately and has slept alot this past week. Pray for a good appetite, peaceful sleep, no pain and for her to feel good! And of course pray for the rest of the family! They are all loved so much by so many! jennifer

***check out the first pitch pictures!

Friday, September 8, 2006 12:38 AM CDT

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LANA BETH!!!

Lana Beth's birthday was yesterday, Thursday, September 7th. A quick, spur-of-the-moment night was planned at the Lookouts baseball game! Lana Beth was able to meet lots of players and she even threw out the first pitch - to lots of cheers and yells! We ate hot wings, hotdogs, and a baseball ice cream cake! LB had a good night and has so many great birthday memories. She is such a special girl - loved by so many people! Check out the new pics from the game. jennifer

Tuesday, September 5, 2006 9:02 PM CDT

This is Beth updating for Cindy. Cindy is sorry we haven't updated in a while and thanks each of you who check on Lana Beth daily. Always remember no news means just that. Nothing new is going on. I spent some time this afternoon with Lana Beth and Cindy and they are hanging in there. Pain is being mangaged for the most part and she is able to rest comfortably. I was encouraged that she was eating while I was there. For so long she wasn't able to eat at all so I am glad to see that she has more of an appetite now.

Alan was able to come home again this past weekend. I know the whole family is glad when they are all together. Jim and the boys went hunting this weekend which is something they have done for many years. It is hard for Cindy to say good-bye when Alan heads back to school, but she is so very proud of him.

Don't forget Lana Beth's birthday is this Thursday! Make sure to leave her a birthday message in the guest book. I know they have a fun evening planned and I heard Cindy talk about going shopping!!

I know each of you who visit here continue to pray for Lana Beth, Jim, Cindy, Cole and Alan. I know each of them truly appreciates all of the prayers and words of encouragement.

Beth

Tuesday, August 29, 2006 2:32 PM CDT

Today has not been a good one. Lana vomitted last night(?), I'm not sure why. Her stomach is hurting today and she wanted so bad to go to school; but at about 11am she fell asleep and is still sleeping. We are thankful for good days. Keep praying, cindy

Thursday, August 24, 2006 7:45 AM CDT

It has been over a week since we updated, which is good news! This is Beth for Cindy again. Things have been going pretty well. Lana has continued to have some really good days and some not so good days. She has been able to go to school some this week which is just awesome!! Alan surprised Cindy by coming home a day early last weekend. What a special treat! She and Lana Beth were so excited to see him. Cole is busy with school and football. Good luck to Boyd in this weeks game!

Lana still is enjoying visitors, but please call Cindy before going over. Cindy and Lana Beth have very different sleep patterns from all of us. They are often up until 2:00 or 3:00 in the morning. They nap throughout the day as they can. As you can imagine these naps are very important, so please do not stop by without calling first.

Mail time is a favorite time of the day for LB so if you can, drop a card or a note in the mail to her. Don't forget her birthday is September 7th!!

Keep praying. God can make miracles!
Beth

Wednesday, August 16, 2006 7:51 PM CDT

This is Beth, updating for Cindy. I just got off the phone with her and it is so great to hear some good news. The radiation treatments have helped Lana Beth with the pain and the past few days have been really good for her. In fact, SHE WENT TO SCHOOL TODAY!! She was only able to go for a few hours before she got too tired, but what a huge change from the way she felt two weeks ago. She is eating a little better but still has a long way to go.

Alan is getting settled in at school and seems to be doing well. LB really misses him though!! I hope to go spend sometime with LB tomorrow so hopefully I'll have some more good news to report.

Please keep praying for good, pain free days and for the miracle of healing.

Don't forget to let them know how much you care!
Beth

Sunday, August 13, 2006 10:14 PM CDT

This is Jennifer... We went to see Lana Beth this afternoon! She came downstairs to eat a waffle and watch Disney TV :) She has radiation again tomorrow. Cindy thinks the radiation has helped some with the pain. Alan got moved into college. Cole starts back to school tomorrow. Boyd played well in the Jamboree Saturday night! Go Bucs! Jim and Cindy got to go watch the games (thanks Frank & Kristin!). Keep praying for each of them! I know they appreciate every call, card, email, visit, prayer... they are loved by so many!

Friday, August 11, 2006 5:42 PM CDT

It's Jennifer updating for Cindy. Lana Beth has had radiation treatments Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday. (She will have the last one on Monday). On Thursday she also went to clinic to have her counts checked and to get IV fluids. Today (Friday) she went to clinic again to get blood and will start TPN (nutrition) tonight at home while she sleeps. The radiation has helped some with the pain she has been having. Cindy said she had a better night lastnight. She ate waffles around 1:30am and didn't have to have any extra break-through pain meds. Jim moved Alan to West Georgia College on Thursday. Cole starts football with a jamboree tomorrow night. Please continue to pray for this very special family. I seem to say often "they just have so much going on right now"... and they do. Pray for Alan to have a wonderful college experience, to continue to make good choices, and to know that God is always present in his life. Pray for Cole to have a great year at Boyd, to enjoy football this year, and to adjust to home without Alan being there every night. Pray for Cindy and Jim with all that they are dealing with right now. They are so strong. Send notes of support - let them know you are thinking of them and praying for them. Pray for Lana Beth. Pray for her to be pain free, pray for her to eat more, pray for to be strong... pray for her miracle!

Monday, August 7, 2006 7:21 AM CDT

Hi, it's Beth again. I just wanted to add a quick update. Lana Beth is going to the radiologist today for a "simulation" (this is where they mark the exact laocation of where radiation is needed so she will be in the same spot each time) and then she will start the radiation tomorrow. The doctor said he expects that she will get some pain relief very quickly. Depending on how she does, she should have about five treatments, one each day.

So keep praying this works and that Lana Beth get the much needed pain relief.

God Bless!
Beth

Thursday, August 3, 2006 8:58 AM CDT

Hello to all the loyal and "faith-filled" Lana Beth followers.

This is Beth updating for Cindy. I was able to spend some time with the Webster's yesterday and thought I'd give a quick update of what is going on. The results of the last MIBG scan showed intensification in the already affected area (hip) and some progession in her lower back. This is obviously not the news we prayed for. Lana is in a lot of pain right now and pain control is now the main focus of her treatment. They have an appointment on Friday with the radiologist to map out a plan for some radiation. Please pray the the radiation will help in reducing her pain. Walking has become difficult, but in true Lana Beth form she keeps on trying. They have been seeing a pain management specialist and the new medication is helping, but is also causing her to sleep a lot. She would still love to have visitors so if you have some time to stop by, please call Cindy to arrange it.

As far as the other Webster's they are busy as ever. Cole is currently at football camp and Alan will be heading to school in about a week. I know leaving is hard for him, but he is also very excited and ready. He'll be about 2 1/2 hours away so he'll be able to come home a lot of weekends.

I know you all have been praying dilligently for this family for a long time now. Please don't stop, as prayers are needed more than ever. Share Lana Beth's story with everyone you know.

Lana Beth's 11th birthday is September 7th and Cindy and Lana Beth are going to be making some plans soon so stay posted for details!

For those who have been on this long journey with us, thank you for all the love, prayers and support. For those of you just joining, hop on. The life of this extraordinary girl will touch your heart in a way you cannot imagine. So sign the guestbook, send her a card, make a phone call, or go by for a visit. Show your love and friendship for this precious family!

Beth White

Wednesday, July 26, 2006 12:15 AM CDT

This is Jennifer updating for Cindy! My family got to spend a great afternoon and night with the Websters yesterday! We finally pulled all of the kids out of the pool, out of the hot tub, and off of the trampoline at 12 midnight! :) I have updated with some of the pics I took yesterday. We got to meet Sara, one of LB's friends from clinic. Sweet little girl! Today Lana Beth is going to the hospital for a scan. The scan results will determine the next treatment plans. LB is having pain - so please pray for her to be pain free! Please continue to keep the whole family in your prayers! Cole leaves soon for football camp, summer is quickly coming to an end, school will be starting back soon, Alan will be moving to college... pray, pray, pray!

Saturday, July 22, 2006 12:20 AM CDT

We are home from camp Wetago, Jim,Lana and I joined the boys on Wednesday evening and came home yesterday. Lana is doing goog, the heat gets to her. She is still asleep, she goes to be late but then she sleep lates and with the camp this past week she did have to get up sooner so rest is good.

Alan leaves for West Georgia, 8/11/06, was too soon for me, but I'm happy, I know he is ready.

Next week Lana is having her MIBG scan, injection on Tuesday and scan days are Wednesday, Thursday and maybe Friday. We may be starting something new soon, I'll let you know more when it's official. But we will still be in Chattanooga. Keep praying, love cindy

Thursday, July 6, 2006 7:03 PM CDT

We went to the clinic yesterday and LB had another reaction to platelets! So we spent the night @ TCT Hospital. She also needed blood. We didn't sleep much at all; she has a sinus infection and in on meds for that and her pain in under control.
Her counts are very low so only healthy folks can see her; we are home now and hope we can stay here. If you are B+ please go and give platelets!! We will need some on Monday, they last 4-5 days. Also pray for a friend, Karen, she had surgery today and is doing well, but keep her and her family in your prayers. They have had a tough month, it's Hannah Kate's mom, they lost an uncle a few weeks ago, so keep them in your prayers too.
Got to run and unpack something?

Thursday, June 29, 2006 6:26 PM CDT

We are still in the hospital and I'm updating on the hospital site. I hope that things at home will be a little normal soon and I can update. Thanks so much to Jennifer Greer who has been keeping everyone informed for me. She is also the person who "Made Lana's dream come true". To meet w/ Zack and Cody. When we landed, the airport had a huge banner that read "Welcome to Hollywood Lana Beth, Lights, Camera, Action!". Lana has been asleep on the flight and when we landed she had just woke up. She looked around and people (from the airport) were taking pictures and giving her gifts, she looked up at me and said "Mom I feel soooo special". I tried not to cry but a few tears did come down my cheek, and I told her that she really was special, and gave her a big hug!! At the time I wasn't sure who had done the banner and gifts and stuff, it was later I found out that it was the folks at the airport and our pilot, Shawn!!! (I didn't know until we were back home) Many thanks to alot of folks for helping a dream come true!

We are now finished with this round of chemo and she is already walking better, thank God!! She still is not eating, so please please pray, that she will eat soon!! The sooner she eats the sooner we can go home and enjoy the summer!! Anyone who is B+, please go give blood or platelets next week she will need platelets or blood soon. Remember to donate in Lana's name, even if you are not her blood type she will get credit. Alan went yesterday and gave 2 pints!! He is O+, so that is good for the Blood Bank, but Lana has had so many transfusions that we must have B+ platelets, so please go and give if you can. I know it takes up about an hour or more of your time but your a helping save a life. Love to all, hope we are home Saturday. Healthy folks are welcomed to come and see Lana, you may want to call me first. Remember Lana is at 56 pounds so she is tiny, but her spirit isn't!!! Love from all the Webster's Jim, Cindy, Alan, Cole and Lana

Monday, June 26, 2006 8:25 PM CDT

Lana Beth started a round of chemo today at TC Thompsons. She is in Room #315. Healthy visitors are welcome to stop by. She has lost weight - so be prepared for her to look very thin. She had a fun time Sunday night at the carnival in the parking lot of Northgate Mall. The boys carried her around when she didn't want to walk. Her daddy won her a BIG monkey by shooting (LOTS of) red star targets! :) Cole shaved his head a couple of days ago! He looks cool and ready for the summer! Pray for a good week in the hospital. Pray for her to gain weight and not to be sick from the treatments. Pray for miracles!

Look at the pics from Camp SAM.

Wednesday, June 21, 2006 7:54 AM CDT

***2nd UPDATE WEDNESDAY, JUNE 21 @ 11:00PM
I talked to Cindy late this afternoon. She said they are trying to postpone chemo until Monday - due to the weight loss and LB not feeling too great. She wants some time at home to be able to try to put a few pounds back on her. It seems like chemo is always harder on her body when she goes in not feeling good. She is having to take a lot of pain medicine right now. I will update again when I have more information. Pray, pray, pray!

Wednesday, June 21 (sometime in the morning)
I am sorry I have not updated for Cindy in the past few days. Lana Beth had a good week at camp. She came home very tired - and thinnner. She did not sleep well or eat very good. She did receive several award ribbons! One for the "Best Cha-Cha Dancer"??? :) She went to the doctor on Monday. She is walking with a limp and is having severe pain in her back/ hip area. They have decided to start a round of chemo on Thursday. LB is very angry about this. Her and Cindy have had some very emotionally hard days this week. Please pray for Lana Beth - Pray for complete healing, for strength, for smiles and laughter... for a miracle to touch her little body! Pray for Cindy. Cindy has had to cope with so many things lately - the cancer, the move, Alan graduating... Alan moving to college soon. Pray for Cole and Jim - Life has not been easy for any of them in such a long time. This has been a long and hard journey for each of them.

Tuesday, June 13, 2006 7:33 PM CDT

Lana Beth is at Camp S.A.M. (Smile-A-Mile) this week. Cindy is busy unpacking boxes and getting things settled in the new house! Alan had a great week in Colorado with the church group. Cole and Jim have planted LOTS of trees around the pool. HA! :) They are enjoying the new house! Pray that LB has a great week at camp!

Updated pics from the Hollywood trip!

Monday, June 5, 2006 8:26 PM CDT

The Webster's had a BLAST in California!!! The corporate jet was SO NICE! The hotel was beautiful! And "Zack & Cody"....... they were GREAT! They got to spend a little time enjoying the pool at the hotel and walking the walk of fame! They are so thankful to all who made the trip possible! They got to attend a live taping of the show - it was really long and EVERYONE was tired at the end of the night! After the taping, the Webster's got to spend some "alone" time with the boys to meet and get autographs (and pictures)! Everyone was really nice - and a great time was had by all! Alan flew from California to Colorado for a church wilderness trip. Cole is working out A LOT. The rest of the Webster's are resting up! (HA!) Lana Beth is getting ready for Camp S.A.M. (Smile-A-Mile) next week. She went to clinic today. Her leg is bothering her a lot right now but it may be just from the trip and all the walking. They are still trying to get moved in to the new house and may be soon won't be living out of suitcases! Cindy is planning to use next week to do a lot of unpacking and settling! Keep praying! Pray that Lana Beth has a great time at camp next week! Pray for each of them in all that they have going on right now! Look at the trip pics and post a message!

Tuesday, May 30, 2006 9:15 AM CDT

Lana Beth and the Webster's fly out on Thursday to attend a live taping of "The Suite Life of Zack & Cody"!!! They are being flown out by a (very generous) company jet! We aren't sure of the exact plans - but think that they will be able to meet the boys after the taping! LB is SO excited! They are enjoying their new house - and pool! They used the "KanPaiDaddyO" grill lastnight for the first time and really enjoyed it!!! They are still trying to organize and arrange everything in the house - there are LOTS of things they haven't been able to find yet!
Cole competed in a weight lifting event over the weekend and did VERY WELL! The boys are enjoying a day at Six Flags today!
This morning LB goes back to clinic to get her counts checked. Pray that all of her counts are great so she won't have any trouble traveling!
Will update after the trip with LOTS of details and pictures!!!

Monday, May 22, 2006 8:14 AM CDT

The Webster's had a BUSY weekend! Alan graduated on Saturday and afterwards they "opened" the (heated) pool at the new house for a relaxing afternoon! Other than Cole's injury - it was a great day!!! :) Alan accidentally elbowed Cole and split him open right above the eye! After he refused to go sit at the emergency room all day for stitches - Karen came to help glue it back together! He later jumped on the trampoline and got back in the pool! (notice his picture) LB had fun in the pool with family and friends! Cindy said she slept a little better that night. They are planning to move in this week - call if you want to offer help! LB goes back to clinic today. Pray that her counts are good. Just keep this wonderful family in all of your daily prayers!

Friday, May 19, 2006 1:08 PM CDT

The Websters are getting ready for Alan's graduation on Saturday!!! Congratulations Alan! :) They are also moving into the new house next week! If you have a truck and a strong back... you are welcome to help! Give Cindy or Jim a call. They have so much going on right now! Continue to keep them in your prayers during all of these exciting times. Keep praying for LB - she had a blood transfusion on Friday. She has gotten the OK from the doctor to go to graduation! I know she is so proud of her biggest brother! If anyone has B+ blood/platelets... go donate in her name. She will probably need platelets next week. Pray, Pray, Pray! Jennifer Greer

Saturday, May 13, 2006 10:08 PM CDT

Just to let you know.... Lana Beth went home on Thursday afternoon from the hospital. She is still having some trouble going to sleep at night. Please continue to pray for her to sleep and eat! They are happy to be home! Jennifer Greer

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY CINDY! YOU ARE A WONDERFUL MOTHER!

Monday, May 8, 2006 3:42 PM CDT

LB is still in the hospital. Cindy thinks she may be out Wednesday or Thursday. She has had some better nights. Continue to pray for good sleep and for her to eat. Pray for the whole family! Pray for miracles!

CHECK OUT THE NEW PICTURES! PICS FROM BBS JR/SR!

Wednesday, May 3, 2006 3:34 PM CDT

Hello, It's Beth again.

Lana is at the hospital until sometime on Saturday getting another round of chemo. Her scans seemed to be about the same so they decided to go ahead with more chemo. I was able to go to the hospital today and visit with them a little. Lana was pretty quiet but had a friend with her and they were
watching a movie. As I was leaving Jennifer Greer came in with some great looking posters the kids at Boyd made to brighten up her room.

So give Cindy a call if you want to go and visit and she will let you know when it is a good time for that.

I'll update again with any new developments.

Thank you so much for visiting here and please remember to sign the guestbook.

P.S. Cindy just called me and Alan was involved in a car accident this afternoon. He is OK, but his car has a lot of damage to it. Apparently he was hit when he was on his way to work.

She also wanted me to mention that Cole has a schrimage football game tomorrow afternoon. I don't remember what time she said, but if you are interested in going, just give Cindy a call for details.

Saturday, April 29, 2006 8:54 PM CDT

Cindy's computer is down so I am updating for her..... Lana Beth had a full week of doctor appts and tests - Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday. Today she has been resting! They will probably get results from tests by the end of this next week. Pray for good results! Alan has made a college decision........ West Georgia! He may play football his second year. He has been accepted into their Honors College. (Congratulations Alan!) Cole hurt his right hand at football practice on Wednesday and on Friday hurt his left hand! He will see the doctor on Monday to make sure nothing is broken! (Pray for him!) They are making progress on the new house and everyone is looking forward to moving in! (I personally am excited about the swimming pool and the KanPaiDaddyO grill!) The family celebrated Jim's birthday this week - Happy Birthday Jim! Tomorrow (Sunday) is Cindy's birthday! Happy Birthday Cindy!!! Continue to pray for LB to feel better! Pray for her to eat more and sleep better.... Keep praying for her miracle!!! Jennifer Greer

Friday, April 28, 2006 11:44 AM CDT

Hi everyone, it is Beth, updating for Cindy.

Lana is doing OK, but it has been a hard week for all. She has been having scans and between the long wait times and other glitches everyone is exhausted to say the least. They are trying a different sleep medicine to help Lana Beth be able to get to sleep, but it has not been very helpful. She is awake most nights until 2:00 am and then wants to sleep late in the morning. That is hard when everyone else in the house has to get up early. They had to repeat the MIBG scan today so hopefully they will get a good scan today. From what I understand Jim and Cindy will not be meeting the the doctors until the middle of next week to discuss the results. I know that Lana Beth is still in a considerable amount of pain and is having periods of increasing pain, especially in her back.

I guess what I most want to say to everyone who visits here is to keep praying and keep believing that God is in control and that He will take care of this precious family. Cindy is so worn out. I know that she sometimes feels she can't possibly face another day. Imagine all the craziness you have in your own life, how much stress you feel in your day to day life with juggling children's schedules, work, laundry, gocery shopping, etc. Now, multiply that by having a very sick child, the stress of moving into a new home, a son graduating from high school, and many other things. I don't know how she does it other than it is our prayers which keep her lifted up. I'm probably sharing too much here, but I really want you to understand what this family is going through. Please keep praying. Don't stop, not even for a day. Pray that with the results of these scans there is a clear path of what should be done next. Pray for relief of pain. Pray that Lana Beth will be able to go to sleep and rest comfortably and that she will be able to eat more and gain back some weight. Pray for healing, above all else. Pray for Alan and Cole that God continues to guide these young men and that they understand what Lana is going through. Pray for Jim and Cindy that their faith remains strong and that God continues to hold them up and give them strength to continue this battle.

In the neuroblastoma world, we call neuroblastoma "The Beast". Pray that The Beast is defeated so that no other family has to suffer what so many have.

God Bless you and your families.

Saturday, April 22, 2006 5:59 PM CDT

Lana Beth had lots of fun at Boyd's Jr./Sr. She looked beautiful and Wade was a perfect gentleman! :) On Tuesday and Wednesday LB will have a scan and biopsy done. We should also get results back this week from the last tests. She is still having lots of trouble sleeping! Awake way into the night. We are talking to her doctor about different sleep meds. Please keep praying!

Thursday, April 13, 2006 5:22 PM CDT

LB is doing better; she is tired, but her iron level is low, so that is to be expected. Tomorrow she will have a bone scan and a CT scan. Alan and Cole left today for a church retreat and will be back on Saturday. Pray that they remain safe and that LB's scans are unchanged or better!!! Thanks and keep praying, love, cindy

Friday, April 7, 2006 7:45 PM CDT

I know it's been a while since I updated, last week was tough. Yesterday was good, today has been bad. Her stomach is hurting her (I don't know if it's from not eating or something else). She had blood and platelets this week and I'm sure next week will be similar. She isn't bouncing back as well; but she has been through so much, keep praying.


LB wants me with her all the time, Jennifer (her new sitter) is wonderful. I did get some things done this week and would not have been able to if Jennifer wasn't here. Yesterday she went to Build-A-Bear and she and Jennifer went shopping. LB hasn't felt up to that (except one other time lately). It's hard, she did go to sleep 3 nights in a row at a "normal" time; but last night it was after 3am.

We are all hoping that the move will give us all something new and fresh to enjoy! The house and pool will be great!! By the way anyone want our old house?? We will put it on the market soon, it's a great house and Brow Lake is so private!! Well enough sales talk . . . please continue to pray that LB will eat, sleep and get her energy back soon!!

We do scans starting the 14th and the week of the 17th also; the results will help us to decide what our next step is!! If you are B+ Blood type, please go and donate platelets or blood! Thanks, love cindy

Thursday, March 30, 2006 5:50 PM CST

This has been a hard week. LB rec'd blood yesterday at the clinic; she slept most of the time. She isn't feeling all that great, which is hard to see, she usually has lots of energy even w/low counts. But this time, it's been tough. We go to the clinic tomorrow, pray we don't get a fever and pray that she will eat and sleep. She is at 57# now and she has dark circles under her eyes. Some of the time she has sat in bed and did art work and watch DVD's. I'm just so use to seeing her with lots of energy. And those of you that know her, know what I'm talking about. Pray she feels better soon!!

The boys are on a school chours trip and will be back on Sunday. She misses them when they are gone. I'll try and see if Frank can join her this week end. He is so kind to her.

We are slowly packing, trying to go thru "stuff", I'm excited but at the same time, we are all tired. If you could measure fatigue, I would be interested in seeing where we would all be. . . .oh well, keep praying. We will do scans after her counts recover (about 2 weeks), that will tell us how well the last two rounds worked on her little body. I pray the chemo has helped reduce tumor burden. Keep praying for all the families, love cindy

Saturday, March 25, 2006 8:41 PM CST

Today, Lana Beth has eaten a little bit. A few bites here and there. We are able to get her pain under control. She rested a lot today. Alan got home from his trip to FL. The boys will be back in school on Monday. We go back to Dr. Bhakta’s on Tuesday. Lana has a small temp, 99.3. But, for some reason, this time we have ran a temp off and on (even before we started chemo)

Keep praying that she will eat and sleep well! Continue to pray for a miracle as well.

Thanks, Love
Cindy

Friday, March 24, 2006 1:06 PM CST

We are to get out of the hospital today; last day of chemo. Last night was bad. LB was in pain most of the night. LB said "Mom this chemo isn't working, is it?". It's hard to say that the chemo isn't working but when she has pain she knows enough that something isn't right. Keep praying that the pain will go away and she will eat. Eating and sleeping is difficult.

Cole is home and he and Frank are doing some running around today. Alan is still in Ft. Laurderdale; I'm sure he is having fun and we will hear alot about the "Shark tale".

We are all working on "the move", so call me if anyone wants to help. Thanks, Cindy, Jim, Alan, Cole and Lana Beth

Thursday, March 23, 2006 12:56 AM CST

Hi, we are in the hospital Rm. 316. We should go home tomorrow, LB's last day of chemo is Friday. She has ran a low grade temp. most of the time, since we have been in the hospital.

Cole is home from his trip and had a blast. Alan is still having fun in the "sun", he went deep-sea fishing yesterday and caught a shark!!

LB isn't eating so pray that she will eat soon, and that her fever (even though it is low) will go away. Thanks, cindy, ps. we are busy w/the move so life is crazy as usual!!

Friday, March 17, 2006 3:53 PM CST

LB's counts are good! We start chemo on Monday. Cole and Alan are both on Spring break one is in the snow the other in the sand! Either way we hope they both have fun.

Alan and a friend were in a car accident today. The jeep they were in turned over; everyone is okay, Thank God!! But LB and I were at the clinic having her counts checked when Jim called to tell me that Alan was fine, we don't need any reminders about how quickly life can change. Just remember you never know, remember to hug and love your kids!!

Keep praying, LB's leg has hurt her this week, so I'm glad that we can do the chemo, the closer we stick to the schedule the better chance we have at staying "on top" of the NB. She has trouble sleeping and eating so those are a few other things you can pray for, love, cindy, jim, alan, cole and lana beth

Monday, March 13, 2006 6:51 PM CST

Our day started at about 6:15 AM. LB had her central line taken out and her port-a-cath put in by Dr. Carr. We were scheduled to be at TC Thompson’s at 7:45. Knowing that Lana Beth’s platelets were low, after waiting a few hours, they checked LB’s platelets, and we needed a transfusion before surgery. Unfortunately, as we were being wheeled into the OR for her surgery, Dr. Carr let us know that her platelet count was too low to begin surgery without a transfusion. Now remember, Lana Beth is still NPO (nothing to eat or drink after midnight) at this time. So, we were told to wait to see if there would be positive platelets at the bloodbank. Fortunately, I had spoke to Dr. Bhakta yesterday, and he already had B+ platelets on standby at the blood bank. But, LB was already ready to go into the OR. She was tired, hungry, and thirsty (as we all were). We head to Dr. Bhakta’s office for the transfusion. Bhakta’s staff helped calm her by explaining why she needed the platelets, because she was still above normal levels for transfusion. But, since she was having an invasive procedure, Carr wanted her levels to be above 100. So, about noon, LB was finally wheeled back into the OR. At 1:30 or so, Lana was back in recovery, and Dr. Carr came back to tell us that everything went well. She was still sleeping, but I could now go back and be with her. They had given her extra pain meds, and LB ended up sleeping until almost 4 PM. (remember, still has not consumed anything in 16 hours). The good news is she ate at Las Compadres, and she ate A LOT! It’s 8 o’clock, and we are finally home and happy. We go back to Bhakta’s Friday to see when we will be doing chemo. Just continue to pray, and God Bless!

Wednesday, March 8, 2006 5:51 PM CST

Hi, so sorry it's been a while since I updated; but we always say "No news is good news!". Actually there is alot going on; we are moving!! Yes we have lost our minds, it's official. We were not really looking and Jim and I found a great house at the Enclave in Riverview. We should move around 4/15, I think.

LB should start chemo next week (if counts are good), she has been to Boyd a few times and "played" with Miss Julie and Miss Jennifer, she also joined the Pettway's this past Saturday, and rode horeses!! She has mostly good days, Makayla is going to spend Thursday night with us and LB went to Reece's birthday "gatherin" at Kampi last night with Ramsey and about 15 other great young adults!! We had a blast!! LB's favorite place to EAT.

Jim is putting a "Kampi Daddy-Oh" grill in this house; so get ready! Continue to pray for all those who are dealing with cancer; Jim and I decided that if the "right" house came along we would move, we just didn't expect it to happen so fast!! Love, Cindy

Tuesday, February 28, 2006 10:05 AM CST

Hi, we went to clinic yesterday and I told LB about little Emily and she took it very well. We asked for special prayers for her family at church. Right after I told LB we saw a beautiful red bird; and LB said "mom, i think all the birds, except the black ones, are angels". I thought that was a good thing and we went on to see more birds heading to the clinic. Her counts are WBC 1.0; Hgb 10.6; PLT 40; and ANC 570. This is not bad; but she still doesn't need to be in enclosed spaces w/lots of people. She is feeling better; she got to see Laura Jenkins at the clinic and Kellie Day. These two girls and LB are good buddies; it makes the visit much better.

We will do another round of chemo, week after next in pt @ TCThomposon; after that recover and re-do scans; that should let us know just how the chemo is working and if LB's cancer is spreading or stable. Keep praying!! Thanks, Cindy

Sunday, February 26, 2006 2:24 PM CST

Hello everyone; sorry for no "real news"; except clinic visits and transfusions. Life after chemo. LB isn't feeling as good as usual, but yesterday and Friday were good days!!! I think we are all tired. Her not being able to sleep is making it tough on all of us. Please pray that she continues to eat and will sleep better soon. Continue to pray for the Ransom family.

The boys (Cole, Alan, Reese, Jordon) Kasey and I went to EBC of Christ this morning and it was special. Aubery and Robin have a beautiful baby boy!!! And everything looks good. It's great, a new life, hope, joy and being able to hold another baby is a great part of life!Kasey will be going back home and getting a "real job"; so pray that she will make good choices.

Right now, I think, the game plan is to do another round of chemo and re-scan. Depending on the scans that will determine our next step. Please, please keep the prayers coming!! Our life is truly day to day, and sometimes moment by moment.

I pray for all the families dealing with any cancer, I ask that you do the same and hug that wonderful child (or children) that you are truly blessed with and tell them how important they are and how proud you are of them!! With Gods love, Cindy, Jim, Alan, Cole and Lana Beth

Tuesday, February 21, 2006 10:59 AM CST

We are home. We ended up at the hospital late Friday w/fever. But long story short; WE ARE HOME!! The guys had a great time at the church retreat.

Some very, very, sad news: Little 2 year old Emily Ransom (Neuroblastoma) passed away yesterday, they were trying to remove her tumor. Please pray for her family! Continue to pray for so many! My heart and prayers go out to her family; May God help them thru this most difficult time, cindy

Friday, February 17, 2006 5:46 PM CST

Hi everyone; Lana received platelets today. Her White count is at .2 (normal 4.0); so hopefully we can get thru the weekend without a fever. She is eating some; but please continue to pray. She is still on cloud 9 from talking with Zack and Cody (from The suite life of Zack and Cody). She is making them a gift (drawing). She is tired but ready for healthy friends. With this being the flu season, there are not too many families that haven't been hit. So remember only Healthy Friends (w/healthy families).

Kasey is coming up this weekend; or at least that's what we hope. That will give LB someone to hang with; I know she gets tired of me.

The guys (jim included) are on a Church retreat; I hope they have fun. Maybe next weekend I'll have a retreat . . .oh well it was a good idea. Remember if you can, go give blood and platelets; even if Lana doesn't use them it truly saves lives!!! Thanks for all your continued support, keep praying, love to all, Cindy, Jim, Alan, Cole and Lana Beth P.S. Keep praying for Jack, Sydney, Jake, Canon, Emily, Grace, Dylan, Kylie and several more. (Robin and Aubrey continue to need our prayers, she went into pre-mature labor so pray that all will be well).

Thursday, February 16, 2006 3:00 PM CST

Lana Beth was very tired this morning (11:30 am),when I went to get her dressed for her doctor's appointment. Jim took her and she will need platelets tomorrow. Her weight was good! Yeah, she is eating okay, keep praying!!

This morning as Jim and I were putting LB in the car, my cell rang (almost didn't answer), but it was Zack and Cody (aka Cole and Dylan from the Disney's "Suite Life of Zack and Cody"). LB was in shock!! She was smiling soooo big!! Jennifer Greer, a teacher at BBS has been working on getting LB together w/these young men for a while. And to our delight, it looks like she maybe able to go to Hollywood and see them!! They were both so nice and their dad said he hopes we can work "something" out!! She is still soooo excited, she didn't believe me at first. We hadn't told her anything about us trying to get "together" with the guys; just in case it wouldn't work out. We figured it was a long, long shot!!! But thanks to Mrs. Greer looks like Lana maybe Hollywood bound!!!

Also, thanks to all folks that let the guys crash at your houses, there are too many to name!! And thanks to Wendy for dinner!!

Keep praying, LB has had two reactions to platelets and it is always a tough day for her; so pray that all goes well and she keeps eating. She is trying so hard, she is holding around 57# (that's up from 55 last Friday)! Take care and keep praying, love, Cindy, Jim, Alan, Cole and Lana Beth

Tuesday, February 14, 2006 9:24 PM CST

Today Lana has had a harder time eating but she is trying. She and I spent the night in her room and she watched TV until about 1am. She is a night owl and I'm not. She and her dad may try a movie tonight. I'm think her counts maybe too low for us to go out to dinner this week end so during the week we try and sneak some "fun" stuff in. Go and give blood and platelets if you can, LB will probably need some by the week end. Keep praying for our friend Jack and hope all is well with him. Also, Mrs. Lee (the boys teacher at BBS), cancer is so difficult. It's always good to be home, keep praying that LB will maintain her weight. She is so thin and she tries so hard, keep praying, love, cindy

PS - Pray for Aubrey and Robyn Wood! Their baby might be coming a bit earlier than predicted, so let the Lord touch that child's life! And help keep both mom and dad strong.

Tuesday, February 14, 2006 11:12 AM CST

Well, we are back at the hospital. Jim brought LB back on Sunday. I've been at home. We were hoping that this stay would be short; she isn't eating. Sunday she was at 55#'s and today she is near 57#'s. Doctors think some of this is fluid, which sounds logical. TPN was started on Sunday and we are hoping she will start eating soon. She has eaten some; but very little. I should know more by this afternoon.

Keep praying, she is in room 317; Drew Akins (last years QB for BBS) came by the house Sunday before he left for college. Right after that she went to the hospital. She is crazy about Alan and Cole's friends! She might be 10 but she acts 16 or so. . . keep praying, thanks, cindy

Friday, February 10, 2006 12:44 AM CST

Hi, well we are still here at T.C.Thompson's Room 314. We are waiting on the okay to go home. LB ate about 1/3 of a biscuit this morning and still eating about 3 sweet-tarts a day. My guess is that we will go home; but I've been wrong before. Going home will be good; but the GCSF shots will start daily (usually for about 2 weeks); and they can be really difficult. Just continue to ask God to watch over us and help us do the right thing and help Lana as much as we can!

Jim and Alan are at MTSU on his "tour". Cole will be staying with the Nason's tonight, just in case we are not out of here.

Keep praying that she will eat better soon and that this round makes her feel like our good ole LB. Her pain seems to be better; but that kind of depends on when you ask her. Sleeping wasn't too hard it was diffcult because she is having so much IV fluids that she was up every 2 hours to use the rest-room. Makes for a long night; but rest-room visits are better than vomit!!

Also, please pray for our friends, Sydney, Jake, Emily, Maddie, Brooke, Laura, Dee Dee, Jessica (just to name a few). Beth took Jack to St. Jude's this week (just regular schedule scans) and on one scan it shows a little something different; Beth thinks everything will be fine, but please pray for him and his family. Beth has been such a great friend and has ran to my rescue at the drop of a hat! Thanks to all our faithful friends! I really don't know where we would be without the special folks that help us daily!

Last night Jim, Alan, Cole and myself went to the BBS football banquet and it was nice; it was good for me to see all the folks, I feel like we are on an island sometimes and miss seeing folks. Love to all, cindy

Tuesday, February 7, 2006 5:52 PM CST

Lana has not been feeling very well the past few days. Today, we began CYTOX. She should leave the hospital late friday, doing four days of chemo. For some reason, she has just felt really bad the past few days, not eating or resting very well. She is in room 314 at TC Thompsons. Just continue to pray, and that this round of chemo does some good!


Thanks,


Cindy

Thursday, February 2, 2006 7:50 AM CST

I wish I had lots of news; but I don't. LB is having pain in her L hip and ankle. This "pain" she has comes on quickly, similar to this past November. The antibody treatment is "off the table"; it was a phase II study; which usually means it's pretty safe. However; we may have been very lucky that we didn't start it; since the toxcitity issues have suppended the treatment.

As we look at opitions; there isn't much to select from, but Dr. Barfield (St. Jude) and Dr. Bhakta (Chattanooga) are trying to decide the BEST path for LB and us! We are blessed w/such great doctors and great hospitals.

How can you help? Pray,Pray,Pray and after that: give blood; sign up to be on the National Bone Marrow Register. Donate money, time to Ronald McDonald Houses and St. Judes. As soon as I know something, I'll pass it on; LB did play for about 3 hours yesterday and don't get me wrong, she sat with a heating pad on her back and one on her ankle and colored "GO BUC!", and watched TV. Lord, you know how much we love her, please watch over her and Alan and Cole, and I thank you daily for letting me be a mother; I can think of no higher honor, love cindy

Monday, January 30, 2006 8:53 AM CST

Hi; as you know no news is good news. Well, things have been busy and weird at the same time. LB's antibody treatment has been placed on HOLD for right now. There are some issuses about toxicity some children have had a hard time on the treament. We meet w/Doctor's here in Chatt. tomorrow to see what our next step is. LB played basketball Saturday w/Boyd girls, they were older but she didn't care,she had a good time.

Cole won his weight lifting tourn. on Saturday and Jordon Nason won his also!!! Alan worked on Saturday building a house for habit for humanity, and Sunday we (Jim, Alan and myself) went to West Georgia; for a tour of the college.

Continue to pray there are a lot of children that need the prayers; one of our friends passed away last week (from Chattanooga); so pray for his family and friends. he was 16 years old, and a very brave young man. Keep praying, love cindy

Tuesday, January 24, 2006 7:55 PM CST

Hey Everybody!!

Lana Beth is feeling good. She had her bone biopsy done today. With this new Chatt. Treatment (hopefully), It looks like now we won't be admitted into the hospital sometime next week for the antibody treatment. Her ANC is around 850, and it needs to be at least 1000 before we can begin. Keep Praying!! and remember; no news, is good news. We'll let you know about the scan results when we know. Give us a call if you want LB to play sometime!


Love,


Cindy

Friday, January 20, 2006 10:04 PM CST

This week has been the week of CT scan, MIBG scans, x-rays, echo,& ekg's, and lots of waiting. Jim and I signed the consent forms yesterday. And I think, the "ball" should be rolling on the antibody treatment, here in Chattanooga. Next week, we should begin around Monday or Tuesday. LB isn't looking forward to this treatment. I've tired to explain to her that this is our next "battle"; but you know it's hard for me to understand so how could I expect a 10 year old that has been thru SO MUCH, just continue to be "Okay mom sounds good to me". Bless her little heart (by the way her heart is in great shape)! She has been thru so much, I think right now the central line makes her angry. She calls it "stupid", "dumb" and a few other things and I don't blame her. The line is in the center of her chest and two lines come out and we change the dressing twice a week and flush the lines everyday. She can't take a long bubble bath and we all know how much fun bubble baths are!!! She can't get the site wet; so taking a bath becomes an issue instead of something relaxing.

Please keep praying, and thanks for all that we run into and they remind us about everyone who is praying!!! Alan is on his Senior Trip to Disney!! Cole is going to school and working out as usual; and today after LB had her scan and ate at Glen-Gene's she went with her daddy and Cole to "Steve" (the work out gym). She had fun lifting weights and running around. Jim is getting himself into shape for next years Disney race; we are all hoping to run either the half or full race! And me, well I just try to keep going, Kasey is here and she is helping some; but LB still wants Mommie, and that's okay too!! love to all & keep praying, Cindy

Thursday, January 12, 2006 2:48 PM CST

Hi! We are back from Disney and had a great time!!! LB was getting tired near the end of the day but so were the rest of us!!

I'm guessing that scans will be next week and then begin an antibody study here, in Chattanooga.

Keep praying, love cindy

Monday, January 9, 2006 7:52 PM CST

Hello everyone!
This is Beth updating for Cindy. They called this morning from Orlando and they are having a good time. The weather has been rather cool, so not as warm as they would like. It was supposed to warm up today though. As you can imagine, Lana has had some good times and some not so good times. Overall all she is feeling a little better and I know this was really good for her. Her friend Sydney Sims was able to come so they have had fun together. Alan and Cole have been a big help to all the families. Apparently, the other children have decided they give the best piggy back rides!! It has been really nice for them to catch up with old friends and to make some new ones.
Depending on how Lana is feeling and the weather, they will be home either Wednesday or Thursday. Please pray for their safe travel home and for the decisions in treatment that they will soon have to make.

Wednesday, January 4, 2006 4:36 PM CST

We are heading to Disney; we were able (at the last minute), to go join our friends from NY for their annual run. The boys went to school today and one of their teachers: Mrs. Lee had surgery over Christmas break, so please pray for her. Sydney Sims,our friend from Tampa, is in the hospital but hopes to get out in time to join us!! So pray for her; she has had a temp. We are driving, and leaving today as soon as Jim and LB get home from the clinic; she got blood/platelets today.

We are happy to get to go, so thanks for all the prayers, and I hope everyone has a good Year!!! A new year offers hope and we need all the hope we can get!!

Thanks,
Cindy

Sunday, January 1, 2006 4:25 PM CST

Happy New Year! We stayed up last night, with Frank, Luke, Cole, Alan, Jim, Lana,Bronson, and myself, and watched the ball drop!

Lana is feeling okay, she isn't eating as well as I would like her to, but she is eating. Keep praying, we go for blood work @ the clinic tomorrow.

Boys go back to school the 3rd (too soon for me). Keep up the praying, love cindy

Saturday, December 24, 2005 7:32 PM CST

We are HOME!!! LB's counts are still low, but no fever and she is eating very little. Again, the best Christmas gift for us was to be home, together!!! Continue to pray, how everyone has a good Christmas. Pray that her counts return soon, be go to the Clinic on Tuesday. (They are closed Monday). Best wishes to all, Cindy and family

Thursday, December 22, 2005 1:33 PM CST

The hospital is soooo nice, I think we might just extend our stay. (Ha Ha) "laughter is the best medicine?" right ? We are still in room 317 @ TCThompson's. Lana is doing everything they have ask her to do in order for her to go home. Taken another GCSF shot (sub-q leg), and we hope to be home soon.

We are waiting on counts to "bounce" back. We know they will, it just takes time. So anyway-anyway, here we are, hoping that any day we can "escape". Actually I told LB, "If we have to be here on Christmas it will be just fine". (Now I have no clue how we will pull that one off, so everyone, hang on to your hats; because if we are HERE, then guess who will be coming on Christmas Day? YOU and all your healthy friends!!!

Hang in there, hey sorry, I'm thinking out loud and typing
what I'm thinking, so off I go. . . .back to LB's room!! Love to all and Merry Christmas!!! The Webster's

Wednesday, December 21, 2005 1:40 PM CST

Wow, that was fast, we did find the "dance dance resalution" or what ever it is called. It's funny, even with us being "stuck" at the hospital, the visits and other people just letting us know they are thinking about her truly makes me smile!! "Life is good", I love that saying, even though there are times that I have to take a step back and take a good long look. Then I see LB smiling, or her walking and the boys playing with her and yeah, "Life is Good". Pray that her counts will be "up" and we can enjoy Christmas at home. Pray for the folks who are not home, for whatever reason. So when you are snug in your warm, cozy, bed and feel like you forgot someone's gift or what you are going to cook for Christmas day, Just remember YOU are HOME!!! And be thankful!!!

I know that I do look at this world alot different now, but all in all, I am truly blessed!! My sons, LB, Jim, my parents and my health (everyone's health), all our family!! Blessing do come in small packages. This year, for me, it will come on a print-out from the lab. I'll be waiting for her lab work to come back tomorrow morning. I already feel sorry for who every her nurse will be tomorrow. because I will be buggin' her the entire morning for the lab results.

Merry Christmas to all!! The Webster's

Wednesday, December 21, 2005 11:36 AM CST

We are still here. Lana Beth is trying so hard to eat and is doing better. We gave her G-CSF (meds that help stimulate white blood counts) today. We had given LB Nulastin (which is very similar but is long acting, However, now I am finding out that the peds area is still unsure about the Nulastin. But we are 22 days out and should be good to use the GCSF. But this is sub-q and means a "stick". But LB took it well, a few tears but all in all, she did a great job. She is walking her 3 and sometimes more laps, so we know she (the counts) are coming. Her ANC is 36 and they would like it to be 500, before we are discharged. LB and all of us, want to be home for Christmas, but it is out of our hands, please just pray for LB to quickly "recover counts". Blessing to all, sometimes she feels up for visitors, I may just call folks.

Lana is wanting that "Dance Dance Resalution", I'm not sure about the name, but if you see it PLEASE let me or jim know, or just go ahead and get it and we will pay you back. Jim is doing all the shopping as I am here counting ceiling tiles!!

I just found out that "Sharon", Henry Glascock's landscaper, has "fixed" our yard!! I'll have to find that little elf and all her helpers, I hear it looks great!! Thanks, we havn't had time to be home during day-light hours to ever do much to the yard. Thanks Sharon and your crew!!!
Pray for all the folks in the hospital and away from home, Merry Christmas to all!!!! Love, the Websters, if we get out I will POST that ASAP. We are looking at Thursday/Friday. Keep praying!

Sunday, December 18, 2005 5:06 PM CST

I just left a long message, but I did forget to let you know that LB is getting "nutrition" thru her central-line. I've heard some folks were thinking she wasn't getting anything. While on TPN (the nutrition), it is harder to eat because you don't feel as hungry. Just keep praying for all of us and all the many families in need! Love, to all, Cindy, Jim, Alan, Cole & Lana Beth

Sunday, December 18, 2005 4:42 PM CST

We remain at TCThompson's, in Chattanooga, room 317. Please continue to pray for: LB to eat, her pain to stop and her feel good enough to go home. She is trying to eat, and it is so hard for her to for a couple of reasons: chemo (changes the way everything tastes), difficulty in swallowing (chemo causes mouth sores, etc and this makes eating difficult). She is eating the "regular flavor" sweet-tarts, she hasn't felt as good today as she did yesterday, I think?. It is hard to say, yesterday I spent time w/Cole and didn't sit w/LB all day, like I normally do; so it's hard to say for sure. Today she appears to be having a harder time getting up and walking. I think it is because she is tired. Yesterday, she walked but only when I was around, and today (and I'm still hoping), that we will get her 3 laps around the nursers station.
As most of you know, usually she has lots of spirit and energy even when her counts are low; but this time it is different. Please continue to pray, pray, pray that her Christmas will be a good one and that she will get to go home soon!! She is getting worried (like she needs something else to worry about)that she will either be here for Christmas, or she won't have anytime for shopping.
Pray for all the families going thru difficult times. Hey, and if you are lucky enough to be having a good time now, share it w/someone who isn't. Merry Christmas and please continue to pray.
If her counts come back (and they will) we can go home, they just don't want us going "home" just to get a temp. and turn right around and be back here. That would be a set-back for all of us. The boys finish exams this week, and Jim was feeling sick today(so he stayed away), Frank, Alan, Cole, Mike & Beth White, Hannah Kate, Karen and Hunter Smoak came by; and most of all Lana saw her teacher from Boyd today!! Mrs. Barnett came by and really made LB's day, I know how hard it is for folks to take to time to come and see her; but if everyone is well, do come by. I never know how shee will be feeling, but "YOU" maybe just what the doctor ordered!! God Bless, Love, Cindy PS I got to have dinner last night at a resturant and Mrs. Sholl and I "set at the adult" table!! What a treat!!

Friday, December 16, 2005 5:03 PM CST

Well, we have had a tough week. Today was better, she is getting platelets and pack-cells (Blood, LB now hates the word blood). She ran a fever last night about 11:30pm 100.7AX, because of her paid meds she is having issues with going to the rest-room (LB would not want the details known and you probabaly don't need to hear it.) Her white ct. is .2, plates: 10, and pack-cells 8, she is feeling better, even with all this happening. Doctor Eric wants her to walk, so she is walking down to the nursers station and back (3 times a day), that is aleast our goal.

Good news, the scans show nothing!! That means her back pain is from being in the hospital for over 15 days, bless her heart and mine and jims, "sleeping" in the hospital is similar to "sleeping" in a fox hole. Those of you who haven't heard about the fire on Loookout Mtn., Tuesday, well, yours truly and Suzanne Nolan were the first on the scene, and the "Mom" in me took over, I kick down a door, ran fire hoses to the firemen and help the fire-fighters get dressed, hung up on 2 911 operators, and directed traffic, believe me it's a long story. Anyway, these was no one in the house and that was our fear. Pray for that family, I'm not sure of their names, but it's a good thing to pray for everyone, so wishing you a good Christmas and pray we are home to enjoy it! But if not, we will continue on. . . come by or call me at the hospital. We never know when is a good time or not, we are in room 317, we did move. Thanks for all the continued prayers, I must run, still at the hospital and LB is starting blood oops, I mean Pack-cells, love , Cindy, Jim, Alan, Cole and LB

Wednesday, December 14, 2005 10:57 AM CST

Lana is still in the hospital, here in Chattanooga, TCThompson's. She is unable to eat, so she is getting her nutrition thru her double-hickman central line. She has gotten blood and platelets this week. She is still in a pretty good bit of pain, the doctors think if we can just get her moving, walking, that would help. As you can know this is a big speed bump in our road. So please don't stop praying. Pray that her counts recover soon.
Pray that she will be able to eat soon!
Pray that she will not have a fever (she is having low grade temps. 99 to about 100.3F.
Pray for strength and pray that Jim and our family can continue to hold-up!

I also want everyone to know that we are very THANKFUL to everyone who has helped us, you know who you are, for food, prayer, lunch, visits, cards,cleaning, shopping, etc.....I must run Lana needs me. Keep the prayers coming, oh PS our home phone is "out" so I may call on someone soon to see if they can be at our house while someone looks at the phone system. God Bless You All!!!

Sunday, December 11, 2005 4:47 PM CST

We are back in the hospital, no real surprise. Lana Beth still isn't eating. Please pray for her to eat, pray that we can cure this NB, pray that she will be strong, pray for our doctors and nurses, and last but not least our family. Alan and Cole (and Jim and I), we are all trying to have a "normal" life. Thanks to Dorothy and Carlyn who were my "elves". Thanks to all that "tried" to play with Lana beth, but she was just too tired. We will beging TPN today, that is nutrition in her line. She will need platelets tomorrow. Pray for all of us, Cindy and family

Saturday, December 10, 2005 12:36 AM CST

This week has been tough, we have gone to the clinic everyday for fluids and pain meds/stomach meds. She is still having trouble eating, but is eating some. Right now she is sleeping, she is so tired, and she is hurting some in her back and stomach. Keep praying, I don't know where we will be later today. If she doesn't feel better soon, in the next 2 hours then we will go to the hospital, keep praying, cindy

Tuesday, December 6, 2005 9:55 AM CST

We are home, keep praying that she will eat. She is eating slowly, yesterday Makayla came over to do "ginger box houses", and LB didn't feel up to the task. Monica I hope is coming by today. Kasey is heading back home for a while, so I hope to have a "Healthy" friend over every day, if possible. FOR PARENTS ONLY: Lana had a very emotional night last night talking about cancer and why she has it, and if she has done something to get it. I tried to hold, her and explain the best I could, if any of you have any ideas, please let me know!!! Keep the prayers coming, I'm running on prayers, I must be, love cindy

Sunday, December 4, 2005 8:00 PM CST

We are still in the hospital, but just now, she has eaten!!! Two teaspoons of chicken-noodle soup!!!!!Since she hasn't eaten since Tuesday she has to take small steps. She told me "Mom this tastes so good!", I explained that not eating in so long, anything would taste good. I hope we go home tomorrow. She has to be able to take her meds by mouth (po).

Keep praying, Kasey and I went home and got some rest time in and Jim, Alan, Cole, Frank, and Luke were the "entertainment". When Kasey and I left at about noon, she couldn't hold her head up; so see how fast things can change. I hope I haven't spoke too soon about her eating; I hope it stays down. Keep the prayers coming!! I've got to get back to LB, Cindy

Saturday, December 3, 2005 5:27 PM CST

We are still in the hospital, we are having a tough time getting her nausea to stop. At least today was better, but she is still having a rough time, please continue to pray for all the kids and their families! Kasey and I are at the hospital again tonight. I did spend Wednesday night at home. Frank, Cole and Jim came by for a little while. Grandpa came by and picked up Kasey and her took her to mom's and she ate and brought me back some good home cooking. Chris Jenkins, another mom whose daughter is having chemo in the clinic today, did come by and bring Lana a gift. She loves the cute PJ's and hats and all the other cute stuff they brought her. She just feels "Yucky". I hope we can go home tomorrow, she is having a tough time eating also. So keep the prayers coming, thanks, cindy

Friday, December 2, 2005 12:00 AM CST

Hey guys; Well, we will stay an extra night in the hospital. LB is still naused and getting sick about every hour. They are giving her "everything", last night was not bad and today isn't bad however; this is coming from a mom who is so use to puke and can hold a diet-coke and butterfinger candy bar in one hand and hold the puke bucket with the other and fry bacon. ( hey, mom's you know what I mean, multi-tasking is our middle name).

Right now she isn't feeling up to visits, she is sitting up some and playing a few games w/dad and w/Kasey. If you see the boys please give them a HUG! They were sad that we didn't go home yesterday and now they will really be mad. She feels so bad that you can't every hug her. Of course, Cole and Alan did try and "love on her", when they went to hug her good-bye her bed (because it wasn't in the locked position) and IV pole rolled almost into the bathroom. It was funny, but we dared not to laugh. You know sometimes when you feel yucky you don't want anyone to touch you. Like I say LB isn't her ususal perky self, but just wait and tomorrow she will be much better!!!

Thanks to Nancy, Tammie, Sammie and my Mom and any more folks that have brought the guys food!! They have enjoyed everything!! thanks to all the churches and friends the continue to pray, we love you!! Love, cindy

Thursday, December 1, 2005 6:06 PM CST

Wow! Last night and today was difficult, LB vomitted and dry-heaved so much. We have to hold her little head over the bucket while she tries to vomit. She hasn't eaten since Tuesday and drinking very little. She has IV fluids going and the chemo she had this time can cause damage to the bladder so Mesna is given to help prevent damage to the bladder.

Please pray for her to have strength! She is in alot of discomfort, and I guess it could be from alot of things; but you know how you feel when all you have done is dry-heaved, so she's a bit exhausted.

Jim and Kasey took last night and Kasey and I have tonight. Cole and Alan stayed w/Herny Woodard last night. I got to go home and went to be about 11:00pm and woke up when Alan called at 7am to make sure I was alright. I guess he thinks someone is going to "get me". But it is sweet to be loved. Keep the prayers coming. I think we will wait for LB's counts to recover (3-4 weeks and then re-assess. Again, please put her on all the prayer lists you know!! We should be home tomorrow, that's good news!! Everyone does better when we are home.

Take care and go hug somebody! Keep praying, cindy, jim, alan, cole, lana beth, & kasey

Wednesday, November 30, 2005 5:23 AM CST

Good morning,
Well, it was a typical chemo day for Lana Beth. She has never had this particular mix of drugs before so Cindy was not sure what her reaction would be. It did make her nauseated and cause her to throw up but she handled it with the help of morphine. Of course, eating was difficult and she did not get much down.

She will continue with the chemo through Thursday and the plan is to leave the hospital on Friday.

Please continue to pray for the doctors,Jim and Cindy and all the decisions they will be making in the next few weeks. There have been several more options to open up just in the last few weeks but they have to be careful which path to take so they do not leave out any options or knock themselves out of one trial because they chose another trial. It all gets very complicated!!

Cindy sounded very tired when I spoke with her late yesterday afternoon. It had been a long day and emotionally hard,especially since this was a new drug and they were not sure how it would go. This has also been hard on Lana Beth knowing she had to start chemo again since her last round was so tough. This round is actually stronger so please remember to pray for her strength and energy.

I will try to update again tonight after I talk with Cindy.Lana Beth is in room 315 and please call on Cindy's cell before you visit to make sure it is a good time. It is best not to call on the hospital phone. They would love visitors-healthy,of course!

In Him,
Karen Smoak

Tuesday, November 29, 2005 5:42 AM CST

Hello Everyone,
This is Karen updating for Cindy! As the last update stated,Lana Beth will be here in Chattanooga for the next few weeks undergoing more chemo. She checked in to T.C. Thompson's Monday afternoon and will start the chemo this morning sometime. This is a new type of chemo for Lana Beth called I.C.E. so Cindy is not sure how her body will react to everything. It is three drugs mixed together and they call it a "chemo cocktail"! Please pray that she handles this well and there are as few side affects as possible. As you might imagine Lana Beth was not very excited about starting all of this since her last visit there was a long one! The plan is to be there through Friday and then be home for the weekend.

Jim,Cindy and the doctors have so many decisions to make so please pray that God will guide them and clearly show them which direction to go. Lana Beth is in room 315 and would love to have "healthy" visitors so give Cindy a call before you head that way to see if it is a good time. If you are in the area Cindy would love a non-hospital meal every once in awhile I'm sure :-}

All for now! I will keep you updated as the week progresses.

Much love,
Karen Smoak

Wednesday, November 23, 2005 2:12 PM CST

We just found out today that we will be home for Christmas!!!!!! Lana Beth was thrilled!I met with our doctors here in Chattanooga and they are in agreement with the doctors in Memphis. We will start some stuff sometime next week here in Chattanooga and then make decisions from there. Dr.Barfield,our head doctor from St.Jude's,is stopping by the house today on his way to Atlanta to have Thanksgiving there with his family! Some doctors still do house calls after all! This is just a visit to see Lana Beth after the oral surgery. We are so blessed to have such wonderful doctors both here and in Memphis.

Lana Beth's pain is better but still there. She is having small "doses" of friends and that is the best medicine any doctor can prescribe. She was able to go up and down the stairs twice yesterday here at home so that is a big improvement!

We are so thankful to be home for the Thanksgiving holiday and to know we will be here for Christmas as well. Please remember to keep those in prayer who are not able to be at home and with friends and loved ones. It is so hard to be away at any time of the year but especially around the holidays!

Blessings to all this Thanksgiving!
Cindy

Tuesday, November 22, 2005 9:47 AM CST

We are home, but Lana Beth is having L leg pain, but it is being managed by her pain meds. Pain is never good. So right now we will have to re-think everything. Keep the prayers coming. She is missing her friends, so if you are home for Thanksgiving let us know. She is limping and using a wheel-chair some.

Alan is having a few offers from College Teams!!! Cole is lifting weights and doing great. Lana Beth's doctor Dr. Barfield, at St. Jude's is in this months Reader's Digest. He is a great guy!! Keep the prayers coming, take care and love, cindy

Saturday, November 19, 2005 11:48 AM CST

Hello Everyone,
Cindy called this morning and Lana Beth had another "freaky Friday" as they are now calling them. She got Cindy up around 5am Friday morning with more severe pain in and around her knee. The pain meds that Cindy had on hand did not help so they had to go and check in at the clinic. There she received morphine and that eased the pain some. Of course,she had her oral surgery scheduled for later that afternoon so they could not continue the morphine or then they would have had to postpone the surgery! They were able to go back to the Target House and get a little rest before they had to get back to the clinic for the oral surgery. It was a very rough afternoon from there on out. The surgery took 4 hours and Cindy and Kasey were very restless as you can imagine! In the end, all turned out as well as can be. Cindy said they put tape on Lana Beth's eyes and so they were red and swollen and her bottom lip was extremely swollen from the instrument they used to hold her mouth open. What a long, hard day.

Now for the good news! They will be home for Thanksgiving :-} If all goes as planned they should leave Memphis tomorrow. It sounds like they are all ready to get home and be a family again and have some peace. Please pray for safety in traveling tomorrow,rest and relaxation for the entire family. We all have so much to be thankful for and I know Cindy, Jim and the kids are thankful to be home together next week!

All for now... PRAY,PRAY,PRAY!!!!

Much love,
Karen Smoak

Tuesday, November 15, 2005 10:06 PM CST

Hi everyone! I'm on line!!! Lana was so excited to see all the friends that had written her such sweet notes!! Today the weather was bad, there were tornado warnings out for most of the day. I did run to the store (St. Jude gives you a gift card of $100.00 for Kroger each week), it is really unreal at just how much St. Jude's helps everyone! Please shop at Target!! They have done so much here in Memphis. Remember Lana Beth can have visits as long as everyone is healthy!! She keeps asking when can she see her friends and I say "They have to plan it and it will take some time". So fuel up and call us!! Thursday, (if all goes well) we begin our treatment. Sunday, will be our first night in the hospital and they "plan" for us to stay two nights, out on Tuesday. Keep the notes and prayers coming!! She can not have stuffed animals after BMT, so posters or pictures of animals would be great. She has already started putting all her cards and pictures that folks have sent her in her room!!!

She was in rare form yesterday, she had Dr. Hale laughing out loud!! Lord, knows how much I love her and she makes me smile!! I love her little head and I thank you for taking the time to let us know that you are thinking of us!! Don't forget Alan and Cole, (I know that you are praying for all of us). Thanks to Sammie and Jim Hammond for feeding the guys! Remember all you mom's hug the boys for me if you see them(you can hug Jim too) Ha Ha. Jim will head this way Sunday (we think). Depends on a few things, we miss our men!!!

Bye for now, I'm getting ready for bed. Kasey know has a head cold but no temp. So pray that she stays healthy, too!Love to all, Cindy, Kasey and Lana Beth

Monday, November 14, 2005 8:09 PM CST

Well, Lana Beth is moving forward with the BMT! She has a cold so they will actually wait until Thursday to start the process.The donor's cells are already frozen since they had to delay because of the fever so Cindy felt like waiting for this cold to go away was the best decision for Lana Beth. They will begin with three doses of Fludarabine over a three day period to prepare her body for the transplant.This is done as an outpatient and from check-in to check-out the process should take about 4 hours. Sunday they will check in and have a day of rest,although Cindy has been told by other folks there that you really don't get much rest! On Monday, Lana Beth will have a total body irradiation and the BMT. Pray that things do not change and they can stay on this schedule!! Cindy sounded very positive and relieved to know that things are going as planned now. She did say she was exhausted and looking forward to a few days of rest.

Jim actually stayed at home and will go to Memphis on Sunday to be there for the BMT. He was able to be at the boy's football game this past weekend!

Cindy is trying to figure out the computer system so she can update herself. They can get on though to read everyone's notes so keep them flowing with all those encouraging words! One doctor today was looking at the chart and commented on what a struggle this has been for Lana Beth and called her a "fighter"! We all know she is that and much more :-}

They are resting over the next few days and hopefully can have somewhat of a "weekend" before things get started on Thursday. Pray for a peaceful time for all and for LB to stay as healthy as possible!

All for now! Unless any excitement happens I probably will not update until later in the week. PRAY,PRAY,PRAY!!!!!

Much love,
Karen Smoak

Monday, November 14, 2005 1:14 PM CST

Hello All,
This will be brief but I wanted to let you know that I talked to Cindy very quickly this morning as she was driving around the parking lot trying to find a parking space! She had talked to one doctor who viewed the MIBG scan from last Friday and it looks good!!!!! That means the cancer has not spread :-} Lana Beth does have a cold,which was probably where the fever was coming from,so I am still waiting to hear when the BMT will take place. Cindy will call me back tonight hopefully and let me know what happened during the day today.

Thank you so much for faithfully checking in here,signing her guestbook and most of all lifting this family up in constant prayer! They need it now more than ever.

Always,
Karen Smoak

Saturday, November 12, 2005 1:45 PM CST

Well,what a difference 24 hours can make... and the prayers of faithful friends and believers! Cindy called this morning and as we spoke Lana Beth was on the playground playing with Kasey :-} Cindy said the weather in Memphis was sunny and beautiful and Lana Beth's face matched the weather! They were able to get some sleep last night and so far the fever has remained at normal levels.

The next step is to get the results back from the MIBG scan and that will give everyone a clearer picture and a direction to head. I'm not sure what the date will be for the BMT now, but hopefully we will know more on Monday evening. Jim will join the girls on Monday so please remember to pray for his safety in traveling and Alan and Cole has they head into another week of school.

Cindy made a comment on the phone the other day that has really stuck in my head: every child that has been "healed" or "cured" from their cancer is is truly a miracle of God. Please don't stop praying for our miracle for this child we all love so dearly!

Cindy will try to update herself in the next day or so. I know they feel your love and prayers and are so thankful.

Much love,
Karen Smoak

Friday, November 11, 2005 7:36 PM CST

Dear Friends,
Cindy called just a little bit ago and their day was not a good one. Lana Beth woke Cindy up about 6am this morning with a fever and feeling nauseated. Cindy packed her up and off they went to the clinic to check things out. This fever came out of the blue so the doctors began doing cultures from top to bottom to try and find the problem. Lana Beth was in great pain,mostly in her left leg around the knee area. They did give her morphine to help with the pain. She was already scheduled for a MIBG scan so they went ahead and did that. It is amazing she was able to get through that. You have to lay still for about two hours and that in itself is hard but when you are hurting it is even harder!

Cindy met with Dr.Barfield,who is Lana Beth's head doctor there, and they are going to "re-huddle". She said to think of this in football terms: someone on our offensive line dropped the ball and we have to come up with a new game plan. Well,we all know Cindy is the BEST cheerleader in the country so I have no doubt she is in good hands :-}

Unfortunately, this is a very typical "cancer day". At the drop of a hat the whole schedule changes. This now means the BMT will be bumped forward a couple of days to give Lana Beth time to recover from this fever and give the doctors a chance to find what may be causing it.

Please pray specifically for the fever to go away. Cindy sounded tired but as usual she was moving right along! They were able to go back to Target House tonight but if the fever goes up above 101.3, or Lana Beth starts to feel bad again, then they will go back to the clinic. Also pray for a restful night for all three.

Keep praying for a miracle!!!

Much love,
Karen Smoak

Thursday, November 10, 2005 7:20 PM CST

Hello Everyone!
It's Karen again updating for Cindy. I am happy to report that Cindy,Lana Beth and Kasey are now settled in their new "apartment" at the Target House! Kasey and Jim moved their things while Cindy and Lana Beth were at the clinic. They have a view of the playground from their window and more room to move around. When Cindy talks about this beautiful facility you can hear the gratitude in her voice to have such a place to stay in while they are there. Remember to support Target any chance you get :-}

Anyway... on to activities of their day! They had an incredibly hectic day with barely enough time to eat. Lana Beth is sore from head to toe from all the procedures she has endured these past few days. Her chest hurts from the new line,her shoulder is sore from the port being removed and her hip hurts from the biopsy yesterday. Rarely does she want to ride in a wheelchair so when she requested one today Cindy knew she was not feeling well. I was exhausted just listening to what their schedule was like so I cannot imagine how those three gals feel!

Cindy also shared some stories about the other patients they are coming into contact with and it will truly break your heart. Please remember to pray for ALL families that are suffering through this horrible disease.

The BMT has now been moved to November 16. Cindy and Jim met with Dr.Barfield who gave them the ins and outs of the procedure. Please continue to pray that a miracle will happen and Lana Beth will be healed from this cancer. Cindy was very positive on the phone tonight that they are taking the right steps. I know she can feel the love and support coming from all directions so keep it coming! Pray for energy,rest,peace of mind and most of all complete healing.

That's all for now! Below is a new address for the Target House and that should be where all mail is directed for now. Lana Beth loves anything "crafty" to do or you could simply send plain paper for her to doodle on! Please keep in mind that things like stuffed animals are not allowed right now because of infection risks. Also, remember that Cindy and Kasey like surprises as well:-}

In His grip,
Karen Smoak



Target House #1
1811 Poplar Avenue
Apartment 307
Memphis, Tennessee
38105

Thursday, November 10, 2005 6:38 AM CST

Well consent forms are signed and move forward!! This is a reseach treatment, and right now Lana Beth will be the second NB child to get this treatment. The child before her is doing good!! Basically Lana will 3 doses of Fludarabine over a 30 minute period (out patient); this is scheduled to begin on Friday. Monday we rest, but I think go to the hospital (late in the day), check in and stay 2 nights and 3 days. On Tuesday the 15th she will receive the Matched Unrelated Donor's stem cells/bone marrow. Then the next few weeks, months we watch and pray. She should get some Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). With the meds she will be on this, we hope, will be stage 1 or stage 2 GVHD. That is a good thing. Again, this will be a balancing act for her doctors and her little body. Please Pray!!!!

To answer a few questions: She can have visitors!! They must, and all the family members be healthy!! I can't stress this enough, along with this transplant they will give her immunosuppression (easy to get sick) drugs, so please be very mindful of this, we already miss folks so, just get ready for a trip to Memphis, call me on my cell:423-488-9604, and I will try and keep you up-to-date on Lana's visits. As we know, should could feel great on Tuesday and in the hospital by the week-end. So "visitors" may end up just seeing Lana in the hospital.

Today is MOVING DAY!! Kasey and Jim will move us while Lana and I are at the clinic. Our day is full but not like it has been. Her biopsy went good yesterday, just LATE getting started, but that happens, and the wait wouldn't be so bad but she can't eat or drink anything before these procedures. Which NOBODY eats or drinks (especially me). I call this the NPO diet, I don't suggest it. (Ha,Ha)

Today We go to Onocology Radiation for a visit and simulation (don't ask me?). That starts at 8:30am then at 11:30am we visit the Line Nurse, she will tell us about her line, now this is only Lana's fifth line, so I'm really excited about this one! Then a little break and at 2:15pm we have MIBG injection for her scan on Friday.

They boys play Friday in a play-off game, so pray that everyone stays well, and no injuries for either team. God bless everyone that reads this, and I thank you for praying for Lana. She is still "Looking-Good", so after we are in the Target House, I'll give you that address. If you have sent us something via mail, I've been unable to "find" the mail area, (long story). But I hope to solve that today!! Love to all and keep praying for all the kids and family, love, Cindy, Jim, Kasey and Lana Beth

Wednesday, November 9, 2005 9:22 AM CST

Good Morning; Today Lana Beth will have a biopsy so she will be NPO (nothing to eat or drink), so I'm letting her sleep. Kasey and Jim are still sleeping, even though I've been upstairs a few times just to remind them that we have to be at the hospital at 10:45am. Lana did pretty good yesterday, her new line, last night she did get sick and vomitted; I think it could have been all the mix of crazy (junk) food she eats. Please continue to pray for her. We are very busy everyday, today we should finish up around 5pm. The date for BMT is still 11/15 as far as I know. Keep the prayers coming, we hope to move to Target House sometime this week. It's hard eating out every meal; but I'm just thankful to have a place like St. Jude's!!Love, Cindy, Lana Beth, Jim and Kasey

Tuesday, November 8, 2005 12:26 AM CST

Hello Everyone! This is Karen Smoak updating for Cindy. She called this morning and wanted me to pass along to everyone that,first of all, Lana Beth is really handling everything extremely well. What a HUGE blessing!! Cindy was dreading breaking the news to Lana about the Hickman Line being put in today but as usual Lana Beth took the news in stride and was not upset! They will be meeting with various doctors today and through the week to go over the results from all the testing from last week. The bone marrow transplant is still scheduled to take place on Novemeber 15 and this Friday they will start more chemo to prepare her for the transplant process. Keep in mind that all plans remain tenetive but so far this is the schedule Cindy has been given.

Jim arrived last night to be there for the surgery this morning so you know that thrilled Lana Beth to see her daddy :-} Cindy was probably excited as well!! And where would they be without Kasey?!?! She is such a major player in this family and a support system for Cindy while they are away from home. Alan and Cole are holding down the fort here on the mountain so please remember to keep them in your prayers as well. What amazing young men!

On a lighter note... Lana Beth had to take a bath in Betadine Solution last night to prepare for today's surgery and she decided that that was not going to happen! She did not want her skin to turn brown from the solution! Well, Cindy and Kasey told her that if that happened then they would bathe in it as well so they could get a fast tan!! In the end of course she did take a bath and for all you out there wondering if she is tan now the answer is no! So don't go stocking up on Betadine:-}

That is all for now. I know you all are praying and lifting this family up but also remember to pray for the doctors,nurses,researchers amd most importantly the other families at St. Jude's Hospital. How blessed we are to have such a facility!

In His love,
Karen Smoak

Sunday, November 6, 2005 7:43 AM CST

Good Morning; Lana Beth and Kasey are still sleeping, we are in central time zone here. And with the recent "time change at home", I'm in twlight time zone!

Thanks for all the prayers!! Remember Alan 18, Cole 15 and driving, and Kasey (Sue's oldest), Lana Beth has started calling her sister!! She is great with all the kids, we might have a career her?

Also, pray for Jim and I, we need wisdom, strength, health, etc.

Lana misses her daddy, brothers and Trixie (and TBA) not to mention all her friends!! There is a play ground here at the Grizzle house with a small climbing wall but nothing like what she is use to at TBA. (Thanks TBA folks for signing her guest book).

Call us or e-mail us. Maybe we will be able to have visitors; we will have to wait and see! Thanks, Love, Cindy, Lana-Beth and Kasey

Friday, November 4, 2005 7:05 PM CST

Hi everyone,
This is Beth updating for Cindy. We arrived safely in Memphis on Wednesday night and have been busy ever since. Cindy and Lana Beth, along with Kasey, are staying at The Grizzly House. This is the short term stay facility right on the campus of St. Jude which operates very much like a hotel. Next week sometime they will be moved to the Target House which is where they will stay for the remainder of their time in Memphis. The Target House is a beautiful facility and Cindy was quite blown away when see saw it. There they will have their own 2 bedroom apartment and use of all the amenities there.

Right now Lana Beth is being looked at from head to toe. She is going through pre-transplant evaluation. This includes vists with the eye doctor, dentist, nutritionist, audiologist, child life specialist, all the scans imaginable and more that I haven't mentioned. Once all this data is completed they will meet with Dr. Barfield to discuss the particulars of the transplant and the results of all the scans. As of now, the transplant is scheduled for November 15th. They expect her to be in the hospital for about three days, then to be released to the Target House. She'll have visits to the hospital each week for monitoring.

On Tuesday she is going to have to have her port taken out and a Double Lumen Hickman put it. This is a surgical procedure. While not really dangerous, extra prayers this day are needed. Lana has had a Hickman line before so they are familiar with it. This type of access is needed for a transplant. Lana Beth does not know about this yet. Cindy fears that this news will really upset her. A port is under the skin, while a line is not. They plan to tell her on Monday. Pray that she takes this news OK. Jim plans to be there for this.

I just got home tonight, but while I was there I was able to introduce them to so many wonderful people at the hospital. It was such a blessing that we literally ran into everyone I wanted them to meet. I know they are in good hands and I have the best of the best ready to do whatever they can for them.

I have a few ideas of things we can do here to help them through this time, so if you are interested please e-mail me and we'll try to coordinate some things.

I know that Cindy, Lana Beth, and Kasey miss everyone already. Right now you can send mail to the hospital. Make sure to put Lana Beth's name on everything, since this is how mail is sorted.
The address is:
St. Jude Children's Research Hopital
for patient: Lana Beth Webster
332 N. Lauderdale Street
Memphis, TN 38105-2794

As soon as they get their room at the Taget house, mail can then be sent to them there.

Thank you to everyone who continues to love, support, and pray for this family.

Beth
bethstamps@comcast.net

Sunday, October 30, 2005 7:07 PM CST

Wow!! What a wonderful day!! The church service at Lookout Mountain Meth., was a great send off for Lana Beth!! The white balloons w/prayers attached to the streamers; was a wonderful site to behold! Thanks, Thanks, Thanks, to everyone that made this day so special for our family!!

We leave this Wed. at 9am from home,Kasey, Lana Beth and I will meet up with Beth White on the road. Beth knows her way around St. Jude so she is coming to help us get settled in. . once I know the address and other data I will pass it along.

Again, thanks to everyone, and the ones that were unable to come thanks for the calls and the notes!!! Keep the prayers going!! Love,Cindy, Jim, Alan, Cole, Kasey and Lana-Beth!!

Thursday, October 20, 2005 8:20 AM CDT

Hi guys! Well, we are going to head to the boat and get one last quick ride in before cold weather sets in.

Jim and I were at T.C.Thompson's Children's Hospital yesterday for the official opening of the "Children's Rooftop Garden". It was great!! A young lady by the name of Amber Moody had the vision for this garden. No one knows how good the earth smells until you have been in the hospital for Months on end. Her mother and I talked and her mom said"Yeah, one night is too long!"; we were in agreement. I hope none of you have to use it, kind of like the Ronald McDonald house;but if you do it is great that fellow strugglers before you have paved a path. The garden is a dream that one young lady, Amber, had and now it is a beautiful oasis for the children and parents to enjoy. We thank you Amber!!!

Oct. 30th is the date for the chruch service @ Lkt. Mtn. Methodist; 11:00am; afterwards (aboout Noon)we will enjoy food and fellowship. After the fellowship we will do a "lift-off-of-balloons". And on the balloons will be prayer notes. Join us if you can. Megan Summit will help w/the food so call her at 706-820-0580, if you want to bring something. We will leave on the 2nd of November!! Keep us in your prayers!! Hope you can make it!! Love, Cindy and Jim P.S. Everyone is feeling good!!

Tuesday, October 18, 2005 8:26 PM CDT

Hi! I almost forgot to tell everyone about LB's weekend, she went w/The Long's and Voges's. I think others were there and she had her first stay in a "tent" outing. She has been on camp-outs but they also stayed in a cabin or something. She had a great time and this picture was emailed to me. Bronson, on of Alan's friends, helped me do the photo. I'm not too good w/the computer, but I'm trying.

We hope to have a Church service at Lkt. Mtn. Methodist on Sunday, Oct. 30th, and after the service in the fellowship hall, have some food and have prayers attached to balloons for Lana Beth for our journey to St. Jude's. This is still in the planning stages so I'll be calling folks soon. We want this to be a positive time, but at the same time it is a serious moment. We truly believe in prayers and miracles!!! So Church will start at 11:00am and the "prayer service and "balloon lift off" should follow about Noon if not later. Please pass the word, sometimes, I don't tell everything on this site just because that's me. But we NEED your support and prayers. Please, please don't let things get in the way, stop and tell the people you love or the people you think about that you love them. If you don't know what to say that is okay. Hug that person and say" I'm here" or "I'm praying for you". Just let folks (not just us) know you are there. One day it could be you or your family that is in a situation that is so dark you don't know what to do or say: trust me....just hug them or send them a note. Thanks and sorry for rambling!! Lana beth is doing great today, we went bowling, then to TBA (the climbing wall place in St.Elmo). I went on the walls with her!! She is like a spider!! My hands are sore and she is yelling for more!!! Thank you God for the gift of life and fun!!! Thank you God for my neighbors, friends and family!!I can feel the power of prayer, I know in my heart that the love and prayers for Lana Beth have touched all of us!!Smile, hug and make a kid laugh today!!Love, Cindy, Jim, Alan, Cole, Lana Beth and Kasey (Bronson, Frank, Luke, Henry were all here this weekend). A house full of boys and kids is a house full of love. Cindy

Monday, October 17, 2005 1:01 PM CDT

Hello, today is soooo pretty!! The boys are on Fall Break and having some friends over. LB is bored!! (Or so she says, she twisted her ankle on Saturday and the soccer game) I had to wrap her ankle and then Alan took her to MoJo's, and she saw TBA and her ankle is all better!!! Get ready for a phone call this week since she is "bored" I'll be calling on a few of her buds to hand with her, maybe "skip" school??

We are thinking about heading to the boat; but the boys will have football on Tuesday, Wedn, Thurs and Friday a game in Cookeville, TN. So we will see.

Now, back to NB, we should head to St. Jude's on the 2nd of November and be gone for a "Few" months. Please pray that we will get a miracle!! Also, pray for the boys, leaving them is so hard. I'll stop talking about it or I'll cry. Enough said. . . we will all think positive and smile!! And be glad in this day that the Lord has made!! Thanks to everyone for all the notes, prayers, hugs, etc. Cindy

Wednesday, October 12, 2005 3:29 PM CDT

Hey everyone; Lana Beth and Kasey have headed to do a little shopping. Lana Beth is feeling good, not eating alot at one time but eating!!

Alan turns 18 on the 25th and we surprized him last night with a 2004 MonteCarlo, "Georgia" Red! It was funny, we told him that we had seen a buck near the lake and it was all I could do to keep him outside. He wanted to get his gun, how funny!! Lana Beth and Kasey came up the drive-way driving the car!! While Bronson, Cole, Jim and I stood there watching Alan. Alan was speech-less! He had no idea. Alan has been so much help to us, I sometimes forget he is still a kid too!! You mom's will love this one: he took Lana Beth around the lake first and then me. As we were driving back to our house, he put out his large, strong hand and asked "Mom, do you want to be the first girl that I hold hands with in my new car" of course I said yes! Then he said Opps, I've already let Lana Beth, I told him I didn't mind coming in second to Lana Beth. And he held my hand, just like he had when he was a toddler, and yes a tear came to my eye!!! How proud!! This Friday night is Senior night at the Football game so we will be there and Lana Beth will be at a soccer thing w/the Summitt's.

Cole, Jim and I are doing good. I go to the doctor tomorrow and so does Lana Beth. Our visits should be short. Lana Beth could need platelets but you never know.

Thanks to everyone who takes the time to give platelets and blood!! You make a difference in someones life!! Please pray that the BMT at St. Jude's will be a success!!! Pray for all the people/families, I know many prayers are being said daily!! We will plan a "gathering" of some kind before we head to Memphis (November 1st). Once we all decide what, when and where I'll pass the word on...thanks, cindy

Monday, October 10, 2005 10:36 AM CDT

Hi everyone; Lana Beth will be going to the Clinic today and have her blood counts checked. This is part of "post-chemo" care. Thanks to Karen for updating the site for me while I was "resting". Also thanks to all the folks that brought food! We all enjoyed everything. And all the Lynn Pettway cookies are gone. (No surprize there).

Lana is eating better each day, that is good. The boys Alan and Cole (now 15),(Alan turns 18 on the 25th of October) went on a Church retreat this week-end. They are tired but had a good time. I guess I'll have to start calling them "guys" instead of boys. Gosh, they are getting big!

Still looks like we will head to Memphis, St. Jude around the 1st of November. Please continue to pray for Lana Beth and pray she will defeat this cancer! Pray for everyone, family, friends, etc. that are going through any difficult times. Thanks, Cindy

Thursday, October 6, 2005 8:20 AM CDT

Good morning all!
Well, Lana Beth did come home last night! She sounded wonderful and seemed happy to be on her own turf. Unfortunately Cindy is sick and she spent all of her evening at the emergency room and was finally admitted and settled into a room around 4:00am. She declared around midnight that she was now "officially a pain in the behind!". Somehow she got an infection on her backside,otherwise known as her glutumas maximas, that really sent her on a down spiral quickly! The infection was quite severe and so she was required to stay over for IV antibiotics and observation. The plan is for her to be released late this morning and head home to be with Lana Beth and Jim. What a week this family has had!! At least she will be home tonight and they will all be together as a family for Cole's birthday.

It goes without saying that prayers are still top priority for all the Webster family. I can't express enough how much it means to them to know that family and friends are lifting them up and standing behind them.

Any meals are greatly appreciated,especially now that Cindy is immobile for a couple of days! We will try to update over the weekend to let you know how everyone is feeling.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY,COLE!!!! WE ALL LOVE YOU :-}

Karen Smoak

Wednesday, October 5, 2005 1:15 PM CDT

Hello!
A quick update to FINALLY tell you some good news. LANA BETH IS COMING HOME TONIGHT!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Praise the Lord :-} She has been fever free for almost 24 hours and was able to eat a little something last night. The doctors will be giving her a transfusion this afternoon and then they should be heading home! Please pray all goes well the rest of the day and the plans don't change.

Cindy is still not feeling well. Jim had to go and get her during the night last night and then go back and stay with Lana Beth. Please pray for her energy and strength and a quick recovery.

A lighter note: Tomorrow is Cole's 15 birthday!! Clear the roads everyone,a new driver!! He requested"Lynn Pettway Cookies" and of course she was honored :-}

That is all for now. I'm sure Cindy will update soon or if there are any changes I will let you know. Thank you to those who have called and offered food. I have a list going to help them get through the next couple of weeks so feel free to call and see where you can fill in an empty spot!

In Him,
Karen Smoak

Tuesday, October 4, 2005 12:47 AM CDT

Hi Everyone,
Well, I just talked with Cindy and as much as I would love to tell you that they are on the way home it doesn't look like that will be happening for at least two to three more days at best. Lana Beth is still spiking fevers of 101 or more and not eating. As of tomorrow it will be one week since she was admitted this last time and almost two since the high dose of chemo. She still has her port so they have started to feed her through that to get some nutrition on board. This is one of those things that has both good and bad sides. On the good side she is getting a type of "food" but on the bad side this makes her feel full and so decreases her desire to eat actual food. It also opens her up to more infections.

PLEASE,PLEASE,PLEASE keep praying for her to make a turn around-quickly! Also,pray for Cindy as she has not been feeling well. She obviously can't be with Lana Beth if she is sick. The trip to Memphis is still on and they are hoping to be there around November 1st. The doctor told L.B. the details and she quickly figured out that she would be gone over Christmas.She was upset and Cindy said she hid her head under her pillow.

I've had several people call and want to help and Cindy said today that some meals at the hospital would be wonderful. Please call me if you would like to help. There are specific instructions per Cindy that I will fill you in on!

Keep praying for that miracle!
Karen Smoak
825-1905

Saturday, October 1, 2005 1:25 PM CDT

Hello Everyone,
I spoke with Cindy today and wanted to pass on new information. Lana Beth is still at the hospital fighting the fever,a little over 101, and the eating issues. The doctor will not release her until the fever is under 99 and she is able to eat and keep it down. Cindy did get a break last night and was able to go to Alan's football game and sleep at home! Casey,Cindy's niece,and another friend stayed at the hospital with Lana Beth. I am so thankful that Cindy has Casey to help her! Please just continue to pray for the fever to at least go down and for the vomitting to cease completely. At this point she is dry heaving since no food is on board and that has made her sides hurt.

Also, a big "THANK YOU" to all those who were able to give blood and/or platelets!!! Lana Beth did receive both yesterday. Her counts are slowly coming up so that is a bit of good news!

I will continue to update as Cindy gives me information. Your prayers are so meaningful to this family so keep lifting them up!

Karen Smoak

Thursday, September 29, 2005 3:11 PM CDT

Dear Friends,
This is Karen Smoak. Cindy called me last night and asked me to update the website. Lana Beth spiked a fever last night and they had to take her back to the hospital. She was admitted and as of this afternoon,Thursday,she still has the fever and cannot eat. Cindy specifically asked for prayer that Lana Beth be able to eat and keep the food down. She has been vomitting for about 24 hours now and has already lost 4 pounds since last week when she received the high dose chemo. Cindy did anticipate this turn of events and said that it was common after what she went through last week to get a fever and not be able to eat. The entire Webster family needs your prayers right now! They are exhausted both mentally and physically. We all know that God can certainly work a miracle so I just ask that each person who visits this site take a moment to lift Lana Beth and her family up in prayer. I will update with any news as Cindy informs me. Until then just continue to pray,pray,pray!

Karen

Sunday, September 25, 2005 6:18 PM CDT

Hi today has been a fair day; most of the day LB hasn't felt very good. But she did go to her soccer game yesterday and played a while; she did ask her coach to take her out because she was very tired. But she hangs in there!! Tonight I called the doctors because of some stomach problems and now things are looking better.

We go to the clinic on Tuesday and will probably need platlets, Wednesday or Thursday. You never know. Keep praying! Thanks Cindy

Thursday, September 22, 2005 6:58 AM CDT

Hi Everyone, this is Beth. Cindy asked me to update everyone. Lana is currently in the hospital receiving her chemo this week. They turned up the dosage this time and she needs to stay in the hospital to make sure she get constant hydration along with a whole host of other medications. I stopped by yesterday afternoon to see her and she wasn't doing very feel. She has been very sick this time. Yesterday should have been the worst day so I am hopeful that today will be better. The plan is for her to be released on Friday.

I'll update with any new information I have. Just keep praying. I know that prayer is the most powerful thing we can do right now. Thank you all for being so supportive and loving to this precious family.

Sunday, September 18, 2005 3:09 PM CDT

Since Saturday afternoon Lana Beth has been in pain. I called the Doctors last night because she was running a slight temp. She slept well, but couldn't walk down the stairs this morning (I was in the kitchen and heard something and it was her crawling down the stairs and crying).

Tomorrow we have a bone biopsy at 9:00am in Chatt. Tuesday we should start chemo not sure what type of chemo. Please pray, pray, pray. thanks cindy

Tuesday, September 13, 2005 8:26 AM CDT

Hi everyone, Lana Beth, Kasey and I went to Cole's JV Football game @ McCallie and we LOST with 1.3 seconds left on the clock!!! But our boys played good and so did McCallie, it did get hot!! I thought I was going to have to take Lana Beth to the car and let the A/C run, and let her cool off. But about that time a little breeze came and the sun went behind the clouds and she felt much better. She walked around the track so much, I tried to get her to sit in the shade but NO Not LANA BETH. Thank God she does feel good. She asked me alot of questions last night: Why did her cancer come back? When will she have another BMT? How long will we be at St. Jude's? When do we leave? and (a big one) Will the cancer ever go away? I just hope my simple answers help her understand.

Jim is out of town until Friday, the Bucs play Floyd this Friday.

Lana Beth has her MIBG injection today, we go and get accessed at @ The Clinic in Chattanooga and then go for the injection, this should only take a few minutes. Tomorrow she will have the scan. She has to be so perfectly still, sometimes she cries; but ususally we play silly games, to help pass the time. Since she can't talk if they are scanning her head we try NOT to make her laugh but between Kasey and I we can get rather silly. Hey, anything to help this process easier. If she does move we have to start all over, so we are careful, in a fun way. The scan can take up to 2 hours or more.

Please continue to pray for all the children and their families! I always see the glass half-full and it's a beautiful crystal glass!!!

She had the best birthday!! She is still talking about it and writting "thank yous". Thanks to everyone again, BBS and EBCC Sunday School, and all that made it to her party. Dr. Eric and his family came, it was their daughter's first time on the skates and she was "looking-good". Love, Cindy

Saturday, September 10, 2005 9:38 PM CDT

WOW!! We have been busy!! Lana Beth had a great birthday party and is enjoying everything she received. She is so happy, she played soccer today and went swimming. Last night we were at the Boyd vs Baylor game (uh we didn't win).This next week we do her MIBG scan and after that another round of chemo soon,? when counts comes back to a "good" level. Thanks to everyone who came,sent cards, balloon and called on her birthday!! It meant so much to her!! She skated and could be "normal". Continue to pray for God's hand to touch Lana Beth, I have to run, Lana just got her guitar and Frank (her cousin) has taught her "Amazing Grace". Thanks again, keep praying!!! Love, Cindy

Wednesday, September 7, 2005 7:29 AM CDT

Happy Birthday Lana Beth!! She is 10 today!! Her prayer since about the first of August was "Lord, please don't let me be in the hospital on my birthday". After every meal, after evening prayer, this was Lana's. It broke my heart. But the doctor's here in Chattanooga, made (as certain as you can) sure she whould be out of the hospital and no clinic visit!! Dr. Eric joked with Lana Beth last Thursday, saying " just come in next Wednesday for your counts", and Lana Beth turned as quick as a cat after a mouse and said" are you kidding? You know what next Wednesday is!!" And with a smile and a hug he said I'm kidding Lana Beth!!

Lana went to her soccer game Saturday, even with her platelets very low; if she had a hard hit, we would just go to the ER and have a transfusion. It's funny, everyone looks at her and watches her says " She looks so good and has so much energy!" I think I know, I know. By the grace of God she has this "Energy". So today between 5-7pm at Hamilton Skate Rink, you shall see Lana having "fun and being NORMAL".

She will do scans Thursday and next week and if her counts are good and the scans are good the next week will be chemo.

Cole had his first JV game last night at 6:30pm @ Baylor. It was a tie 12-12. I tried to talk Lana Beth into missing soccer practice and go to the game and she said" Mom we really need the practice". So she stayed with Sarah Summitt.

Alan plays this Friday, Baylor is a great team; I hope our boys do a good job. Like I say: give it your all and do your best and that is all you can do. As everyone who knows me, knows how shy and silent (NOT) I am during the game, I'll be a GO BUC! girl this week end!!

Please continue to pray for everyone who has lost a loved one, and with the folks in the Gulf region! Love to all, Cindy

Thursday, September 1, 2005 7:43 AM CDT

HI EVERYONE!!! Today Lana beth and I go to the clinic; to get her blood-count done. She is doing good. She tried to go to Boyd yesterday and stayed for about 1 1/2 hours before calling me due to her head hurting.

The boys play Friday 7:30pm@ Boyd. Alan was listed in the Chattanooga News Free Press as one of the top "seniors to watch". The boys are very busy, so if your not busy pumping gas, come to the game.

LB's birthday party will be Wednesday 9/7 @ Hamilton Skating Rink, starts at 5pm-7pm. It is closed to the public so come if you can.

Jim's cousin, David Payne lives in New Orleans and we just got word that he and his wife are okay. They made it out just in time and are heading to relatives in Texas. Please continue to pray for the people hit by Katrina and our Nation.

I'm counting my blessings today; please continue to pray for all of us! Love Cindy

Tuesday, August 30, 2005 8:56 AM CDT

LANA HAS A DONOR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! According the Dr. Barfield, @ St. Jude, he wrote me and said "she has a donor and all is well"!!!!!! Thank you, for every prayer that was said on LB's behalf!! Typing this right now, I'm crying for joy!!! But had to let everyone know!! Please remember that LB doesnt know. Dr. Barfield said that the scans that are to be done in a couple of weeks will help determine if we stay on this path, perhaps a little longer; or it the scans show increase in the neuroblastoma then, the Bone Marrow Transplant would be our next move. That is one reason we have not told LB everything. I try my best to keep her informed on a need to know basis. As most people know w/cancer everything is "fluid". Plans are difficult to make, just simple things like going to a ball game. Please continue to pray that LB will be our miracle child!! Please continue to pray for all the children and thier families.

On another note: the boys (Alan who acted as captain for Boyd on Saturday), we lost a heart breaker 42-41, in overtime. We had some players injured so pray for them to heal quickly and completly.

Chemo will probably start in about 3 weeks, again we wait for the test results from scans that will be done the week after her birthday 9/7. She has talked so much about her birthday!! She got to go to school for 3 days so far but that is two more than last year.

Love, Cindy and family

Friday, August 26, 2005 8:45 AM CDT

Hi guys; well we had platlets yesterday and it went well! I called alot of people for prayers and I want to say thanks!! Lb has a soccer game at 9:15am Saturday @ Fairyland. The boys play at Finley this Saturday 7pm, come if you can. Keep praying for all the kids & families going thru all this treatment. Love, Cindy

Tuesday, August 23, 2005 1:27 PM CDT

Today is a good day, at least so far. . . last Thursday Lana Beth and I went to get platlets (she was at 4 and we transfuse at 20). No big deal right - - - WRONG!! Lana Beth had a very bad reaction to the platelets. It is like having an allergic reaction to a bee sting. Well, to make a long story short, we spent last Thursday in the hospital (T.C.Thompson). On Friday morning all she could talk about was being able to go to the boys Football game. Everyone was telling her she would be out in plenty of time for the game. She had a slight reaction but we made it to the Football game and she had a soccer game @10:15 Saturday morning. She never stops!!! Both the boys played, Boyd beat CPA by about 30 points. It was hot but a great game!!

Her birthday is Sept. 7th and she wants a skating party and wants not to be in the hospital. We are working on making all the above happen. She turns 10!!! You can't image how happy I am that she feels so good. She could have gone to school today but her plates are still low and any fall would mean a trip to the ER.

Please continue to pray for all the children and their families, Love, Cindy and family

Tuesday, August 16, 2005 2:36 PM CDT

Lana Beth went to Boyd again today. That makes two days in a row!! Jim picked her up and took her to the Chattanooga Clinic to check counts and she can go to school tomorrow!!! 3 days in a row that hasn't happened in almost 3 years!!

She has to have platelets on Thursday and we will just have to wait and see what her counts do after that; Saturday she has a soccer game @ Cater Field @ Lookout Mountain on McFarland Road, time is 10:10AM. When LB got her schedule she said"They don't say if our games are AM or PM!" I told her I'm sure they were in the mornings. Her team is red and she is very excited! The boys have a Friday night Football game at Boyd, so all who can come and see, Senior Alan Webster #60 and Freshman Cole Webster #66 play time: 7:30pm.

Thanks for all the prayers please keep them coming; Lana continues to feel good and has lots of energy! Thanks, Cindy

Tuesday, August 9, 2005 10:05 PM CDT

Well chemo has began and LB is doing good. She was sick this morning when we first got to the clinic but as soon as she vomitted she smiled and said "I want to go to the craft room"! She is doing good so far, but please anyone who can go to your local (Blood Assurance in Chattanooga) blood bank and give blood or platlets. Also get on the bone-marrow register. It is simple, just call your local blood-bank and they take about 5cc of blood (2 tablespoons), of course there are certain requirements. So just check with them. St. Jude's has put into motion checking for LB a match; it usually takes about 6-8 weeks to do this; so we will do the chemo here at home; please continue to pray. I'll be sending some folks the boys football schedule just in case anyone wants to see the big Webster men in action!! Cindy

Sunday, August 7, 2005 2:56 PM CDT

Lana Beth will (should) start another round of chemo tomorrow, here in Chattanooga. The game plan is to do 2 rounds here and then back to Memphis, St. Jude. We have the wheels in motion to find a non-related donor. So tell anyone and everyone go, go, go and sign up for the National bone marrow register. Lana Beth still feels good, she has some pain in her L leg, she told me the other day "My left leg must be defective", I had to laugh, after all she is right. Please everyone continiue to pray, I hope I can tell her about the chemo and her understand, I pray God will help me!! Hannah Kate was with me when I told LB, Lana and I cried and Lana told me "Mom I'm okay, Hannah Kate and I want to take a hot bath". Hannah Kate is very special. She stood there and was there for both of us! I also pray that all of LB's friends will be strong and know that she loves them and just wants to be "normal". The guys are busy with football. And school starts soon, I guess they will let me know.

All Lana wanted was to go to Boyd. And it looks like that will be a tall order. But we continue on. . . .who knows maybe she will be able to go at least some.

Pray for this new treatment to work, her cancer is still considered to be a "small amount". But it is showing up in her L iliac wing(this is the original area L adrenal gland), now there is some L femur; this tells us the chemo isn't working as well as we would like it to but Dr Barfield and our Dr's here in Chattanooga will start her on a different type of chemo these next two rounds. Since this cancer can spread quickly we don't want to wait very long before we do the allogeneic stem cell transplant. The and I'll keep everyone in touch via this silly computer. Love to all Cindy and family

Thursday, July 21, 2005 5:02 PM CDT

Well, we are at St. Judes! What a wonderland for cancer kids! We should know some data on LB's scans either on Friday or next Monday or Tuesday. Please PRAY!!

Alan and Cole are at Camp Watago, with the East Brainerd Church of Christ Youth Group. The Youth group and all the folks at Boyd and this Church has done a wonderful job helping our boys!! Thank God for good folks!!!

Jim, Lana Beth and I should be back late Friday 7/22/05. We are looking at a couple of options for treatment, so keep praying!!!

Thanks to Hannah Kate, Monica, Chandler for going to the Lookouts game with us the other day. Most all we do is on Short-Notice. It's funny Lana looks great and still feels great!!

We hope to spend some more time on the "Yacht" love to all; and don't forget to call us at home!! I check the messages at home, usually daily, when we are on the boat. Alan and Cole are having friends over left and right and Lana Beth has had Ramsey and Hannah Kate. Hannah Kate is becoming a very good poker player. I wonder if the girls can major in "poker" when they get to college?? Love to all, Cindy and family

Sunday, July 17, 2005 8:44 AM CDT

Hi; we leave for Memphis, St. Jude, today. Jim, Lana Beth and I. We will be doing scans (it is time for the scans and we were able to get in at St. Jude). Lana Beth still feels great!! She has enjoyed her summer, please pray for her and all of the kids and their families, love Cindy

Tuesday, July 5, 2005 5:32 PM CDT

Hi everyone; we have been on the boat and having a good time! Lana is feeling great!! She has so much energy!! We are thankful for her spirit and her zest for life! We have Kasey up now and she is helping entertain LB. Hope everyone had a good 4th. We were on the Tennessee River and enjoyed the fireworks last night!! Just call us if any of LB's friends want to join us, the boys have had several of their friends up and LB has had only a few (most folks out of town).

We go to the clinic tomorrow and check counts. We hope she is holding her on; we have gotten platelets about 4 times after this round. Our next step is to go to Memphis, St. Jude's and have her "work-up" done there. At least that is our goal. The "work-up" will be scans, biopsy, blood work and take about 3-4 days. Then we will see how well the chemo is working to keep the cancer "away". Please continue to pray!! Also a good friend of ours (The Davis Family) lost their cousin in a car accident a few days ago, he was only 19 years old, so please remember to pray for them. Thats all for now, please pray for a cure!!Love Cindy and family

Monday, June 13, 2005 8:47 PM CDT

Hi everyone, Lana Beth did great at camp Smile-A-Mile, Dr. Eric and Keri said she stole the show and was a great helper!

We began chemo this week and Kasey is staying with us this summer to help!!! What a great girl!!! (both of them). Today was long; got to the Chatt. Clinic about 9:30am and left about 5:30pm; but she is feeling good. Sunday she had a lot of pain in her L hip and cried; after a lot of her meds she felt better. We were on the boat; the doctors dont know if it is the cancer/or her high activity level.

Cole and Jim leave tomorrow to head to Chicago where Cole will be lifting for the USA Weight Lifting Team. He is rated 2nd in the nation in his weight class!!! Alan just came back from a week in Nashville where he and more youth from E.B.C.C. did some mission work!!

Keep praying for a cure!!And please pray for all the families dealing with any long illness, Love to all, Cindy

Monday, May 23, 2005 6:08 PM CDT

Lana Beth is doing good. She will be heading for a kid's cancer camp on June 5th in Birmingham, AL. We are looking forward to a fun summer. Please continue to pray for everyone, and Lana Beth's friends call us - she misses seeing all her buddies!!

Alan and Cole are working hard for football and finish school this Thursday. Cole will begin high school next year, and Alan will be a senior!

Kasey Dabbs, Lana's cousin is to graduate this Saturday from Temple HS in Temple, GA.

Love,

Cindy and Family

Tuesday, May 17, 2005 5:48 PM CDT

Hi everyone; Lana Beth spent some time at Boyd today, while I attended Kandice's funeral (she was 10). I thank God for every day with each of my children and each day with Jim. I am truly blessed!!

On the sign, outside of the church it read:

"WELCOME HOME KANDICE, GOD"

We are all fine; please pray for Kandice's family & friends. Lana Beth and I will go to the Clinic tomorrow to check counts and see when our next chemo begins; love Cindy

Monday, May 16, 2005 3:50 PM CDT

Hey to everyone!! Sorry it has been so long since I updated; but remember No News is Good News! We are about 3 weeks out from our last chemo and she is doing great!! She has a soft-ball tonight at 6:30pm and all day long she asks; "Mom, what time is it? When do we leave for the game?". I have never seen anyone so excited about soft-ball!! She is 7 for 8. Cole and Alan were doing there weight lifting this week end and Alan won 2nd place in one of the events. Cole did very good but he had a lot of guys in his weight-class.

We lost a little girl last Friday, Kandice, she was 10 years old; so please pray for her family; we know she is in a better place were there is no cancer, chemo, wheelchairs, needle sticks, etc. She know is in Jesus's hands; but please pray for her loved ones that are left behind. The mom is a great person and did a wonderful (3 years) of being the best care giver ever!!

Go right now and hug your kids and thank God that they are healthy!!! If you start to feel like your plate is full; as I often do, I think of the children that can't walk, or feed themselves and that are on high doses of meds for pain; and then I count my blessings!! I am blessed; I love all of you that take the time to read/sign this!!! I know we are not alone!

Beth White and I will go to Kandice's funeral tomorrow so pray that she and I can help in some small way to confort her family! Love to all; Cindy

Friday, April 29, 2005 12:13 AM CDT

Lana Beth has done well, at lease so far, for this week of chemo. Tonight we go to a game at BBS and watch Alan and Cole play football. The Bone Marrow/Blood Drive will be at the Lookout Mtn. Meth. Church,May 7th, Saturday starting at 10:00am and stopping around 5pm. Lindsey Moore, who has a son w/cancer, is also having a fund raiser for St. Jude's that same day. It is a bike ride to help her son and St. Judes, so please come and either ride or give blood!!! We need eveyone's help.

Lana is looking forward to Fariyland Festival next Tuesday, I hope all is well and she can make it!! She has so much energy!!

On a sad note:Our friend Kandice from Athen, TN is not doing very good so please remember her (she is 10 years) old and now weights 47#'s; our friend Sydeny Sims is having chemo again in Tampa, our friend Jake Miller is also having chemo in Atlanta, and we have met a new friend Sarah from Calhoun, GA so please remember to pray for all the children and their families. I pray for strengh and courage, hope and a cure!!!

Thanks to all of you that call us!! Some people think that when her counts are low she can't have a friend over; please call her!!! She really misses all the friends; she is trying to play Softball but so far the weather or chemo has made her miss all the games. love to all, Cindy

Monday, April 25, 2005 9:24 PM CDT

Hi eveyone, We are doing chemo this week (mon-thurs). They are increasing the dose;because the doctors will be out of town on Friday. Works for us. They just give her a little more each day to cover the 5 day period we usually do.

Lana is doing great!! Thanks to Dorothy I came home and had a nice dinner all ready and in my frig!!! Thanks so much. It took the clinic 3 hours today, just to get our chemo going. I hate the waiting!!! Lana gets to play and have a pretty good time while we wait; but as eveyone knows there is always things to do at home ant the "just sitting" kills me. Oh well, you would think I would be use to it but I'm not a good "sitting" person.

The guys are haveing Spring Football training. They are loving it!!! The weather has made the Nursery slow and that isn't good for business; but it will break soon!! Love to all, Cindy and family

Tuesday, April 19, 2005 10:53 AM CDT

Hi eveyone! We had a great time in Destin this past week. Lana Beth talked her doctors into holding the chemo treatments until the 18th. And yesterday when we went to the clinic her counts were so good, they gave it a second thought and we are to go back next Monday to make sure the 14 days of oral chemo didn't bring her down too much.

We are thinking about moving, (are we carzy? YES) we want to be closer to the boys school and maybe LB will get to attend Boyd someday. The PE teacher there Mrs. Mathis, has taken LB several times and let her "hang out" and be her assistant. Lana loves her and being with the kids.

Since I thought we would be doing chemo this week I don't have FRIENDS lined up for LB. So her counts are great and her energy remains on HIGH!!! Call us if you can visit or if she can visit you!

Please anyone who can go and sign up for the blood drive in May, here at Lookout United Meth. Church. We are also trying to match LB with a bone marrow donor. It's a long story, but the bottom line is none of us (Jim, Alan, Cole or myself) matched. It dosen't matter your blood type it goes by several other DNA links. And in case we do get to do another Bone Marrow Transplant, they (St. Jude's) wants to be ready. So finding a match and having it on "stand-by" would be a good thing. If you have questions please call Blood Assurance, here in Chattanooga.

Continue to pray, she is really strong!!! She has so much energy, the boys have a hard time keeping up with her!!!

The boys "Spring training" for Football begins this week and Alan's prom is this week-end. If you haven't been by the Barn you have to see it!!! Jim did a good job!!!

Thanks for all the guest sign-ins and sorry I'm not a good as a should be to keep the data current. But trust me no news is GOOD NEWS!! If you know of someone with lots of energy and would like to work (help me with LB) a few days a week, let me know!! Love to all Cindy

Monday, March 28, 2005 4:28 PM CST

Hello eveyone, sorry for such a late update, computer problems. Today we were to start 3rd round of chemo, but her counts are not where they would like them to be; so we will do out-pt chemo next week.

She feels great!! She went to 3 Easter Egg hunts, gooney golf, and much more!!!

We (Jim, Alan, Cole and I) were not a match for LB so if you want to go and get on the National Bone Marrow Register. Since Lana has already had one BMT; another BMT may not be in the picture but just in case; we would like to find a match.

We are doing good; please continue to pray!!! Love Cindy

Saturday, March 12, 2005 12:00 AM CST

Sorry for the late up-date; but the web-site wouldn't come up on our computer for some reason.

Lana had platelets and blood this week. She is doing good! She has so much energy. Wednesday she spent 1/2 a day at Boyd w/Mrs. Mathis (the P.E. teacher & friend). She really enjoyed it!!! Thanks to Julie Mathis and the school for letting LB have so much fun!

Everyone is doing good. We are getting ready for spring at The Barn Nursery!! LB will have scans this coming Wednesday here in Chattanooga. The scans should help us determine if the chemo is helping to keep the neuroblastoma, SLOWED DOWN/STOPPED?

Soon in late March (I'll post the dates as the time gets closer) we will be having a blood drive at a few different locations, in the Chattanooga area. We also hope to increase awareness about bone marrow registration. Like I say as the time nears I'll keep everyone posted. Thanks to all that have given in LB's name. Blood Assurance now only takes about two hours to get the much needed platelets. So PLEASE call and schedule an appointment. If you are B+ (Lana's type, remember just like her personality BE POSITIVE) please consider giving platelets. Platelets help blood to clot and are only good in your body for 4 days. That is why we visit the clinic so often, until her bone marrow can recover and produce it's on platelets we have to be transfused.

Again, please continue to pray for everyone! Lana does miss her friends and I know it has been hard for us to get with some folks but please just keep calling. Sometimes her calendar does get busy/full quickly. The hard thing is our "schedule" can change so quickly because if they don't have her type of platelets/blood we have to wait another day to get them. This requires going to the clinic sometimes every other day. Our visits at the clinic, as many of you know, may mean 2 hours or all day.

Love to all, Cindy, Jim, Alan, Cole and Lana Beth

Tuesday, March 1, 2005 4:39 PM CST

Hi everyone! Lana Beth had to get platelets today. It took all DAY!!! She and a friend are skating now with Jim.
Cole won a bronze medal in Atlanta this weekend in weight-lifting and Alan is working towards next years football goals. Jim is busy at the store with all the additions, it really looks great.

Anyone that wants to or that has the time go and give blood or platelets please do so. . . at the clinic we use lots of blood and plateles every day. LB will most likely need both on Friday. Please continue to pray for her as she recovers from last weeks chemo. Thanks to all that have given blood/platelets and to all those people who have prayed!!

She would like to visit a friend or two but the big issue is, no one can be sick or anyone in the family. She has enjoyed having buddies to the house; but I think she is getting a little tired of being at home. So if you/and your family have been healthy do give me a call and we will see what we can work out.

Tuesday, February 22, 2005 4:08 PM CST

Hello eveyone;
To those folks that knew about the dogs (coco and buba) missing, we did find them!! The story is too long to go into but someone actually took the dogs to Atlanta (at a no-kill shelter) knowing that they were our dogs!!! Yeh, we couldn't believe it either!! The good news is that Jim is on his way back right now with both our dogs!!!

Lana Beth started her second round of chemo this week. This morning she was sick on the way to the clinic but it was breif and (the trooper she is) after she vomited she said "Mom I really feel better now". She is doing good. We did do blood work ups on all of us yesterday. They did have to stick Cole twice (ouch). The blood is heading to St. Jude to see if some trials there will be available to us!! Just please continue to hope and pray that we will have a miraculous cure!! She still feels "GREAT"!! She has the energy of about 20 "normal" kids!! Last night (we were at the clinic at 8am and didn't get home until after 6pm and on Sunday night her and Hannah Kate didn't go to sleep until after 2am) she informs Jim and I that she is "bored". He and I were exhausted, it's funny just sitting there all day is tiring. She is having a little trouble eating. . . . what-ever we can get her to eat we will fix.

Thanks to all who helped with the boys this week-end on the trip!! They had a great time!! I'm so glad, there are times that I feel as if their passing me by and I'm not getting the opportunity to know what is happening with them. I stay so busy with Lana Beth. Thanks to eveyone who has been there for them!!! It means so much to Jim and I!!!

After this round we should re-scan and then decide what to do next, please keep praying!! Love, cindy

Thursday, February 17, 2005 5:56 PM CST

Hello; Well today LB had 6 teeth pulled by Dr. Jones. She did well with that part of the day. After that we went to Dr. Bhakta's office and well, let's just say we had another long day. Her pain came back sooner than we thought it would and had to give her IV meds, (we knew her platelets were low) and one site wouldn't stop bleeding, so we got the platelets. And she couldnt eat all this time, mainly because her mouth was numb.

But as usual she is now playing and having a great time!!!We should start chemo this coming Monday. I'm giving her the GCSF shots to boost her white count. It is working!! I only have to give her one more tonight, the GCSF shot really stings!! She screams a lot but thank God it doesn't last long. Usually the shot isn't so bad but the concentration in doubled, I don't know why I asked today and didn't get an answer. But next time I'll request for them to let me draw up the med myself from a vial. It won't hurt to ask.

Jim was ready, willing and able to stay with LB and I after the dental stuff, but I thought we were okay. Well, we really were, it was just the pain. When she is in pain, I must admit I don't handle it as well. I can handle blood, tears, fits, shots, doctors, hospitals, etc. but when she is in pain, That's hard. The clinic was very quick to help us, she did get her meds IV since she was unable to do anything with her mouth. Bless her heart she ate today about 4pm. The good thing is that she did sleep most of the afternoon (while we were in clinic).

Monday we should start chemo, but you never know. That is the game plan for right now. Pray that LB and all of us will continue to have the strength to do what needs to be done.

Also pray for a family we met in NY a little boy Josh he is now in Heaven. Also pray for another friend Jay, I had heard that he wasn't feeling too good.

Thanks for all the notes, letters, phone calls, etc,we need them and make our day, love cindy

Tuesday, February 15, 2005 9:13 AM CST

Hi hope eveyone had a good Valentines. Lana Beth and I stayed at Dr. Bhakta's office for about 8 hours, she just need blood. But it takes a long time, cross/match, get the blood, premed her, etc. Most of the day was(the first half) she was able to play but after lunch time she was very bored. Her counts are SLOWLY coming up, I'm having to give her the gcsf/shot everyday again. We should be able to stop on Friday. she has four teeth pulled by Dr. Jones on Thursday hopefully that will go well. After the teeth are pulled we will head straight back to the clinic @ Childrens.

I hate this. It's hard because each day I never know what is going to happen or even the nest week. Oh well, one day at a time, I know, I know. Lana was so upset that she had to be transfused, she cried. One of the other moms said "That just breaks my heart". And for me it's another @#**#@ day dealing with cancer. (Sorry, I'm just a little down, yesterday was long).

She can have one freind over at a time and this week-end she had Hannah Kate Smoak. That kid is great!!! Lana Beth has lost all her hair it went fast. And Hannah Kate acting like nothing was different. I know it has to be hard on her friends because it is hard on me!!! Love to all, Cindy

Monday, February 7, 2005 5:54 PM CST

Well, today we went to the doctors and her plates are still low; we go back on Wednesday to see if we are swinging up, otherwise we will have plates on Wednesday. She is doing great, she has had some pain in her left leg but will hop around and she is unbelievable. We lost a little girl today from our clinic and that is one reason a 1 hour visit lasted almost 3 hours. Pray for the little girls family; I don't know them, but God does.

Lana will have a "home-bound" teacher starting this week!!! If all goes as planned.

Thanks for the phone calls,Hannah Kate, Mercer, Lauren, Sara,Ramsey, Julie, Trish and I think that is about, that have called to have LB over or to play. I'll try my best to have friends over as everyones schedules can.

The boys are doing well. Cole and Alan are growing too fast!! But thank God they are doing well. BBS has truly been a blessing, the teachers, and family of students are truly great folks. Also thanks to all who continue to pray and remember us, I thank God that LB still feels good. Our next round of chemo should start next week; but that depends on her counts so you never know. I'm becoming the queen of "Last minute Plans".

Love to all, Cindy and family

Tuesday, February 1, 2005 2:46 PM CST

Hey everyone; LB is feeling great! Her counts are low but her energy and spirits are high!! God thanks for what you have given us.

LB can have one friend (healthy) over after school or over the week ends. Thanks for the phone calls, notes, e-mail,prayers etc. , it all really helps me and our family.

We had a few nose bleeds this week-end and Brennan McCalman was a real help! We did get platelets yesterday, we go back on Thursday. It's possible we do another round next week if her counts are high enough! We will check (scans) after the second round to see if this chemo is making a difference! Let's pray that it will. Thanks to all that pray, please continue.

I'm pretty tired, when she has the nose bleeds I worry at night and check on her (probably too often) during the night. She is scared of the platelets since last August she had a reaction. But yesterday she got her platelets and did fine. Those who can please go and give blood or platelets, Blood Assurance, if you tell them it's for LB they will "credit" her account, even if you are not her blood type. Her blood type is easy to remember "B+". Get it BE POSITIVE!! Ha ha.

Today Jim was sick today (just a little stomach bug), the boys are well. Cole got his braces yesterday and looks good!

Thanks to all the good folks that do help me with Alan and Cole, bless their hearts, I hope they can understand all this. I really don't know how I expect them to understand when it's hard for me to. Again, please continue to pray!!! Pray for all of us and all the kids and folks dealing with cancer. I hope and pray that you never have to go thru anything like this, love cindy

Wednesday, January 26, 2005 4:12 PM CST

Hi everyone; Lana Beths counts are low, we have platlets tomorrow at Dr. Bhakta's in Chattanooga, TN. We have no plans right now to go anywhere else but here in Chattanooga, but Dr. Barfield, a neuroblastoma dr. from St. Jude, is calling the treatment.

She feels good. It's so funny (well odd) if you didn't know that she had this bad cancer you would never know anything was wrong with her. I am letting her play with one friend at a time and at their home or ours. She misses her friends and school so bad. I hope I can get Fairyland School to help with the home-bound teacher, I spoke w/Brenna and a few other folks today, if anyone knows of a good teacher that would like to work w/LB a few days a week, let me know. Mornings would be good so that when she is up to it she has the afternoon to be with her buddies.

Please continue to pray, pray for all the children, our friend, Jack White is at St. Judes now. He is just having tests done and pray that all comes back "good". There are so many people we have met, so I pray that God will show us the way, all of us!!! Love to all, and don't forget to call LB or sign her guestbook it really means alot!! Love, cindy

Saturday, January 22, 2005 11:29 AM CST

Hi everyone; this week has gone well, Lana hasn't been sick, she has felt a little nause but we can handle that. Thanks to everyone that helped make last Sunday such a success!!! I just got the pictures back from Orlando, WOW we had a blast!!! Thanks to everyone that made both these events bring our family and Lana Beth so much love and smiles!

We should do about 4 rounds of the chemo and some radiation, but things can change so fast I hate to say too much. Lana will most likely need either blood or platlets next week or the next. Please continue to pray for all of us! Thanks to all the folks that we have never met but yet have heard of us and pray!!! We know prayer can and does change life!!

Since Lana's counts are still good, please call for a play time with her, she misses her friends!! Thanks (I can't say it enough) to everyone for everything!!! Sunday helped us so much!! Just please don't forget about us, call any time and leave a message. Thanks for being there and for your calls!! There is no way to list everyone but you know who you are and I love you!!! Love to all, Cindy and family

Tuesday, January 18, 2005 7:54 AM CST

Hey guys, sorry the update is late but I've had computer problems. Yesterday was first day of chemo and it went well, we are at Dr. Bhakta's here in Chatt. for about 5-6 hours. It does make for a long day.

Sunday was great, thanks to everyone for all their help and prayers!!

Orlando was unbelievable!!! We had a blast, we miss our friends that we were able to see while there and the weather was picture purfect!

Continue to pray, we will do this round until Friday. Love Cindy

Tuesday, January 4, 2005 7:14 PM CST

Hey guys, well we will be off to Orlando tomorrow!!! In my rush today a failed to give the time of the Prayer service for LB on Sunday the 16th, it will be at the regular service time for our church 11:00am, Lookout Mountain Meth. Church, Lula Lake Road. Go like you are going to Rock City but stay on Red Riding Hood and the road dead-ends into the chruch take a right and the next left and you are there. If you can't come to the church service or want to attend both the service and the Brow Lake Culb house fellowship thats great too! The Brow Lake club is located 5-6 miles south of Covenant College, look for Johnny's Texaco and take a right, just in front of the little store, that will be Brow Lake Road the club house is at the end, you will see a stone wall (just past our house 511 Brow Lake Road) turn left to go the club house. We will be at the Club house for a light lunch from 12:30pm-2:00pm. We would love to see everyone, kids and all!! Continue to pray, Love Cindy and Jim

Tuesday, January 4, 2005 11:09 AM CST

Hey guys; Well we head to Orlando tomorrow!! Lana beth is very excited!! So am I!!! We all get to go and New Hope For Kids is picking up the bill!! How great is that, we are doing good.

We get back very late on the 11th, so LB's friends, call the next day and I'm sure she will be ready for play time. Thanks to everyone who signs in love hearing from everyone!!

Here we come Orlando!!! Cindy and LB

Sunday, January 2, 2005 8:15 AM CST

Please continue to pray, pray, pray!!! We will hold a special service at our church on 1/16/05 for Lana Beth and then join us at the Brow Lake Club house afterwards. Our church is the Lkt. United Meth. on Lkt. Mountain, GA. on Lula Lake Road, go like you are coming to Rock City and don't turn off Red Riding Hood, that road will dead-end and our church sits on that corner. We go to Orlando on Thursday, I hope we have good weather and a great time, because after that, it sounds like we have more "cancer junk" to do. School isn't in the picture, so CALLING ALL FRIENDS OF LB'S, COME AND VISIT SOON!!!!! Love to all and hope some how this year is a good one. Cindy

Monday, December 27, 2004 9:40 AM CST

Hi, we hope everyone had a good Holiday! We are very happy to be home.

The treatment in NYCity has not done what we had hoped, Lana still has one site on bone marrow that is (+). This is not what we had wanted. Bottom line: we meet with our doctors tomorrow and discuss what our next step is. PLEASE pray for Lana Beth. She has had some pain lately.

thanks for the prayers, Cindy

Monday, December 13, 2004 6:05 PM CST

Hi guys! Well, I just spent 30minutes on an update and lost the thing with the computer. Bottom line, this week-end, LB was sick, vomit,etc then I felt like poo on Sunday and Aunt France is sick today. Word is: stomach bug in NYC.

Thanks for everything that everyone has sent and thanks for the prayers, I have to finish packing. I'm thankful that we are coming Home!! The song I'LL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS, has a whole new meaning for me!!! Love to all, Cindy and Lb (p.s. her moods are much better now that accutane is out and 3F8 is done for now). You parents know that when the kids feel good you feel great!!

One mom, yesterday looked so sad and after we talked her son had a BAD reaction to some meds and long story short, i saw her today and she was smiling and i said "How is your son", she said "he is fine". She doesn't speak much english, and her son came here in a wheel chair and he is walking out of this house tomorrow!!!!They don't have to return until 12/05!! Yah for them, continue to pray for all of those still her over the holidays, it's so hard!!

We will miss the R.Hse folks and the special, special people at PDH @ MSK. Happy holidays!!Love Cindy Lana beth and Aunt Frances

Thursday, December 9, 2004 6:57 PM CST

Oh Lord, what a week! This has truly been difficult! Lana's port is not working, we did a final test today and determined that it is not working. That means sticking her! The site in her right arm that was placed on Tuesday, didn't work today, so that meant another stick, so now she has a IV in her R-hand. There was a "code" on the PDH unit today. Lord I hope and pray that child and the family will be okay, I don't know them but it is so hard to listen to the screams and not break down. I'm so glad tomorrow is Friday. We do have a scan on Saturday, and she will have another stick on Monday for her bone biopsy. Please pray that she will do well and that the "stick" will be quick and pain less.

I would have never dreamed in my worse night mare that this would be happening to us! Hard doesn't really express the feelings. She cried for her daddy again today, we all cried alot today. Please continue to pray for us, the weather is wet, cold and the building and tall and cold.

I can't wait to see our mountains and our friends, I typing in a rush because, we didn't get back from MSK until about 2-3pm and on Monday it was 6pm, on Tuesday it was after 4pm. So everyday we are so tired and I don't have the engery to walked down to the computer room and update, plus this week hasn't been a real "winner" of a week so it's harder to report back to our friends when all I can think about is what "hell" LB is going through. Forgive me, but it is truly hard. I thought Bone marrow transplant was the worse, I might have been wrong.

Continue to pray for us, we need strengh, LB is so brave, she is truly brave. She was screaming one minute and the next playing and laughing as if the pain, hives, headache,stomach pain, nausea, etc was just a bad dream. I try to live each moment, but when a CODE is going on next door and you hear it all it's hard not to break down and cry. You are also thankful that it isn't your room or your child, but then you remember it is someones little loved one.

Remember us and we will be home on Tuesday late. Please give LB a call and have her over, she misses her friends! Oh by the way thanks for the letters and other items sent. We had a very special gift yesterday, Mr. Summitt, Sara's daddy, walked in the place where we were eating with a bag of goodies!! It was great to see a face from home!! She gave him lots of hugs!! Thanks for thingking of her!! Uncle Randy, Aunt Eva, the Mathis's, Meg Robinson, Grandma winnie, Aunt Susie and many others have sent items and we thank everyone! We will keep our chin up!! We are looking forward to a happy holiday, all I want for Christmas is a cure for cancer, love cindy and LB

Sunday, December 5, 2004 5:40 PM CST

Happy Sunday;
We saw the show today at Radio City Music Hall. Then we walked about 20 blocks back to the R.Mchouse. LB was in the stroller. It was cool (45)and the wind wasn't bad like it was yesterday. We stood in line for over 1 hour outside the Build-A-Bear-Work-Shop. Then Lana and I stayed in the store for about 2 hours to pay for the bear.

We won't go to that area of town again on Saturday.

This week will be long, we are doing scans in between the 3F8 treatments. And the bone biopsy is scheduled for Monday the 13th at "noonish".

We were not happy to hear that the BUCS lost are heart-breaker on Friday. Lana cried, I told her it was okay, for our team just to be in the finals was a huge honor.

Please continue to pray for all of us, Lana is doing crafts right now in the playroom. I don't know how my time will be for next week, so Beth may have to up date everyone, love to all, Cindy

Friday, December 3, 2004 3:04 PM CST

Hey guys, TGIF!!! Well, her port is in the correct spot per chest X-Ray. But it should not be causing her pain. . .so therefore we will continue to use an IV arm site. She is "free" for the weekend, but we also will do scans next week. Today was okay, her pain wasn't as bad as it has been. Alan in playing in the state championship game today so I'll be on line listening to his game.

We hope to have fun this weekend, but she is still on accutane, the mood swing drug. Wish us the best, oh last night all the Nascar guys were here. That made Aunt Frances happy, plus she and a hand full of people knew who they were. But we got autographs of Busch, Martin, Newman, Stewart and a few more and lots of photos. Be good and continue to pray for us!! Monday will be a long day, we do a CT scan and 3F8. Love, Cindy

Thursday, December 2, 2004 2:04 PM CST

Thank heavens, today was better, Dr. Pat was there and she really helps Lana Beth focus on "a happy place". I would love to take Dr. Pat home with me!!! She is so kind and gentle.

Lana's port continues to give us problems, we had a chest X-Ray today to determine if the port is still in the correct spot. We will know that data tomorrow. Today when they gave her a bolus (a large volume of fluid at one time) her pain was a "10". When the rate was slowed to about 100/cc/hour, she still complained of a lot of discomfort. This is not the way a port-a-cath works. We used the IV site in her L arm. Which she hates!!! But you do what you have to do. The Ports are good for about 2 years and we have had this one since October of 2002. So it has been a very good port. If the port is "bad" it is still up in the air as to what we will do, meaning, do we deal with it in NY or Chattanooga.

There was a party held here last night, Bank of America, had "Frosty" giving out gifts to each child!! And the food was provided by Tony's!! It was really cute. We were all laughing saying that Santa better watch out because Frosty was so good at passsing out the gifts!!!

Aunt Frances and I are doing good. Lana received three items today in the mail. Two from Aunt Susie (state quarters and necklaces,earrings) it got a scream out of LB. Then my Aunt Margret sent her a Lion King stuffed lion. She says thanks to you guys!!!

Her emotions are running wild! She misses her daddy and brothers. Please continue to pray for all the children and pray that Lana's bone marrow's on the 13th will come back looking good!!!

Love to everyone and happy holidays!! Cindy

Wednesday, December 1, 2004 1:39 PM CST

Hi everyone; Wow! This has been a tough few days. Monday wasn't too bad, but yesterday, for some reason; her port was leaking. Her bandage at her port-site was damp after treatment. Her nurse and the floor-nurse both checked the site after treatment. Then last night one of the PA's called to say, they wanted to do her 3F8 treatment with an IV line. Which this meant to "stick" her. Now she has finger sticks everyday except for Thursday's and already has her port-a-cath accessed. Needless to say she was VERY up-set over this news. We all cried. But we were lucky that her nurse did hit the vein the first time. She had to be re-accessed at the end of the day and now she has two sites on her little body with needles in them. Lana continues to ask "why does everything happen to me". I've tried to explain that bad things do happen to good people, so PLEASE continue to hold her up in your prayers and give us all the strengh we need to make it, just one day at a time!

Her treatment today was BAD. And I don't mean it didn't work, I mean that the screams and pain were hard to handle. Her pain was very intense and her legs, stomach, back, etc hurt and Aunt Frances was busy with the hot packs. Then she would need a cold pack on her head and then it would be too cold, like I say it's not easy. We came back to The Ronald Mc House around 2:30 or so. Thank God for Aunt Frances!!! Who ever said that each week got easier must have been "crazy". Pat, the intergrated med. doctor, was there for about 15-20minutes. She loves Pat and that was good but her emotions are all over the place (she is on different meds and about 3 of them cause mood swings and then just add in the fact we are so FAR away from home). Please continue to pray for her and all us parents/caregivers. Aunt France's and I got a flu shot on Monday and my site is killing me and Aunt France's is fine.

I've talked with Jim and he and the boys will try and get their shots soon. Remember Alan plays @ Murresboro, TN for the state championship on Friday at 4:30pm, all who can please go and encourage the BUCS to go all the way!!!

Lana is so happy to be coming home before Christmas, I pray and hope the "port" issue doesn't stop our plans. Please pray that the "port" issue was just a needle defect and that will be the end of that for now. She is also worried because as she says: "I have been mean and bad because of this treatment and I'll understand if Santa doesn't bring me anything", WOW I've tried to explain to her that we all understand that what she does and says during this time is not her true thoughts. Boy-oh-boy she sure was vocal today. I'm trying to get the hospital to give us a little something to help with the moods swings but so far, they are still thinking it over or something. Most of the staff agrees that these children (with the accutane) really need a little something to help them! This is so hard, but what keeps me going is looking into her cute little face and knowing she is giving it all she has got!!! I try and be to good "Cheer-leader" but it gets hard!

She hopes to buy her dad and other family members their Christmas stuff while we are here, I'm not sure if Aunt Frances or I will be up to that task?!? Today it rained, but the sun came out as we headed back to the Ronald house. The next few days will be cold and windy, we used a wheel chair today to bring her home. I "dumped" her onto the street twice yesterday, it wasn't all my fault, the side-walks are not as flat as they sould be, but today she had enough trama without me dumping her onto the street. And yes the folks in NYCity do stop and help a dumb blonde as she dumps a cute little child onto the side-walk. If I had thought about it, I would have said I was the nanny.Later Lana did forgive me.

Please pass the word to continue prayers for all the children and their families. God bless and hope everyone had a good Thanksgiving. I also hope and pray that the rest of the Holiday season people can remember to STOP and be thankful for your health, family and friends. Love to all, we are exhausted,Cindy

Saturday, November 27, 2004 12:57 AM CST

Happy day after Thanksgiving;
We had a good thanksgiving, Lana Beth had a good time and we all ate too much! Lana, Aunt Frances, and I leave tomorrow 11/28 to go to NY for the four round. This is the "last" round for this protocol, but we should pick up a few weeks from 12/14 and start another protocol.

Lana has begain her shots and the Beta Gulcan. She and I both (our entire family) have enjoyed the extra week we had this time for thanksgivng.

Alan and the BUCS won the semi-finals last night!!Kitty, Uncle Calvin, Lindsey, Kasey, Mr. &Mrs. Bill Suggs, Frank, Luke and Trey were all at the game. We had a great turn out. Lana brought along Sara Summit and I think they were getting just a little "cold" when the game was over and to FO's Steak and Shake we went!! Jim recorded some of the plays and LB actually recorded the Play of the Night!!!

It is rainy and foggy today, hope NY weather isn't so wet. Love and hugs to all, Don't forget to pray for all the families, love Cindy

Sunday, November 21, 2004 3:10 PM CST

Hi everyone, it is great to be home. We all went to Lkt. United Meth. today. We are having trouble getting LB to sleep,even after she takes her meds (to help her sleep), it is hard for her to relax enough. We are having fun, but with Thanksgiving coming up we will be busy, but I am very thankful to be home!!

Alan got to play the entire game on Friday night "The Line"!! The boys were great!! Kitty came up and we had the best time!!! We didn't get home until 3:00am so maybe thats why we are all so tired. It was great to see Kitty, the kids love her as much as I do!!! Everyone needs a "kitty" thats what the boys and LB say, (cute).

CoCo, Cole's lab, had her puppies 10/23, they are so cute all 6 of them,only one is brown the rest black, but big as butter balls. As a matter of fact if you want one let us know I have a feeling they will go fast!!! Part lab and brow-lake dogs?? But still very cute!!

We plan to have Thanksgiving here at our house, I hope we have a good turn out for Lana's sake. She said that "Thanskgiving is my favorite holiday because you spend time with your family". Please continue to pray for all the children and their families with any problems, love to all Cindy

Wednesday, November 10, 2004 7:24 PM CST

Hi we are home!! Jim took LB bowling today and Chandler Peppers came over and visited LB. Chandler broke her foot the other day so she is on crutches, so please pray for Chandler to have a quick recovery. She is ready to see her friends!

Thanks to Chandler's mom and dad for putting up the beautiful shelves in LB's room, they look great!!!

I have to run and help Cole w/homework, love to all and remember to pray that LB's test will come back with all good news!! love to all cindy

Monday, November 8, 2004 3:07 PM CST

Today Lana Beth had her bone-marrow biopsy done, please pray that it will negative!!!. It was scheduled for 11:20am and since someone cancelled we were on time!!! She is sore, but Rich, one of the guys from the Ronald Mc House, gave her his medal from the marathon! She couldn't believe it!!!

MSK gave out Ralph Lauren bears and tee-shirts from the marathon today. So she have 3 new bears. She named them, Alan, Cole and Lana beth.

Aunt Susie sayed here at the house and cleaned while we did out biopsy. We are all ready for home. We leave tomorrow!! Jim is picking us up and we are so excited. We don't have to be back until the Sunday after Thanksgiving! What a great Thanksgiving we will have.

Please remember to pray for everything one and ask God for guidness and continue to protect us from this neuroblastoma.
Love, to all, Cindy

Thursday, November 4, 2004 6:52 PM CST

Only one more day and then this round will be over. It was a long day due to scans; 7:20am finish cat contrast;8:00am sign in at hospital; 8:20am (test scheduled for this time), test at 10:10am (now remember we are NPO nothing to eat or drink after mid-night),10:15am back to 9th floor PDH to start 3F8, pre-meds given, GM shot sub-q given, Zofran, tylenol, benedral,ativan,dilaudid, 3f8 started at approx. 12:35pm, pain begins at 12:50pm, hives increased, vistrial IV given, hot packs placed on LB, screaming w/pain, all the dilaudid given, all the anti-hive meds given,LB very moody. We leave PDH at 3:45pm to head to neuclear-meds for MIBG injection, 4:45pm injection given. (I didn't tell you about her regular meds that she was given after we were on the PDH floor nor the SSKI (Pot.Iodine) to protect her thyroid from the nuclear meds.
We get to R.Hse at 5:30pm in the rain. She, aunt susie and i are exhausted. But guess who has mail: LB a smile comes across her broken/bleeding lips, the A&D lotion is working but keeping it on her lips is a job.

The main reason I'm venting, I guess is because, you just can't image our day. I hope that maybe my words will help everyone one apprecitate the small things in life, and if you don't; go and visit a peds. unit of oncology and see how much love and hope is in the childrens face and eyes. The parents are not always so up lifting, but most of us try. As for me, thank you dear Lord for Jim, Alan, Cole, Lana, my life with you. I hope and pray everyday that God will push me in the right direction.

Tomorrow we do a MIBG scan (1-2 hours long), she must lay still and silent while she has this done. She is remarkable. I pray the Lord will continue to watch over her and I and keep us strong.

Lana and I talked about our favorite holiday and her's is Thanksgiving so that she can be with her whole family, aunt, uncles, cousins, grandparents, etc She truly gives me alot of strength. I also love Thanksgiving and we almost had to spend it in NY. But as it has turned out we will be able to be home with our loved ones and hug and love the ones near and dear to us! Thanks for all that read and write, you don't know what it means to me. Well, Lana is hungry (again) I have to run and fix her something, I just pray she will eat it! Love to all, Cindy

Tuesday, November 2, 2004 3:41 PM CST

This week has been better than last week. It in not easy but it is much better than last week! Thanks you Lord.

Thanks, thanks, thanks: Beth, Hannah Kate, Alexis, The Peppers, Aunt Frances, Aunt Dee Dee, Samatha, Shari, Amy, Brandy, Pat, Peggy, Brandy,(Friends of the Barn Nursery @ Chattanooga), The Mathis, Carolyn Culp,Aunt Susie and Lana's Daddy & brothers, for all the boxes of stuff and the envelopes that were full of everything from candy to stickers, paint projects, puzzles, $$$, necklaces, wipe-off board, cards, PJ's, notepads, tee-shirts, books and especially the hugs and prayers!!!! As we come back from treatment she is too week to walk, but let the front desk folks at the "Ronald House" say "Lana you have a lot of mail", well she jumps up out of the stroller and makes a dive to the desk. It's really great! Thanks to everyone, hope I didn't leave anyone out! Hannah Kate, Katie, Samatha and Chandler, Lana loves all the great stuff you all have sent. The books are so cute and the picutes from the "good times" you have shared w/Lana puts a huge smile on her face and then she puts them either in her photo album or frames them and hangs them on the walls. We carry the photo album to the hospital and she goes thur each picute. All the cards and stuff are all over her room/doors, etc. Oh, Yeh in the lobby @ The Ronald Hse. there was a hugh 20-plus balloons with Halloween creatures. Well, Lana asked if she could have "one" and they said "Oh just take them all!". Aunt Susie and I may have to sleep in the hall-way because the balloons take up so much room!!! And guess who was laughing as I was trying to carry all the balloons in the elevator, so all the weird stuff we do can bring a smile to Lana. Then that makes my day.

I sometimes don't tell her about things that happen at BBS or home, because it makes her so home sick. She misses, as I do all the great things about home, Daddy (Jim), Alan, Cole, friends, her bed etc.

Please continue to pray that her bone marrow remains clear and that the treatment is working. Pray also that her pain, hives, moods, etc are bearable. Pray that God will give us both/all the wisdom to go on to the next day. She is a real srong little girl. The beta-gulcan that she has to drink every morning taste so bad that most of the children have to have an NG tube put in them. She some how gets it down. I thank God for all that he has done for us!!

I hope everyone at home is well, Alan got the Green light to start back w/football, please pray that he will remain strong and safe. Cole is doing well and Jim is working hard. Lana and I miss our guys!!! We love you guys. Thanks to those wonderful ladies that have called them and taken them dinner. I know it is hard to catch them at home but I also know some of our friends have managed to get them a few home-cooked meals. Love to all, continue to pray for all the kids & their families. Hope to be home 11/9. Call us when we are home so LB can see her friends!!!Love Cindy

Saturday, October 30, 2004 7:21 AM CDT

Good Morning!
I talked to Cindy last night and I wanted to update you all a little bit. In a nutshell, this week has been really rough. In the beginning they told Cindy and Jim that typically with this antibody treatment that the first round is the worst, then it gets progressively better from there. That hasn't been the case with Lana and I think Cindy has realized that it isn't that way for most of the kids. This makes all this a bit harder because you mentally prepare yourself that it will be a little easier this time and when it isn't, it is such a disappointment. Not only is the pain worse, she is having some additional side effects like the hives and swelling. While it doesn't last a very long time, it is horrible while she is going through it. There isn't anything that can be done to comfort her so Cindy is frantically trying all she can. Hot pads, cold pads, cold water, Dr. Pepper,lights off, lights on, etc. When is pain subsides the emotional rollercoaster begins. The meds they give her are really effecting her. She cries a lot and doesn't understand why she can't act like herself. The other day it was so bad Cindy started crying too, then Lana cried more because she made Cindy cry, then Cindy cried harder ..............
There have been some fun times though. By the evening Lana is feeling a bit better and each night this week at the Ronald McDonald House they have had some fun activities. One night some players from the NBA team the NY Nets were ther and Lana had fun meeting them and playing with them. Last night while I talked to Cindy she was with some friends watching a Munsters marathon. The kids were going to trick-or-treating this weekend at an apartment building where one of the guys who works at the Ronald McDonald House lives. Cindy told him how nice it was of him to arrange that. He told her, "Well, it was because of your daughter that I did. She was crying because she wasn't going to be able to door to door trick-or-treating like she does at home. I talked to about 40 of my neighbors and they agreed to have the kids come there." Whoever said Lana didn't have the power of persusion. Today the are planning to go to the Big Apple Circus with a group from the Ronald McDonald House. Lana has been looking forward to this so they should have a good time.
Keep the mail coming. It really helps. Each day when they return from the hospital Lana races to the mailbox. When she has mail it really brightens her day. Don't forget to drop Cindy a note too!!
May God bless each of you and your families. Thank you for caring about this beautiful family and for continually asking God Almighty to grant them healing and strength during this time and everyday.
Beth

Wednesday, October 27, 2004 4:46 PM CDT

Hello everyone;
Well, today was hard also, this week has not been as easy as the second round. But maybe tomorrow will be a little better. Lana Beth's pain level has been very intense and she has had hives. The hives drive her crazy. She is eating okay and otherwise in good spirits. As soon as she is "re-charged" she is ready to go. . . every night here at the Ronald House there is a party.

She is so home sick. These meds really are playing with her moods. She cried a lot today and then said "I don't know why I'm so emotional". I have tried to explain to her that it is the drugs, but she still says she hates the way it makes her feel. I try and tell her we understand, but it is hard.

Bless her little heart. Please continue to pray of her. Thanks to those who have sent her something in the mail. She rips into the items like it was Christmas.

Thanks to all, love Cindy

Monday, October 25, 2004 6:38 PM CDT

Hey everyone, it's Alan's 17th birthday!! I love you "Big A" and miss you all very much.
Lana, Aunt Susie and I have had a long day. Monday's are always long but today was LONG. We didn't get started until about 11:00AM was there at 8:00am. She had hives and alot of pain in her back, stomach, neck, arms oh well, lets just say she had a lot of pain. Aunt Susie is great!! I'm very blessed to have family/friends that can spend time with us. It's just good to be able to use the rest room without leaving Lana. As luck would have it today, near the end of the 3f8 (Lana usually has her pain about 15 minutes after the 3f8) I ran to the Ladies room. And she was sleeping when I left. And as soon as I turned the corner on the floor, I heard her scream. You parents know what I'm talking about, you can always pick your childs cry out in a room full of screams. Aunt Susie said as soon as I left Lana Beth's pain started, but her nursers were right there. It's very hard to please Lana, she really doesn't know what she wants. And just trying to express herself with so much pain is difficult. It's hard, so please continue to send prayers her way!!!

She also loves getting "real mail", (all you e-mailers don't stop) she goes to the box everyday and last time she did get three letters. Believe me she doesn't need anything, just opening the mail is fun. She did hear that it was bad luck to get a note without money, I told her that wasn't true. So if you want to send money, send a state quarter, she loves them. She really misses her friends from school and all her new friends from BBS. So please pass the word along to send her a card, (Not get well) just thinking of her or what-ever.

Jim, Alan and Cole went on Sunday (in between Church) and put the sea-doos (sp) up for the season.

It is really good to be at the Ronald McDonald House, there are so many people here with neuroblastoma, and talk about being able to relate! Beth White knows, and any other parent who has or has had a child with a serious illness. At least here, Lana has Sydney Sims and I have my Aunt Susie and the other parents.
Please continue to pray for all the children and their families. It's hard on the ones here and the ones left behind at home. Home can be anywhere. The pressure on the entire family is difficult. When we have a good day we still miss home. Sydney's dad Kevin had used the same "smell" that Jim does and Lana looked at Kevin and said "You smell like my daddy", Kevin tried his best to give her a "daddy hug" but Lana cried, then I cried, then . . .you get the picture. But she is tough, she is now winning the different games at the Halloweeen Bash they are having tonight. (They are having a "Party" every night this week). Dr. Whitmire will be glad $$$$$. Love to all, Cindy

Sunday, October 24, 2004 7:14 AM CDT

Well, here we come New York City!! It is rainy and cool today on Lookout Mountain. We are trying to get Lana Beth up, she has her emla creme on and I'll give her the GM shot soon, then the BETA GULGAN. It tastes so bad!!!
Cole's team BBS won the championship game on Thursday, all the boys played so good!! The cheerleaders came and picked up Lana Beth and let her help them make posters for the game. Since the school was on Fall break, the cheerleaders didn't have the chance to get together and make the signs. Also, CoCo, Cole's lab, had puppies!!! She had 6 cute little puppies, one of Lana's friends, Jessica was here and they both had fun playing with the puppies. There is one really fat one so they called it Bubba, but it's a girl, hey only in the South?!!
Alan went to a Halloween party last night, his leg is much better but I don't think Football is in the cards for him this season. I just hope and pray it heals well and he can play next year.
The only thing Lana is looking forward to in NY is Sydney and her buddies at the Ronald House. I'm sick to my stomach, I just miss home and then I think of our friends the Sims that have not been home since AUGUST!!!
Well, Lana has her witch stuff together and all was packed until she brought me her "broom" last night. It may get broke, but we are trying to take it. I should just ride the thing to NY, but I probably couldn't get clearance for landing. Love to all Cindy

Monday, October 18, 2004 8:38 PM CDT

Hi Everyone! It is great to be home. Lana Beth will be on the Jane Pauley Show tomorrow, October 19, Tuesday, on NBC. She is having fun playing with her dog "trixie" and driving her big brothers crazy!! We want to continue to thank Beth White for all her help in keeping up with the journal entries for me. Lana Beth is feeling great and her HAMA test is (-) and her bone marrow aspriates are also negative. The results on the biopsy is still not available. My mom's younger sister, my "Aunt Susie", will be going with Lana Beth and I this 3rd round of treatment. I am so blessed to have such support. I see others and the moms are all alone and my heart goes out to them. Just getting a 10 minute bath is impossible when you have no help.

We also hope and pray that Sydney, our friend in New York is doing good this week. The First week is very hard on the child and the paretns. I'm so thankful Jim was there for me and Lana Beth, we both really needed him.

The boys are doing great!! Cole's 8th grade team are in the championship play-offs and his game is this Thursday! GO BUCS!!!! Alan's leg is healing and he continues to go to PT and work out as much as the doctor will allow. Cole and Alan both made all A's and B's on their report cards!!!

We were all able to attend East Brainerd Church of Chirst this past Sunday. The boys have been going there for the last few months. This was the first time in about a month that we were all able to attend "together". It is funny the things you miss when you don't have them, for example, I have (almost) enjoyed hearing the kids, shall we say "disagree" with each other.

Many thanks to those who take the time to read, write or just phone us. We do sometimes feel, out of the loop. I did get to talk with "Kitty" today. Lana came in while I was on the phone to her and she just jumped up and down!!Most of you know what all Kitty did for us while we were in Atlanta back in 2002. Can you believe it has been that long ago? Feb. 27, 2002 the day we found out that Lana had neuroblastoma. At the time I couldn't even say the word and of course now, I wish the word nor the cancer ever exsisted... Oh Well....things are going good now and thank God for every day that he grants us the strength and courage to go on. Please remember to pray for all the children and the families. Love to all, Cindy

Friday, October 15, 2004 3:16 PM CDT

Hi everyone we are HOME!!! We met the nicest GA State Trooper on our way home on Tuesday. He signed Lana's guest book and when I told Lana, she couldn't believe it!! Thanks Officer Black (best wishes for you and your family).
As most of you know, Lana Beth and her friend, Syndey Sims will be on The JANE PAULEY SHOW on Tuesday, October 19. Please get your VCR's ready. Syndey's going thru antibody thearpy also and Lana Beth misses her!!
Alan's leg is healing fast but he still is unable to play football. He is not very happy about that but thank God it is healing quickly!! Dr. Tommy Brown is very impressed with Alan's progress.
Cole's 8th grade team heads to the championship games next week!!! Cole is playing great! Lana is so happy to be able to see him play. She really loves all the cheerleaders!!! I must say the entire school at Boyd have been WONDERFUL!!
Lana feels good and has lots of engery, her only problem is sleeping at night. She is having a hard time going to sleep. And she still likes to eat every few hours, but thats just fine with us!! We are so thankful she is doing well, thanks to all that have prayed for her and please continue to pray for all the children. We will try our best to enjoy these few days at home, last night we were out until 9:30pm. A bunch of us went out to eat after the game. Mrs. Mathis, the PE teacher at Boyd, invited Lana to spend the day with her as her helper. Since next week the boys will be out for fall break, Lana went to Boyd today and really enjoyed herself. It was hard to get her going this morning, she made it to Boyd at 10:30am. Thanks so much to Mrs. Mathis and all the staff, students and parents for all your loving support!!
Jim is busy at the Barn Nursery and he is very happy to have his girls home!
Thanks everyone for writing to Lana Beth!! I have to head to the ball game, talk with you all soon, Love Cindy

Monday, October 11, 2004 6:16 PM CDT

Hi everyone!
Beth is on vacation, so I'm doing the updates this week. Our second week of round #2 went well. Aunt Dee Dee, Lana and I made it just fine. Dr. Pat, (The intergrative medicine doctor)really has helped Lana "find a special place", to help cope with her pain. Most of the children on 3F8-antibody therapy get cold and need heating pads but Lana gets very hot and requires lots of cold compresses and cold ice water. Her "special place" is often on a mountain top, builing a snow man with her brothers, dad and dog Trixie (I'm there too).
I took Lana and her new friend Sydney (she also has neuroblastoma), to the movies on Saturday. And one of the great guys "Rich" took Lana and a few others to some unreal Halloween Shops, the big hit was a zombie that was vomiting in a large trash can!!!! (Cool) Lana has met a great friend, Sydney she is an adorable, little girl from Tampa, FL she is cute as a button!! The Jane Pauley Show is doing a segment on Sydney and her family. Lana was able to be in some of the shots they took of the girls playing, so when we know the air time we will pass that on.
Brennan Hill and her parents were in town and came by MSK and that was a great thing!! Familiar faces that spoke English!!!Thanks to the Hill's for taking the time out of their trip to say "Hi" it meant a lot to both of us!!
Lana met Brooke Shields on Tuesday and had pictures made with her. Brooke is a spokes person for The Ronald McDonald House, she was very sweet and beautiful (inside and out).
Lana is so ready to come home!! We head home tomorrow!!Thanks to all who have sent pictures and cards to her, she loves going to the mail box. She made a frame one day for a craft and the next day received a picture of her and the Boyd Cheerleaders!! And as luck would have it the picture fit the frame perfectly.
Thank God for all the support we do have here, the staff, the doctors, the other parents, etc. God has blessed our Family in so many ways! "I will not leave you comfortless; I will come to you" (John 14:18 KJV) Please remember to pray for all of the people here, Love to all, Cindy

Sunday, October 3, 2004 6:37 AM CDT

Hi everyone,
It's Beth. I got back home yesterday from New York so I thought I would go ahead and give you an update for Cindy. Having been there and experienced it myself I feel that I can give you all a better view of what goes on. This antibody treatment that Lana has to have is brutal. I have been through a lot with my own son, but this is really hard. The pain that comes with the antibodies is very intense. On the positive side, it doesn't last long, but it is very intense. All the other children who are also getting this same treatment are all in the same area of the clinic. Listening to the screams of the other children as well is very hard to listen to. Maybe I am more sensitive since I know how close we were to doing this with my son but Lana and all these children really need your prayers. There is a psychologist, Pat, who has been working with Lana to teach her how to relax, breath, and focus during the painful time. It has been very helpful and Lana is really doing a great job at this. When we are imagining a place she wants to be many times she chooses to be at home on the mountain playing with her brothers and friends and most importantly, Trixie her dog.
After the treatment is over, the rest of the day is spent at the Ronald McDonald House where she recovers from the effects of all the medication (ie, pain meds, benedryl, anti-nausea med, etc.) she gets. This time can be difficult because she can become very emotional as the effects of the medication wears off. About the time that Cindy is utterly exhausted and ready for bed, Lana returns to her normal, highly energetic self! :) It is truly a roller coaster day.

I believe this weekend they were going to be able to get out and have some fun. Shopping is always high on the list of things to do. Cindy's cousin, Dee Dee is there with them now. Listed at near the bottom of the page is the mailing address. Please take just a moment to send a note or small surprise. It would be really helpful for them to get word from home that we are all here thinking about them and praying for them. You can also leave a message here in the guestbook.

Thank you to all of you who continue to check here and continue to lift up this precious little girl and her family.

In His name,
Beth

Monday, September 27, 2004 7:21 PM CDT

Hi Guys!! We are back in the "Big Apple". Beth White is up here with us this week. Today, Lana Beth begain her second round of the anitbody treatment. We arrived at 8:00AM, had blood work done and begain our long day. Her pain level this day wasn't too bad, but she did vomit a few times. She said first thing this morning, "I want to go home, I miss my brothers, my daddy and trixie and my friends". While the day wasn't our worst it was difficult. We came back to the Ronald McDonald House around 4:30PM. Lana Beth just now is feeling like eating it is about 7:45PM. Let's hope and pray tomorrow is better! But we are thankful just to be here and have this wonderful place to call "Home". Lana Beth and I will not be home until 10/12/04. She really enjoyed her few days at home and so did I, we love and miss everyone very much!!! We are in room 1101, that means were are on the TOP!!!! Love to all that read and write to us!!Love Cindy

Sunday, September 19, 2004 4:21 PM CDT

Hi everyone;
Beth and her son Jack are on thier way to Memphis for his scans and tests. So please keep them in your prayers. Beth White and my cousin, Dee Dee (Beth the first week and Dee Dee the second) will be with Lana Beth and I this next treatment schedule. Lana is a tough little girl. The treatments are painful and can cause hives and rashes. This first treatment was to be the worst one and we made it!!! So please continue to pray for all of us. Cole's birthday is Oct. 6th he will be 14!! At the Ronald McDonald house we have to be at Sloan at 8:00AM and usually return to the house by about 2 or 3PM. She usually wants to eat as soon as the treatments are over and wants to eat every few hours, now that keeps me busy. Maybe this next treatment will be easier. Keep praying for her and our family, love to all, Cindy

Sunday, September 19, 2004 4:21 PM CDT

Hi everyone;
Beth and her son Jack are on thier way to Memphis for his scans and tests. So please keep them in your prayers. Beth White and my cousin, Dee Dee (Beth the first week and Dee Dee the second) will be with Lana Beth and I this next treatment schedule. Lana is a tough little girl. The treatments are painful and can cause hives and rashes. This first treatment was to be the worst one and we made it!!! So please continue to pray for all of us. Cole's birthday is Oct. 6th he will be 14!! At the Ronald McDonald house we have to be at Sloan at 8:00AM and usually return to the house by about 2 or 3PM. She usually wants to eat as soon as the treatments are over and wants to eat every few hours, now that keeps me busy. Maybe this next treatment will be easier. Keep praying for her and our family, love to all, Cindy

Tuesday, September 14, 2004 10:17 PM CDT

Hello.
I am sorry that I have not updated in a while. Always remember that no news is good news! :) I last talked to Cindy over the weekend and things were OK. Lana was scheduled to have a bone marrow biopsy yesterday (Monday) and they were planning on comming home today. I have not yet talked to them, but I am assuming they are back home.
It is so comforting, as I go to sleep tonight, to know that they are back here with us. It is also a relief to know that they have made it through the first round of antibody therapy. Even though there were definetly some rough times, all in all Lana (and Jim and Cindy) did well. They will now have some rest time at home before heading back to New York later this month. Please pray that the results of the biopsy are all clear.

Next week I will be returning to the hospital in Memphis with my son for his three month scans. I'll update here as I can, but I am not expecting that there will be much news from Lana. As soon as the biopsy results are in I will get it posted.

WELCOM HOME Lana, Jim and Cindy. We are glad you are back where you belong. We love you!!

Tuesday, September 7, 2004 6:44 AM CDT

HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY
HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY
HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY
TO YOU!!!

Lana Beth is now 9 years old. We all wish she could be home with us today, but since she is in New York, please join me in sending many good thoughts and birthday wishes her way.

Lana we love you and we hope that you have a very special day today!!

Beth

Sunday, September 5, 2004 8:29 PM CDT

Hello,
I hope each of you who visit here are having an enjoyable weekend. I talked to Cindy briefly on Friday and things have been going a little better for Lana. Friday went well and she was in good spirits. This weekend they were going to busy themselves with the sights and shops of New York. Lana I'm sure has had a great time shopping. They do not have treatment on Monday, but will be back at the hospital on Tuesday. Tuesday is Lana Beth's birthday so make sure to leave her a birthday message in the guestbook. After next week's treatments, they will repeat a bone biopsy, then they will get to come home home for about two weeks. I know they will be glad to get home and to be all together again.

Thank you for checking on Lana Beth and family. Please keep them in your prayers and feel free to pass along this website to others who share in Christ's love and faith.
In His Love,
Beth

Tuesday, August 31, 2004 7:25 PM CDT

Hi!
I talked to Cindy this afternoon and things are going OK. Jim is there with them. They had the first dose of the antibodies yesterday. It was a very long, hard day. Lana did have quite a bit of pain after getting the antibodies (it attacks the nerve endings) and she was also quite sick to her stomach troughout the night last night. They say the first few days are the worst as they regulate what medicines they need to give for pain and nasuea. Today seemed to be going a little better. Let's just all pray that the doctors and nurses will be able to get things under control and that each day it improves.

Alan and Cole are doing well, each staying with friends. I know that Jim and Cindy are very tired. Spending all day in the hospital with a child who is in pain and sick is so hard. I will be praying for God to refresh them tonight. It may be a day or two before I update again. It is hard for Cindy to have much time to call but I will update as soon as I can.

May God bless each of you who visit here,
in His love,
Beth

Friday, August 27, 2004 10:06 AM CDT

HI,
I just talked to Cindy and they arrived safely in New York yesterday. They were eating breakfast at a favorite spot of Lana's. They are meeting with Dr. Kushner at 12:00.
I'll update later if there are any developments after that visit. Here is the address at the Ronald McDonald House(RMH):

Lana Beth Webster
c/o Ronald McDonald House
Rm#511
405 E 73rd Street
New York, New York 10021

Don't forget Lana Beth's birthday is September 7th!

The antibody treatment is scheduled to start Monday, so look for an update Monday evening or Tuesday.
Please pray hard this weekend that all goes well and that the pain that usually comes with the antibody treatment will be minimal for Lana Beth. Lord, please give Jim and Cindy strength to help Lana Beth through this.

Beth

Monday, August 16, 2004 7:10 AM CDT

Hello,
I talked to Cindy Friday night. They had a great flight to New York arranged by Corporate Angels. Things have been going fine. She doesn't have any test results back yet. Lana's counts are still a little low so they have been staying in most of the time.

I'm afraid that is where the good news ends. On Friday night in a game against McCallie, Alan broke his leg. I'm not sure if it is his right or left, however it is his tibia, right below his knee. Cindy had just talked to Jim from the emergency room so she didn't have a lot of details. This is so heartbreaking for them. Alan has worked very hard this summer to prepare for football this season.

Cindy and Lana are planning to come home Tuesday afternoon. If all goes as planned, they will return to New York next Sunday and antibody treatment will begin next week.

Wednesday, August 11, 2004 3:39 PM CDT

Lana Beth and Cindy left for New York this afternoon on a Corporate Angel flight out of Atlanta. Corporate Angels is an organization that arranges flights on corporate jets that have available room to take children and parents to hospitals. Lana's counts are still low so traveling on a commercial flight would have been dangerous. I am so glad they were able to get this arranged. If you know of any company that has its own plane make sure they know about the Corporate Angel program. Cindy's neice will be joining them in New York via a commercial flight so she can be there to help with Lana Beth. As of now, they are scheduled to come back early next week. They will only be home a few days, then they will return to begin the antibody treatment. For now they will just be repeating scans and her bone marrow biopsies. Please keep sending up those prayers for good results. As soon as I hear something I'll get it posted.

Sunday, August 8, 2004 4:09 PM CDT

I talked to Cindy this morning and they were packing up to go home!! YEAH!! Lana's counts came up a little so they felt it was safe for her to go home. She will need a transfusion of platelets tomorrow, so they will back at the hospital, but they get to sleep in their own beds tonight. The one thing I missed when we were in the hospital so much was using real silverware and plates, not plastic or styrofoam. So I hope they have a good dinner tonight with the whole family on real dishes!

Speaking of the family, Alan is playing football for Boyd and their games will be starting soon. I will be posting the schedule soon and it would mean a lot to Jim and Cindy if anyone could go to cheer Alan on. It is really hard for Cindy to have to be away from the boys while she is with Lana Beth. She has to be with Lana right now so it is up to us, her friends, to fill in for her. One of the games is on August 27th at Finley Stadium, 7:30 pm, Boyd-Buchanan vs. Gordon Lee. This should be a fun game!

Cindy would also love to find someone who needs a part-time job doing some domestic jobs. This would mainly be laundry, light housekeeping, some cooking and running errands (ie: grocery shopping). If you know of anyone you can contact either Cindy or myself at the e-mail address listed below.

As of now, they plan to be in New York by Thursday morning and will remain there until after the first round of anti-body therapy is complete.

Please check back soon for more updates, and don't forget to sign in!!

Friday, August 6, 2004 8:40 PM CDT

It is Friday night and I'm sure the Webster's have had about as much of T.C. Thompson as they can handle! Lana is doing about the same. Her counts really haven't come up much and she is flirting with a low grade fever. However...if all remains the same...they are going to let her go home tomorrow. This way she will be able to have a few days at home before heading to New York.

I didn't actually get to bring the cake batter to LB. I made it with powdered eggs that are pasturized so that it would be safe to eat. It tasted awful!! So as soon as her counts come up she can have the real thing.

As soon as I can I will post the address in New York where Lana can get mail. I am sure she would love to get some letters and some goodies from the south while she is in New York.

Please continue to pray and ask your friends and family to do the same. They need all of us to be lifting them up and asking for God to give them strength and healing.

Thanks for checking in on Lana Beth.

Beth, a friend who wants this beautiful little girl to be healthy and happy!

Thursday, August 5, 2004 7:28 AM CDT

Good Morning!

Lana Beth is still in the hospital!! She is doing a little better but her white count and ANC still remain low so they want to keep her until these numbers improve. At this point they are making arrangements to be in New York the middle of August. After repeating some scans they are planning to start antibody therapy. I am going to see them this morning so I will update later today.

Sunday, August 1, 2004 4:55 PM CDT

Hello!

Lana Beth is really having a rough time right now. She came home for just a day last week and was re-admitted to the hospital on Thursday. Her white count continues to be low, she has an intestinal infection that is quite painful, and she is not wanting to eat at all. They have started giving her TPN (Total Parental Nutrition) she so is getting some nutrition. I spent the morning with Lana Beth and Cindy and I know they are both very tired of being in the hospital. Lana desperately wants to go home, but until she starts eating I am afraid they will want to keep her there. Lana has times when she is happy and playful and other times where she is miserable. Please continue to pray for healing and strength. Hopefully she'll begin to eat a little soon so she can go home. I've offered to bring her anything in the world she can think of to eat but she says nothing sounds good. She did mention uncooked cake batter so I am planning to take that to her tomorrow (no raw eggs of course though). Just keep praying that each day she will improve.
Thanks for all of you who visit here and please sign the guestbook!

Monday, July 26, 2004 10:36 AM CDT

This page has just been created. I am a friend of Jim and Cindy's and my son also had neuroblastoma. Keeping everyone updated right now is hard for them so I will be updating as often as possible to keep everyone informed about Lana and her treatment. Right now she just finished a round of chemo and is not feeling well. She has a visit at the clinic this afternoon so hopefully with some fluids she will start feeling better. Our goal right now is to get her marrow clean enough to start antibody therapy in New York at Sloan Kettering.

Please keep praying that Lana will soon be cancer free and for it never to return. Also, please make sure to sign the guestbook. Lana will love reading the messages!!

Click here to go back to the main page.

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