History

Tuesday, April 29, 2008 6:54 PM CDT

Fighting rush hour traffic (making us an hour late for our appointment) = frustrating
Drinking blue contrast for 2 hours = disgusting!
Blowing 2 veins before getting the IV in = painful!

CLEAR SCANS = PRICELESS!!!!!

The dr was pleased with the scans and we will hear afp blood numbers on Thurs.
Some concerns about bone deterioration in her hips and spine from the original tumor and radiation. This is the probable reason for her recent back pain. She has also grown 2 inches since Oct!
Yeah, God!

Thank you again! We are so thankful for this good news! We are headed home for an early dinner and then to bed! Ha!

Sunday, April 27, 2008 8:53 PM CDT

Well! We did it!

The race was freezing but....WE DID IT!!!!!! We were part of 47 athletes that ran/walked/waddled and raised...ARE YOU READY FOR THIS.... $87,000 for pediatric cancer research! Our feet were sore but our spirits were soaring - it was definately worth it! (Now.... I don't think I'll do it again...but..... it was worth it!)

Now..... more important info for you. We will have scans this Tues April 29th. ALL DAY! We will start drinking contrast at 8am - CT at 10am - audiogram at 11am - lunch - cardiac function and pulmonary exam - then Dr. George at 3pm. Whew! Mary Grace has been complaining about back pain for about 1 month now. This scan has been very difficult to wait for - I'm not going to sugar coat this..... I'm scared and I'm really asking for your prayers. I don't know what to expect this time. Please pray for peace of mind and perfectly clear scans and bloodwork! I will update as soon as I know something. Hopefully, Dr. George will be able to tell us good news before we leave!

Thanks for checking in on us - your support means the world to us!!!!

Monday, March 24, 2008 4:20 PM CDT

And the count down continues...... we are T minus 5 days and counting!!! The marathon is this weekend and I'm not too happy about it! I've been nursing a bum foot for 3 months now and I just don't know if I'm ready! But..... I will give it a good ole try!!!! That's for sure! Thank you to everyone that has donated on our behalf. Please know you are supporting a wonderful cause - whether or not I make it across the finish line!!! Let's all pray for a cure - sooner rather than later!!!

Here's the info if you want to check out how we are doing!!!!!

http://www.active.com/donate/rallyathletes/race4grace

Gracie is doing great. I called to schedule her next set of scans for April. This will be the 'big' appt. They will do her annual hearing, cardiac and pulmonary function tests as well as the normal CT and bloodwork tests. UGG! I will post a few of our newer pics. Disney in Feb was fantastic. A magical week - no doubt! I'll write more about that after the race!

Love to you all - thanks for checking in and please remember to pray for our friends that are still in this battle!!!!!

DDD

Monday, November 26, 2007 1:11 PM CST

Ok.... so I'm almost and entire month and one holiday behind on this picture. Better late than never, right? We have been super busy, happy and healthy! Does life get any better?

Gracie continues to do well in school and is a steady 'fountain' of information! Poor Grant is NEVER right about ANYTHING anymore! I think he's starting to make up random facts just to prove her wrong about SOMEthing. Bless his heart! Overall - they are both doing wonderful - praise the Lord!!!

We all participated in 'William's Walk' benefitting Brain Tumor Research in early November. My good friend (and Catie's mom) Jenny came for the weekend and they stayed at our house for the weekend. Todd and Tre' went to the UGA game and really enjoyed the fall weather. It is always so good to see them. Jenny actually spoke at a Ladies' Night on the 15th.... I was blessed enough to surprise her and spend a little time at her house, too. It was great to hear her testimony and how God is still working in their lives.

Many of you are very curious to 'hear' my exciting news that I indicated in my previous post! Unfortunately.... that 'news' is the biggest reason I haven't had time to update lately! May I introduce......

http://www.active.com/donate/rallyathletes/race4grace
Check out this website for our 'web page'!

Todd and I have committed to walk a 1/2 marathon here in Atlanta on March 30th! We need to raise $3000 and all of the proceeds go directly to Pediatric Cancer Research. We are so thankful to do this in honor of our HEALTHY Mary Grace! Take a look at the website - There are directions on that site if you'd like to support our efforts! If you know me..... I'm sure you understand this is very much 'out of my comfort zone'! ha!

This past month .... we have several friends, Abby, Chase and Ava that are struggling with relapse and/or treatment. Also... Summer's sweet family - please pray for them as miss Summer so much. Please hold them close in your prayers right now. On a personal note... many of you know that I have become very close friends with about 10-12 'cancer mommies' during our journey. One of my dear friends moved to Utah earlier this year and...this past week.... another one moved to Oklahoma. Now... let me just say - I am thrilled for them! #1 - their girls are beautifully healthy and #2 - the opportunities were absolutely best for their families. It is; however, a reminder that 'life' continues - even through cancer. Kids grow up.... people that you love move away.... I know they will stay in touch but... I just wanted to remind myself how thankful I am that our paths crossed when they did.

AND FINALLY...... DRUM ROLL PLEASE......

NOVEMBER 29TH WILL MARK 3 YEARS SINCE MARY GRACE HAD A CHEMO TREATMENT! Dr George goes by her last chemo date as end o' treatment so...... we are officially 3 years off treatment! To God be the Glory! 3 years NED! (No Evidence of Disease) Oh.... how I love NED!!!!

Thanks for checking in on us and please make a donation to our 'marathon effort' if you can. It's tax deductible and it will make you feel good (ha! I tried!)

Love you all dearly and may God bless you during this holiday season!
3D~

Wednesday, October 24, 2007 9:01 PM CDT

Rejoice, rejoice and again I say...REJOICE!!

The scans were stable and Dr. George is very happy with our little Kindergartener!

I got to visit briefly with some of our friends on 3North. The CT scan went very well and we were really impressed with the new radiology dept and hi-tech goodies on this trip! No sedation for our big girl - wow - have things changed since we started this journey!!! Now... the IV??? - whoa! That one has gotten worse instead of better! She is has really strong lungs and she's not afraid to use them! However, we did persevere and we were successful!

So - over all - it was a great day! Disney World would have been better.... but... a clean scan will do!

Thank you for checking in on us! We know your prayers make days like this possible! We had a very 'God inspired' moment today as we met a new family from Tampa. I met her via email/caringbridge only 3-4 days ago. They made a quick trip to Atlanta to see the hospital and a few houses in the area. It was an amazing 'coincidence' that we just happened to run into them at the clinic. Hopefully - they enjoyed their trip and I didn't freak them out too much when I recognized them! ha!

I'm headed to bed right now - I'm exhaused. I will join Mary Grace's class to the Dairy Farm tomorrow. Does anyone want to switch???? UGG! The one week we FINALLY get some rain.... and I get to skip over cow patties (and try and keep 20 5 year olds out of the cow patties) And the irony...... I really AM thrilled to go cow patty jumpin' and puddle skippin'! Have a good day!

D~

Sunday, October 21, 2007 7:09 PM CDT

**More pumpkin pics on the pics page!

The weather has finally turned and hopefully, God willing, we might get some rain this week. We were supposed to take the kids camping this weekend but.... this busy month has finally caught up with me. I was too tired to mess with the tent, campfires and sleeping bags! A nice drive to the mountains, a few apple dumplings, and our annual pumpkin pickin' was much nicer!!!

I think this is my favorite time of the whole year. We started this pilgrimage to the mountains when Grant was just 6 months old. We have the 'same' pictures in the same 'pumpkin' patch each year. What a blessing! Those 'little things' are so precious to me now. When I have some time... I'll try to find some of the old pictures and add them in here, too.

Just a quick reminder that we will take MG for her scans, bloodwork and appt with Dr George on Wed Oct 24th. We will report at 8am and hopefully.... be out of there by 12noon. (Any bets????) I have some more very exciting news to share with everyone (NO I"M NOT PREGNANT!!!) but I'll wait until after the scans to share - I want to stay focused on this week first. Thank you for your prayers. They mean so much to us!!!

I'll update when I know more. Love you all!

Monday, October 15, 2007 12:18 AM CDT

*** Check out the new pics on the picture page!

We have really had a busy month! I had a wonderful weekend with my 'sisterchix' when they came to town for the Quiet Heros luncheon. It was a beautiful and wonderful event - AGAIN! It was so nice to just 'hang out' with the ladies and enjoy their company.

Last weekend we were fortunate to visit one of our favorite places - Camp Sunshine. We met new families that are new to this fight..... and saw some of our old friends that we've missed over the past year. It was nice to see everyone and see all of the improvements they've made to the camp! The 'ever popular' playground has a had a complete facelift! The kids loved it (as usual) and it always makes my heart happy to hear them laugh and play like that. Unfortunately.... the Bulldogs were the only disappointment during the weekend. Oh well! I didn't have anything to do with THAT outcome :(

I wanted to do a quick update to let you know that we are doing wonderful! Mary Grace continues to love Kindergarten and her teachers think she is the best! Oh... I love to hear that! We will get our first report cards this Friday so..... we will hope for 'A's! Ha! I did want to let you know that we've made the appointments for her next round of scans. We will report at 8am on Oct 24th for scans and followup appointments. Please put it on your calendar - we would love your prayer cover as we prepare for this nervous day.

Please continue to pray for our friends - especially Chayton, Abby and Ryan as they battle relapse. These children and their families truly, truly appreciate all of your prayers.

Happy Fall, Y'all! We love you

Tuesday, August 28, 2007 7:52 PM CDT

Well, we are finally in the 'school groove'. She absolutely hates getting up at 6am! So does her mommy! But we've done great! She rides the bus like a seasoned pro and eats in the cafeteria almost everyday. She relies on big brother to tell her when to bring her lunch. (He knows what is edible in the cafeteria and what's not..) I think Grant kinda likes having her there. He's so busy being in 4th grade.... I don't think he notices much!

The kindergarten classes have a 'conduct chart' that they fill out every single day. They start each day on 'green'. If they misbehave they get moved down to yellow.... then...UGG....the dreaded...RED! However, if they do something 'above and beyond'... they get moved up to 'BLUE'! Well.... Mary Grace has been on 'green' everyday..... very happy mommy! However, yesterday...she came home absolutely BEAMING! She was on BLUE and she was so proud! For those of you that have the privledge of knowing MG personally... you know that she is quite unpredictible (to say the least). I NEVER know what is going to come out of that child's mouth! I've been a little bit nervous sending her to school each day! But she seems to be doing great and she's already reading her sight words. Ah....welcome to school!

She is finally over her tummy troubles and her health is great right now. Please continue to pray for our friends Lillie and Summer. They are both facing very difficult challenges right now. They need your prayers more than ever. Thanks for checking in on us! I do have a few stories .... I'll post a few later in the week! Ha!

DDD

Monday, August 6, 2007 7:20 AM CDT

Well...it's here.

School supplies - $48
Pink 'Cheetah' print backpack - $24
The Coolest nap mat in kindergarten - $22
High School Musical Notebook - $4
New pink tennis shoes - $12

Cancer-free and headed to Kindergarten - Priceless

She got on the bus like a champ! I cried like a baby.
Check out the picture page for a few more pics. I'm going to clean the house now..... I didn't think I'd be sad.... boy was I wrong! I know it sounds cliche - but.. it seems like just yesterday that Grant was starting Kindergarten and now he's in 4th grade! We actually drove over to this house to take pictures before school....we didn't close on this house (in this school district) until Aug 28th, but they let him start school here. Whew! That seems like yesterday.

I'm going to give myself permission to be a sniveling idiot today! Rejoice in EVERYTHING it took to get her to this day! We've come a long way, baby! I think it 'tastes' a little bit sweeter..... I don't want to take it for granted! So.... today I will celebrate my kids...

"Dear Jesus,
Thank you for the honor of being their 'mom'. You have given me awesome kids! I pray they will grow to love Jesus more and more every singe day. I pray for their protection... mind and body. I praise you for our good health- may I never take it for granted! Thank you for the awesome opportunity to watch them grow. Jesus, help the teachers this year. I pray that they will encourage and edify my children. Bring Godly people into their 'sphere of influence' that will bring holiness into their lives. Hedge them in from all sides and protect them from harm. Grant me wisdom as I lead them - and a thankful heart to receive the many blessings they bring!"

I'm cooking a ham, collards, fried okra, corn, squash, fresh tomatos and homemade cornbread for dinner. Did I mention the sweet tea! Life is good at the Dixon household. Thanks for sharing the day!

Saturday, August 4, 2007 9:42 AM CDT

3 years. Do you remember where you were and what you were doing exactly 3 years ago today? I do. We had a 9am appt with the pediatrician and then we headed to Scottish Rite to wait for our CT. It would be the longest day of my life!

However,...2007! In 2 days, we will watch our beautiful little girl start kindergarten. I don't know how to describe my emotions. Most 'moms' are a nervous wreck when their children start kindergarten. I have all of those emotions PLUS the realization that 3 years ago... this special event was threatened and virtually unimaginable. It is truly a blessed event! Days like this make me so thankful for every extra moment we have been granted with this amazing little girl. I know we are not guaranteed ANY thing in this life..... but today.... I will be thankful for our journey. I will be thankful for today's good health and a spunky little girl that can't wait to start school and ride the bus with her big brother! I am thankful for the friends that we've made - and the precious children we've lost. I am not the same person I was 3 years ago - that is for sure.

So....Aug 4th, 2007 - 3 years after diagnosis....WE ARE STILL HERE AND BETTER THAN EVER! AMEN! The fear is still here - I'm not going to lie. It feels a little different now. More of a dull ache - a constant presence that has to be monitored and 'put in it's place' every day. She is having some GI issues that are still unanswered so... that keeps the fears alive. For self preservation - you have to limit the number of people in your 'close' circle. We lost our sweet Catie this January and it has changed me forever. God has given me some amazing friends - my 'sister-chix'....my Ya-Ya's! They have been a wonderful support group. However, one of them moved to Utah this summer.... one is moving to Oklahoma later this year.... life is moving on. It's wonderful and sad at the same time. Life moves on..... I guess that is the theme this year,2007. I look backwards and realize that the past 3 years have made me the person I am today. Friends, trials, loss, prayer, lots of faith, even more grace .....

In the tradition of 'Aug 4th'... I will include my past entries for you to read and remember. "We've come a long way, baby!" We couldn't have done it without you - thank you for your prayers and support! I'll post Kindergarten pictures later this week! We love you dearly!!!

___________________________________________________________

Aug.4th, 2004
"Mrs. Dixon, we have located a large mass in Mary Grace's abdomen. We are seeing evidence of this mass on her liver and several spots on her lungs. We will be running extensive tests on her over the next 3 days to determine exactly what we are dealing with."

Mass? Liver, lungs? Mass? Tests on MY baby girl? Mass? Where are we? Mass! What the @#$@& is a MASS? You must be wrong! I'm a good mom... if there was something there- I WOULD KNOW! This just isn't possible~

Dr. Claire never used the 'C' word. Maybe it is from FAR too much experience breaking this news to heartbroken parents.... but I am still thankful for her bedside manner. She was as kind as she could possibly be, under the circumstances, but it is a moment in time that has forever changed my life.

fast forward one year ... ____________________

Aug 4th, 2005
"Mary Grace please stop dancing with the dog! Gracie.... please stop trying to put your french toast in the VCR! Mary Grace..... why is the remote control in the toilet?"

It has been a wonderfully, NORMAL day! After 30 rounds of chemo and almost 2 full months of inpatient care, after 23 radiation treatments, and finally surgery...... I have a wonderful, NORMAL, beautiful and very active (believe me on this one) little girl!

So, why is this day so important? One year ago ~ I couldn't see or imagine what my life would be like today. I was blinded by grief and confusion, disappointment and anger. I heard "treatment plans, chemo drugs, side effects and central lines." I saw bald children, stunned parents and IV poles. I felt the unconditional love of my family, the faithfulness of my friends and the supernatural peace that only God can give. This is a very important day. I have 'lived' more in the last 365 days than I have my whole life. From dispair to joy ~ I have experienced every emotion that life has to offer ~ and by the Grace of God I'm still here to write about it. Amen!

I was awake this morning at 6am. The anticipation of this day has made me uptight and edgy. There are certain days in a person's life that will always be etched in their memories..... For me...Graduations, my wedding, the day I told Todd he would be a Daddy for the first time, the birth of my children, Grant's first day of school and now..... Aug 4th. Each event marks a change in my life. A point where there was no 'going back'. Good or bad, "richer or poorer" whether I liked it or not.... This is my life!

On a day like today it would be very easy to get caught up in how unfair this monster can be. How much it hurts families and beautiful children. I have made a commitment to myself...."This is the day the Lord hath made. I will rejoice and be glad in it!" I will choose to spend this day counting the many blessings that have touched my life in the last year. I will pray a lot. I will hug my kids a few extra times today and then.... I WILL HOST BUNCO AT MY HOUSE FOR 12 LADIES! How can I feel sorry for myself when there are toilets that need to be cleaned!

So.... it is my honor (and my website.... so I can write as long as I want!) to share with you the things I am thankful for and the lessons I have learned during the last year. (Disclaimer.... I'm a little emotional as I write so please forgive me if I miss a name or two!)

1- I serve a very BIG GOD! I have called on HIM and HE is worthy of all of the glory. There is no doubt in my mind that my little girl is here today only by the Grace of God. Thank you, Jesus, for your hand of protection that has covered my family during this difficult time.

2- I have a pretty awesome family. From hospital trips to early morning radiation, my Mom and Dad and Aunt Sue really went up and beyond the call of duty! They took so much off of my shoulders.... helped me carry the load. You are such a blessing to me. Thank you for the sacrifices you had to make this past year to help us stay afloat... I truly appreciate each of you very much!

3- Grant is just an awesome kid! My concern for Grant was a major weight for me. I knew the amount of time Gracie's treatment would require of me and it broke my heart to think Grant might suffer. But Todd really stepped up and made sure he stayed on track! He helped with homework, bedtime, up for school and to the bus stop on time. Sometimes I wondered if they ever missed me! Mom, Dad, Robb (my brother) Shari and other friends took turns picking him up in the afternoon and keeping him until Todd could get home from work. Grant only missed 3 days of school this year (those were in May....long after our treatment was over) and he received the 'English Award' for his class. I am thankful for you, Grant! www.caringbridge.org/ga/grantdixon

4-Todd was in Alaska when Gracie was diagnosed. I can't imagine the emotional rollercoaster he was on, but he did exactly what needed to be done. He helped with Grant - very well I may add. He took away my fears that Grant would suffer from this illness. He allowed me to focus 100 percent on Mary Grace's care. I know I don't say it enough but... I love you very much! I can't imagine fighting this with anyone else.

5-We have amazing neighbors and friends! Thank you to Lake Soverign and the Raffle Committee (Sue,Charise and Cathy). Your help was such a blessing to me and my parents! Thank you to Marty and Shirley for your help with 'Grace's fund'. To everyone that contributed to it.... you helped us carry a staggering financial burden! To my neighbors that helped with meals and gifts...(Shari, Lori, Laura, Lynda, Cathy, Jennifer(s), Wendy(we love the spag sauce!) Cheryl, Julie,Betty,Melody,Stephanie et al) your thoughtfulness brought such joy everytime I opened a package or tasted a meal! All I had to do was mention a need and someone was there to fulfill it!! Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

6- Our internet friends. From church prayer lists to caringbridge 'surfers' this has truly been an amazing experience! YOU HAVE MADE SUCH AN IMPACT ON MY LIFE! To know people who don't even know me.... are praying for my little girl is... overwhelming. Please know that your prayer cover was evident every single day. God granted us peace in every decision and I give you credit for your faithfulness. God has exceedingly and abundantly anwered our prayers! Thank you!!!

7- Kylie, Brady, Catie, Kendrie, Will, Chandler, Jacob, Team Jack, Daniel,Gwen, Leigh, McKinley, Mary Ann, Akaya, Ben, I could go on.... each one of these children represent a family that we have come to love. These children are warriors that are supported by the most amazing parents and siblings I have ever met. We are different colors, live in different cities and make different incomes.... but we have all heard the same words.."Your child has cancer"... and we all cry the same tears. I can't really explain the bond that cancer families share but I can tell you I am a better person because of them. I am proud to be in a fight with these families and we all know... we will NEVER stop...we will NEVER give up!

8- Our awesome medical team- Scottish Rite and Egleston- you are making a difference for these kids! Dr. George, Dr. Rapkin, Dr. Marcus and Dr. Pitt.... You are medical miracle workers and I thank you for your wisdom. Our awesome nurses.... way to many to name each one, but.... special thanks to... Holly, Mandy, Nicole, Lili, LaClaire, Bonnie, Crystal, (the CT crew) Margaret, Emily, Mr. Mike, Shannon (rad tech), Erika - I think you have one of the toughest jobs in the world. You are special people and God has given each of you a very important gift.... you love these children even when it isn't easy. When they hurt and when they laugh..... We love you, too!

9-Camp Sunshine (Kerry- we love you!) CureSearch - (Kristin-you are one in a million and I thank you for your commitment to these kids) Coaching for the Cure, Macy's (Michael- keep 'em on their toes over there! Great things are going to happen) The Lighthouse - (Melinda- you are a 'safe place' for so many...)

10-This one is tough.... Sweet Haley, Keith, Maddie, Ethan, Stephanie, Coulter... so many children...TOO many children. These are my heros. I never knew the true meaning of determination, strength and unconditional love until I met these children and their extraordinary families. These children have left handprints on my heart and I will NEVER forget them. (Ok... sniff,sniff, must move on....no tissues left in the box....)

So, one year later, can I honestly look at this list and say, "I wish this had never happened"? I'm still sad my baby had to go through this but God has abundantly blessed us through this trial. I (think) I am a better person because of this. I have experienced God in a way some people will never understand. I still get scared every now and now (ha) but I'm doing better. I try to focus on the good things of the past year. I'm learning to slow down and enjoy the ride of life. (The easy river kinda ride rather than the roller coaster of last year!!)

Well, it's raining outside. I just heard Mary Grace announce that she is going outside to catch frogs and jump in puddles with her 'rain boots'. So.... I guess I'm going puddle jumpin' and frog huntin' this afternoon! Then.... I'm going to look for the rainbow... and Thank God for my puddle jumpin', frog huntin' little girl that is healthy and happy. Today is a good day... yeah, today is good!

Wednesday, July 25, 2007 7:40 AM CDT

Update Thurs 5:45 - Dr. George's nurse called and our afp was 2.5. AMEN!! Basically unchanged! Yeah! That still doesn't solve our 'potty' problems so we may need to investigate with a gi specialist before school starts. I'll let you know! Thanks for checking in!

Well.... the world now revolves around a 5 yr old!

Houston...we have immunizations. check.
Houston...we have all designated school supplies. check.
Houston...we ARE ready for Kindergarten. BLAST OFF!

Mary Grace will be heading to school on Aug 6th! She is very excited and I think Grant is a little excited about having his little sis at the same school. At this point...the colored pencils and 'pointy' crayons are enough to keep her excited. Ha! I know she will have a wonderful time but... you know how it is...she's my 'baby'! 3 years ago... Kindergarten was very a very hazy possibility and I am thrilled to share it with you all! I'll update with pictures and more after the big day!

Our summer is quickly coming to an end. We will hit White Water today. A promise that we haven't been able to get out of! (ever made one of those???) Then we were going to go camping for a few days; however, the weather report is promising some rain so .... I think 'day' trips to the mountains will be just fine! Next week we will concentrate on a new sleep schedule (getting them in bed before 10 ;) and getting up a little earlier so school will not be a TOTAL shock!

Thanks for checking in on us. MG has been fighting a stomach bug for about a week now. The pediatrician isn't alarmed... she thinks it's just a bug. Aug 4th will be our 3 year diagnosis date - unbelievable! We also had bloodwork done yesterday for her AFP. Dr George has allowed me do it every 3 months for my own sanity. We should have the results on Thurs. I'll let you know. Please pray for "LOW" (under 2 is good!!!) So... we still have some big dates coming up in the next few weeks. I'll update soon!
Love to you all!
DDD

Monday, June 18, 2007 6:41 AM CDT

(I'll post some new pics on the picture page later today!)

Oh... the summer begins! We've just endured a week of VBS (3rd-8th) and then a trip to Destin with Todd's work (8th -13th) It has now taken me 4 days to recover from the vacation! What's that all about??? The laudry STILL isn't complete ....sigh... like THAT's news?!

The weather was awesome! I was sorry to hear from our buddies that attended the Lighthouse Retreat the week of the 3rd....that you guys didn't have good 'flags'. We had beautiful water so...we enjoyed it for you! ha! My cousin and his family will arrive in Destin today for their first Lighthouse Retreat! I am so thankful that they were accepted and agreed to make the VERY long drive from TX with 4 kids under the age of 7. Please keep them in your prayers this week. I pray that it will be a time of relaxation and renewal for them as they meet other families and the amazing staff from the Lighthouse. "Come on in...come on over...come on in to the Li-house.." Oh...my heart longs to be there right now!!! Big hugs from the Dixons, everybody!!!

We are all doing great! MG is swimming without 'floaties' now. She still has an inflated sense of herself.... nothing new. We have to watch her very carefully. For some reason... I don't trust the 15 year old life guards at our pool... (they are too busy flirting with the 16 yr old lifeguards in the next chair to watch my child- oh...those we're the days...) Grant has turned into a regular fish. Somehow...over the winter...the child learned the freestyle and backstroke! No joke ...couldn't do it last summer! ...this year... boom... he's REALLY swimming! I'm super proud of him! He finished the 3rd grade with straight A's and he's just an all around great kid! (Beaming Mommy!;)

We have a few 'slow' (whatever that means) summer weeks in the near future. My cousin's family will stop here in Atlanta over the weekend of the 23rd before they head home to TX. That will be a fun visit with 8 kids running around. MG's next medical appt will be July 10th - Neuro-Psych evaluation. We've decided to go ahead with this one because of the awesome opportunity to see inside that little head! I think this will be good information to have as she enters Kindergarten - it may help them place her with a teacher that will be the best for her. She's a smart little cookie- NO doubt about that- we just have to make her think everything is 'her' idea! STUBBORN TO A FAULT! Does chemo cause stubborn-ness? (Is that a word?) Then...we have 'normal' 5 yr old vaccinations on the 20th. (She will turn 5 on July 19th.... um...happy birthday?)

Whew! Thanks for checking in on us! We are forever thankful for you all. Hope you are having a great summer.

PS- If you could send some rain to Atlanta...that would be great! Ha! We're getting a bit 'crispy' down here!

Friday, May 11, 2007 7:27 AM CDT

Well- It's that time of year again. School is winding down and I need an extra 8 hours for each day and an extra 3 days in each week! Coaches gifts, teachers gifts, busdriver gifts, gifts for the lady that holds the door open for morning carpool.....you get my drift! It's getting hectic and I'm sure that I will be MORE ready for summertime than my kids will be!

Gracie is doing great...I think the idea of kindergarten is starting to 'grow' on her. She realized yesterday that one of the little girls in her class this year will also be going to the same school with her next year. Now...all of the sudden...she's ready to go. They had a very deep discussion about the bus and how to get your lunch tray in the lunch room. She's a smart one! That's for sure!

While the 'Dixon' clan is doing great... I will ask for your prayers for a few of our friends.... Super Ryan (a friend from Camp Sunshine) relapsed last month and is currently back in treatment. He was 2 years 'out' before his relapse so... you can understand why it is so upsetting! They are such a sweet family!

Also... my cousin's son, Joey, will have a PET scan today to see why his AFP number is not declining. They are nervous about the scan and really need clarity and peace about the decisions to come.

Please remember my dear friends, Jenny and Tre'. They need to be covered in prayer at all times and trust me...God has granted them an extra dose of 'grace'! But this year will contain many, many "firsts" without our Catie-Bug.... we miss her so much. Please continue to pray for God's peace!

So.... I've resigned myself to another 'chunky summer'! Bring on the Pool! I might not be pretty...but I'll be cool! Maybe if I keep my lower half IN the water at all times no one will be able to tell! ha! That's my story...and I'm sticking with it!

Happy Mother's Day to all of the incredible Mom's I know! Especially MY mom! Happy Mother's Day...JUDE! Thanks for your constant support and love - you're the best!

Tuesday, April 24, 2007 3:37 PM CDT

***Update on Friday 4/27
Erica called with the AFP #s. She's a 2.05. Dr George is pleased so we are too. She was a 1.52 in Feb so it's a little nervous that it has gone up....however...sometimes that happens. Like I said...Dr George isn't worried so... we will wait until July to get another AFP! Yipee!!! Thanks for the prayers!

Hey everyone!!! Great news! Mary Grace was amazing today. She drank all of the contrast without ANY complaining.... 2 hours worth. The IV was super easy (as easy as possible) and she was still for the scan. Whew!

She requested a Fuddrucker's hamburger and vanilla milkshake for lunch - we were very happy to comply! She ate every bit of her lunch and ASKED to see Dr. George. I swear.... I think she could do this by herself. Sad... but true!

Dr. George was very pleased with her. The scan looked good - one minor comment about her liver - but he wasn't concerned (therefore, we will not be 'concerned') We will wait for the AFP numbers in a few days. So..I will be a little nervous until that little piece of information is confirmed. Overall-a good day. As far as 'scan days' go -we would like to copy this one over and over!!!!

Thank you for the prayers - we felt every one of them today. You are all so faithful and I am thankful for each of you!

Shout it from the rooftops....WE HAVE CLEAR SCANS!!!! BRING ON THE SUMMER!!!!!!

Monday, April 23, 2007 10:20 AM CDT

Hey everyone!!!
We've had a wonderful, beautiful weekend in Atlanta! It reminds us of God's goodness and the coming of Spring. We had a friend here in Atlanta relapse this past week and it's been difficult for all of us. Please remember to pray for Super Ryan as he begins a new protocol!

We will go for our 6 month scans and checkup tomorrow, Tues April 24th. It will be a full day so please keep us in your prayers. We did receive good news on her bloodwork in February but...somehow, right now... that doesn't bring much comfort. Pray for our peace- and sanity! Pray that MG will be cooperative and submissive for the scans. And pray for NO EVIDENCE OF DISEASE!!!!

I'll try to update when we get home. Thank you for checking in on us!!!

Friday, March 23, 2007 9:08 PM CDT

Hey everyone!
Boy....the trees are in bloom and the yellow pollen is HERE! That means 'springtime' in Atlanta has officially arrived!

We had an awesome St. Patty's day with my brother. He raised over $700 for ped research. And... he really doesn't look bad as a bald person! Thank you for your support! They raised approx $275000 dollars in Atlanta during this event! Awesome! We saw our nurse and one of our doctors.... It was nice to see them without lab coats!

Our baseball season(s) continue. Mary Grace is playing shortstop on her team (no lying.... she's really good) EXCEPT for one thing... she did crack the pitcher in the head with the ball this week at practice. He WAS in the way.... he was fine - so... I kinda have to side with her on this one. He should have been payin' attention! Ha! She loves the game and it is such a treat to see her out there. She is the only girl on the team and we got her a pink batting helmet! I'll get a picture and add it to the site! Too cute!

Grant's team is in 1st place and he is having a blast. He has a great coaching staff this season and he is turning into a good little player! I'm so proud of him - just a pleasure to be around!

We are thankful for every day. Sometimes I have to remind myself ..... but overall.... very thankful! I hope the weather is good where ever you are! We are sending sunshine and pollen your way! Ha! Have a great weekend!

Friday, March 9, 2007 8:20 PM CST

Wow! It's taken a while to update - Sorry. It was important (to me) for the tribute to Catie to stay up for a while. I will leave our butterfly border up for a little longer- it helps me think 'happy' thoughts of my precious little friend!

We've been very busy during the past month! Our school system had a winter break in Feb and we took the opportunity to go to DisneyWorld for the first time! We had a blast!!! I will add a few pictures on the picture page so.... check them out! It was a week FULL of memories and I'm so thankful we were able to go.

Gracie also started playing t-ball. PRICELESS!!! She is the only girl on the team and she's awesome! She likes gymnastics but....t-ball is her SPORT! What a fun time watching those little ones pile on the ball. Too funny!

My brother will be participating in the St. Baldrick's fundraiser here in Atlanta on St. Patty's day. He's raising money for research in Mary Grace's honor. I just gave 'permission' for her to be featured on the website so it should be up soon. He will be shaving his head if he meets his goal of $500. And guess who gets to do the shaving???? Yep.... his BIG sis! That's me! So please.... if you can... make a donation. Yes, we want to cure childhood cancer - but shaving my little brother's head is definately a PLUS! Ha! Check it out! Paste this into your address bar....

http://www.stbaldricks.org/participants/shavee_info.html?ShaveeID=9916

It's late and we have early games in the morning - I'll try to get the Disney pics up asap! Love and blessings-

DDD

Thursday, January 25, 2007 7:52 PM CST

I'm sorry for the delay in my update.... I know some of you have been waiting for me. Sorry. Honestly... it is hard to believe that tonight....1 week ago.... I got THE call. It is amazing to think HOW much has happened in 7 short days.

There are few days in my life that I can categorize as 'life changing'.... graduations, wedding, birth of my precious children.....and yes, diagnosis. But I can add 1 more event to that list.... sweet Catie Wilkins has left a lasting impression on me,too! The last week has taught me more about perfect timing,God's grace,unconditional love and true friendship than I've learned in my last 30( ) years.

"PERFECT TIMING"- Ecclesiastes 3:1-2
1 There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven: 2 a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot...

I know (in my head) that we are all going to die one day. I'm pretty sure of that. In my Christian faith... I also know that when we die we will either spend eternity with God or forever separated from His goodness. However, in my heart, it still hurts. So how can this be perfect timing? How can a family bury a child on Monday and give birth to another on Friday? Just when my brain cannot process any more hurt..... Jesus speaks to my heart again.... "I'm still in control". Amen!

When Jenny conceived this precious new baby... Catie was doing awesome! Disneyland and beach parties... it was a great summer. But God knew....

Then Aug 1st came and the news of that darned tumor was back. Another surgery, more chemo, a sick little girl.... Jenny's tummy's a little bigger...God knew.....

Christmas at home.... a restful time spent with friends and family.... lots of presents and kisses.... Bigger tummy....God knew....

Dec 28th - an MRI shows that the tumor isn't responding to the chemo and it's time to start attacking this tumor like never before! Catie continued to decline as her precious body was reeling from the treatment...feeding tubes, RSV, mucositis, fungus, liver numbers.....the prayers continued and the 'hits' on their caringbridge site reached 1 million visitors. The prayer warriors petition on Catie's behalf...... but God knew....

Jan 18th - I got the call that I had dreaded. Come to the hospital.... it doesn't look good. As requested, I called a few friends... and then rushed to the hospital. As I walked down that hall, it grew longer and longer. The smell of hospital soap (you know what I mean) made me gag. The sound of intercom pages made my stomach turn...but in my head... a soft voice repeated...."D.D., don't worry. My timing is perfect. Just wait and see. They don't have to walk these halls anymore. (Amen!) They don't have to worry anymore. (Amen!) I will wrap them in my grace and give them peace even through this difficult time. This chapter is over....but my timing is always perfect." WOW. GOD KNEW!!!!

Jan 22nd- During Catie's service... there was laughter and singing, beautiful speeches and a TRUMPET DUET by her daddy! That little girl will be missed terribly...... but the service was perfect in every way! Heaven has welcomed Catie with open arms.... I believe God is smiling to have her home.

Jan 26th 11:30 am- Only God knew, 9 months ago, that today would be the day we would welcome this new baby! Only God knew the heartache the last 9 months would bring. But today.... I will celebrate! Because God knows how much this baby is needed. To bring sunshine and new life to Jenny, Tre' and all of the friends that love them so much. God's timing is perfect and I am so thankful for it!

"AMAZING GRACE"- John 14:25-27
25 "All this I have spoken while still with you. 26 But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. 27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

John 16:33 - 33 "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."

Romans 15:13
13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

The night I walked into the hospital room, Jenny was curled up in bed next to Catie. She looked up at me and it was at that moment I knew.... I was standing on HOLY GROUND. I don't want to sound over-dramatic, but I need you to understand this point.... Jenny had a clarity in her eyes that I have NEVER seen before. As she welcomed friends and family into that room to say goodbye to Catie... it was nothing short of a miracle. God has granted Jenny and Tre' a "peace" that we can not explain. God's perfect time was NOW and He gave Jenny and Tre' perfect peace about the 'way it happened' and the timing. What an amazing gift!

I heard many people at the service marvel at how calm Jenny and Tre' were during the ceremony. Were they just in shock? How could they speak and perform at the service? "I would have been a nervous wreck!" But my dear friend Jenny continues to be an amazing testimony as she confessed to each and every person...."It's not ME! It's Jesus!" Amen! Thank you, Jesus, for my friend who continues to praise your name even in the storm!

I spoke with Jen yesterday. I think she's even a little overwhelmed by the peacefulness God has granted. Our prayers continue to bless them.... don't stop! What an awesome privilege to know God is hearing our prayers and sending his peace -THAT NONE OF US CAN EXPLAIN- during this time. We mentioned this next verse and we are thankful that God is still in the miracle business..... this type of peace is NOTHING short of a miracle!

Philippians 4:4-7
4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 AND THE PEACE OF GOD, WHICH TRANSCENDS ALL UNDERSTANDING, WILL GUARD YOUR HEARTS AND YOUR MINDS IN CHRIST JESUS, (emphasis mine)

"UNCONDITIONAL LOVE"
It was amazing to watch Jenny and Tre' as they left the hospital that night. As a cancer mommy... I know that I would do anything for my child. So...what happens when I can't do enough? When I can't kiss the boo-boo and make it go away.

I've never seen a mommy and daddy (and GA-GA! You did NOT go unnoticed Miss Carmen!) more dedicated to a child. I'm part of this 'cancer' world and I can tell you...... They did not travel an easy road! But with every trip, every treatment, every port access.... they did it ALL with unconditional love for that little girl. I never heard them complain about that 4.5 hour drive - UNBELIEVABLE! Thank you for your example. You have been (and continue to be) a source of encouragment for me and I love you for it!

"TRUE FRIENDSHIP"
I told Jenny yesterday that something special happened last weekend. For all of the 'Cancer families' that traveled to Savannah for the service.... I think we all felt the same way. It was a confirmation..... we are part of an amazing, special group that "WALKS THE WALK"! It relieved many of my own fears....God forbid that if I should ever go through this.... I WILL STILL HAVE FRIENDS THAT ARE WILLING TO STICK WITH ME WHEN THE TIMES GET ROUGH! Don't underestimate how hard that trip was for us. We all know that it is only by the grace of God that we have not been in the same situation. We live with the fear of this monster coming back for our children.... this hits a little 'close to home' - shall we say. But we are thankful that God gives us the strength...and peace...when we need it,too. It is FAR more important to be there for my "SISTER-FRIENDS" than it is for me to be afraid. God has given me amazing helpers during this journey and I am thankful for each of them...old friends and new friends that continue to amaze me as they join the fight!

I'm sorry for the length of this update.... I probably lost many of you by the second paragraph. It is important for me to put all of this in my own words. If you've read Kristie's page or Kristin's page..... I could say "Ditto". They summarize this past week in such a perfect way that it is difficult for me to add anything original to their commentaries. I won't try. We have all been touched by this amazing family. God CAN create goodness from this terrible situation...He already has. Thank you for letting me share my thoughts... now...I'm going to wait by the phone to find out if we have a new baby boy...or girl?! May blessings follow you all the days of your life......

DDD

Friday, January 19, 2007 1:39 AM CST

Many of you have read my stories and journal entries about our dear friends Catie, Jenny and Tre'. Tonight I witnessed one of the hardest things that this life has to offer..... two loving parents that had to say goodbye to a precious gift from God. Please take a moment and sign their guestbook.

www.caringbridge.org/ga/catie

They will head back to Savannah tomorrow to make arrangements and I know they would appreciate your prayers and thoughts.

I'm going to 're'post a journal entry that I wrote a few months ago. Jenny is such a dear friend to me..... and Catie always made me smile! Always! She was just sunshine on this planet - pure sweetness! I'm a little numb tonight.... it's been a long day and my heart is breaking for this awesome couple that never asked for this 'crap sandwich'. (!) We love you dearly..... and continue to stand by your side - no matter what!

Sept 30th 2006
Many of you have been following our family for a long time. For that....we are so grateful! We have made some wonderful friends during this journey..... prayer warriors, supporters and fellow cancer families. But I never expected to meet another mom that I swear could be my SISTER! Now... first of all... we are most definately sisters in Christ.... in that there is no doubt. She constantly lifts my spirit as we ponder how good God can be during this earthly nightmare. But I seriously think she might know how much I weigh and THAT IS CLASSIFIED INFORMATION!!! That's a sister-friend!

Ok...Todd is a wonderful husband! But I'm still a girl and according to statistics.... I use about 250,000 more words every day than he does! Sometimes....a girl just needs to talk! (Come on.... you know what I mean!) God has blessed me with so many friends that 'get' this whole cancer thing. But it all started 2 years ago..... on the 3rd floor of Scottish Rite hospital....Aflac Floor.... I was stalking (....um... I mean...WATCHING) another mom with a precious bald little girl that looked like she was close to Mary Grace's age! I thought..."potential play date"! Still in shock from our first round of chemo... I cautiously said 'hello' and she said....

"Hey, I'm Jenny and this is my little girl, Catie. What 'cha in for?"

And so it started! Tea Parties... coordinating clinic dates.... car calls (that's when she calls me during the 5 hour trip to Atlanta so she doesn't fall asleep!)....beach trips and the possibility that IF she has another little girl.... she might name her 'D.D.'(Ok... I did make that up but...it's worth a try!?) We've laughed, cried, played and prayed. We live 5 hours apart but.... you'd never know it! She is my friend in EVERY sense of the word and I love her very much.

Monday, December 11, 2006 1:31 PM CST

Hey everyone!
I hope this update finds you in the 'holiday spirit'! My shopping is finished and it is almost time to start BAKING!!! (And I wonder why I gain weight??? HA!) I can't believe how many 'teachers'/'coaches' gifts we need this year. While it can be expensive.... we have been blessed with wonderful teachers for our kids! So.... I have a few gifts left and I'll be done! Yipee!!!

We attended the Lighthouse AND Camp Sunshine Christmas parties over the last week. What fun to see our friends! We missed a few of you....ummm.... Gwen, Jack, Chandler ...to name a few! Hope you are all well...please know we missed your smiling faces! We are so thankful for these organizations! If you are looking for a worthy charity to donate to during this time of the year.... both of these organizations are WELL worth it! Both of the links are at the bottom of this page. Thanks!

We are healthy and happy this Christmas. What wonderful, wonderful words! Please know our hearts are full of love for all of our 'supporters'. I don't know how we could do it without you ALL! Our hearts miss our friends that we've lost this year..... to the families that are left behind. You are never far from our thoughts! May God bless your families this Christmas season... and may 2007 bring health and happiness to everyone!

A special request... you all know our dear friend Catie Bug! She's had a rough month.... please keep her family in your prayers. She will return shortly after Christmas for her next round of chemo...... Pray for a healthy holiday season for the whole family! They need some quality time at HOME before that new little baby comes next month! Leave them a note and let them know you are checking on them! Thanks!
www.caringbridge.org/ga/catie

Monday, December 11, 2006 1:31 PM CST

Sunday, November 5, 2006 9:20 AM CST

UPDATE on Monday afternoon!!! Dr. George's office just called with wonderful news!!!! Her AFP level is at an all time low ***1.82**** We are so thrilled! Thank you, Jesus, for our continued blessings! Thank you for checking in for the great news! ....another Thanksgiving and Chrismas with happy hearts! AMEN!

*New pics on the picture page, too!
Hey there! I wanted to post a note about my sweet cousin's son. Joey, is 5 months old and is facing the SAME cancer that Mary Grace had. (www.caringbridge.org/visit/joeybrooks)
They had an elevated AFP level last week and they are doing tests to see if something is going on. Please keep them in your prayers... this 'waiting' thing is the pits!

After our wonderful news... we were laughing about our day! It is amazing how 'normal' this has become! Mary Grace is not thrilled with the IV.. but otherwise..does really well!

This is what our 'scan' day looked like....

6am- leave home
6:10- drop off Grant's backpack at mom and dad's house before he leaves for school
6:15- stop at the local gas station for a �blue� Gatorade for her contrast and some coffee for mom and dad
7:30 am � arrive and check in
8am- start drinking contrast � cup #1
8:01 � tongue check� Is it blue yet?
8:02 � begin craft project (popsicle stick picture frames)
8:04- finished with picture frame craft (Oh�..great!)
8:05- take clothes, curling iron, and cup of contrast to the restroom and get dressed for the day!
8:25- begin DVD movie - Mermaidia
9am- finished 1st cup of contrast! Oh, crud�� here they come with the 2nd one! UGGG!
9:15- 2nd craft project � Color Magic markers
9:16- Mommy goes upstairs to visit Miss Catie and leaves daddy with MG to finish the contrast! Ha!
9:45 � Mommy�s back� Catie is doing fine today! We head back for IV
9:48 � The IV is in�� people have come from all over the hospital to see what all of the screaming was about! NOT a happy camper! Both of her stuffed animals are now wearing matching arm boards and she has earned a very special�.. glittery� purple pencil holder from her favorite nurse, LaClaire! (I swear she�s going to be a politician one day!)
10am ish- Head back for scan � she did awesome!

10:30 � We all go up to visit Catie and Jenny. A local radio station was doing a radio-thon to raise money for our hospital yesterday. We all went downstairs to watch and Jenny spoke on the radio. I held sweet Catie while she was talking! Mary Grace doesn�t have the IV anymore�� however, she want to keep the �arm board� so she is still getting sympathy from everyone that passes by! We had a great visit and they went up to pack for home!

11:30 � Lunch at our favorite burger joint

1:30 � Clinic visit with Dr George � It was the first time in 2 years that he didn�t have our scans ready for us. From what I understand�there was an emergency in the CT dept. after we left so�� it delayed our scan read. So, he did the physical exam� she looks great. She has been complaining about tummy aches and leg pain � enough to put mommy in the funny farm! Dr. George agrees with my �politician� forecast and thinks she�s taking advantage of her mommy and daddy. Now�. Doesn�t that just bless your heart! Thanks, Dr George! He said he would call (UGGGG) with scan results and AFP number when they were available.

2:45 � We were able to visit with our friends Joshua and Elijah at clinic. They both looked awesome. God has provided many friends through this journey!!!

3:30- Headed home�..with 8 million of our closest friends! Traffic is so much fun on Friday afternoons!

5pm- Home with a message from Dr George! �Scans are stable�.. look great. I�ll call on Monday with an AFP!�
5:01 � Mommy heads to bed for the night! HA!!!!

We love you all! Please continue to pray for these kids.... Catie, Dustin, Joshua, Joey, and the many others. I've learned of a few new kids... Gracie and Lillie that would benefit from your prayers also. Thank you for your faithfulness!

Thanksgiving will mark 2 years post chemo! Our last chemo was Nov 29th 2004! Praise God! Enjoy the new pics! And be good....the Tooth Fairy is watching!
DDD

Friday, November 3, 2006 8:20 PM CST

Sorry for the late update. For the first time in 2 years, Dr. George did not have our scan results ready for us during our clinic appointment! Talk about stressful!!! Have they seen something? Are they waiting to talk to Dr George privately before he talks to us? Are they discussing treatment options before they tell us??? I'm telling you..... the DEVIL can (and will) destroy your mind if you let him!!! Dr George promised to call as soon as he learned the results. So.... we had a very long and quiet ride home.

However, by the time we arrived home.... Dr George had already called with those wonderful, WONDERFUL words that I will never get tired of hearing....ALL CLEAR! No change from the previous scans....we are still waiting on the blood work but everything looks fine....'we'll see you in 6 months!" Praise the Lord!

So.... we are all headed to bed! With a promise to sleep late in the morning! (Sounds great, doesn't it?!) And I promise (I'm raising my right hand, honest!) to post Halloween pictures tomorrow! Lisa and the other CT mobsters (just kiddin...we love you!) nearly tied me up for my lack of Caringbridge etiquette! I promise to update pictures tomorrow!

Thank you for your prayers and continued support....we are forever grateful for each of you! So.... on to a very thankful, Thanksgiving and a very, merry Chrismas! Ho, Ho, Ho!!!

Triple Dee~

Monday, October 30, 2006 1:26 PM CST

We are having a wonderful fall! Camp Sunshine was wonderful (as always) We missed some of our old friends... but we made some new ones! This was our 5th family camp....and we promised to come back until they stop inviting us! Grant and MG will probably be counselors before it's all said and done. It is so much fun to see their little eyes light up when we tell them we are going. True joy!

I need to write and let you all know that our next set of scans will be this Friday Nov 3rd. Our last scan in July was very good and we don't have any reason to expect anything less; however, I don't want to be too 'confident'. These scans always feel like you are stepping to the edge of the world..... waiting....they are simply - awful! Please continue to pray for peace and good health.

I'll add some new pictures soon and update on Friday after we meet with the Drs. Sweet Catie will begin her new chemo on Wed. Please keep them in your prayers as well!

Love you all!
D~

Tuesday, October 17, 2006 2:03 PM CDT

Hey everyone!
We are doing fine.... and staple-free! The staples came out on Friday.... HOLY DRAMA, Batman!!! It was worse than having them put in! I think the Dr was pulling her hair and that was putting her over the edge! Then.... we topped it off with a flu shot! Talk about adding insult to injury! Needless to say... we did head straight for the halloween store to get the puffiest...poofiest... TOOTHFAIRY costume we could find! Well deserved I might say!

We went (or should I say...witnessed) the UGA game on Sat. We left at 7am on Sat morning...stopped at the nearest Cracker Barrell for breakfast.. then headed to Athens for 'Homecoming'. It was a pathetic game but we had a great day. The weather was beautiful and the kids were both really good. Overall... a fun day!

Our good friend, Catie, had her surgery yesterday. I spent some time with them during the surgery and was there when the surgeon came out. The good news.... Catie is recovering very well! She will move out of ICU today and she is sitting up and talking without problems. She's having a little trouble keeping food down...can you blame the girl? But overall.... so far...so good.
The bad news.... they did find cancer cells in the spot they were removing. Which means Miss Catie is in for some more treatment. We are not sure what that means.... the Dr's will meet on Thurs to discuss her case. Please pray for wisdom for the doctors. What an awesome responsibility they have! We pray for clarity and unity in their decision making ~ it is difficult when they come back with differing opinions!

You know how dear this family is to us! Please continue to pray and know that we are thankful for our prayer warriors! 'There by the Grace of God go I.....' That saying has gone through my head a million times! We scheduled our next scans this week.... Friday Nov 3rd. Please mark your calendars!

....remaining thankful for every day!
DDD

Tuesday, October 10, 2006 10:41 AM CDT

Hope you are all well! I'm sitting in the kitchen with ALL of my windows open.... listening to a hawk 'scream' in the trees of my backyard. The sun is shining, the breeze is crisp and I LOVE EVERY MINUTE OF IT!!!! I wanted to update you with our latest 'Gracie' moment!

Last Thurs I was on the phone with Jenny (Catie's mom) and I got one of those annoying 'beeps' on the phone. Well.... it was Gracie's school....
"Mrs. Dixon... Mary Grace was hanging by her knees on the playground and she fell and cracked her head. We've stopped the bleeding and...she insists that she is ready to go back to class....but we feel like you should probably get her to the Dr asap!"

Now... can't you just imagine the conversation....

Teacher: "Oh...Mary Grace...ARE YOU OK?????"
MG: "This??? It's merely a flesh wound!" (Monty Python humor)
Teacher: "No... I think you need to see a doctor"
MG: "That would require me to miss school and my audience needs ME!"

Well.... the injury DID buy her a trip to the ER and 5 staples in the top of her head! Ya know... just when things get boring around here.... she feels the need to spice things up a little! I'll try to get some pictures this week. She has told everyone that she busted her head open and is very proud of the staples. Good grief.... the kid is practically BIONIC at this point!

Also... on a funny note. MG and Grant were watching TV this weekend and we heard her laughing out loud. She came in to explain the humor. They were watching a Disney show called 'Drake and Josh'. Cute show. Anyway.. Drake was having a dream that his band had been invited to perform on the Oprah Winfrey Show.... something went wrong and... in his dream... Drake ended up running over Oprah with his car. Gracie thought it was funny. (I don't know where she got her sense of humor...)

So... she comes in the living room and tells us...
"Drake was dreaming that he ran over OKRA with his car! Ya know....OKRA...with the big hair!"

Too funny! We've laughed about the 'big haired OKRA' all weekend! Hope it brought a smile to your face! Kids are priceless! Have a great week!
DDD

Friday Sept 30th

*New update- I just found out that Catie's surgery has been postponed until Oct 16th. Her platelet count is too low at this time to do the surgery. Now.... let me tell you what this means! As a momma- you know that evil monster is in your child and you just want it out!!! But the Drs are telling you "NOT YET". Those 2 little words are enough to drive you crazy...and I mean that, CRAZY! Please pray for Jenny and Tre'! It is very difficult to carry on with life when you know there is something lurking inside your baby. Pray that the devil will not establish a foothold of fear and worry in this precious couple! Pray that the followup scans will show that this latest spot has been miraculously healed! Thank you for your faithfulness and I'll update when I know more!

We are doing great and the weekend looks like it's going to be beautiful! Let's hope the Georgia Bulldogs can look a little better this Saturday - uggg- last week was painful! Go Dawgs!

Many of you have been following our family for a long time. For that....we are so grateful! We have made some wonderful friends during this journey..... prayer warriors, supporters and fellow cancer families. But I never expected to meet another mom that I swear could be my SISTER! Now... first of all... we are most definately sisters in Christ.... in that there is no doubt. She constantly lifts my spirit as we ponder how good God can be during this earthly nightmare. But I seriously think she might know how much I weigh and THAT IS CLASSIFIED INFORMATION!!! That's a sister-friend!

Ok...Todd is a wonderful husband! But I'm still a girl and according to statistics.... I use about 250,000 more words every day than he does! Sometimes....a girl just needs to talk! (Come on.... you know what I mean!) God has blessed me with so many friends that 'get' this whole cancer thing. But it all started 2 years ago..... on the 3rd floor of Scottish Rite hospital....Aflac Floor.... I was stalking (....um... I mean...WATCHING) another mom with a precious bald little girl that looked like she was close to Mary Grace's age! I thought..."potential play date"! Still in shock from our first round of chemo... I cautiously said 'hello' and she said....

"Hey, I'm Jenny and this is my little girl, Catie. What 'cha in for?"

And so it started! Tea Parties... coordinating clinic dates.... car calls (that's when she calls me during the 5 hour trip to Atlanta so she doesn't fall asleep!)....beach trips and the possibility that IF she has another little girl.... she might name her 'D.D.'(Ok... I did make that up but...it's worth a try!?) We've laughed, cried, played and prayed. We live 5 hours apart but.... you'd never know it! She is my friend in EVERY sense of the word and I love her very much.

One of the constant fears we face (as cancer moms) is the fear of this monster coming back. How can we go through this again? The girls are older... will they understand if it happens again? They are getting a bit stubborn (we think they get that from their daddies... Yeah..right!) - will they submit to treatment? Well, my dear friend is living the nightmare. Sweet Catie had a very questionable scan last week and they are headed to Atlanta for more surgery. According to the website... surgery is scheduled for Friday Sept 29th. It will be more aggressive than her previous surgeries so.... the risk is obvious.

What do you do for a friend when this happens? (Ok... In the South.... you bring FOOD.... that's a given;) I'm going to 'rally the troops'! Prayer warriors.... we need you in a BIG way! Please mark your calendars for Friday morning at 12 noon. Please leave a message on their site (www.caringbridge.org/ga/catie) and let them know we are storming the gates of heaven! She has the best medical team in the country ~ we really believe that! Pray for wisdom and guidance as Dr. Hudgins operates on that tiny little body. Pray that this will be the final step that will remove the cancer from her body forever! Pray for Jenny's health as she carries a new baby through this ordeal. Pray for Tre'~ the stress of family, and a job, and being the 'Daddy' is such a difficult position.

Jenny- I love you. We serve a mighty God and His timing is PERFECT! Stay strong my sister. You are being lifted high on our prayers ~ rest in that knowledge and GO GET YOUR PRECIOUS GIRL WELL!

DDD~

Wednesday, September 20, 2006 12:20 AM CDT

I know it's been a while.... life has been good and we are enjoying the first 'cool snap' of the season! The kids are on Fall break and Grant and I have just returned from Wisconsin. Gracie and Daddy had a wonderful weekend together....fishing, going to the park and eating chocolate chip cookies! Sounds good, doesn't it!

I had a wonderful time with all of my friends for the Quiet Heros luncheon. They raised over $150,000 for pediatric research on that Saturday. What a special time to be with my friends, meet new friends and reflect on this journey. Good and bad. I love all of you and I am thankful for each of your stories! Thank you for the investments you have made in my life!

Well, as you can tell by the new picture.... Miss Mary Grace got a hair cut! New season....new 'do'! It does require some time to fix but it is adorable on her! She has such a sassy little personality that it just 'fits'! She's growing like a weed and she has a new wardrobe to show for it!

Please pray for our friends Catie and Joshua. Strength and healing through the chemo.... and peace for the mommas!
Love you all and we hope cooler weather is on it's way to your house as well!

Sunday, July 30, 2006 3:27 PM CDT

Ok.... where to start? We have just returned from the BEST beach trip I've EVER, EVER had! Except for a few small 'hiccups', I could not have asked for anything more! We met new friends (with AWESOME kids!!) we saw old friends (with AWESOME kids) and spent a little time on the beach for a little R and R!

What a great opportunity to be in the mist of other people that love the Lord and take the time to care about others! We truly appreciate our family partners, Carla and Jen! Grant and Mary Grace loved them and they had a blast! Thank you for your sacrifice this past week. I know that you gave up vacation time to be with our family but.... we are so glad that you did! We loved meeting you, both!

Please take a moment and check out their website http://www.lighthousefamilyretreat.org/
I could spend 4 days writing about this amazing ministry but... the website says it all! Instead.... I will show you pictures of a family that has returned.... refreshed, revived and very loved!

First... a great big THANK YOU to our friend Melinda. She is the founder of The Lighthouse Family Retreat. Her love for these children (and their families) can not be explained with words! What a blessing you are to us!! Thank you!

That's right, folks.....BEACH OLYMPICS! We were on the mighty RED LOBSTER team!!! We claw...We bite...we put up a big fight....GOOOOOO Lobsters! Yeah!

There were a total of 110 people there last week! 11 'cancer' families and the rest were volunteers that came to help us have a wonderful time. The house in the background was 'our' home for the week. We shared a 5 bedroom/5 bath condo right on the beach with 3 other families! What a hoot!

We started every morning at 8am on the beach with a devotional time. What a blessing! Then, the parents had breakfast together while the volunteers took all of the children for swimming, arts and crafts and fun stuff. We met back on the beach for beach olympics at 11:30 and then lunch was at 12:30. Family free time was from 1 - 5:30! Can you say 'sand castle'?

I'm goin' on a crab hunt.... I'm not afraid!!! (I bet the CRAB will be!)

Mission accomplished! My friend Catie and the latest victim!

This is a fact of life....and I don't care WHO you are or WHERE you COME from.....
A NAP ON THE BEACH...UNDER AN UMBRELLA = PRICELESS!!!

Thursday night was an awesome Luau. Todd had to make a quick (is there such a-thing) trip to San Francisco. Mary Grace learned how to hula hoop and we did the 'chicken dance' on the beach.

Grant doin' the limbo.... not too bad!

On Friday night... all of the children put on a Talent Show. Mary Grace did the hula hoop and Grant broke boards with his Tae Kwon Do. Pretty cool if I do say so myself!
Mary Grace's carriage ....

All of the daddies did a hula dance.... Todd... I love ya... but please don't quit your day job! Too funny!

Grant and Mary Grace holding their medals from the show...

The trip was amazing.... but we saved the best for last! Early on Sat morning @ 7am.... many of our friends gathered with us on the beach to celebrate a very special occasion. Grant accepted Christ in his heart 2 weeks ago and he made the decision to be baptized while we were on this retreat. What a wonderful and special event. Thank you to all of our friends that joined us! I know that Grant is a special boy.... and God is preparing him for great things. Enjoy the pictures.... I think my heart is going to pop!

A very special Thank you to Mark Brown for helping with the Baptism. I truly believe in my heart that everything worked out exactly like it was supposed to. Why? Because.."God is good, God cares, God is in control and....God wants me to know him!" See there... I was payin' attention! Thank you again!

So.... you might understand (just a little bit) how special this week was for us. You also need to understand that The Lighthouse Family Retreat picks up the tab for the ENTIRE week! Lodging, food, personal notes and hershey kisses on our pillowcases every night..... EVERYTHING!!! If you are able to buy a raffle ticket.... please help us support this awesome ministry. Please pray for our new friends: Summer, Andrew, Elijah, Hannah, Catie, Jerica, Jordan, Jill, Gwen, Cyndi, Joshua and Payton (who was unable to attend the retreat because of treatment)

School starts on Tues Aug 1st!!!! Thanks for a great summer!!!!!!

Wednesday, July 19, 2006 9:11 PM CDT

Sometimes....pictures really are worth a thousand words! We had a great (and very hot) day! Thank you for checking in on our precious birthday princess!!!

Actually.... now that I think about it... I think all of these pictures have something in common.... what do you think?
Grace age 3

Grace age 2

Gracie's 1st bday!

And WHERE did she get this awful habit????

See ya'll later!! We are off to the beach! I'll update with pictures later!
Be well!
3D~

Wednesday, July 12, 2006 1:48 PM CDT

Monday update....AFP Bloodwork just came back.... IT IS A 2!!! Excellent news! We can NOW take a deep breath and get ready to celebrate at the beach next week!!! Here we come Lighthouse!!

Update Friday evening 8:30pm~
CLEAR SCANS!!!! It has been a very long day so this won't be a very long update. Mary Grace was absolutely perfect today!!! We downloaded some fun kid's songs on Todd's ipod last night and she listened to them all morning! She drank all of her contrast (for almost 3 hours) while singing and dancing in the waiting room! What a hoot!!!! We were bumped for a little while due to an emergency but...SHE DID GREAT!

Scottish Rite has a new SUPER-DUPER CT machine that has made my life MUCH nicer!!! The entire scan only took about 15 seconds and we didn't have to sedate Mary Grace - for the very first time!!! She was a perfect little statue! The nurses told her how well Jack did on Wed and..... she rose to the challenge! So... thank you, JACK! Way to go, buddy!

We visited our friends at the clinic and then saw Dr. George. After a 15 minute exam of Mary Grace's ears and mouth....that's her favorite part.... He told us the scans look fine! AMEN!!! We will return in Nov for our next set of scans and our first visit to 'survivor's clinic'! How wonderful does THAT sound!!!!! He was very impressed with our little princess. She is growing up so fast.... remember, she had just turned 2 when she was diagnosed so.... he really has watched her grow up!

Her birthday is on Wed 19th... 4 yrs. old! We had a total blowout party last year..... a little smaller this year but YOU BETTER BELIEVE we are just as thankful for another 'GRACIE' filled year! Thank you for your continued prayers...we are forever thankful. I'll update a little more when my eyes will stay open! LOVE YOU ALL!!! WE HAVE A HEALTHY LITTLE GIRL...AMEN!

DDD

Hey everyone!
I know it's been a 'boring' summer in the update department. We were in and out most of June and July is finally calming down a bit. It has been fun sleeping in..... and NOT having a schedule! If we want to swim...we swim. If we (ok..ME) want to take a nap.... we strap everyone to the nearest bed so I (um...I mean....)WE can take a nap. You get my point!

Well... to the important stuff..... Scans are this Friday. This will be our first Oncology appt. in 6 months. It has been wonderful and scary all at the same time. My stomach is doing flips as I write this.... the nerves have already started. Again, it is the realization that this nightmare could start over again on Friday..... UGG. She has been pure joy this summer. So curious and active! We will claim everyday as a victory! Let's all pray that Friday is just confirmation of what we know in our hearts.... God has healed this little girl for a reason!

Thank you for your prayers regarding my cousin's newborn baby boy, Joey. I hope you read the updates on his site.... no chemo! Praise God! We are so fortunate to have our prayer warriors! Thank you for your support.

I will update on Friday evening. Our scans are scheduled for 9:30 so it will be a very early morning with traffic and 2 hours of contrast prior to the scan. Then lunch and Dr. George! Please pray for my sanity and peace....above all...peace. God already knows what Friday has in store for us.... and I trust Him!

Enjoy the pictures from our Super Summer!!!

If you fill up your kid's sandbox with water to make a swimming pool....
YOU MIGHT BE A REDNECK!

Please note... this is not her swimming suit! The little rascal just jumped in before I could even change her clothes! UGG!

Gardenias in the toes

Yep.....definately a redneck! This picture pretty much proves it!

Decorating Mommy's toes!

HOPE YOU ARE HAVING A GREAT SUMMER!

Thursday, June 22, 2006 10:29 AM CDT

Whew! What a month! End of school.... beach trip...Tropical Storm Alberto..... Camping....fishing....boating....LIFE IS GOOD!
We had a wonderful trip to the beach. Mary Grace was a little beach bum this trip! How much fun!!! It was neat to watch her catch 'sand fleas' and jump the waves! What a blessing in my life!

Me and big brother!

Hanging out catchin' critters!

"Did you know you can see things better like this?"

"Look Mommy, they crunch if you do THIS!"

Unfortunately our trip was cut short with Jenny and Catie due to some really crummy weather! We ended up renting a car and coming home a few days early. We really enjoyed our time with our friends but....as always.... it is never long enough.

Having dinner with my buddy, Catie!

Overall..... we are doing fine. Our next scans are scheduled...July 14th will be the big day. I can't believe it's been 6 months. Wait a minute.....YES I CAN! It seems like a lifetime! We still struggle with the unknown..... but it is the constant reminders of this terrible disease that keep us on guard! My dear friends.... prayer warriors... I ask you to add another very special child to your prayer list! My cousin's new baby was diagnosed with the SAME type of cancer Mary Grace had. He was born on June 5th and was diagnosed the next day with testicular germ cell cancer. Now.... we've been told from the beginning that this does NOT have any type of genetic link. But... it is very difficult to imagine a 3rd child (another 1st cousin's child was dianosed with Wilms' in October.... she is currently in remission after completing her treatment) in my close family has now been affected by cancer! They did surgery when he was just 4 days old to remove the tumor. They will do scans on the 27th and then decide on treatment. His website... (by permission) is caringbridge.org/visit/joeybrooks. Please add it to your favorites and pray for this special family! They are wonderful, Godly parents and they are asking for your prayer cover. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

We have many 'irons in the fire' right now. I will update when I have a bit more time. God is working in my life right now. My 'relaxing' summer still hasn't happened! Please pray that I will submit to God's call on my life - to stay in His will - even when it gets a bit uncomfortable for me! We love you all! Thanks for checking in and I promise to update again very soon. Please pray for baby Joey and his family...... they need your prayers just like we did when we were in the 'trenches'.

Sunday, May 21, 2006 7:39 PM CDT

Wow! What a month! The flowers are blooming, the weather is beautiful and I can actually SMELL summertime right around the corner! We have had a great month; however..... I'm ready for the 'rat-race' to end and I'm ready for a little R & R!

We went to Camp Sunshine April 28-30th. Again.... a wonderful trip. It is such a special time for us to be together as a family....with close friends and counselors that love us. I have NO DOUBT in my heart that Grant Dixon will be part of this camp for a long, long time!! Mary Grace will be right behind him. Grant really 'comes alive' at Camp Sunshine! He could be the youngest camp director alive....watch out Kerri! Ha! We enjoyed our time with Kendrie's family. Grant and Kendrie's big bro, Kellen are fast friends! And Mary Grace (literally) became one of the Escoe's kids for the whole weekend! She loves hanging around with 'big girl' Braden! Todd and I were blessed to celebrate our 12th Anniversary at Camp Sunshine this year! Does it get any better than that!!!

(and no.... I'm not really sure what the little kid in the background is doing...!?)

For Mother's Day weekend, we went to Callaway Gardens with my parents and my Aunt. It was cold and rainy but we were still able to visit the butterfly house! Priceless!

"It's ok, MOM! If I just move slowly....."

And last...but not least! I will leave you with THE VERY BEST PICTURE IN THE WORLD!!!!! Mary Grace had her dance recital yesterday. Two full hours of tu-tu's and tears! Oh....joyous day! Mary Grace did awesome! There were a few meltdowns from other children but....Mary Grace performed under the pressure like a champ! Enjoy this priceless picture and have a great week!!!!

Monday, April 17, 2006 9:00 AM CDT

We hope you all had a blessed Easter! It was beautiful in Atlanta and MANY easter eggs were found!

Soccer season continues and the official 'summer' countdown has begun. We all have spring fever like crazy!! I've been working in the yard for about a week and it is starting to come together. I love my flowers and this is my favorite time of year. I'll have a little help later this week so I hope to put the finishing touches on the yard so I can really start to enjoy it.

Gracie continues to amaze us. The picture of health and becoming more independent every single day. She got her new 'slide' bed last week and is OFFICIALLY sleeping in her own bed. (I'll add a picture soon!) She still fights it a little every night ....but it's getting easier.

I pulled out my calendar this morning to start planning the next few month. I'm so excited about all of the opportunities we have coming up. Camp Sunshine, a trip with my family to Callaway Gardens, Mary Grace's first dance recital, Lighthouse beach trip, swimming lessons, The 'CureSearch' golf Tourney in Savannah http://www.cureclassic.org/ You may see someone you recognize!!! We are so honored to be involved!!

Again, I sat a moment in awe of everything God continues to put in our path. I received an email last week from a family in NY that is facing the same type of cancer. If you remember.... the germ cell cancer is not a very common type of cancer so there isn't much information out there. Please keep them in your prayers. She is a BEAUTIFUL little girl and I know they would appreciate your prayers. I'll update more when I can!

Check the pic page for new Easter pics! I've got to get the little princess to ballet right now! Love to you all!
DDD

Saturday, March 11, 2006 7:50 PM CST

What an awesome day!!! 78 degrees in 'Hot'lanta and soccer season is upon us!

We started the day with a 9am game for Gracie! Grant and his cousin were more interested in a movie than the game....

We are such the proud parents. She scored her first goal today! What a hoot!!! We were yelling and cheering like she had just won an olympic medal! I'm sure most of the parents thought we were nuts when I teared up because my 3 yr old just scored a dinky soccer goal.....but....I KNOW most of you can appreciate what a precious gift that silly 'goal' was today! One year ago..... a soccer goal was just that....a goal. Today.... we made it! Yipee!!! This is a picture of Mary Grace and her cousin...who is also on our team. How cute are they????!!!

10:30am- Then we went to watch my nephew play a game at a nearby park! He scored a goal, too! So far....So good!

12:00noon- Then we hit the local sandwich shoppe. Grabbed some lunch and headed for the lake!

The lake is still a little low....and the trees are still bare but.... it was still a great day to be on the water! Todd and Gracie tried to fish but..... no luck! There is NO doubt that Mary Grace will be Daddy's fishin' buddy. Grant just wanted to go home and Gracie was mad at the fish for not biting her hook. Go figure!

3pm- Back to the soccer fields for Grant's game. We had a little time to spare so we played on the playground for a while. I think this is one of my favorite pictures I've ever taken of Mary Grace. She was sliding the slide and her hair kept getting bigger and bigger!

Grant played a great game, too. Since this is his first season.... they have a lot to learn. But he really seems to enjoy it and that is what counts! You can see Mary Grace was not very interested. She took a SERIOUS nap during the game! Who could blame her???? That's Grace under the blanket!

8pm- Back home.... a steak on the grill. Kids in the bathtub.... the end of a GREAT DAY!!! Thanks for sharing it with us! Your prayers mean the world to us and we will take every opportunity to say.....THANK YOU!

Clean.... very sunburned (oops!) and rollers ready for Sunday morning! God is good!

Tuesday, February 28, 2006 9:49 AM CST

Hey everyone.... just heard from Dr. George.....AFP is 3! Yipee! That is great news and you probably heard my 'sigh of relief' from whereever you are!!!

It is beautiful in Atlanta this week.....should be in the 70s by the end of the week. Gracie was pointing out tulips in the yard. Now....if I can just keep her from digging them up!!! I'm sure to have Spring Fever by the end of the week!

Thanks again for your prayers. God is good. Enjoy the new pictures and please continue to pray for our friends. These kids are amazing fighters...... pray for good results, scans, and wisdom for all of the moms and dads that have to make these horrible decisions!!!

Thanks and have a great week!
DDD

Friday, February 24, 2006 7:00 AM CST

CLEAR Scans!!! Gracie was awesome yesterday! (Ok...the IV was a little 'hairy' but..... I'm 34....ummmm 27..... and I hate those things so.... I'm not going to blame her for that one!)

Everything looked great and we are still waiting on the AFP bloodwork. Hopefully, we will get the results today so we can relax for the weekend. But.... it will probably be on Monday.

I'm headed for a Dr. appt. right now. I'll post some new pictures when I get home. We took Todd's mom to the Aquarium on Wed for her bday. What a blast!!!!

Love you all and appreciate your prayers! Wanted to post the good news.....

DDD

Friday, February 10, 2006 9:34 AM CST

I've moved the 'snow pictures' to the picture page. I think some people were having trouble viewing them. I think I have create a monster! She keeps asking when it is going to snow again! It's hard to explain to a 3 year old that it doesn't snow very often in Georgia!

We have a BIG weekend planned! We will start a new Sunday School class on Sunday that we are very excited about. We help teach this class 2x a year so we are ready for the winter semester to start! God brings wonderful families through this class and it is a blessing to watch him work in each situation. The class is called "Raising Godly Children".

THEN!!!! We are going to the circus! We will see some of our friends that we haven't seen in a while! Gracie is a little scared of the clowns so... I'll have to update you on that little phobia!

I hope you all have a great weekend! Our next scan is scheduled for the 23rd. I'll let you know more about that as it gets closer!

Monday, February 6, 2006 10:34 AM CST

Oh what a day!!! We have SNOW!!!! Real, fluffy, cold, wet, SNOW!!! Enjoy the pics! It didn't last long....but it sure was fun while it was falling.

Can you eat this stuff?
"Than you thee it on my thung?"
Hot Chocolate Mustache!

Have a great week. We are all healthy again.... we love antibiotics!

Monday January 30th, 2006

Just a quick update! We have a little cold. UGG! We put her on an antibiotic late last week so Dr. George wants to postpone the CT scan. We will have it on Feb 23rd instead of tomorrow. We didn't want any 'spots' of congestion showing up again!!! Thanks for checking in!

Friday January 27th, 2006
Ok...... we had one of those moments today that I need to share. First of all..... nobody call DEFACS on me! I really am a good mom....(most of the time!)

Mary Grace is a great little helper....at least SHE thinks so. She helps with everything. Loading the dishwasher. Washing the dishes. Baking bread. Sweeping the floor. I guess to a 3 year old these things look like 'fun'. (Unfortunately....some where around age 10 they realize these are actually chores and you can no longer get them in the same room!) However, Mary Grace's 'helping' usually means MORE work for ME! Today.... I made bread. She LOVES TO HELP MAKE BREAD. I tear off a small piece of dough, give her a small rolling pin and let her have a good time. That gives me enough time to roll out my dough and get it into the pans so it can rise. BUT..... now Mary Grace is covered in flour, has bread dough in her hair and has sprinkled enough flour on my kitchen flour that you can practically skate through it. Let the clean up begin! "Here, Mary Grace......let me put your stool over near the sink and you can wash dishes while I clean up this mess." So...I slide her stool over to the sink..... fill it up about 1/4 of the way with soapy water and give her 3-4 piece of tupperware to 'clean'. I proceed to sweep up flour and clean the countertops......

MARY GRAAAAACE! What are you doing with the 'spray thingy' on the sink!!!! (What is that thing called, anyway?) There is more water on the floor now than there is in the sink!!! UGGGGG!!!!! "But mommy, I'm cleaning the dishes!" (mommy...."1,2,3,4,5,6, deep breath...7,8...")

"You go and watch Dragon Tales while I clean up this mess." ....10 minutes to find the 'right' show for her to watch...then she needed a drink...(apparently.... washing dishes works up quite a thirst!)

Ok...mess cleaned up....bread in oven....Chipper (the poodle) outside for the 10th time today. He has been arfing all day so I'm afraid to leave the house. Who knows what HE got into.... I just hope I don't find any surprises later on today!

Working on laundry. Taking clothes out of dryer. "Mommy, can I help?" ARGGGGG....where did you come from?!@!!!!

"Is Dragon Tales already over?"

"No...I just want to help you, mommy." Ok....I was feeling like a slug at this point! This precious little girl just wants to be with her mommy. Who could want more?! "OK...Mary Grace. Can you help me pull the clothes out of the dryer and into the basket?" Hey....she's pretty good at this! Surely she can't mess this up! "Good girl, Mary Grace!"

Ring...Ring....... "Let me grab the phone. You keep up the good work Mary Grace....I'll be right back."

She DID finish the job. Quite well, I might add. But....you know Mary Grace..... she always puts her own "spin" on each situation!!!

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I just had to laugh. Hey....the girl makes the best out of everything ! Hope you all have a great weekend! We love you!

P.S. To make it even better(or worse).....Todd was home sick while all of this was going on! And....I did step in that 'surprise' when I walked into my closet this evening. I'm glad the weekend is here!

Monday, January 23, 2006 3:48 PM CST

Hey everyone!

The rain continues here in Atlanta....lots of puddles and one very busy little girl! We've been riding the new bike in the garage..... ya do what ya gotta do!!!! Trying to burn some extra energy before mommy goes nutso! Other than a little cabin fever....we are all great!

Grant tested for his RED belt last weekend. He only has 2 more belts to go. Then he will be a blackbelt and I will officially be the proudest mommy on the block! He really has come a long way in the last year.

Gracie has discovered the computer! It is such a hoot to watch that little bitty finger play with the mouse! She is very good! She uses a little preschool program that teaches numbers and letters. She is having a blast!

Not much going on..... just trying to stay dry! Please keep our friends in your prayers.... Dustin, Catie, Kylie...so many! Our next CT has been moved to Jan 31st. After this CT...we will move on to the next phase...every 6 months instead of 3 months. UGG! Nerves!

Hope you are all well. Sorry for the delay on the cookbooks. I've been a little covered up with a little 3 year old! Sorry. More info soon! Thanks for your interest. They should be back in print by Feb 1st!!! Love to you all!

DDD

Saturday, January 7, 2006 9:22 AM CST

My child has a new love in her life! Horses. The only problem..... I am so allergic to them I can't even be around the clothes she wore when SHE was around them! UGGG! I hope she enjoyed this ride because it may not happen again for a very, very long time!

My mom and dad treated her to a day at Tanglewood Farms (www.tanglewoodfarmminiatures.com) last week. They had a blast. They got to see Grace's 'strong' personality when it was time to come home! She was ready to apply for a job! She did NOT want to leave..... hence the hissy fit to the car! Sorry, grandparents! Welcome to my world.

Just so you can say a big 'Whoo-hoo' today...... Jan 5th 2005 was our last radiation therapy! We are officially 1 year post treatment! I called Egleston on Thurs to say hello to all of our wonderful caregivers! We had a moment of celebration! It was so good to talk with them and let them know how great MG is doing! Angels, I'm tellin' ya.....they are angels in scrubs! We love you all!

Just a few notes and prayers on my heart.

1-Our good friend Catie returns to Atlanta tomorrow for her 3rd brain surgery for a very stubborn spot that doesn't want to go away. Her surgeon will be operating on 'Baby Noor' from Iraq early that morning. Please pray for him, too. There will be a LOT of media and press surrounding this 'Baby Noor surgery'. Pray everything goes well and he is able to perform 2 very successful surgeries on Monday! I think Catie's surgery is scheduled for about 11am. /ga/catie

2- Our friend Dustin Cobb is heading to MD. I just got an email from his mom and I know they are nervous. Dustin is an amazing kid with INCREDIBILE determination! They are such a stong family! Please pray that God will go before them and provide strenth, peace and a successful treatment!/ga/dustincobb

3- Our little friend Kylie is a big sister! We welcome, Christian Grant, to the world and rejoice with their family! What a blessing! Congratulations!/ga/kyliescorner

4- Little Gracie Bell, one of the children on our Lighthouse trip, went to heaven on Jan 1st. I am still in awe of this beautiful family. Even through earthly sadness and trials, Steven and Lynne gleam with God's strength. How is it possible that during the most difficult times God can still use heartbroken people to minister to others? Anyone that has met the The Bell family knows how! I've said it before..... Bro. Steven.... God is using your family in a mighty way! Thank you for sharing precious Gracie with us! We love you and our prayers will continue. /ga/gracie

It's never over dear friends! We are blessed by good health right now but our fight will never end! I have created a cookbook for my Mom's Christmas present. However, I have had several requests to sell them so........ If you would like a copy.... the cost will be $15. It has 50 pages of family recipes and Mary Grace's story. I will include the address to send payments on Monday. Once I receive your check, I will mail your copy. It has truly been a labor of love! I'm very proud of it! Thank you for your suppport and prayers! You know we thank God for you every day!

Monday, December 26, 2005 1:05 PM CST

What a wonderful Christmas! Santa was very good to all of us and it was a great day! Mary Grace got a new bike and a 'rockin' guitar' from Santa Claus. It has been a very musical (I guess you can call it 'musical') weekend at our house. It has been 26 hours since Santa visited..... 26 LONG hours. Just kiddin'. She loves the music and I love to watch her dance!

I spent the greater part of November and December working on a gift for my mom. I created a cookbook of family recipes along with the 'story of Mary Grace'. It was a labor of love and I am really proud of it! It turned out great. I have had a few requests to purchase a few copies. I'm working on it right now. Let me figure out the logistics and costs and I'll let you all know when they will be available.

We had a great day filled with laughter and .... food. Lots of prayers for our friends and family members that were not here with us. We love you all! We hope your homes were as 'thankful' as ours.......... best wishes for a HEALTHY and happy 2006!

Please keep our dear friend, Catie Wilkins, in your prayers. They will return for her 3rd surgery on Jan 9th. Pray for wisdom and healing!!! They are such an awesome family. Let's pray that this is the final piece of the puzzle and they will soon hear those 4 beautiful words ~ NO Evidence of Disease!

Tuesday, November 29, 2005 4:27 AM CST

Well, we have been very busy this past week. Thanksgiving was wonderful. We missed my mom and Aunt Sue....they made a special trip to Texas to visit my family. But... all in all... the turkey was good, the dressing was awesome and I'm sure I gained at least 5 pounds so.... I would call that a successful Thanksgiving!

November 26th, 2004 was Mary Grace's last day of chemo. It is a very strange feeling to say "It's been a whole year." It just doesn't seem possible! Time is certainly playing tricks on me because this past year has flown by. Maybe that is a blessing! Mary Grace saw a picture from our 2004 Christmas card on our refrigerator yesterday. (I'll add it to the picture page so you can refresh your memory, too) She said,"Mommy, what happened to all of my hair?" In a few short months... she has already forgotten so many details! I know it is a blessing...but still hard to believe! So many things have happened since Aug '04. So many people.... so many blessings.

We put up our Christmas Tree on Friday. I have to be honest. Many of you made comments about my "Thanksgiving '04" entry.... and I'll add it below..... but I wasn't quite as calm THIS year. Thankful...YES. Calm....NO! Mary Grace was on OVERLOAD. She was bouncing from one box to another... pulling stuff out as she went. Each box held a better surprise than the last one. It was fun watching her but....THAT GIRL CAN MAKE A BIG MESS!!! She finally found a Nutcracker a decided that he needed surgery. (His mouth was broken - go figure!) We gave him a shot...which required 3 bandaids. And she wrapped him in a blanket and sat with him on the sofa and sang Christmas carols.
****Just an observation..... the child has beautiful baby dolls in her room. Does she play with the beautiful baby dolls in her room? NO! She wants to play with a Nutcracker! I guess that is part of the new toy vs. cardboard box argument.... you just never can tell what they're gonna like!
Anywho... I DID end up glue-ing 2 ornaments back together and I had to get tinsel off of the dog but...I WOULDN'T HAVE IT ANY OTHER WAY! We are so thankful to have a healthy, happy Mary Grace this year.

Please continue to pray for our good friend Catie. They are facing some tough decisions right now. They are one of the many blessings we have received through this journey. Pray for clear scans in December! We love you!

I'll add last year's journal if you would like to read it. (December 1st WAS our first day of radiation. We ended on Jan 5th.) Enjoy your Christmas shopping. May your lines be short and your parking spaces be close to the door! HA!

****Last Year's journal****
Monday November 29th 2004
This Thanksgiving was strange for me. 4 days after the REAL Thanksgiving.....I sat there with a huge plate of food, watching my whole family (brother,sister-in-law, their kids, mom,dad,aunt,etc) and realized how quickly and dramatically our family has changed in one year. All because of one small child and a 6 letter word. EVERY SINGLE one of us has been affected by this disease. It was bitter sweet to know this MIGHT be the last Thanksgiving we spend with her. (She's doing great so that thought doesn't linger very long) But..... why don't I think that way about EVERY single person around that table????? Someone else could get sick or hurt in a accident.... any number of things. Things can change SO fast and fate doen't ask your permission! It happens and you deal with the consequences. So, I tried to tell every person there that I loved them and then I took my family home a little earlier than normal. We put on some Christmas music and we put ornaments on our tree. Gracie sang songs and broke about 4 ornaments. Guess what! I didn't care! I enjoyed every moment! She was having so much fun I just sat and watched..... and cleaned up her messes. Grant was a great brother as he handed her every ornament and let her put them whereever she wanted. He told me, "Mom, don't worry.... I'll go back later and put them in the right places! She can't reach very high, ya know."

"Never take the little things for granted." How many times have you heard that? What does it really mean? It means this..... THANK YOU, CANCER! You are evil but..... you have taught me how to love my life! You have ravaged my little girl's body, but she is beating you! I will live everyday with the fear that you will return...... but confident in the one who can defeat you! You have taught me to appreciate every moment of life because I may be the one to disappear tomorrow. Little things? I don't believe in little things! Last year...... putting ornaments on our Christmas tree was a 'little thing'. This year..... it meant EVERYTHING!

Friday November 4 2005

Nov 11th - A great big "CONGRATS" to our dear friend, Catie. She finished her treatment this morning. After 2 yrs and 1 month of treatment...... they are done! They will have THE scan next week to see the final results..... please keep them in your prayers. They are an awesome family..... WE LOVE YOU GUYS!!

Great News!!! The scans looked awesome! Dr. George said the spot was significantly smaller and was no longer a concern! AMEN!!! Again, we don't know for sure what it was.... I'm just happy it's not there anymore! Thank you for your faithful prayers today. We have had a long.... but good day. Mary Grace drank all of her contrast without ANY complaint! The IV was a breeze and we only had to do the scan one time! The results were good and her hearing test was perfect. Today was a good day.
We will return in Dec for normal bloodwork and late January for our next scan. We have another 'anniversary' coming up, too. Gracie's last chemo treatment was Nov. 24th, 2004. Almost one year ago! Can you believe it? We love you all....thank you, thank you, thank you for your prayers! We know we are not walking this path alone!

Tuesday, October 18, 2005 3:43 PM CDT

I'm going to go ahead a post a few pictures~! Not enough time to journal (properly). Todd comes home tonight so I should have some time to update a little later! Until then.... Enjoy a few pictures of our 'Most Excellent Adventures!'~

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Oh...sorry....that was YOUR sandcastle?

Grant with the local wildlife

Grant with our family partner, Chris! That's one DEEP hole!

Homemade mud baths! Yuck!

Chillin'

Morning Devotion with Dad

THE most handsome boy on the beach!

My 'first' haircut.... again!

Mom and Dad in San Fran! What an awesome trip!

Wednesday, October 5, 2005 6:28 PM CDT

Friday Oct. 6th

We went to the Ped. yesterday for the antibiotic. She confirmed a sinus infection (I could have told her that after the 'Booger Streamer' Mary Grace shared with me earlier in the day! Oh sure.... it's gross. But all of you mom's know exactly what I'm talkin' about!!) However, she did not hear any conjestion in her chest. I REALLY wanted her to hear conjestion.... but, hopefully the antibiotic will do it's job on that icky spot, too!

Thank you again for your prayers. We are preparing to go to Florida next week for our Lighthouse Trip. Our original one was 'Hurricaned out' by Dennis in July. I can't tell you how excited we are. It will be awesome to watch the kids on the beach and fellowship with our friends. (Plus.... it will help a few days pass until the next scan) Please continue to pray. We need clean scans and good bloodwork!

Love to you! DDD
...................................

re�lief (re-lef) n.

The easing of a burden or distress, such as pain, anxiety, or oppression.

This has been a very difficult day. Thank you for your prayers! All I had to do was ask.... and you were there~ in multitude~ to help us through this scare. I didn't want to get too specific until we knew more.....

Dr. George found a spot on Gracie's lung yesterday. It wasn't there in June..... it is now. The hard part.... he can't tell what it is. It is just....THERE. It could be relapse.... it could be conjestion. Gee, thanks. Could you be a LITTLE more vague! As I have stated before, Gracie's cancer puts off a 'marker' in her blood called AFP. It increases when a tumor is present. We have been on pins and needles waiting for the count to come in. In June it was 1.5, in Aug it was 3 (not a big deal... normal is 0-15) Today..... it was at 2! Praise God! It is the best news we could get today!

We will report to the pediatrician tomorrow and let them listen to her chest for conjestion. I will push for an antibiotic to clear any infection that might be present. We will have scans in one month (Nov 4th) to compare. Hopefully, we will have more info at that time.

I didn't want to send everyone into a panic before we knew something. But at the same time.... I desperately needed my prayer warriors. Thank you for storming the Throne on our behalf. Because we do not have any concrete answers at this point.... the next 30 days will be very difficult. Satan tries to capture my thoughts with each passing moment and I can honestly say it is a battle to keep my eyes and heart focused on God's will. Please continue to pray. This fight is FAR from over. We love you so much. Thank you for helping us carry this burden. I'm going to bed now. Didn't get much sleep last night and I think this kinda stress ages me terribly. If you see me on the street..... you better tell me I look 'mahvalous!!' Cuz I feel like I'm about 108 right now!!!!

You are so special to me!
3D

Tues Oct.4, 2005 8:50 PM CDT

Dear friends..... Pray tonight. I beg you..... PRAY HARD! I'll update when we get her AFP bloodwork back. (probably Thurs)
.......................................
We had a wonderful weekend at Camp Sunshine. Every time we go I swear it couldn't get any better... and.... each time I am proven wrong. They do such a wonderful job making us feel welcome! If you ever need a worthy charity to contribute to...... this is a wonderful choice! I promise!

We have our next 'follow up' CT tomorrow morning. (Tues Oct 4). Please keep us close in your prayers. I can not deny that these days are stressful and full of emotion. When we were diagnosed.... we were completely surprised. No warning... just blown out of the water! However, with scans.... we know the consequences going into the scan. It is a real 'gut check' to know this nightmare could be less than 24 hours from starting all over again. Is it growing inside of her again and I don't know it? She said her tummy hurt yesterday.... is it back? I know this monster will never leave my mind.... my heart. But it reaffirms my faith ..... reveals my human weakness..... and my unwaivering belief that I serve a GOD much bigger than cancer! He calms my nerves and speaks to my very soul. He tells me He is in control. That's all I need to know! Amen!

I will update tomorrow evening when we get home. It is sure to be a long day! Between scans, doctor's appts., rush hour traffic, homework and karate...... I may be pooped..... but I promise to write and give you the good news! *wink*wink*

Please keep our friend Catie in your prayers. She has started her radiation. I think all is going well so far. They have become very dear friends..... we love them so! Please pray for all cancer to be destroyed and her precious body to remain.... perfect! We also have a new friend, Mary Evelyn. We met her awesome family this weekend at Camp Sunshine. She will be back for chemo this week preparing for a 21 day transplant next month. Please pray that all of her counts and marrow are exactly where they need to be! Such a sweet, sweet family ..... they immediately stole my heart and I know they will appreciate your thoughtful prayers!

Until tomorrow, dear friends! Pray hard! We love you!

3D

Wednesday, August 10, 2005 8:53 AM CDT

Ok, it's time. We are doing great but we have just past a very important 'anniversary'. I have been putting this journal entry off for 6 days now. I've added some new/old pics. I have been scolded by my friends and neighbors so..... it's time.
____________________

Aug.4th, 2004
"Mrs. Dixon, we have located a large mass in Mary Grace's abdomen. We are seeing evidence of this mass on her liver and several spots on her lungs. We will be running extensive tests on her over the next 3 days to determine exactly what we are dealing with."

Mass? Liver, lungs? Mass? Tests on MY baby girl? Mass? Where are we? Mass! What the @#$@& is a MASS? You must be wrong! I'm a good mom... if there was something there- I WOULD KNOW! This just isn't possible~

Dr. Claire never used the 'C' word. Maybe it is from FAR too much experience breaking this news to heartbroken parents.... but I am still thankful for her bedside manner. She was as kind as she could possibly be, under the circumstances, but it is a moment in time that has forever changed my life.

fast forward one year ... ____________________

Aug 4th, 2005
"Mary Grace please stop dancing with the dog! Gracie.... please stop trying to put your french toast in the VCR! Mary Grace..... why is the remote control in the toilet?"

It has been a wonderfully, NORMAL day! After 30 rounds of chemo and almost 2 full months of inpatient care, after 23 radiation treatments, and finally surgery...... I have a wonderful, NORMAL, beautiful and very active (believe me on this one) little girl!

So, why is this day so important? One year ago ~ I couldn't see or imagine what my life would be like today. I was blinded by grief and confusion, disappointment and anger. I heard "treatment plans, chemo drugs, side effects and central lines." I saw bald children, stunned parents and IV poles. I felt the unconditional love of my family, the faithfulness of my friends and the supernatural peace that only God can give. This is a very important day. I have 'lived' more in the last 365 days than I have my whole life. From dispair to joy ~ I have experienced every emotion that life has to offer ~ and by the Grace of God I'm still here to write about it. Amen!

I was awake this morning at 6am. The anticipation of this day has made me uptight and edgy. There are certain days in a person's life that will always be etched in their memories..... For me...Graduations, my wedding, the day I told Todd he would be a Daddy for the first time, the birth of my children, Grant's first day of school and now..... Aug 4th. Each event marks a change in my life. A point where there was no 'going back'. Good or bad, "richer or poorer" whether I liked it or not.... This is my life!

On a day like today it would be very easy to get caught up in how unfair this monster can be. How much it hurts families and beautiful children. I have made a commitment to myself...."This is the day the Lord hath made. I will rejoice and be glad in it!" I will choose to spend this day counting the many blessings that have touched my life in the last year. I will pray a lot. I will hug my kids a few extra times today and then.... I WILL HOST BUNCO AT MY HOUSE FOR 12 LADIES! How can I feel sorry for myself when there are toilets that need to be cleaned!

So.... it is my honor (and my website.... so I can write as long as I want!) to share with you the things I am thankful for and the lessons I have learned during the last year. (Disclaimer.... I'm a little emotional as I write so please forgive me if I miss a name or two!)

1- I serve a very BIG GOD! I have called on HIM and HE is worthy of all of the glory. There is no doubt in my mind that my little girl is here today only by the Grace of God. Thank you, Jesus, for your hand of protection that has covered my family during this difficult time.

2- I have a pretty awesome family. From hospital trips to early morning radiation, my Mom and Dad and Aunt Sue really went up and beyond the call of duty! They took so much off of my shoulders.... helped me carry the load. You are such a blessing to me. Thank you for the sacrifices you had to make this past year to help us stay afloat... I truly appreciate each of you very much!

3- Grant is just an awesome kid! My concern for Grant was a major weight for me. I knew the amount of time Gracie's treatment would require of me and it broke my heart to think Grant might suffer. But Todd really stepped up and made sure he stayed on track! He helped with homework, bedtime, up for school and to the bus stop on time. Sometimes I wondered if they ever missed me! Mom, Dad, Robb (my brother) Shari and other friends took turns picking him up in the afternoon and keeping him until Todd could get home from work. Grant only missed 3 days of school this year (those were in May....long after our treatment was over) and he received the 'English Award' for his class. I am thankful for you, Grant! www.caringbridge.org/ga/grantdixon

4-Todd was in Alaska when Gracie was diagnosed. I can't imagine the emotional rollercoaster he was on, but he did exactly what needed to be done. He helped with Grant - very well I may add. He took away my fears that Grant would suffer from this illness. He allowed me to focus 100 percent on Mary Grace's care. I know I don't say it enough but... I love you very much! I can't imagine fighting this with anyone else.

5-We have amazing neighbors and friends! Thank you to Lake Soverign and the Raffle Committee (Sue,Charise and Cathy). Your help was such a blessing to me and my parents! Thank you to Marty and Shirley for your help with 'Grace's fund'. To everyone that contributed to it.... you helped us carry a staggering financial burden! To my neighbors that helped with meals and gifts...(Shari, Lori, Laura, Lynda, Cathy, Jennifer(s), Wendy(we love the spag sauce!) Cheryl, Julie,Betty,Melody,Stephanie et al) your thoughtfulness brought such joy everytime I opened a package or tasted a meal! All I had to do was mention a need and someone was there to fulfill it!! Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

6- Our internet friends. From church prayer lists to caringbridge 'surfers' this has truly been an amazing experience! YOU HAVE MADE SUCH AN IMPACT ON MY LIFE! To know people who don't even know me.... are praying for my little girl is... overwhelming. Please know that your prayer cover was evident every single day. God granted us peace in every decision and I give you credit for your faithfulness. God has exceedingly and abundantly anwered our prayers! Thank you!!!

7- Kylie, Brady, Catie, Kendrie, Will, Chandler, Jacob, Team Jack, Daniel,Gwen, Leigh, McKinley, Mary Ann, Akaya, Ben, I could go on.... each one of these children represent a family that we have come to love. These children are warriors that are supported by the most amazing parents and siblings I have ever met. We are different colors, live in different cities and make different incomes.... but we have all heard the same words.."Your child has cancer"... and we all cry the same tears. I can't really explain the bond that cancer families share but I can tell you I am a better person because of them. I am proud to be in a fight with these families and we all know... we will NEVER stop...we will NEVER give up!

8- Our awesome medical team- Scottish Rite and Egleston- you are making a difference for these kids! Dr. George, Dr. Rapkin, Dr. Marcus and Dr. Pitt.... You are medical miracle workers and I thank you for your wisdom. Our awesome nurses.... way to many to name each one, but.... special thanks to... Holly, Mandy, Nicole, Lili, LaClaire, Bonnie, Crystal, (the CT crew) Margaret, Emily, Mr. Mike, Shannon (rad tech), Erika - I think you have one of the toughest jobs in the world. You are special people and God has given each of you a very important gift.... you love these children even when it isn't easy. When they hurt and when they laugh..... We love you, too!

9-Camp Sunshine (Kerry- we love you!) CureSearch - (Kristin-you are one in a million and I thank you for your commitment to these kids) Coaching for the Cure, Macy's (Michael- keep 'em on their toes over there! Great things are going to happen) The Lighthouse - (Melinda- you are a 'safe place' for so many...)

10-This one is tough.... Sweet Haley, Keith, Maddie, Ethan, Stephanie, Coulter... so many children...TOO many children. These are my heros. I never knew the true meaning of determination, strength and unconditional love until I met these children and their extraordinary families. These children have left handprints on my heart and I will NEVER forget them. (Ok... sniff,sniff, must move on....no tissues left in the box....)

So, one year later, can I honestly look at this list and say, "I wish this had never happened"? I'm still sad my baby had to go through this but God has abundantly blessed us through this trial. I (think) I am a better person because of this. I have experienced God in a way some people will never understand. I still get scared every now and now (ha) but I'm doing better. I try to focus on the good things of the past year. I'm learning to slow down and enjoy the ride of life. (The easy river kinda ride rather than the roller coaster of last year!!)

Well, it's raining outside. I just heard Mary Grace announce that she is going outside to catch frogs and jump in puddles with her 'rain boots'. So.... I guess I'm going puddle jumpin' and frog huntin' this afternoon! Then.... I'm going to look for the rainbow... and Thank God for my puddle jumpin', frog huntin' little girl that is healthy and happy. Today is a good day... yeah, today is good!

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Thursday, July 21, 2005 7:06 PM CDT

Ok.... a quick minute to update while Todd puts in 'Springtime with Winnie the Poo" for the @#$%$@!! time today!

We had a marvelous weekend with family and friends! We missed a few friends, Kylie in NY for treatment and Brady in Florida for his Make a Wish Trip, but overall it was a great day. We ended up with over 30 people in my house..... what was I thinkin'? There was food, and games, and the BIGGEST ice cream cake you have ever seen!!! (Did I mention that Hurricane Dennis has cancelled our trip to the Lighthouse retreat next week? So..... I DID eat most of that stinkin' cake...... so there!!!!)

Mary Grace and friends went from outside, to inside, then up to her room (which they destroyed!!!), back outside.... you get the picture! They were so much fun to watch as they ran in and out in their dress up clothes, grass skirts and tiaras! Whew.... I'm tired just thinking about it!

It was a special time to celebrate our precious angel and a time to thank all of the special people that helped us through this past year. Neighbors, friends, family and most of all.... the precious hand of God that carried us through this most difficult time. Thank you, also, to our 'web' friends that offered prayers on our behalf. What a humbling experience to know you pray for us and check in on OUR baby girl. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

On a serious note...... when Mary Grace was diagnosed.... I can't express the confusion we felt. Why? How? Why us? Well.... we surrendered to God pretty quickly. And he has continued to bless us through this ordeal! Yesterday, I received a phone call from my neighbor. Her best friend's little girl was diagnosed with Wilm's tumor on her kidney on Tues 19th (Gracie's bday) She wanted me to bring Gracie to the hospital to let them know that KIDS DO BEAT CANCER!!!! Amen, Amen, Amen!!! I spent all morning making a folder for her mom, Kim. All of the important information we've used during the last year. Even the menus from the restaurants that deliver to the hospital!!!! What a blessing to me.... to know that God has used me to help this family that is shocked to the core. I have a need, a passion, to give back like so many of you that have helped me this past year!

Taylor had surgery today....21st... and she is doing well. Please, please, please stop by her website and let them know we are praying for them. www.caringbridge.org/visit/taylorcooper

We slept late this morning..... we ate fruity pebbles for breakfast..... we watched "Springtime with Winnie the Pooh"(told ya so).....We swam today for 3 hours and ate ice cream sandwiches at the pool....... we went to karate..... we met Daddy for dinner at our favorite Mexican restaurant...... I got a 'zerbert' in the parking lot.... and the GIRLS beat the BOYS home. Today has been a great day! Thank you for sharing it with us!

DDD

Thursday, July 21, 2005 11:01 AM CDT

Oh my..... I'm just now recovering from a busy weekend. Gracie is in my lap now making it very difficult to update! I'll write more when I can. We had a great day and we are so thankful for our little girl!!! I wanted to get a few pictures up as soon as I could!

Please check on our new friend caringbridge.org/visit/taylorcooper She is in surgery today and could really use your prayers! Thank you!

Tuesday, June 28, 2005 6:59 PM CDT

Wow! A LOT has happened and I'm sorry I'm so late updating this page!

We had tennis camp and Vacation Bible school in June! What fun! Mary Grace's teacher made a web page and I'll include it so you can see how much fun they had! Just cut and paste! http://vbs05.tripod.com She is still asking to go back to 'Sunday School'. What a blessing!

Grant did awesome at tennis camp. It's fun to watch him right now. He's really starting to excel and he's starting to enjoy athletics more and more. He has continued with his Tae Kwon Do this summer and is advancing quickly. He will test for his blue belt on July 16th. (Only 4 more until black belt! Unbelievable!!) He enjoys it and that's what's important.

We had our family reunion last week in TX. http://www.tbarm.com We had a blast! It was hot but...... the waterpark made it ALL better. Check it out! http://www.schlitterbahn.com/nb/attractions-masterblaster.asp We left Gracie with the cousins and took Grant for a little 'big kid' fun. We all had fun and we can't wait to go back in 2007!

Even bigger news! We had another CT before we left. It kinda caught us by surprise.... they called and said Dr. George was going to be out of town for a few weeks and wanted to bump us up so he could see her before he left. Ok..... here we are! Every thing still looks good. Her bloodwork was a little off so we will re-do it tomorrow but nothing major. He reminded us that the next 12-15 months are very important. (Thanks for the reminder, Dr. George! Like I really needed that!) Overall..... pretty good!

I started my diet today. I am broadcasting that for accountablilty purposes only! If I'm not skinny-er the next time you see me...... you have my permission to harass me! We will leave for the Lighthouse Retreat at the end of the month and the thought of a swimsuit is a scary one. (No one knew me at the waterpark!) I am so excited about taking Grace to the beach. She loves to be outside and explore. I know it will be a memorable trip and we are all in desperate need of a little R & R!

And one last thought..... I am currently reading "The Strong Willed Child" by Dr. James Dobson. FOR A REASON! I have mentioned in previous posts that our precious angel has turned into.... well.... there is not a nice way to say it... A DICTATOR! She tells people what to do, when to do it and HOW to do it. (I really don't know where she gets it) The part that is so amazing; however.... is the fact that people actually DO what she tells them to! Especially kids! They act like, "Well, she seems to know what she's talkin' about so we better do it!" It is funny to watch but it has become a problem. We are currently working on 'shaping' (NOT breaking) her very stong will. We know God gave her a strong disposition and I truly believe that is why she has conquered cancer like a champion. But.... she's not much fun to have in public right now! Check the new picture..... do I really have to say anything else? I didn't think so!

Love to you all! Special prayers for Kylie (we miss you terribly) and Katie who will be back for BIG surgery next week!

Friday, May 27, 2005 3:11 PM CDT

Today is the last day of school! Today is the last day of the worst year of my life..... yes, even worse than 8th grade. Big bangs, Footloose, parachute pants, "Love is a battlefield" ...... most of you know what I'm talkin' about!

Today we start a fun-filled summer..... cookouts, camping, fishing, boating, beaching (is that a word?) and loving my family! Mary Grace is dying to go to the pool..... it's freezing right now so I'm trying to make do with the sprinklers in the backyard. So far... so good. The less I have to appear in my bathing suit in public... the better. Mary Grace's birthday is July 19th and her DX date was Aug 4th. We still have many milestones to cross.... praise God we will be here to cross them!!!

I will do my very best to update and send new pictures as often as possible. I love you all dearly and want to keep you up to date on our little miracle. Your prayers have helped us through this year and I celebrate WITH you! Please continue to remember our friends...... Happy summer y'all! Please give us a call if you are in the area! We'd love to see you!

Friday, May 13, 2005 8:07 PM CDT

Wed. May 18th-
WE HAVE ONE HEALTHY LITTLE GIRL!!! AMEN!!! The lab work came back great! Her AFP is 3 ..... definately in normal ranges (0-15) All other counts were great considering all she has been through. Overall.... we got the all clear to be a happy, active, adventurous, little dictator for the next 6 weeks!! Our next scan/bloodwork is scheduled for July 8th. Until then...... let's go camping!!!!

Hey all!
Not much going on! The weather has been wonderful in Atlanta and we are taking advantage of the new swingset in the backyard. Gracie loves to swing while I'm working in the yard so it has been a real win-win situation.

We had the priviledge of attending the Hyundai Hope on Wheels event at Egleston on Wed. We saw many of our friends and Gracie placed her handprint on a very nice Hyundai Santa Fe SUV. They are taking it across the country raising funds for research. The Atlanta area dealers presented Children's Healthcare of Atlanta a check for $50,000! What an awesome gift!! Gracie is one of 200 kids that placed their hands on the car..... representing ALL of the kids with cancer. It was neat to see everyone. Thanks for the opportunity, Egleston!!!! I think there is supposed to be an article in the AJC at some point..... if you see it.... let me know! HA!

We had our 6 week check up with Dr. George today. Mary Grace pranced right in there like she owned the place! What a treat to visit and hear good news. She is doing fine; however, the bloodwork won't be back until Mon or Tues so.... I'll be a little nervous until it comes back. I'll update when I know something.

Only 10 days of school left! Grant is counting the moments! We are all ready to put this year behind us and look forward to a fun summer. We have lots of things planned! Camps, family reunions and a super trip to Florida/Lighthouse Retreat in late July with our friends. That will be the highlight for sure!

Please continue to keep our dear friends in your prayers. So many of them are still on the 'front lines' and they fight so hard every day. Thank you for loving them as much as we do!!! I'll update when I get results from Gracie's lab work!

Saturday, April 23, 2005 9:06 PM CDT

Oh my!!! It has taken me a full week to recover from 2 days at Camp Sunshine!!! What a wonderful time we all had. Grant and Mary Grace are professional campers for sure! Grant will be old enough for 'Sibling Camp' this summer. It's 3 nights with no parents!! REAL sleep away camp! Filled with fishing, archery, tennis and anything else his little heart desires! He wanted to 'do it himself' this trip. What did he want to do.... you may ask??? EVERYTHING!!! And guess who was RIGHT behind him insisting that SHE be allowed to do it herself, too!!!! He showed us were the fishing dock was... the meal hall... exactly how many steps there were to the arts and crafts building.... a virtual cornucopia (sp?) of knowledge!! I excited for him. He can't wait until this summer..... It's going to be a great one!

Mary Grace did have a good time, too. She is healthy and happy and VERY 2 years old!!! We have come to the conclusion that she DOES NOT play well with anyone under the age of.... say... 28. She does not share well and she doesn't want anyone to even CONSIDER looking at her stuff! And by the way.... if it happens to be someone else's stuff..... and she wants it.... it INSTANTLY becomes HER stuff and you are no longer allowed to look at it! UGG!

So... in 9 months we've gone from... Happy, go lucky toddler to Diagnosis, to Chemo, to Radiation, to Surgery, to Potty Training to.... DICTATOR!!!! Let's just say I'm officially over due for a long vacation!!!

We had a blast with our friends at Camp. It is surreal getting to meet the kids and families that we have followed for so long on their CaringBridge Pages. They have all blessed us in many ways and it was an honor to spend time with them all. Chandler Booth, Camp Jack, Maddie Ice, Mckinley Libby, Jacob M., Catie Wilkins,.... I'm gonna forget somebody... sorry!! We love you all! You inspire us in so many ways and I am so thankful for you! We will be spending a whole week in Florida this summer with many of these families and I can't wait!!

By the way.... the highlight of camp for my kids.... The Snake Master! He was the main program on Sat. nite and they did not MOVE for a solid hour while he showed us different snakes. They have watched the video 50 times since we've been home. I'm about 'Snaked' out!! Didn't like em to begin with.... certainly don't like em now!! UGG! But I can tell you if a snake is venomous or not! It's amazing what you can learn with an 8 ft. Copperhead snake 3 feet in front of you! We had a blast!! I'm working on more pics and I'll get them on the site when I can!! Love to you all... please contine you to pray for Kylie this week.... BIG scans in NY!!

DDD

Tuesday, April 12, 2005 4:32 PM CDT

We are doing great!! I just got Gracie's class picture and had to put it on this site! Unfortunately the entire picture was too big to put up..... it's funny!

We are getting ready for camp this weekend! We are so excited we can't stand it!! We will be able to see some of our friends that we haven't seen in a while. I hope they are ready for Hurricane Grace!!! She's feeling much better than the last time we were there. And they thought she was a 'live wire' the LAST time?!!! Maybe I should call ahead and warn them! UGG!

She loves school and her new playset in the backyard. We will be calling Guiness Book of World Records to inquire about the record time for swinging on a swing! I think she would sleep on that thing if we let her!

I'll add more after camp! I'm sure to have some good stories! Love to you all!!!

DDD

Wednesday, March 30, 2005 9:44 AM CST

LIFE IS GOOD!

Gracie did great for such a long day! The scans looked awesome and Dr. Rapkin even stopped us in the lobby to tell us how well she is doing! He couldn't even wait for us to make it to the office to let us know! He just happened to be in the room with the radiologist when Gracie was scanned. He was able to discuss her scan right there.... AS SHE WAS BEING SCANNED! Literally! What a blessing... we usually have to wait 2-3 days until the Dr. rec'v a written report of the scan.

We will wait until tomorrow for results on her AFP level. No worries! Her counts were great and she is offically NORMAL! What a beautiful word. However, we all know there is NOTHING 'NORMAL' about this little girl!

Thank you for the many prayers. My dad and Todd went with me to help with Mary Grace. It is always nice to have an extra pair of hands!

Please continue to pray for Coulter's family. They will start the long journey home to Georgia soon. My heart breaks with them! Coulter was a very special young man that has affected thousands of people. I am a better person because of this family........ Patience.... strength... and above all.... LOVE follows this family everywhere they go. Remarkable people facing unbearable circumstances .... We love you, Hampton Family! /ga/coulter

Monday, March 28, 2005 8:43 PM CST

a few new pics on 3.28.05

Hey everyone.... just a quick note. My heart is heavy tonight and my prayers are many! Too many! I'll take a moment to update because many of you are asking since we were forced to remove the links above.

Little Kylie has completed her heavy duty chemo and received her stem cell transplant today. So far so good. The worst is yet to come as her tiny body fights back from the nasty chemo. Please keep her precious family in your prayers. They are special friends that have become very dear to us.

Also, please pray for Coulter. He is not doing well and his family has asked for urgent prayers. Again.... an amazing family that we had the priviledge of meeting at family camp and the hospital many times. Shhhhh..... (www.caringbridge.org/ga/coulter)

I am honored and humbled to be included in the 'cancer club' with these moms! They amaze ME! So many people have told me that I've been strong through our ordeal and yet..... I don't have to look far to know what real strength is! I pray that God NEVER lets me forget..... never let me take a healthy child for granted. Stop me from getting angry when Mary Grace spills Chex Mix all over the floor and the dog eats so much of it that he throws up on my carpet .... ok... that one is still a little 'fresh'.... but seriously..... IT'S JUST NOT THAT IMPORTANT!

Our first post op scan is tomorrow. We have to be there for the NG (nose tube) at 8:30am. They will run the contrast for 2 hours and our scan will be around 10:30. Please say a prayer for us. These things are not fun but..... the waiting is even harder! I'll update as soon as I know something.

A special note to our 'cancer fighters'.... we think of you everyday! You all have a special place in our hearts. We pray for you EVERYDAY..... we will never forget. We love you all!

D.D.

Thursday, March 10, 2005 8:49 PM CST

Wow! Hope you are all well! Sorry it has taken so long to update - no excuses - just lovin' life! Last week was our first week without a doctor's appt of some kind! Oh, glorious day!!!!

We are doing FAB-U-LOUS!!!! Mary Grace started school last week and she is now getting up EVERY day at 6:30 with Grant so she can go to "SKUUL". Now.... she's only going 3 days a week (9-1) so I'm not so excited about her new wake up schedule at 6:30 ..... but YOU KNOW I'M NOT COMPLAINING!!!! She loves it and the teacher says she is doing well with her 'first' school experience. I did see her swat a little boy on Tues at the "Dr. Suess' Birthday Extravaganza". Not a pretty site but.... the girl is tough (you already know that!) By the way.... we NEVER had a Dr. Suess' Birthday Extravaganza when I was in school....... What are they thinking? They are mad, I say! Forget the Cat - let's go out and play! (UGGG -they got to me!)

Baseball is in full swing (no pun intended) Grant is on a fun team with a great coach so we are looking forward to a good season. Grant and I test for our next belts on Sat. morning! Yup- we are officially LETHAL! Don't mess with the Dixons! Gracie kicks cancer's butt at the tender age of 2..... Mom and Grant will round house kick you into next week and Dad..... well..... Dad can flip channels with the best of 'em! Love ya, Todd!

Our next scan is set for March 29th. Post-Op CT scan and blood work to follow. You never realize how much you love those 'tubies' until they are gone. We will be having an official 'clean out' of the cabinets after we get good news on that Tues. All of the heprin.... flushes... needles... etc...... I'm tossin' them all! (If you need anything.... let me know!) I'm going to video tape it all! Is Heprin flammable? Just curious?! Seriously.... this will be our first post-op scan and I'm already a little nervous. Please pray everything is as it should be!

We miss our friends! Please know we pray for you every single day!!! Hope to see you soon!! Love and kisses to you all!!!!!!

Friday, February 25, 2005 10:41 AM CST

Well.... it's official! The pathology report came back great and we have been given the 'all clear' until next month. They still want to do a CT scan on March 22nd to compare pre- and post-surgery.

We are so thankful right now that our hearts are overflowing! I don't know what tomorrow will bring..... I think fear will always be close..... but, today we will celebrate and be happy!!!

We were able to see many of our friends at the clinic yesterday..... Lucy, Brady, Ben, and William O. and Mrs. O. (Hee.... Nancy!) Then we stopped by the hospital to see Catie, Kylie and Akaya. We have been so blessed through this experience..... all of these children are amazing and their families are incredible! Please continue to pray for our friends...... they are still on the 'front lines' of this disease and fight (very hard) every single day.

I'll write more when I can compose myself..... a bit emotional these days, sorry! We love you all so much and 'thank you' doesn't seem to convey the thankfulness in our hearts!

Wednesday, February 23, 2005 11:59 AM CST

Sorry for the delay..... I waited a LONG time to post that last entry and I wanted to leave it up and let it sink in ..... I think I've read those words 100x since I wrote them! I wanted to let you know how we are doing post-surgery...

By Friday of last week (2 days after surgery!) Mary Grace was already walking.... heck, running! She was sitting down on the chairs and climbing like nothing ever happened. What a miracle! Grant is out of school this week for 'winter break' (it's 70 here today.... HA!) He went to Stockbridge on Sat to visit with Nana and Poppa for a few days. We were not sure what to expect after the surgery so we had made arrangements for him to be in Stockbridge in case our stay at the hospital was extended for any reason. Needless to say.... on Sat. afternoon we brought home a bouncing, laughing, demanding little 2 year old that was thrilled to be home!

We will return to the Drs. on Thurs for the final pathology and checkups. I'm a little nervous that they haven't called with the results..... that little voice in my head says 'it must be bad news or they would tell me over the phone...'. We are reminded that the journey is far from over. We celebrate the good news but always brace ourselves for the inevitable..."BUT"... that follows. "Mrs. Dixon, we got the tumor and the initial pathology looks good......here it comes..... are you ready.....***BUT****... we will submit it for final pathology and you will have to report every 3 months for scans and bloodwork." Well thanks for rainin' on my parade!! ;) We are thrilled about the surgery. Even our oncologist, Dr. George, was excited at the results. He said we received the best possible news and he was very pleased.

We hope to see Kylie and Catie tomorrow after our appointments. Kendrie and family are in Florida at Disney. I'll update when we get home tomorrow! We are all so thankful right now. We had a nice weekend together.... loving on this little girl that continues to amaze us everyday!

Wednesday, February 16, 2005 4:45 PM CST

How do I possibly start this journal......

"Mrs. Dixon.... we removed everything we could find and from the first pathology report....there just isn't any cancer left!"

Amen! Amen and Amen!!!

A huge success! Dr. Pitt removed anything that even looked like a tumor.... removed the 'butt bone' and never even had to touch the rectum/bowels! Praise God! He has exceedingly AND abuntantly answered our prayers. We will rec'v the final report on the tissue he removed on Friday but he feels confident that we are in very good shape. Unless the reports show something else..... WE ARE FINISHED!

Mary Grace is uncomfortable but resting right now. Todd and I are waiting to celebrate with a 'club sandwich' from our favorite deli and my heart is filled with thanks for all of our wonderful friends that have pulled us through this day! My mom and dad, Todd's mom, Aunt Sue, Pete Hixson, Mike Wootton, Scott Payne and our friend Stephanie...... thank you for being here today when we needed you the most! For all of our friends that were here in spirit... We are so thankful for your support and love!

So.... tonight, my faithful family and friends..... DANCE, SING, and SHOUT FROM THE ROOFTOPS...... THE CANCER IS GONE!!!! TO GOD BE THE GLORY!!

We love you and will post a 'confirmation' of the pathology as soon as we can!

DDD

Monday, February 14, 2005 8:04 PM CST

Happy Valentine's Day!

I'm packing tonight and I wanted to check in.... not sure when I'll have time again. We will call in the morning to check on a 'bed'. They will let us know when to come in at that point. I don't have any idea if they will put us on the AFLAC floor or not. I think it depends on the 'bed' situation. Don't laugh... my cancer friends know what I mean! 'Beds' go very quickly.... unfortunately! Everything is timed around when a 'bed' becomes available! UGGGG!

We will have the pre-op 'clean out' tomorrow evening and then she will not be allowed to have anything until the surgery. Should be pleasant.... NOT! You try to rationalize with a two year old that wants... NEEDS... chocolate milk!

We are all fine. The realization that this is really here is a bit overwhelming but..... it is. God willing, we will get wonderful news and this terrible chapter in our lives will be over. While we will carry the scars of cancer with us forever, the thought of normalcy is....wonderful!

Please know we love you all. We appreciate and need your prayers. Pray hard! I promise to update you as soon as I can physically make it to a computer!!!

DDD

Wednesday, February 2, 2005 6:23 PM CST

Feb. 8th, 2005 - It is with a heavy heart that I add to this journal tonight..... Our friend Stephanie became an angel early this morning. Please continue to pray for strength and peace for her family!

Hey everybody!!

I have glorious news and I needed to update everyone!

#1- I received a call from the surgeon on Monday to discuss the final date of the surgery. Since several doctors will be involved.... it has been difficult to coordinate everyone's schedules. Can you imagine??? We were very fortunate to get our 'first' choice of surgeons here in Atlanta, Dr. Pitt. I found out today; however, that these Dr.'s must work as a team - probably for legal reasons. We found out that Dr. Pitt's 'teammate' will be Dr. Bleacher..... OUR #2 CHOICE!!! What a blessing to have the 2 best (in our opinion) surgeons! BOTH OF 'EM! I feel very confident and blessed to have these two Dr.'s on Gracie's case.

#2- Dr. Pitt reviewed the scans with the radiologist and has determined that an additional scan will not be necessary prior to surgery. That's a BIG AMEN!!! That wasn't going to be a pleasant experience and I am happy we don't have to put me... I mean GRACIE.... through that! :)

#3- We have been consulting with a very good neurosurgeon as we have gone through our treatments. After the Oct. scans.... Dr. George (oncologist) was concerned about the tumor's placement in the spine and referred us to Dr. Hudgins (neuro). We knew that he would be very important in removing the tumor from the spine while preserving the nerves. Well...... as of Monday..... the 2 surgeons met to discuss Gracie's case and they have decided that the 'Neuro' is no longer necessary! The tumor has 'melted' away from the spine and they do not think that a specialist will be needed! What wonderful news! God has been so good!

Our new schedule looks like this....
Feb. 15th we will check into Scottish Rite for Pre-OP. This will be a rough night but.... one step closer!

Feb 16th- Surgery at 1pm. Please mark your calendars! We have asked to be on 'our' floor to recover. 3North. We know all the nurses and love them all! They have agreed... if there is a bed. We will probably stay for 3-4 days barring any complications.

We are trying to stay close to home. There are a bunch of cooties out there that we can not afford to catch right now. Fortunately for us..... the cold and rain makes it VERY easy to stay snuggled by the fire. We do miss you all, TERRIBLY! We registered MG for preschool today! Good days are ahead!!!! Just wait an see!!! We love you all and continue to thank God for you everyday! You have helped us through every step and we celebrate WITH you..... God willing.... this is almost over! Living the cure!

Please continue for our friends! Kylie is back in Atlanta ...we are so thankful they are home. I spoke with Drew tonight and they are having a rough time! His voice is still hopeful.... but... they are TIRED. Physically, tired! Please pray for physical and mental strength for all of them. They will be back in the hospital in a matter of days and they really need to regain some strength while they are home. Jack W. does have a broken leg - YIPEE! (Read his site and you'll understand my excitement!) Thank you for loving our friends, too. They have all become special additions to our 'family' and we are thankful for them.... in spite of the circumstances! They are proof that GOD can provide GOOD things in the midst of HORRIBLE situations!

Tuesday, January 25, 2005 6:34 PM CST

Whew....what a day! It's 7:30 and we've just made it home. I'm sorry to make you wait for the news!

Dr. George was very pleased with the scans! The section of tumor that streched along the spine has dissolved with the radiation and for that.... we are very thankful! This drastically improves the 'nerve' issues that we were initially concerned about. So that IS great news.

The 2 spots are still on the liver; however, they look the same as the Oct 26th scans...... which leads them to believe they are scar tissue and not tumor. They will either resect them or biopsy them during surgery. There is also a *strange* spot on one kidney but they think this looks more like a kidney infection.... so we are now on antibiotics as well. Over all....... he is ready to turn us over to the surgeon. Enter.... the surgeon.....

We were very fortunate to meet with the surgeon that I had requested. He was coming out of the O.R. as our appointment was over and Dr. George asked if he could come in and speak with us for a few moments. He had reviewed MG's scans this morning so he wanted to take the chance to see her. He did an internal exam on her (UGGGG... add that to the list of 'not so favorite procedures') and was very confused by his findings. (or maybe I should say, "NOT findings") He said he couldn't feel anything but bone! According to the scans he had seen, he expected to feel the tumor during the exam and it really surprised him that he couldn't. He has ordered another scan next week (with abdomen contrast) to compare the scans. He feels comfortable removing the tail bone (expected) and will speak with the neurosurgeon regarding the nerve involvement.

Overall.... we feel optimistic after today! The doctors will ALWAYS leave you with unanswered questions...... I think they learn that in medical school.... HOW TO CONFUSE YOUR PATIENTS 101. Our main concern at this point is the tumor involvement in the bowel area. Now it is up to the surgeon! That is not something we can really see on a scan. It's a 're'construction issue and will depend on the amount of tissue he can work with. We have done everything that WE can do. It is now time for us to move on to the next phase.... Surgery. We will re-scan next week.... then surgery is scheduled for Feb 14th! Yep.... Valentine's Day! It could change but that is a pretty good guess!

We have rec'd so many wonderful posts and phone calls today! Thank you for the added prayers! They worked! I was slightly nervous but not anxious about the appointment. It is exciting to know we are reaching the end. We know we still have a steep hill to climb but we KNOW we can do it..... "We can do ALL things....."

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you, and again.....Thank you!
DDD

PS*** Thank you for checking on Grant's page! When we checked it tonight, he had over 600 visitors to his site in 1 day. I have NEVER seen a smile that big in my life! He read every single post and he is positively GLOWING tonight! Thank you for making him feel so special. He deserves it!

Monday, January 24, 2005 7:09 PM CST

Tomorrow is our big day. I've been nervous all day today preparing for our appointment. The 'not knowing' is starting to catch up with me. At least tomorrow we will know which direction to turn. Please pray for us tomorrow. I'll update as soon as I get home!
Thank you for your thoughtful entries and prayers...... I just can't possibly express how much you mean to us!

Until tomorrow.....

PS. I've added a page for Grant. He is such an amazing kid! If you think we've been blessed by Mary Grace..... just wait until you meet Grant, too! See his link above.

Thursday, January 20, 2005 3:33 PM CST

******** Back from the CT. - Grace is awesome! We DID need the NG tube (Poppie had to leave the room for that one!) but she did great with everything. The whole procedure took about 4 hours and we were home by noon. She is sleeping now so I'm sure it will be a late night! Thank you again for the extra prayers this week. I'll let you know about the results asap!

***** WED 19th - Hi all! We had the MRI this morning and everything went fine. Grace never ceases to amaze me! She handles everything with such.... well.... GRACE! I just hope and pray that if anything ever happens to me..... I can be as strong as she has been!

No news yet, of course. We will report for duty at 7am tomorrow am for the CT scan. She has to drink a 'contrast' over a 2 hr. period and that usually doesn't go so well. They usually use an NG (nose) tube to feed the liquid directly into her stomach. Unfortunately..... she's going to be a little more aware of what is going on tomorrow due to the tests today. When they ask "Can I see your hand Mary Grace? Just a little stick now...." She knows the IV is coming and will probably protest tomorrow. Please pray for an easy procedure!

Specifically.... please pray for 'readable' scans. Pray the scans show clearly, plainly, and exactly what the doctors need to see for the surgery. We would love nothing more than the tumor to be completely gone; however, my main concern at this point is *surprises*. I don't want any *surprises!* I want the doctors to know exactly what they are dealing with before we schedule the surgery. I want them to know WHAT they are doing, WHO'S going to do it and they have a fab-u-lous success rate doing it!

Thank you again for your uplifting entries in the journal. I had a "moment" this morning as Mary Grace went in for the MRI. Bad memories from Aug 4th. Same room, same doctors, same feelings of helplessness. It took my breath away to think of everything we've put this little girl through in 5 months. However, God continues to bless us every step of the way. New 'cancer' friends, wonderful nurses and doctors, helpful neighbors and faithful family......... we are truly blessed! It is for THESE things that we are very thankful!!!

I'll update as soon as I can! Kylie is doing well in NY. Please check her site above for details. Thanks-
DDD

Sunday, January 16, 2005 4:16 PM CST

Happy Birthday, Robb! We are headed out the door to celebrate my brother's 30th birthday! Did I mention that he is turning 30?! Welcome to the 'over 30 crowd!'

Grace continues to do very well. She is eating like a little pig and I can't wait to see how much she weighs when we finally return to the Dr. this week. It is funny how she only wants certain things..... Chic-a-lay.... sliced turkey.... anything chocolate (smart girl). She's very specific as to what she wants and she doesn't take 'NO' nicely. We're doing our best. HA! Our new portfolios include stock in Chick-fil-a and Hersheys!

Our scans are scheduled on Wed and Thurs at 7am both days. Todd will be in Mississippi on business... (translation = playing golf!) How'd that happen? We will have our consultation with Dr. George and the surgeon on Tues the 25th at 1:30. Please keep these dates on your calendar. This weekend has been mentally tough as we get ready to 'ride this rollercoaster' again.

Our little friend Kylie Barry is in NY at Memorial Sloane Kettering Hospital preparing for surgery. They will remove a complicated neuroblastoma on Monday 17th. Please check on their site and pray for an uncomplicated procedure and peace for Drew and Raquel. It is a very special bond that we have with our 'cancer families'. I know it is only a few short weeks before I am the mother sitting in the waiting room..... my heart breaks for them. Please keep them close this week!

We will update later this week after we have scans. Here we go again....... Have a blessed week!

DDD

Thursday, January 6, 2005 2:07 PM CST

OK...OK...OK.... I'm updating the page!!!! We had a wonderful day yesterday! Everyone was so kind and generous as we left Egleston for the last time. (It BETTER be the last time!) We love EVERYONE there but..... I don't EVER want to see them before 9am again! Mary Grace received a 25 piece Princess dress up kit - which you can see was a HUGE hit! Our little fashion diva was in her element! Margaret gave her the cutest little doll and a necklace with her name on it. So many other goodies.... it felt like Christmas all over again. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. You ALL made this a fun experience and that means the world to us! Mary Grace made a lot of friends while we were there..... you will all remain very special in this chapter of our "scrapbook!"

She handled the last radiation treatment just like any other. She called the shots and ran the show. It is amazing how experienced she is as a 2 year old. I really think she could have driven the golf cart by herself (if Mike gave her the keys!) It was happy and sad to say goodbye to our dear radiation staff that 'literally' held my baby's life in their hands. "Thank you" ........ could never tell you how thankful we are for you. Shannon....... I should mail you a Mountain Dew everyday for the rest of my life - but I just spent all of my money on radiation treatments :0

Well, here we are. 6 chemo treatments.... Down. 22 radiation treatments...... Down. We are currently scheduling an MRI and a CT scan for the week of the 16th and a consultation for Jan. 25th. That will prepare us for surgery in early Feb. We will be researching surgeons after we see the scans and learn what we are dealing with. It has been rush, rush, rush up until this point. We actually have a few weeks to be 'normal' again. I'm playing tennis this weekend (could be ugly) and we are going to have dinner with some friends on Sat. night. I'm enrolling Gracie in a Mother's Morning Out program since her counts are decent again so I can begin working on a 'more' normal basis. Todd will travel to Houston, Baton Rouge and Las Vegas in the next 4 weeks. Grant begins spring baseball in Feb., so we are ...umm.... searching for his bat and glove. (Kinda need to dust those things off before we throw him out there) Grant and I continue our Tae Kwon Do classes on Tues and Thurs nights. We will test for our new belts next Sat. Watch out Bruce Lee! Here comes Mama Dixon with a chip on her shoulder! ;)

And so life goes on. Always with faith and belief that this is almost over. We are thankful for all of our friends, near and far, that are seeing this through to the end with us. The hardest part is yet to come. The surgery is huge.... I'm sure I don't have to tell you that. Specifically this week, please pray for our doctors. We need God to provide the right doctors to do the surgery. We will have a gereral surgeon and a neurosurgeon in the OR. Both of them will share the responsibility of removing the tumor and repairing any damage. We also ask that you pray for us as we make these difficult decisions. I just want the peace of mind that only God can deliver. I HAVE to know that we are doing everything we can to make our little girl better.

Our friends, The Barrys, will leave next week for surgery in NY. Her site (Kylie) is listed above. Again, surgery is such a vital part of the treatments. Please pray for an uncomplicated procedure and quick recovery. We love you Raquel, Drew and Kylie........ please let us know if we can do any thing at all!

I'll post when I learn more about the scans.

Living well, laughing often and loving MUCH!
The Dixons- Todd, D.D., Grant and Mary Grace

Monday, December 27, 2004 1:34 PM CST

So sorry for the delay! I know many of you are anxious to hear the results of our scans on Thursday Dec 23rd. Todd and Grant had the priviledge of escorting us to radiation on Thurs. It was their first venture into the world of radiation, so it was pretty exciting for both of them. Grant loved ....LOVED .... the trip through the tunnel on the golf cart. It's Mary Grace's favorite part, too. His least favorite part.... no food. Ditto for MG! Todd is still talking about how well she sits up on the radiation table and practically tells THEM what comes next! "Here's my finger for the monitor, my arm for the blood pressure cuff.... NOT the blue cuff.... THE PINK ONE YOU GOOFBALL! Who let this person in here?! Where are the kitty cat stickers that go on my chest to monitor my heartbeat???? Quickly! Now.... I am ready to smell the flowers! Begin ..... flower sniffing! Goodnight!" (PS.... tell them to order the chocolate milk NOW so it will be waiting on me when I return to my room)

We went directly from the radiation room into the scanning room while the 'lil princess was sleeping. They rearranged her 'target marks' and took new scans. They called us later that day to let us know they are very pleased with her response to the radiation. We had completed 16 RT's at that time; however, it takes about 7 days for radiation to show soooo.... that means we were really only seeing the affects of about 8-9 previous treatments. They saw about a 30 percent reduction in the size of the tumor! They have concluded that we will only need 6 more RTs before surgery. AMEN! We will have 3 RTs this week and 3 next week to finish on Jan 5th. Scans will follow 3 weeks later and surgery the last week of Jan!

Please continue to pray for our family. It seems like the closer we get to the 'end' the more stressed I get. I know we are actively fighting this thing and it scares me to 'return to normal'. I don't think anything in my life will ever be normal again. We had a wonderful holiday with our families; however, my favorite day was Sunday. We slept until 10am, had chocolate pretzels and chex mix for breakfast and played with toys the rest of the day. We played about 100 games of "Operation". Sadly.... May Grace beat us all.

Happy Holidays and Best Wishes for a Happy and Healthy New Year!

Monday, December 20, 2004 12:55 AM CST

HUMP DAY!!!! Today was day 14 of 27! IT is officially downhill from here. Gracie continues to amaze us everyday by her willingness to undergo radiation. She asked several times this weekend if it was time "to go and smell the flowers"? That is what we call the gas in the mask to put her to sleep. What a blessing. I can NOT say it has been a bad experience..... I mean.... if we HAVE to do it, it has been quite nice. The people at The Egg are STRAIGHT from Heaven! They make every trip as nice as it can be! Thank you, Mike and Margaret, Emily and Diane, Anne and Andrea and LaLeith for your smile every morning. We thank you for the investment you are making in our lives. Shannan our Radiation Master (That should score me a few points!) always makes it fun, too! If I am forgetting anyone.... please forgive me..... I haven't had much sleep. (Ha!)

I was so sad to hear of our dear, precious, Hayley, this morning. Please check her web site for more details. It is a powerful reminder to us that we are fighting a terrible and very relentless disease. Just when we think we are getting ahead of it..... the truth is.... only God knows what lies ahead for us. Alan and Dayna were the first couple we met in the hospital when Gracie was diagnosed. I told Dayna many times that I just couldn't find the words to say. I think she could see by the expression on my face that sometimes words couldn't possibly express the feelings that were in my heart. The Thomsons ARE an amazing family. We are better people because we know them. Thank you for your prayers for this family. It warms my heart to know how many of you have 'adopted' them into your lives as well.

I will write again when we decide on the scans. This is a very emotional week for me. Radiation, the loss of little Hayley and the realization of what it means in our own situation, scans, greenbean casseroles, coconut/caramel pies, granny's house, and Christmas Eve services. Most of all...... the birth of a little baby in Bethlehem. Dear God, help me to keep things in the right order this holiday season. Not just during the holidays.... but, EVERY DAY! Don't let the 'world' get in the way of what is truly important in my life. Thank you for all of the blessings you have granted..... but thank You MOST of all for the gift YOU gave ME in Bethlehem 2000 years ago.

Wednesday, December 15, 2004 11:21 AM CST

New pictures!

Hi everyone!
Radiation is going great. We have now completed 11 of 27 treatments. We will have a few days off over Christmas so our last treatment should be on/around Jan 6th. Our next scans will be next Wed 23rd to determine the effectiveness of the additional chemos and the radiation. It may/may not alter the duration of the remaining radiation. It will be a nervous day...... please keep us close to your heart!

Mary Grace is AMAZING! She walks in everday ready to smell the 'flowers'. That's what we call the gas in the mask that makes her go to sleep. Thankfully, she goes to sleep AND wakes up in a wonderful mood. We continue to give her the medication so she will not throw up after the anesthesia. She hasn't thrown up since we started the meds. AMEN! The nurses are great! They have chocolate milk waiting on her EVERY morning when we return from radiation. Gracie can't have anything to eat or drink prior to the radiation (hence the 6:30am appointments) so she is READY for her 'choc-it mul-kah' They are so special to take care of the little things like that! Again.... God prepares special people for those jobs! I believe that 100 percent.

Thank you to my neighbors and friends that provided the '12 Days of Christmas' for us! What fun we had every single day! You are all so special to me and I am truly blessed to have you all as friends. You will never know the investment you have make in my life. We are forever grateful. Thank you, Becky Liggin, for the extra special attention your have showered on us! You're the best!

Sunday, December 4, 2004 1:46am

Today makes 4 months. I can't believe it has been that long....yet it seems like a lifetime! Wanted to check in and let you know we have finished 3 rounds of radiation! 17 more to go! We report to Egleston around 6:30am and usually go for radiation around 7:30. Mary Grace sleeps the whole way down there and for the hour that we wait. Doesn't bother her a bit! We ride a golf cart...(what a hoot!) over to the Emory Clinic where they sedate her for radiation. I have been giving her the neupogen injections while she is sedated. It makes it easier on both of us. This is not my favorite chore since she has gotten sick! We had a blood transfusion on Friday. The chemo has wiped out most of the good stuff and she needed a 'refill'. They premedicate her with Tylenol and Benedryl so she slept through most of that, too. (So did Mommy.... they have some recliners that I couldn't resist!)

The big news of the week..... WE ACTUALLY SAW SANTA TONIGHT! Mary Grace asked for a BARN! Ok.... sure. Thanks to the Scottish Rite playroom.... she can't live another day without a BARN complete with farm animals. Don't tell her..... Santa's got it covered! Grant had fun, too. He wants a punching bag and a scooter. Hopefully, he won't try to do both at the same time! We all had a great time roasting marshmallows and teaching the proper way to make SMORES. A very important skill that needs to be learned at an early age.

Overall, we are doing fine. A little bit tired due to the added activity. We are trying to concentrate on the important things and stay close to home. Thank you for your continued prayers and support. You have helped us get this far and we can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel! 17 more days!

Monday November 29, 2004
Hey everyone!
We are home! Mary Grace did a wonderful job last week during chemo! We didn't get out of the room very much. (Sorry, Bonnie and CT crew!) It was rainy and cold all week so movies and the bed were just fine for me, too! She was on two additional antibiotics that required a LOT of IV usage so..... it was just easier to stay close to the nurses! (Ya know.... they aren't too happy when they have to come to the fish pond to find you for meds! Gosh.... it only happened 3-4 times..... they don't have to be sooooo grumpy! Just kiddin'! We love our nurses!)

The infection was a DOOZEY! But... it was quite a moment on Friday when we were able to 'pull' her PICC line out. Why? BECAUSE SHE DOESN'T NEED IT ANYMORE! Amen! The infection seems to have cleared up since the 'source' (PICC) was removed. Strangely.... I was quite nervous to remove it. It gives an odd sense of security to know it is there. It is hard for me to believe we are nearing the end of this journey. God willing..... we have 4 weeks of radiation left, then surgery in January and ......... WE WILL BE CANCER FREE! How beautiful does that sound?

On a serious note.... I was just speaking to my tennis partner about our team this spring. I told her my life has changed so much that I'm not sure where 'tennis' fits in anymore. Don't get me wrong.... I still love to play tennis and I know (good grief...... I know) I need the exercise! I just know I will play for FUN! No more 'city finals', 'state tourneys', 'stressin' out because we don't have enough players','you can't play those two ladies together...'. Cancer changes your perspective on things! If you had asked me 4 months ago if I appreciated my family.... I would have said 'yes!' I didn't have a clue!

This Thanksgiving was strange for me. 4 days after the REAL Thanksgiving.....I sat there with a huge plate of food, watching my whole family (brother,sister-in-law, their kids, mom,dad,aunt,etc) and realized how quickly and dramatically our family has changed in one year. All because of one small child and a 6 letter word. EVERY SINGLE one of us has been affected by this disease. It was bitter sweet to know this MIGHT be the last Thanksgiving we spend with her. (She's doing great so that thought doesn't linger very long) But..... why don't I think that way about EVERY single person around that table????? Someone else could get sick or hurt in a accident.... any number of things. Things can change SO fast and fate doen't ask your permission! It happens and you deal with the consequences. So, I tried to tell every person there that I loved them and then I took my family home a little earlier than normal. We put on some Christmas music and we put ornaments on our tree. Gracie sang songs and broke about 4 ornaments. Guess what! I didn't care! I enjoyed every moment! She was having so much fun I just sat and watched..... and cleaned up her messes. Grant was a great brother as he handed her every ornament and let her put them whereever she wanted. He told me, "Mom, don't worry.... I'll go back later and put them in the right places! She can't reach very high, ya know."

"Never take the little things for granted." How many times have you heard that? What does it really mean? It means this..... THANK YOU, CANCER! You are evil but..... you have taught me how to love my life! You have ravaged my little girl's body, but she is beating you! I will live everyday with the fear that you will return...... but confident in the one who can defeat you! You have taught me to appreciate every moment of life because I may be the one to disappear tomorrow. Little things? I don't believe in little things! Last year...... putting ornaments on our Christmas tree was a 'little thing'. This year..... it meant EVERYTHING!

Please keep Hayley in your prayers. What an amazing family! They are examples of strength and we pray for God to sustain them through this difficult time!

Tuesday, November 23, 2004 1:15 PM CST

Hey all,

Just a quick update while the lil' princess is sleeping. Our trip to Egleston went fine. WHAT A DRIVE! It'll be a haul every morning but..... each day is a day closer to the end! We start radiation next Wed.

We were not admitted to Scottish Rite until 6pm last night so we missed a few of our friends before they left. Sorry,Kylie! They were not able to start our chemo until 9pm -12am so..... it was a very long day. Around 11pm she spiked a fever of 102 and they immediately drew cultures from her PICC line to determine the cause. YEP.... both lines positive for bacteria! We are now on MAJOR antibiotics to get it under control. We have 2 days to retest the lines before they pull them out and start over again. Not a good experience! She promptly had an allergic reaction to the first antibiotic so she is well drugged with Benedryl right now. Hence... sleeping baby!
Please keep us in your prayers! This is an unexpected setback. The chemo will continue but.... that will cause her counts to drop which could complicate things if the infection is not controlled by then.

We will be here through Fri for sure.....maybe longer if there are more complications. I'll let you know more when I can.

Thursday, November 18, 2004 8:50 AM CST

We had our meeting with the radiology Dr. yesterday. We will report for a 'planning' appt. on Monday at 7am. They will sedate her and take all of the measurements for her radiation and another CT scan.

After she recovers from the sedation.... we will head over to Scottish Rite for OUR LAST CHEMO treatment!! We will be inpatient Monday through Friday. Yes... we will miss Thanksgiving (on Thurs) but my family has agreed to wait until Sunday to celebrate. (Like I couldn't stand to miss a meal...)I understand that the hospital usually does something nice for patients on Thanksgiving and Christmas so.... I'm not worried! I will just be THANKFUL when I can finally write and tell you she is cancer free!

Due to the location of her tumor.... they think that radiation is going to be our best bet. They are not able to remove tissues surrounding the tumor to ensure they get it all. For example..... with breast cancer.... they will usually remove the tumor AND the surrounding tissue.... biopsy the surrounding tissue to make sure they have captured the ENTIRE tumor and some healthy tissue beyond it.....before they are finished with surgery. In our case, there is not any 'tissue' around the tumor. Just organs and bones. NOT easily removable! They will radiate the actual location of the tumor AND the area around it to kill any remaining cells. We CAN zap it.... we can't remove it.
About 3-4 weeks after radiation we will probably do surgery to 'clean up'. I'm not sure what that means..... I'm not sure THEY know what that means! We know the radiation and the tumor will leave some scar tissue behind. But.... if that scar tissue is still connected to the spine, it would remain too dangerous to remove it (just for the sake of removing it) If there appears to STILL be cancer present.... then we might not have a choice but to remove it and try to minimize the damage as much as possible. We have a neurosurgeon on board now... (In my next life.... I think I should be a neurosurgeon! It sounds cool at parties;) He will assist in the surgery if it becomes necessary. That makes me feel better!

Side effects from the radiation..... ok, don't get scared. Remember.... they gave us a list for the chemo, too, and she has done beautifully! Due to the location of radiation, they expect some diarrhea (because the tumor is sitting on the back wall of the bowels) and some skin irritation because there is not any protective tissues between the tumor, bone, and skin. Remember... some of the tumor is between the spine and her skin (right at her lower back/hip area)
Long term..... secondary tumors/cancers from radiation/ chemo, scar tissue in the bowel which could lead to restriction in the future, and retarded bone growth. Because they are concentrating on the bones in her lower back..... there is a possibility they will not grow any more because the cells have been damaged. As the rest of the bones in her body grow.... this would cause problems walking, etc. Like I said.....we had a terrible report concerning the chemo, too. God has been very good to us so far and we have to believe he will see us through to the end.

I wrote in this journal a few weeks ago about how frustrating it is when the doctors tell us, "We really don't know". I got a lot of phone calls after that post because people thought I was having a hard time. It IS hard! And I am so thankful to have friends that know me well enough that they can hear the frustration in my voice/writing. But a friend recently told me something that really helped. She told me that it is during THIS time, when the doctors ADMIT they don't know how to handle a situation, that God is allowed to perform miracles without interruption (people getting in the way)! In other words, God is still in the healing business. Sometimes he uses doctors, sometimes he uses medicine.... but when all of those avenues have been exhausted......... He is still the Great Physician! He can still see cancer cells when the doctors and machines can't! This is what I claim everyday. God is bigger than the doctors, the cancer, the fears I have AND the Insurance Companies (a little medical humor there - ugg) And He loves Mary Grace more than I could ever imagine! End of story!

"Paul discoved that God was still on the throne. And that's what you and I are going to have to discover if we are going to make it through this difficult world. We can't depend upon our own rule, because we are weak and ignorant. And we can't depend too much on the rule of others, because they are as weak and ignorant as we are. The only thing we can depend on is the rule and reign of Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. If He is on the throne of our lives, then we can face tomorrow with courage and confidence." - Warren Wiersbe (The Bumps Are What You Climb On)

"Because He lives, I can face tomorrow....
Because I know, who holds the future,
My life is worth living just because he lives!"

Sunday, November 14, 2004 1:19 PM CST

Well.... besides the Univ. of Georgia getting the #$&*!! kicked out of them..... we had a great weekend! Even with her counts very low.... Mary Grace continues to run circles around us! God has answered many prayers by keeping her happy and healthy. The chemo continues to destroy the cancer cells and yet the side effects have been VERY minimal! AMEN!

We will report to the Dr. office for a consultation on Wed. at 11am. This will be the radiation Dr. at Egleston/Emory. I believe we will start radiation the following week. Yes.... that is also the week we are due at Scottish Rite for chemo. We will drive to Egleston in the am for radiation then return to Scottish Rite for chemo in the pm. Spend the night at SR then return to Egleston the next morning. UGG! I'll write more about the details after our appointment!

Todd will take next week off from work to help me with the logistics of getting us from one place to another. He will be a big help! Grant will spend next week with his Nana (Todd's mom) in Stockbridge. She will be out for Thanksgiving break so it will be nice for both of them!

We are 'hunkering down' (that's a UGA term) for the next few weeks. We are really in the middle of the treatments but we see light at the end of the tunnel. The next 4-5 weeks will be the
toughest weeks of my life. The treatments, the anticipation, the holidays, etc. I just keep in mind that everyday is one day closer to the end and it really will be over soon.

Please keep us close in your prayers! I'll write more on Wed!
DDD

Friday, November 5, 2004 8:14 PM CST

We are finally home! We had dinner at my mom's house before we came home. She made a pot of vegetable soup that REALLY hit the spot! Cooler weather = mom's veggie soup. I had more veggies tonight at dinner than I did all last week! Oh...hospital food! YUMMY!

Mary Grace did a great job with the chemo this week. The Dr.s and nurses continue to be amazed at how well she has done. We are thankful for God's mercy on her little body. Through it all...... she is holding up beautifully.

I did have a chance to speak with the neuro-surgeon that will be participating in her treatment. He agrees that we should proceed with radiation prior to surgery. She has responded so well to the chemo.... they hope she will respond as well to the radiation. The tumor is sitting on the back wall of the rectum and bowels and is too risky for surgery right now. They are hoping that the radiation will cause the tumor/scar tissue to withdraw from the healthy tissues so they can remove it safely.

He mentioned the previous scans (Aug 4th) showed significant damage to the bones in the sacrum. They were being destroyed by the tumor. The new scans; however, show regeneration in the area and he said the bones look much better. Praise God for all miracles big and small! When I step back and try to look at the big picture... I am truly amazed at HOW MANY things have to go 'right' for us to make it through this ordeal. We just have to take each step one at a time... giving thanks to God for each hurdle cleared and prayers for strength to face the next one that is sure to come. We have come so far already. It is hard to believe it has just been 3 months. (Aug 4 - Nov 4) It seems like a lifetime.

This was a difficult trip. There is so much they don't know right now and that is the toughest thing for me. TELL me what to do and I'll do it but please don't tell me you don't KNOW!Your endless prayers help keep us going and we appreciate you all for your faithfulness. Continue to pray for wisdom as we approach the following month. We have some very difficult decisions to make and we ask Jesus to go before us in every situation and make our choices clear.

Our latest schedule looks like this.....
November 12 - clinic visit
week of November 15th - meet with Egleston Radiation Dr.
November 22-26 - Round 6 chemo at Scottish Rite
Dec. 14- CT and MRI to prepare for radiation
Dec. 21-24 - begin radiation. Arrive, sedation, radiation, wake up.... go home (5 days on, 2 days off for 3-6 weeks)
That puts us into the new year.

Just wanted to update because I know many of you have missed it. I'll write more when Mary Grace isn't in my lap!

Congrats to Hayley on your 're-birthday!' We are so proud for her! Please check her site via the link above. They are an amazing family that needs your prayers as well.

Love to you all.....I'm going to sleep in my own bed tonight! It's a beautiful thing!

Friday, October 29, 2004 8:12 PM CDT

New journal Nov 1st 6a;30 pm
We're in room 322 this time. Just as cozy as the others and right in front of the nurses' station so we are sure to get 'prompt' attention! Right, Holly! Nothin' but the best!!;)
We got the updated AFP numbers from last Friday and we are officially within "normal limits". Normal AFP is between 0-15. 0 being the best of course! What this tells us is..... there is probably some tumor left, somewhere, doing...... something! But where and how much are the $1,000,000 questions! The Dr.'s will be consulting the surgeons this week during our stay so I should have more info regarding our next step by Friday. Until then.... keep us in your prayers this week. Pray the chemo will be gentle on her body and tough on the remaining cancer cells. We thank God for each of you and can't wait for the day we can write and let you know we are 'CANCER FREE!'
***Please pray for our friend, Hayley this week as she heads for transplant on Thurs. She has an amazing family and they have been waiting a long time to make it to this point. She will need platelets, too. Please make an appointment to donate in her 'HONOR'. Todd and I did it on Friday night. (Can I consider that a 'date?' Boy.... has my life ever changed!)

Hi everyone!
It has been a very long day so this will be short. We know many of you will be checking for updates today and we thank you for your faithfulness to this site!

The news was not as good as we had hoped. The lungs are clear, and they will continue to monitor the liver to determine what the spots are. The back; however, was not as good.

I requested to see the films (at diagnosis on Aug 4th and recently on Oct. 26th) to compare. I know I'm not trained but I figured a reasonable person should be able to tell something! I don't think I was prepared for what I saw. The original tumor was HUGE! It completly consumed the 4 'sacrum' bones at the base of her spine and actually went THROUGH the bones to the outer portion of her spine. (This is what I was able to feel on her back) Think of that 'slime' stuff you played with as a kid.... hold it in your hand and let it ooze through your fingers. How's that for a visual!

The tumor has reduced in size DRAMATICALLY! It is actually difficult to see on the scan. He even had to point to it so I could see it. HE CERTAINLY DIDN'T HAVE TO SHOW ME THE FIRST ONE! She has responded to the chemo great. However, that leads us to the next 'problem'. Knowing that the cancer had 'oozed' through those disks...... it is so small now that we can't see it to tell if it is gone. Not a good problem to have. Remember, if one of those #$@$#^@ cancer cells remains...... it can rebuilt itself and come back.

With that being said..... our plan has changed dramatically. We will postpone surgery due to the delicate nature of surgery around the spine, intestines, bowels and rectum. We will continue with 2 more rounds of chemo (starting Monday am). This will give us more time to consult with the surgeons here and we are currently researching a Ped. Cancer Surgeon in NY. We know the cancer isn't growing right now. After chemo.... we will discuss exploratory surgery so they can see what is left and remove what they can. Then we will end with radiation to eradicate any cancer left between the disks in her spine. The MRI's can't see that part and that is the best chance to get rid of it!

Simply..... I'm very sad tonight. Discouraged, no! I know who spins this earth and He is still on His throne! I'm just sad to still be in this story. We have some awful decisions to make very soon. Aggressive surgery/radiation could result in terrible side effects (paralysis, infertility,etc) but.... not aggressive enough.... and the cancer could return. This is not a situation I want to be in and I certainly don't want to be responsible for the consequences.
Mary Grace continues to do so good ..... it is easy to visualize her well and moving on with her little life. It's just going to take longer than we had anticipated. Thank you for your continued prayers. Specifially..... wisdom for us as we face these difficult decisions. Pray that we will make them with COMPLETE peace and guidance from God. Pray for COMPLETE destruction of ALL cancer cells, especially around the spine.

Thank you again for your faithfulness! My love for you can't be measured in words. You have helped ease this burden for our family and for that.... I am eternally grateful!

This is a quote from Helen Keller. She once wrote,

"Be of good cheer. Do not think of today's failures, but of the success that may come tomorrow. You have set yourselves a difficult task, but you will succeed if you persevere; and you will find joy in overcoming obstacles. Remember, no effort that we make to attain something beautiful is ever lost."

(Thanks, Dad!)

Wednesday, October 27, 2004 10:05 PM CDT

I'm so sorry for the delay! My computer has been on the fritz since last Wed. and my WONDERFUL, Talented, Handsome (UGGG... this is KILLIN' me....) Brother finally fixed it. Did I mention that he has Really...Good....(ARGGG) Hair?! Just kiddin'! Thanks, Robb, for all of your help!

Ok. We had scans yesterday. Mary Grace got a wonderful 2hr. nap with some help from the 'sleepy medicine'. She did great through the sedation and I wish I had some! We had to be at the hospital before 6am to start the contrast for the scans. That part is never fun because they have to put a feeding tube down her nose into her stomach to deliver all of the liquid for the scans. She arfed on us twice.... can't blame her.
We had the CT scan first, then downstairs to the MRI, then back upstairs to another CT to verify the contrast was moving through her system ok. All in all.... about 2 hours. We had her lab work drawn at the hospital so we didn't have to make an additional trip to the clinic. That saved us a few more hours.

I rec'd a call from the Dr. today with very limited info. He was very excited to let me know that the spots (8) in her lungs are no longer appearing on the films! To God be the glory! That is such an answer to prayer! Her liver still has 2 spots of concern. It is difficult for them to determine if it is tumor or scar tissue. We will discuss that on Fri. The sacrum looks much better! The mass is still present but much much smaller! They do see some destruction of the bone structure in the area so I'm anxious for clarification on that issue.

Overall.... a great report. But I will be very honest, my heart is still heavy. Hearing them say...." We THINK it is gone", is a very nerve-racking experience! When it is big, and you can see it on the films..... you know what to do. When it gets smaller and they "MAY or MAY NOT see it" is driving me crazy. Please pray specifically for the destruction of ALL cancer cells. We know that God can see what the Dr. can't! Also pray for wisdom for all of us as we speak with the surgeon on Fri am at 11. That's our next step!

Mary Grace's counts are very low right now. We have been giving her the white blood cell stimulator but her counts do not show it. The nurse is concerned that she may have a little 'bug'. (just so you know..... in computers and cancer..... a 'bug' is never a good thing!) She doesn't show any symptoms of being ill but they want me to continue the neupogen until we meet on Fri. We will redraw blood labs and run the AFP test. I should know results by Monday including the plan for surgery. We still don't know whether to expect surgery next week or chemo. I've always wanted to live my life on the edge...... this is not what I had in mind.

Grant is doing great! We had fun on the field trip. We did 2 corn mazes and I seriously considered 'losing' a few of those kids in there! I have to do this at least once a year just to remind me EXACTLY how wonderful my son is! He is a treasure to me! We had fun singing on the bus and playing rock, paper, scissors. Now.... THAT'LL BRING BACK MEMORIES! I've added a few pictures in the show from the field trip, our family pumpkin trip to Burt's Pumpkin Farm..... and a very messy dinner that followed. Ending the day with a showing of Brother Bear..... I'd have to say it was a perfect weekend!

I have also learned that there is a complete shortage of platelets in the state of Georgia. Several of our friends use SEVERAL bags of platelets everyday while going through chemo and transplant. Due to many, many factors, it seems that the best thing for everyone in the Atlanta area to do is proceed with donating platelets as a "community donor." You can do this by calling 1-800-826-2026 to make an appointment. They will be able to answer any questions you have about eligibility and locations. Please check out Haley's site above for more info (journal - Oct. 26th entry) to find out how to donate or email me for more info.

We love you and thank God for you daily. Thank you for 'beeping' me, too. I say a prayer of thanks and ask God to bless you every time it rings. I may not know exactly who it is.... but God does! Thanks again!

Tuesday, October 19, 2004 4:22 PM CDT

Hey all!
Enjoy the new pictures. We stayed in our room more than usual this trip. More movies and snuggles which was all right with me! I've included some new links above for the children I often write about. They each have a very special place in my heart. Please.... you have been faithful to pray for us.... Trust me when I tell you these children need to be added to your lists as well. They so strength that can only come from God. They are amazing and deserve every opportunity life can offer!

I need to thank a very special friend for his extra special help! Al Winiski is a long time friend of our family and he has graciously agreed to help me build the IV pole riders many of you have noticed in my pictures. We have enjoyed using the IV rider and we want other children and parents to have the same opportunity. We will make and donate 6 of them to the hospital. Thanks, Al!

Todd will travel this week. His business is being blessed like never before. God has really opened some doors for him right now. I think it is good for him to concentrate on something besides our 'situation'. (I just made that funny quotation sign with my hands;) Ha!

Grant's doing great in school. I will accompany his class to the Cagle's Dairy on Friday. An educational experience I can't possibly miss! I think he's excited that I'm going. I know I am!

Please mark your calendars for Tues. 26th. We will report to the hospital at 5:45am for an 8am scan and then to a 9am MRI. This will be the first 'look' at the tumors since she was diagnosed on Aug 4th. Please pray for NO cancer cells. We will then meet with the Dr.(s) to discuss our next step. Probably surgery the first week of Nov.

Grace continues to amaze us with her strength. We know the Lord has granted her an extra dose of it! She is talking like crazy and is quickly learning her ABC's and 123's. If she doesn't know those by the time this is over..... I am a complete failure! We've had enough time together that's for sure!

I'm doing fine. The stress gets to me every once in a while. But.... overall... I think I'm doing better than most people would expect - considering the circumstances. I REALLY NEED a full night's sleep..... to loose about 20 pounds..... daily massage sessions..... a pool boy named... oh! Sorry..... I'm getting carried away! Just kiddin' Love to you all. Please visit the sites above.... I know they appreciate it as much as I do!

Saturday, October 16, 2004 6:54 PM CDT

Hey everyone! No new pictures yet, sorry! We've just been 'sprung' from the joint and I wanted to write ASAP! We rec'd Gracie's new AFP numbers and I needed to let you all know the incredible news!!!!!

**********47!******* Yes... just 47! No zeros! Just 47! Amen and Amen!

Besides that number being ZERO.... that is the best possible news we could have gotten! That was after 3 rounds of chemo. We have just completed the 4th round tonight. They fully expect our counts to be within normal ranges (0-15) before surgery on Nov 3rd. Great news! We will learn more on the 26th when we actually do the MRI and get to see what's inside!

We are very excited to say the least! It was so good to have Mom's 'Chicken and Dumplins' tonight for dinner and watch Mary Grace chase Grant all over the house. She is still feeling good and we ask you all to pray for good health as we prepare for surgery. She rec'd her flu shot in the hospital and I will begin the impossible search for my shot on Monday! Pretty sad when you have to have CANCER to get a flu shot!!

Again.... I come home with a heavy heart for our friends at the hospital. We have some new friends that were just diagnosed with a neuroblastoma. Her name is Kylie and is an absolutely BEAUTIFUL, 19 mo.old, little girl. Her mom and dad are exceptional people that are proving yet again.... you do what needs to be done when it's your baby that gets sick! We had some great visits and I look forward to spending more time getting to know them!

I'll post pictures and write more when I get to my own computer! Love to you all! We are continuously amazed by God's faithfulness.
DDD-

Sunday, October 10, 2004 4:09 PM CDT

OH MY! My words can not possibly say what my heart is feeling! We have had a truly WONDERFUL weekend at Camp Sunshine. Everything was great. Even the rain on Saturday afternoon provided entertainment for Mary Grace as she lead the other children in a round of 'stomp in the puddle'. She really put on a show!

We played Bingo, painted a family banner, panned for gold, paddleboats, fishing, playground, and even a massage for mommy! Daddy had a pie in the face (which Grant LOOOOVED!)
We had fun singing silly songs and meeting other families at different stages of this journey. It does give hope to see the kids that are off treatment and doing great! It reminds you that it is possible!

The couselors were amazing! Most of them were surviors themselves. They grew up coming to Camp Sunshine and are now back (and healthy!) to serve the new children and families. They were wonderful and supportive the whole weekend.

I'm packing and washing clothes for our trip tomorrow. We will start early... we have to be at the hospital at 6:15 for surgery to replace her chest tube. She needs it for chemo and that will start tomorrow afternoon after she recovers. We will be in thru Fri so keeps us in your prayers. We had a much needed vacation.... Grant is already talking about summer camp. Now... it's back to reality!

Love to you all!
DDD

1:45 PM
Ok..... that was just a dress rehersal! We are back home! There is some concern about the allergic reaction she had to the tape on her CVL site last week. The rash is still present and they are hesitant to put more tape on the site...... makes sense! We will return tomorrow am for a PIC line (basically the same idea as a Central Venus Line..... just in her arm instead of her chest.) Not my first choice but...... darn chemo! They think it's pretty important so.... we'll do what they say! ;) This will push us back a day which blows a few plans for Sat. Grant's fall festival is Sat. and I know he was looking forward to showing Mary Grace their class pumpkin and teaching her to 'blob for apples!' He's a great big brother. I am very blessed with a loving family and more friends than I can even count! This is day 69.....

Thursday, October 7, 2004 10:48 AM CDT

Hi there!
I wanted to update you on her CVL! Her blood counts look great - the transfusion worked beautifully. We will wait and replace the line on Monday morning. We were already scheduled to return for chemo that morning so..... we will replace the line that morning via surgery, then be admitted, then start chemo late that afternoon.

We have been given the 'green light' for camp this weekend. We will leave around 3:00 on Friday and return Sunday afternoon. The weather seems to be beautiful and I've heard great reports from the camp last week. Mary Grace is threatening to eat the fishing worms. Unfortunately for me..... it wouldn't surprise me ONE bit if she did! I'll be watching her extra close during the fishing time! Grant is excited about hiking and panning for gold. Daddy's excited about the Georgia/Tenn game. (I think he slipped the director some $$$$ for the TV - actually she's a UGA grad, too. I don't think he had to try TOO hard) I'm just excited to get away for awhile before we start round 4.

God continues to be faithful by granting us peace that we can't explain. We are so thankful for friends and family that go 'out of your way' to make us feel special. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU FOR MY NEW PRAYER BEEPER! What a wonderful idea! I will look forward to receiving thoughts and prayers via beeper. HOW COOL IS THAT?!!

A quick HAPPY Birthday to my long time friends, Beth Ferguson (we miss you. Hope you have a great day!) and my friend Anne Bowers, you look GREAT to be 28.... what is your secret?

Love to you all! We're off to the woods...........
Triple Dee

Wednesday, October 6, 2004 2:09 AM CDT

Hi everyone! This has been a very trying week! Mary Grace did beautifully last week after the chemo began to wear down (about Tues.) We stayed close to home over the weekend in case she needed to "blow up" (too funny) To a 2 yr old I'm sure that is what it sounds like and FEELS like. I began the Neupogen (White Blood count booster) on Sat and we had another UTI by Monday which added another med. We had our normal clinic visit on Friday Oct. 1 and they determined that she needed a transfusion this time. While her blood counts were not terrible..... her hemoglobin really took a dive so we chose to do the transfusion on Friday and not risk an ER visit during the weekend. Yeah...... that would NOT have gone over very well..... "Todd, honey, I know you are watching the Georgia/LSU game right now.... but I think Mary Grace needs a blood transfusion." I can hear it now...."Y'all drive careful and let me know how it goes!"
She did great! As a matter of fact, as we were walking into the building for the transfusion.... she is hopping through the parking lot yelling "WEEE-Haw Mamaw!" Pretending to ride a horse. And we can expect a burst of energy AFTER the transfusion? GAH-REAT!
I changed the dressing on her CVL (Central Line - that's a tube that she had surgically placed for the chemo to be administered. I flush the lines - 2- every day and give her the neupogen through it, too) on Friday night as scheduled. She decided; however, that she would have an allergic reaction to the tape this time. SAME TAPE...... she just decided that THIS time.... "let's give mommy some REAL fun." Needless to say.... it caused a pretty nasty rash in an area that really needs to stay clean. I changed to a new type of dressing tape but you can just imagine how much it itches. So... we have her on oral Benedryl to help.
Nurse came out yesterday.... Monday, to check it out and draw normal blood counts. But, we couldn't get any blood out! What is the saying.... "if it's not one thing.... ". A second nurse came tonight and was able to get the blood by using a different type of syringe. Thank goodness! We had to flip her upside down, shake and wiggle, raise our arms, jump in place (heck, this is the most exercise I've had in a while) but we DID get blood.
AFTER the nurse left,(of course she couldn't do this WHILE the nurse was still HERE!) I went to flush her lines as normal and the solution ran all down her chest and onto the bed. She looked at me and said..."Why dat do dat?" BECAUSE YOU'VE PULLED THE STINKIN' THING OUT!!! THAT'S WHY DAT DO DAT! So... off we were to the ER at 9:30pm. The Dr. caught us on the way to the hospital via cell phone and told me not to come in. Evidently the ER was overloaded and the risk of exposure to cooties (with an open CVL site) was too high. It wasn't bleeding and it's still covered by the Opsite dressing so.... we came home, took her medicine and crawled in bed for her nightly viewing of The Lion King! (again!) We will hear from the nurse tomorrow but it sounds like they will wait until Monday, when we check in, to do the surgery and replace the line. We have family camp this weekend so, I'm not sure if they will want to wait that long. The kids are really excited about camp so... I hope it all works out.
See the link I've added about camp (below) It sounds wonderful and couldn't come at a better time!

Keep prayin'! This is the part that I was talking about.... don't forget us! I have a few more dates for your calendars. Chemo week - Oct. 11-15, CT and MRI - Oct. 26th at 8am., Surgery - Nov. 3rd.
Please pray for our friend, Haley, and her family. They have been good friends to us in the hospital and they really need prayer right now. Hayley is headed for a transplant very soon and we need NO cancer cells to remain and a STRONG little girl to fight through the next month!

Thank you for your prayers, great meals, friendships, and shoulders to help carry us through this! You have ALL made an investment in our lives and we are forever, thankful!

Saturday, September 25, 2004 1:40 PM CDT

We're HOME!!! Believe it or not... we had a great week at the hospital! Mary Grace did fine on her chemo and we got wonderful news about her blood counts! She has dropped from 77,000 to 18,000 to 852 with only 2 rounds of chemo! To God be the Glory! Everyone is extremely pleased with her progress and indicated she is actually AHEAD of schedule! We know this is one more step in a very long process but..... for now, we are very happy! I'm more anxious now for the surgery.... I'm ready to get this THING out of her in a hurry. I don't want any chance of this thing 'rebounding' and starting to grow again. We will return to the hospital on Oct. 11th for more chemo and the next CT scan to schedule surgery.
We were visited on Tues. by 'Happy Tails.' A pet therapy team with 4 dogs. The kids were sooooo happy! The dogs were gentle and patient as the kids pulled and tugged on them. For 30 minutes or so.....a lot of those kids forgot anything was wrong with them. Mary Grace made several 4 legged friends and had fun posing for pictures with them!Thank you Happy Tails!
On Wed. afternoon.... Todd's office friends came to visit and play Santa! OHHH MY! Did they ever bring the presents! We have officially changed Mary Grace's name to DORA THE EXPLORER! I think she has every piece of Dora merchandise out there (Please don't try to prove me wrong!) She is now outfitted with the latest in Dora Fashions ..... gown, houseshoes (as seen in pictures) drinking glasses, pinata, coloring books, stocking cap and gloves, AYE CARAMBA!!! (I learned that on her Dora videos.... Thanks again!)
They were also kind to Mommy! Magazines, travel goodies, an awesome Univ. of Georgia tote, a great new pillow (one that many of you will be receiving for x-mas!) and a gift certificate for a massage at Nordstrom's. (Yes, my nose is stuck in the air as I write!) Thank you soooo much for your kindness! As wonderful as the gifts are, your friendship is priceless and we love you all! Thank you for your support and prayers! Todd is blessed to work with such wonderful people!

We had guests visit everyday! The pastoral staff from our church visits EVERY day and lift my spirits every time they come! Our friend Richey Brownfield stopped by and it was great to hear about his family and others from 'The Bridge!' Amy.... Thank you for the wonderful cookies! Jim and Cathy Law, Mike Wootton, Lisa Reeder, Julie Cummings, Scott Payne, Elise Martin..... if I'm forgetting someone... I'm sorry! You all bless me with your gifts and your friendships. Thank you for taking the time from your day to come to Scottish Rite and visit with me!

Thursday brought 'Bubble Mania' to the hospital. What fun! We WILL be having a Bubble Birthday next year!
Friday morning we awoke to a harpist playing sweetly right outside our room! I asked her if she could come to my house and wake me up like that every morning! What a treat! Mary Grace danced and twirled as she played.

On a serious note.... Mary Grace continues to be in good spirits. She amazes me more everyday. She is having a tougher time with the chemo this time. She was pretty sick most of Friday afternoon and we added another medicine to her list. Friday night was ok but she started this morning by arfing on her Daddy. (It was HIS TURN you know!) We try to keep her current on her meds and it does help. She rebounds so quickly it is amazing! One minute she yacks.... the next she's playing with Barbie! That's my girl! She really put on a show at the hospital.She loves the attention and it's really fun to watch people smile when she comes by. We had a really neat addition to our IV pole this trip. Take a look at the pictures for details. This allowed us to travel in style as we walked in the hospital. (I logged 18.2 miles in hospital hallways this trip!)
Grant is doing great in 1st grade. Math is his favorite subject. He struggles with the extra attention MG is getting. We have to make extra special 'Grant' time, too. Grant and I will begin a Family Karate Class this next week. The two of us will take classes together on Tues and Thur nights 7-8pm. OH.... WHAT AM I DOING? You better stop laughing..... I'll be dangerous in a few months!

I continue to meet amazing families every time we visit. We met Lucy and her mom, Jessica, Ellery and mom, Paige. (Both almost 2 year olds that promise to be great playmates). Brady is a gutsy little guy fighting and winning everyday! What a champ.... hope you liked the Scooby balloon! We met Mary Ann and her mom Cindy. She is a beautiful 16 year old with AP Anemia. Her brother is an exact bone marrow match and they will be traveling to Johns Hopkins in the next 3 weeks for transplant. Also... dear Hayley and her family. They continue to show strength that encourages me. Catie will be in town this week, see you soon! Please pray for these families! DEAR FRIENDS.....CANCER HAS A FACE! EACH CHILD HAS A DIFFERENT STORY. But, we have all been touched by this horrible disease. Please pray for strength to see them through.

I have rec'vd an awesome email that I have included below. The concept .... Coaching for a cure. It encourages teams (of any sport) to use the money that is normally collected for the coach's gift at the end of the season..... and donate it to 'Coaching for a Cure' in the coach's honor. The coach will rec'v a framed certificate and a t-shirt in return. What a great concept. You can find more below.... Please let me know if you are interested and I will send you some info!
Love to you.... glad to be home!
DDD

Saturday, September 25, 2004 1:40 PM CDT

We're HOME!!! Believe it or not... we had a great week at the hospital! Mary Grace did fine on her chemo and we got wonderful news about her blood counts! She has dropped from 77,000 to 18,000 to 852 with only 2 rounds of chemo! To God be the Glory! Everyone is extremely pleased with her progress and indicated she is actually AHEAD of schedule! We know this is one more step in a very long process but..... for now, we are very happy! I'm more anxious now for the surgery.... I'm ready to get this THING out of her in a hurry. I don't want any chance of this thing 'rebounding' and starting to grow again. We will return to the hospital on Oct. 11th for more chemo and the next CT scan to schedule surgery.
We were visited on Tues. by 'Happy Tails.' A pet therapy team with 4 dogs. The kids were sooooo happy! The dogs were gentle and patient as the kids pulled and tugged on them. For 30 minutes or so.....a lot of those kids forgot anything was wrong with them. Mary Grace made several 4 legged friends and had fun posing for pictures with them!Thank you Happy Tails!
On Wed. afternoon.... Todd's office friends came to visit and play Santa! OHHH MY! Did they ever bring the presents! We have officially changed Mary Grace's name to DORA THE EXPLORER! I think she has every piece of Dora merchandise out there (Please don't try to prove me wrong!) She is now outfitted with the latest in Dora Fashions ..... gown, houseshoes (as seen in pictures) drinking glasses, pinata, coloring books, stocking cap and gloves, AYE CARAMBA!!! (I learned that on her Dora videos.... Thanks again!)
They were also kind to Mommy! Magazines, travel goodies, an awesome Univ. of Georgia tote, a great new pillow (one that many of you will be receiving for x-mas!) and a gift certificate for a massage at Nordstrom's. (Yes, my nose is stuck in the air as I write!) Thank you soooo much for your kindness! As wonderful as the gifts are, your friendship is priceless and we love you all! Thank you for your support and prayers! Todd is blessed to work with such wonderful people!
We had guests visit everyday! The pastoral staff from our church visits EVERY day and lift my spirits every time they come! Our friend Richey Brownfield stopped by and it was great to hear about his family and others from 'The Bridge!' Amy.... Thank you for the wonderful cookies! Jim and Cathy Law, Mike Wootton, Lisa Reeder, Julie Cummings, Scott Payne, Elise Martin..... if I'm forgetting someone... I'm sorry! You all bless me with your gifts and your friendships. Thank you for taking the time from your day to come to Scottish Rite and visit with me!
Thursday brought 'Bubble Mania' to the hospital. What fun! We WILL be having a Bubble Birthday next year!
Friday morning we awoke to a harpist playing sweetly right outside our room! I asked her if she could come to my house and wake me up like that every morning! What a treat! Mary Grace danced and twirled as she played.

On a serious note.... Mary Grace continues to be in good spirits. She amazes me more everyday. She is having a tougher time with the chemo this time. She was pretty sick most of Friday afternoon and we added another medicine to her list. Friday night was ok but she started this morning by arfing on her Daddy. (It was HIS TURN you know!) We try to keep her current on her meds and it does help. She rebounds so quickly it is amazing! One minute she yacks.... the next she's playing with Barbie! That's my girl! She really put on a show at the hospital.She loves the attention and it's really fun to watch people smile when she comes by. We had a really neat addition to our IV pole this trip. Take a look at the pictures for details. This allowed us to travel in style as we walked in the hospital. (I logged 18.2 miles in hospital hallways this trip!)

I continue to meet amazing families every time we visit. We met Lucy and her mom, Jessica, Ellery and mom, Paige. (Both almost 2 year olds that promise to be great playmates) We met Mary Ann and her mom Cindy. She is a beautiful 16 year old with AP Anemia. Her brother is an exact bone marrow match and they will be traveling to Johns Hopkins in the next 3 weeks for transplant. Also... dear Hayley and her family. They continue to show strength that encourages me. Please pray for the families! FRIENDS.....CANCER HAS A FACE! EACH CHILD AND EACH FAMILY HAS A DIFFERENT STORY. But we have all been touched by this horrible disease. Please pray for strength to see them through.

I have rec'vd an awesome email that I will be passing on to you in the next few days. The concept..... Coaching for a cure. It encourages teams (of any sport) to use the money that is normally collected for the coaches gift at the end of the season..... and donate it to 'Coaching for a Cure' in the coach's honor. The coach will rec'v a framed certificate and a t-shirt in return. What a great concept. You can find more below.... Please let me know if you are interested and I will send you some info!
Love to you.... glad to be home!
DDD

Monday, September 20, 2004 7:52 AM CDT

Hi all!
Dad is on his way to pick us up and I wanted to jot a quick note! We will be in the hospital this week 20-24th... room 309 (see info below)
Please continue to pray for health and strength for both of us! (Mommy really needs to stay well, too)
We know the chemo has a cumulative effect on Gracie's little body so.... every trip is making me more nervous. However, I remind myself that each treatment gets us closer to the end! Please pray for her good health to continue through this treatment. God is truly working in this little girl! If she had hair right now...... you wouldn't know anything is wrong with her! THAT'S ALL GOD!

Thank you for your kind notes and thoughts. I'm sorry I can't respond to each one of you.... the time just isn't there right now. Please know we read them all and spend a moment thanking God for you!

DDD

Monday, September 20, 2004 7:52 AM CDT

Wednesday, September 15, 2004 4:37 PM CDT

Hey everyone! Just got updated blood counts and it continues to blow my mind! Her counts are high and strong in spite of the chemo! They even told me to STOP giving her the medicine to increase her white cells - they say she is doing great! The only 2 numbers that are a little low are her platelets and hemoglobin. **** Attention anyone that has blood...... This might mean a transfusion in the near future! Please watch this site for a potential Blood Drive! We will come and find you! ;)
Seriously.... I am in the process of organizing Blood Drives for my neighborhood and my church. I never realized how MANY people can be helped from ONE person giving blood. If you're interested, let me know.

We had a wonderful day on the boat with my dad yesterday. Grant and Mary Grace took turns feeding the ducks (my popcorn that I brought for a snack!) You could not ask for better weather! Fall is in the air.... or maybe that's just 'Ivan'. Hope I'm here by Friday to write another update!
Love to you all...... keep prayin'! This is day 43 ......
DDD

Friday, September 10, 2004 4:20 PM CDT

TO GOD BE THE GLORY!!!! We've just returned from our Dr. visit today and we have wonderful news! When we were first diagnosed on Aug 4th, they tested the AFP (Alpha-Fetal Protein?) in her blood. It was extremely elevated at 77,000 (normal range is 0-15) They said that was to be expected with a tumor as large as her's. Five days after our first chemo the count was 73,400. They told me it drops slowly at first and then we should begin to really see a difference. The next count came on Aug 30 (our 1st day of 2nd round chemo) so..... after 1 full round of chemo and 2 weeks of recovery.... HER COUNT WAS 18,300! THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU FOR YOUR PRAYERS! I hope you realize how much your thoughts and prayers mean to us! Here's the proof that it's working! Not only is she responding well to the treatments..... she has been happy and healthy through it all!
It was overwhelming to receive the news of her cancer... but the response from our family and friends has just BLOWN us away! Thank you for being so faithful and checking up on us! We will be back in the hospital on the 20th for 5 days...... then again on Oct. 11 for 5 days of chemo. We are expecting to do her MRI the last week of October with surgery shortly there after. That's as far as I am planning at this point. Mary Grace may be a 'hospital patient' for halloween this year!
We are in good spirits today with this good news! I pray always to stay in God's will.... but I have to admit.... right now it feels good that we are on the same page! Today is day 38.......

Thursday, September 9, 2004 4:42 PM CDT

Hi all- I returned to Scottish Rite today for a social visit! (You can knock me down but you can't keep me down for long!) I went visit a girl and her two year old little girl that are inpatient today. I met them during our first stay. I noticed a potential play pal and introduced myself. They live near Savannah and come to Atlanta 2x a month for her chemo. I also met another friend and her 5 year old little girl from near Macon. They were here at the clinic for her chemo. I brought lunch for everyone..... anything to prevent cafeteria food!
I am so blessed to meet new friends that are going through some of the same stuff. They had a week at the beach together this summer and I am officially inviting myself next year! ;)
Mary Grace and I will go back tomorrow for her counts. I'll let you know how it goes!

Mary Grace spent the day with Aunt Sue. They walked down the sidewalk and picked flowers (mostly my neighbors'.... sorry!) It is a beautiful day and I'm sure she was glad to get out of the house after all of the rain. Thank you, FRANCES! Mary Grace continues to stay healthy and happy! I think that makes it much easier on me and Todd, too. When you know what she is going through.... you KNOW the hand of God is upon this child! What a miracle.

Todd's mom and dad will come this weekend to help with the kids. Todd and I are looking forward to opening our new Sanctuary at church. If you have a minute.... check it out.....(see link below) When you see the 3 nursery workers.... the middle lady is holding Mary Grace!

I will write again tomorrow and give details of our Dr. visit. Until then..... please know I think of you all often and thank God for you constantly! You bless my heart and bring a smile to my face! Love to you! - Triple DEE

Saturday, September 4, 2004 8:58 PM CDT

Hey everybody! We are back home after being in the hospital for 5 days. We started chemo late on Monday night (9:30) and it ran until almost midnight. Mary Grace's blood counts were lower than they had anticipated and they had to contact the Dr. to continue. They were able to move the treatments up during the following days and that allowed us to come home on Fri. night. She has 2.5 hours of chemo a day followed by 6 hours of post-chemo hydration to replace the magnesium in her system. This prevents her kidneys from going WACKO! (That's a medical term!) All in all, our trip was very successful. She still feels pretty good and is enjoying the constant attention from Mommy during her 5 day 'Barney-fest'.
She did get sick once during our hospital stay and once last night. The medicine she gets for her upset stomach works wonders! The next week will be our tough one. Please keep us in your prayers. We will return to the clinic on Friday to check her counts. She is now receiving a Bone Marrow Stimulator to help rebuild white blood cells at a faster rate. I deliver that via IV pump once a day. I feel sorry for this child..... her health is in the hands of her not-so-medically-inclined mother!
A special thanks to my cousin Sherri Brooks in Dallas, Tx. Many of the notes we have received in the Guest Book have been from people she has shared our story with. Thank you for your special love and beautiful quilt you made for Mary Grace for our hospital trips! She loves it. We appreciate the extra time and love that goes into a very special gift like that!
Mary Grace is ready for bed so I'm going to go help! Love to you all and I'll write soon! Enjoy the pictures from our 2nd Chemo trip! This is day 34.....

Sunday, August 29, 2004 7:27 PM CDT

Grace and I will report tomorrow for chemo. It's hard going in for 5 full days because there is so much to do to get ready. Making sure everyone is scheduled properly, etc. I am very lucky to have friends and family close to help everyday! Thank you again! I can't possibly say that enough.
A special thanks to my cousin, Steve, and his friend, Karen. Thank you for passing on Mary Grace's story and being so faithful to pray for her.
We love you all. Please keep us close to your heart this week. I would be lying if I said I wasn't nervous.... it is really hard to put Mary Grace through this since she really doesn't understand it is all to help her. I will include little 'bald baby' pics when we return. She has lost about 75% of her hair in 3 days. Incredible! When I say it fell out.... I MEAN it really fell out!
I'll write when I get home! Love to you all! This is day 26.......
DDD

Thursday, August 26, 2004 8:02 PM CDT

Mary Grace is doing great! Thank you for the wonderful entries in the guest book - you all continue to bless us beyond measure. A special thank you to the following friends (and very good cooks): Jennifer W., Lynda, Laura M., Laura K, Lisa, Kathy, Jennifer M., Melody, Julie, Betty,Tammy,and Carrie. Your meals have been wonderful and your friendship means the world to me!
We finally noticed that Mary Grace's hair is starting to GO! Running your fingers through her hair leaves you with and hand FULL of tiny hairs! We will go tomorrow and get a haircut to ease this transition. She 'twiddles' her hair when she gets tired so.... this could be a challenge.
We got the call back for our next visit to 'Chez' Scottish Rite Spa and Treatment Facility;) We check in on Monday the 30th and will have chemo each day until Fri. Please pray for another successful trip. The tumor as already receeded to the point we can no longer see the mass on her back! Her AFP level (77,000 to 74,000) dropped modestly and her blood counts are where they need to be. To God be the Glory! That is a great sign but we won't know anything for sure until the next scan after round 3-4.
We feel so fortunate that Mary Grace is walking again and starting to feel much better. This chemo is NASTY stuff and we are so glad her body is staying strong. Her appetite comes and goes. Breakfast seems to be the best so I pump her full of eggs and oatmeal. (Maybe that is why she won't eat the rest of the day. She's still FULL!) She has lost 3 lb. since we started. She's down to 21 pounds but the Dr. doesn't seem to be too worried. We will begin donating blood for her soon. Luckily.. Todd and I can both give her red blood cells - which is what she needs. They call it a 'directed donor'. If she doesn't need it, it will be released to someone that does. If she does need it.... it's there for her (with her name on it...literally)
All in all, we are doing great. Our spirits are held high by your prayers. 3D-

Monday, August 23, 2004 9:03 PM CDT

We actually began treatment on Aug. 9th. She had a biopsy on the main tumor on her back to determine it's composition. Her tumor has a lot of fiberous material (like muscle tissue or connective tissue). After the chemo has a chance to work, they will attempt surgery to remove what is left. Then 2 more rounds of chemo. They placed the Central Line in her chest on Tues. 10th and we began chemo that night at 7pm.
We are on a five day schedule.... so it takes us five days of inpatient care to receive our chemo. Then home for a while, etc. We actually returned home on Sunday Aug 15th to a house filled with flowers and gifts for 'The Little Princess!' What a wonderful way to come home!

So far.... her blood counts are falling as expected. However, God does answer prayers! So far, we have not had any upset tummies! AMEN! My prayer for Mary Grace has been.... 'If this is the path we must take, please protect her little body and let it thrive during this chemo!' We took a quick visit to the hospital ER on Fri night (We told them we just missed them and needed to say 'hi') but we were allowed to come home after pumping her up with some antibiotics!

We will return next week for Round 2. Thank you to all of our neighbors and Sunday School friends that have so graciously supplied meals for us! I have gained 4 pounds and I am holding you all responsible! Now....who's going to start walking with me?! I didn't know we knew so many wonderful cooks! We need to start a cookbook.... yeah... I'll get right on that!

I don't know where this journey is going to lead us, but.... I have already been blessed through it! We know how much we are loved because you have all made special efforts to let us know! God has blessed us in so many ways. We thank God for each of you everyday. He promises never to give us more than we can carry. We have a wonderful support system to help us carry this load. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!

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