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Monday, May 20, 2013 11:45 AM CDT
Xander finished 4 days of chemotherapy and today we are headed to KC. Xander will receive a cell infusion tomorrow and stay in the clinic all day for observation. Please pray that Xander will experience peace, healing, and relief from pain........quickly. Last week was pretty awful for him,lots of pain. Yesterday and today have been much better. I know that so many are praying for us. It really encourages our family. Watching Xander hurt day in and day out has really been draining for us. Our hope is in the Lord! Our faith is in the Lord and we are waiting anxiously to see His plan carried out in Xander’s life.
“ We wait in hope for the Lord, He is our help and shield. In Him our hearts rejoice for we trust in His holy name. May your unfailing love rest upon us oh Lord, even as we wait”
Psalms 33:20-22
Thank you
Doug and Ricki Lea
Monday, May 13, 2013 2:16 PM CDT
first of all, Xander’s bone marrow was negative for neuroblastoma. Good news!!! but there is still disease that is causing pain and we must KILL it!
Now the plan is to take the “immunotherapy route” for treatment. Xander will receive 2 chemotherapy drugs to suppress his immune system next week in OKC. Then he will receive an infusion of T-cells in KC on Tuesday May 21st.
Dr. Myers was able to quickly get permission from the FDA to give Xander an increased dose of these cells.
Chemo will be out patient and will begin on Thursday and finish up on Sunday. He may gave to be admitted to the hospital on Saturday and Sunday since the clinic is closed but I am not certain yet. We are tying to work back from the 21st. Xander will miss the last two days of school but he will at least get to attend the end of the year skating party on Wednesday (which he missed last year because of being in the hospital)! The most important thing for him right now is to get this taken care of so he can go to Children’s camp at falls creek May 29th.
Dr. Myers is really working hard on this. He even has a few things that he is working on that Xander could do after this. We really need to pray for wisdom and direction for Dr. Myers (KC ) and Dr. McNall (okc).
Xander has had a good week. He is really trying to keep up with everything at school. He hates missing anything! He did come home at 1pm today, just tired. He is taking a nap to get ready for his brothers ball game tonight. Xander’s pain has been under control and that is a huge blessing.
love
ricki lea
Thursday, April 11, 2013 2:28 PM CDT
I have been reminded by several friends that I have not sent out an update in awhile. Truth be told we have been doing so well it has just slipped my mind! Daily we are reminded of God’s miracles in our lives. Each day the children head out the door for school I can’t help but whisper a prayer of thanksgiving to the Lord. Xander has been feeling amazing. He can’t get enough of basketball, thank goodness we have access to our church gym 24/7. Carter and Charli are busy with baseball/t-ball practice and McClain likes to play in the dirt any chance she gets. Only 36 days til our summer begins and we can’t wait!
Next on the calendar for Xander will be blood work in a few weeks and a trip to KC in mid June. Xander is 155 days post transplant. An amazing gift from the Lord!!
We know that God is our great physician and that He knows our future, in these truths we find peace. We are truly thankful for your continued prayers.
love
Doug and Ricki Lea
Tuesday, January 15, 2013 10:24 PM CST
We have been home a month, but in that time we have had 3 quick trips back to KC, Christmas at the grandparents, and a beautiful wedding for Doug’s sister, Callie. Oh, and 2 cases of the flu!!
Xander tested positive for the flu last Monday and has done amazingly well. We were trying so hard to keep him from being exposed. It has really set him back as far as gaining weight and strength. Yesterday was the first day that he seemed to be perking up! Everyone seems to be well now and I pray we can keep it that way.
Tomorrow Xander will go to the clinic in okc for an exam and blood work.
The plan is to see the doctor in OKC again in 2 weeks and then head to KC for scans and bone marrow biopsy on February 18th.
Our family has discovered Netflix and Xander has been on a crazy Cake Boss kick. He has watched an embarrassing number of episodes.
We are praying for good liver enzymes, weight gain and healing. Its hard to be patient and wait for all these new cells to do what we want, kill cancer cells! We know that these days are a gift. This time last year was very very scary for us. 2012 was a long and trying year, but it brings tears to our eyes and smiles to our faces when we consider all the blessings that the Lord has provided. Our hearts are full.
Doug & Ricki Lea
Sunday, December 2, 2012 10:43 PM CST
Well, after 33 days in the hospital, it appears we are going to the Ronald McDonald House tomorrow (Monday Day 34). This transplant process is still far from over; but praise the Lord we are through some of the toughest stuff! Monday December 3rd will be day +26 for Xander. He has 5 more radiation treatments left and will have a bone marrow biopsy on Wednesday Dec 5th. The next several weeks and possibly months will consist of recovery for Xander. For the first time in over a month Xander left his room and walked to the playroom and "played" with his friends that were visiting. He was out of his room for nearly 2 hours. This was HUGE! His body is very weak and it will take some time to regain his strength and resume his normal activities. Xander will leave the hospital tomorrow on IV nutrition, it will run for 12 hours a day. This will continue until Xander's appetite returns. Xander will see the doctor in the clinic here in KC twice a week for awhile. We are still unsure of when we will be released to our doctor in OKC. The 2nd phase of this treatment /transplant process is another transfusion of my blood cells that are currently in Houston,TX. I may have mentioned this briefly before, but these cells are being genetically modified to fight 3 viruses that will eventually be reactivated in Xander's body. These cells are also being "trained" to recognize and kill Neuroblastoma. These cells will be given to Xander around day 50-55 give or take. This is more science than I have ever wanted to know and I am probably not doing it justice in my explanation. Bottom line.......there is still much praying that needs to go on. Xander's body and immune system are very fragile. We have seen God's hand on Xander's body in such a powerful way. We have experienced more fear, joy, anxiety and peace over the last few months than ever before. We have also experienced God's mercy and protection in such a real way. Thank you for praying for us. Thank you for crying out to God for healing on Xander's behalf. Thank you for supporting us in so many ways.
Xander and I are sooooo ready to be home, but we know this is a process. We are extra anxious with Christmas approaching, but more than ever we understand that it doesn't matter where we are at Christmas as long as we are together as a family.
We will keep you posted on how things go this week! I can't wait to walk out of here with Xander.
-Ricki Lea
Wednesday, October 17, 2012 10:45 PM CDT
today has been nothing short of miraculous! xander has quickly become less and less mobile over the past week. we have been pushing him around in a wheel chair. He can walk, but he has an awful limp and he wants to sit often. Today he has moved a little better and even wanted to walk some. There have been no tears do to pain!! Thank you Lord. I know that each day is a new one and His mercies are new each morning. Giving Him all the glory for this day and praying, believing and trusting for a good day tomorrow. Thank you for praying.
Sunday, October 14, 2012 10:38 AM CDT
We are headed to Kansas City, MO today. Xander will have a stem cell transplant beginning in the next 2 weeks at Mercy Children's Hospital. He will be receiving my donor cells with this transplant. This is the first time this protocol has been used. Xander has been in a lot of pain lately and the neuroblastoma is progressing. We believe this is the direction God has for us to take and we are anxious to see what God has in store for Xander and our family. We will be in Kansas City anywhere from 35-100 days. I will keep you updated.
thank you for your prayers all these years.
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, August 29, 2012 9:56 AM CDT
I want to thank everyone for praying for Xander and our family this last week. I can’t begin to tell you how heavy our hearts have been, yet comforted knowing that so many people were lifting us up in prayer. Our meeting on Monday morning with the doctor went much better than we expected. Although, the disease has progressed the doctor described it as slow. We have been presented with a few options for treatment, 2 grabbed our attention. Doug and I have prayed and discussed these options and have decided to start Xander on the REOvirus at Children’s Hopsital in OKC on Tuesday September 4th. There is so much Science that goes along with explaining these trials. Please feel free to Google “REOLYSIN”! This is a phase 1 experimental study.
In a nutshell Xander will receive this virus for 1 hour daily over 5 days in the clinic. He will have blood work done twice a week and will also take an oral chemo at home daily for 21 days and then 1 week of rest before beginning again. Xander will have testing done after the 1st 2 cycles, each cycle is 28 days. The side effects from the virus will be “flu like” symptoms.
Xander is thankful that this treatment will keep him close to home and his normal activities. He is trying to decide if he wants to miss his mornings or afternoons of school next week.
This past week has been one of the most difficult for our family. Satan has tried his hardest to get into our heads and cause us to doubt that God can really heal our son. When everything in this world tells us that this is an impossible journey, we must choose to trust in Jesus. Not just for Xander, but in all things. There is a song that rings so clear in my mind “all I know is I’m not home yet, this is not where I belong, take this world and give me Jesus, this is not where I belong”
So, we are ready for what is to come, we are ready to see God continue to use Xander’s life for His glory.
“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.” John 16:33
love,
Doug and Ricki Lea
Wednesday, August 22, 2012 10:47 PM CDT
I’m not sure what to say, but waiting til tomorrow is not going to make it any easier.
Xander and I had barely been home 30 minutes today when the dr. called with the results from his MIBG scan that had just taken place at 1pm today.
There are a few new spots on Xander’s body. There is also some enhancement of the old cancerous spots.
I just kept telling the dr. that God knew this before I even answered the phone.
So, here we are again. Progression of disease and in need of healing. This is not the first time we have been here, yet it hurts to the very core of our soul. We serve a powerful God who has a plan for our lives, a plan for Xander, and although we cannot see the big picture, He does.
Xander was a little shocked, but we quickly prayed and asked God to take away all our fears. We had a church swim party to go to tonight and that was a huge distraction for him and Carter. When we got home Xander came to me after his shower and said “mom, with Him (pointing to Heaven) we can’t lose.” I hugged him and said “you are exactly right” then he smiled and said “plus, now I get to go to PE on Monday”.
Xander will be removed from the antibody study. Doug and I will meet with Dr. McNall on Monday morning to discuss what is next. Xander was scheduled to begin course 5 on Monday, but now he will be going to PE. No pressure for the PE teacher
We ask again for your prayers. Prayers for healing, prayers for guidance, prayers for peace, prayers to take away all our fears. Prayers for Carter, a 9 year old boy who loves his big brother more than anything in the world. We are thankful for you and your presence in our lives, even though it may be from a distance, we know you are with us.
thank you
Doug and Ricki Lea
Monday, August 20, 2012 9:31 PM CDT
There is just no way to explain how amazing our trip to Chicago was. The weather was beautiful, we got to meet players, we sat on the front row, Xander threw out the first pitch at Wrigley Field, the Ricketts Family was so kind, we traveled in a limo to and from Wrigley, we ate Lou Malnati’s pizza and there was a Harry Potter convention at our hotel (Carter was sad he didn’t have his robe)!!
From the man who handed Xander a twenty at the airport in OKC after asking “why we were headed to Chicago”? (he was probably thinking, seriously?? you are dragging 4 kids to Chicago for fun?) to the flight attendant welcoming Xander and his family to Chicago and wished us a wonderful weekend with the Chicago Cubs (and we had not said a word to her) We knew the weekend was going to be one we would never forget.
Our family was personally escorted behind the scenes of Wrigley Field and within a few hours Xander landed right on the pitcher’s mound. When he was asked to throw a pitch, he didn’t respond with “oh, I would love too” he just simply said yes, smiled and started stretching his arm!!! We laughed so hard.......true Xander style! The players that came to meet us and give autographs were so kind, they asked the kids questions, talked to the boys about their baseball positions and really took time to just visit. My favorite was Anthony Rizzo, a cancer survivor himself. He took so much interest in Xander. McClain wasn’t sure what all the hype was, but Carter and Charli were right by Xander’s side taking it all in as well. Doug was pretty much in Heaven, especially after he had a game ball tossed to him by the catcher during the game on his birthday! Charli loved the dessert cart (and I’ll admit I did too) that came around to the suites during the 3rd inning. Thanks to the owners kids who made sure our kids experienced all the perks. The kids ran back and forth from the front row to the Owners Suite. It doesn’t get better than that.
As far as the one who made this trip happen; the Ricketts family did not do this for fame or publicity. Their hearts are truly genuine. We were privileged to meet all the children of Mr. and Mrs. Joe Ricketts and several grandchildren. This experience that our family was given is priceless and we are so thankful for their generosity. We have new friends that will be dear to us always.
Now that the limo rides are over and school has begun, the reality of testing time sets in! Xander will have a scan and bone marrow biopsy on Wednesday. Our prayer is that the last 2 courses have been effective and that Xander is allowed to continue on the antibody treatment. Actually that’s my 2nd prayer. My 1st prayer is for no disease!!! Xander is scheduled to begin the 5th course on Monday August 27th if all goes according to plan.
Xander started the 5th grade, Carter the 4th grade and Charli 1st grade. We treasure these days of normal everyday chaos. It is going way too fast as most of you would agree.
Thank you for staying on this journey with us.
Friday, June 15, 2012 8:39 PM CDT
On June 15, 2004 we spent our first night in Children’s Hospital. That afternoon we had viewed Xander’s CT and were in complete shock that there was a tumor in our son’s skull the size of a small baked potato. There are no words to describe the events of that day. I remember feeling like the world was spinning around me and there was nothing I could do to stop it. I also remember praying that God would give Doug and I peace that passed all understanding and He did. The fact that Xander is here, 8 years later is nothing short of a miracle. The Lord has shown us His power in very real ways and in numerous ways. Thank you for being a part of this journey with our family. Our prayer continues to be that Xander would be healed, but most of all that God be glorified!
Xander completed the 2nd course of the antibody treatment last Thursday and was released from the hospital that evening. Since then Xander has played 8 baseball games in a span of 5 days!! He has been feeling great. We are very thankful that he did not experience any pain or fever while in the hospital. Xander will have an MIBG scan on June 21st and a bone marrow biopsy on the 22nd. We are praying that these tests show that the antibody treatment is working. We will let you know as soon as we have results.
Thank you for your continued prayers
Doug and Ricki Lea
Friday, May 4, 2012 10:42 PM CDT
Xander’s bone marrow biopsy came back “stable” just the same as before we did the 3 weeks of chemo at home. This is good since the dose of chemo was very low compared to what he had been doing in the hospital. We are very thankful to be stable and getting started on the antibody next week.
Xander will be admitted to the hospital on Wednesday. He will be there for 3 days. If you know Xander, you know this is killing him!! He will have to miss a skating party, a field trip, Super Kids Day and a BASEBALL game.......wow!!! We talked about God’s perfect timing once again. I know Xander understands but it still stings a little when you just want to be a part of everything.
Along with the inpatient antibody infusion, Xander will be receiving shots at home for a week and then 2 weeks of Acutane. All of this will make up a 28 day cycle. The purpose is to “rev” up Xander’s white blood cells to fight off the abnormal cancerous cells. That is just the simplest explanation I can give. Xander will have 2 cycles before testing is done again.
Thank you for praying for Xander. Thank you for believing in God’s power with us. Thank you for having the faith that God can heal Xander. We are surrounded by prayer warriors and are so truly thankful.
Wednesday, March 21, 2012 5:14 PM CDT
Once again the plans have changed!
Our doctor was shocked this morning when she received word that the Antibody II that Xander was scheduled to start on Monday was suddenly closed. There was a reaction with a patient that caused enough concern that the study must shut down until they feel confident about starting up again or make changes. This could take several weeks. I know this is confusing for some, but it is something we are becoming familiar with as we are involved with more and more studies.
There is an Antibody I that can be given on a compassion basis. This just means it is not part of a study and the doctors can apply for permission to give it when they see it necessary. It is little different than the Antibody II, but our doctor wants Xander to be on one of the two. It could take 2 weeks to get approval for Antibody I. So, what to do while we wait to start one of the Antibody treatments? That was the big discussion today.
Doug and I have prayed for Dr. McNall to give us good advice and direction and we believe she has done exactly that. Today was no different. We discussed openly the pros and cons of certain temporary options. Based on the previous treatment and drugs Xander has received over the past 7 1/2 years, she recommended an oral dose of chemo that can be taken daily at home for the next 21 days. Our hope is that this chemo will keep the disease stable while we wait for one of the Antibody treatments to open up.
I know its so much information but I have barely scratched the surface. I just feel the need to share with our prayer warriors the details that we are dealing with. I tried to sum it up the best I could.
We know that each day God is carrying Xander and our family through these troubled waters. We know that while we hope for “stable” and for the Antibody to open up soon. We know that as I write these very words to you God can reach down and wipe every trace of cancer from Xander’s body. We pray for exactly that!! We believe it, pray for it with us!!!
Thank you so very much,
Doug and Ricki Lea
Thursday, February 16, 2012 10:07 PM CST
Xander has completed the 1st round of chemo and will begin the 2nd round tomorrow.
We will test in early March to see how he has responded to the treatment. We are praying for complete healing. We are praying for the doctors to be in complete awe! We know God has the POWER!! We are trusting in Him to deliver Xander.
Friday, January 20, 2012 4:26 PM CST
To bring everyone up to speed: we just returned from Disney world!!! We were planning to take the kids this summer but thought now was a good time. We spent 8 days in Orlando and had an amazing time! Although, after getting off of "its a small world" ride at the magic kingdom, Xander said “there’s 30 minutes of my life I will Never get back". Oh the wit of a 10 year old!!! Xander will begin chemotherapy at Children's hospital in OKC this Saturday. It will be 5 days inpatient. It is the most aggressive chemo combination they can give him without doing a transplant. Doug and I feel good about doing this and being close to home. Xander is so social at this time in his life and needs the emotional support of his family and friends.
We have spent the last 2 weeks soaking in the news of Xander's situation and have once again had to surrender our son to the Lord. We have had to daily pray that fear would not paralyze us and that the peace of God would take its place. Thank you for praying, calling, texting and stopping by the house. We are not alone in this battle and are so blessed by you.
We have told Xander that our main focus right now is getting him well. He asked if this chemo was guaranteed to work. I had to remind him that there are no guarantees in this world, he quickly said "the only guarantee is that there are none" we agreed that our eternity with Jesus is all we have and it's all we need!
So, as we gear up for this next step we ask that you continue to pray for healing. Pray that Xander’s life, body, attitude, medical history (everything) would amaze the doctors and that God’s glory will be made known. Thank you a hundred times over for your constant encouragement and support.
Thank you
Ricki Lea
Monday, January 9, 2012 3:11 PM CST
Friday
afternoon we were told that the cancer in Xander's body has progressed
significantly. At this time we are unsure of what will happen next. Our
doctor in Oklahoma City is consulting with a network of doctors across the
nation, in effort to decide what is best for Xander.
We believe we will need to take aggressive action.
As you can see Xander is a healthy growing boy and it's hard to imagine that
his skeleton is covered with cancer. We ask that you continue to pray as you
have done so faithfully. We believe that God is still in control and is
using Xander for His glory. As you pray for Xander we ask that you boldly
share the message of the cross.
Xander's response to this news.......I'm not worried because God has a plan
for my life and He is going to Dazzle me with it!
Thank you,
Doug and Ricki Lea
Tuesday, September 20, 2011 9:21 PM CDT
Xander began the 5th course of fenretnide today.
Last week he had routine scans and bone marrow biopsies to make sure that the drug is a benefit to him. So far so good!
His bone marrow is just less than 1 nd his MIBG scan has improved slightly with still one spot showing at the top of his skull. Those were the test results from August and the September results are as follows:
The doctor said that all of Xander's test results were identical to last time. We are thankful for this news! Thank you for praying for us last week. Please pray that Xander will have strength and determination this next 7 days to get his medicine down. It is getting more and more difficult for him. And while you are at it, pray that Doug and I will have patience.
Thank you so much
Ricki Lea
Monday, July 11, 2011 10:16 PM CDT
can't believe i have not updated in so long, but we have just been doing so well and flying through the summer!
Xander has completed the 1st course of the oral fenretenide and will begin the 2nd course tomorrow.
He will take the medicine for 7 days and then sometime before we start course 3 we will have all of his scans done.
The trips back and forth from Fort Worth, TX have not been too terrible. We are just thankful that we can drive there and back in a day!!
Thank you for your prayers.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011 9:06 AM CDT
It has been 1 month since we returned from San Francisco! We have been enjoying every minute of it. Xander has been playing tons of baseball and enjoying the last bit of school. Carter is turning 8 on Thursday, Charli is finishing Pre-K (tears) and McClain is more spoiled than ever! Life is good and we are so thankful for these carefree days.
The time we have all been waiting for is upon us…….testing…….did the MIBG therapy work? Did it benefit Xander?
Today Xander will receive an MIBG injection and then tomorrow he will have a bone marrow biopsy, MIBG scan and a CT of his head, chest, and abdomen. All of these results will be sent to UCSF. Hopefully we will have results by Friday.
Of course my heart is anxious! This morning I keep thinking of the scripture “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” Philippians 4:13 Its one that many of us have had memorized since we were young. In fact it was my nana’s very favorite. I am translating it today for me as “I can handle all things” because I know that no matter what, God will strengthen me and I will be able to handle anything, if I will simply let Him. If I will embrace Him and let his strength flow through me.
Please pray for healing in Xander’s body. Pray that Xander will be calmed and strengthened tomorrow.
Doug and I are so blessed by your prayers and encouragement.
Thank you
Ricki Lea
Thursday, March 31, 2011 1:03 AM CDT
Today was a super long day! I quickly remembered how interesting it can be going to a new hospital and trying to learn the ropes. We learned that AC is a luxury we don’t like being without!! The hospital only has it in a few select places. Never did I dream that when we entered Xander’s hospital room that the windows would be open to let in the breeze. It just so happens that this week it has been and will continue to be abnormally warm for this time of year!
Xander is settled in his “plastic wrapped” room and ready for the MIBG infusion tomorrow at 1:30pm. He received the 1st of 5 doses of chemo this evening. He is feeling a little more comfortable with the catheter. Without totally invading Xander’s privacy all I can say is that it took 5 different tubes and about an hour to get the catheter placed. A very long hour, but he was such a trooper. He was calm the entire time with only a few tears.
I shed a few tears myself today. Admitting him to the hospital is such a reality check. He gets nervous, I get nervous, but thankfully it only lasts a short while. Within 30 minutes we met a family that had been through MIBG therapy a few months ago and it was reassuring to hear how it wasn’t as bad as they expected it to be. God has a way of giving us peace in the midst of uncertainty.
I have enjoyed reading FB posts and text messages throughout the day. I love being able to tell Xander that “so and so” said hi and they are praying for him. I know that we are close to your hearts.
Xander and my dad went to tour Alcatraz yesterday (Xander’s 2nd time) and they explored the city a little on their own. My mom and I did some exploring ourselves! We only had to run once to catch a bus!
I leave you with this scripture, it was in my devotion today and I think it is very appropriate.
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior”
Isaiah 43: 2-3
Ricki Lea
Sunday, March 27, 2011 10:48 PM CDT
The time has come!
Xander and I leave tomorrow for San Francisco. We had a great visit last week and were able to scope out a few things around the hospital and our hotel. The doctor was able to give us detailed information about the treatment. There is an opening for the regular MIBG therapy plus a combination of 2 chemo drugs that Xander has had before. We took it! Doug and I want to fight the disease with everything the doctor has to offer.
Xander will be admitted into the hospital on Wednesday and will receive the MIBG on Thursday morning; it will run through his port for about 90 minutes. For the next 5-7 days Xander will remain isolated in a lead lined room until the level of radiation in his body is safe enough for him to leave the hospital. For 5 days he will receive chemotherapy for 1 hour daily. My time with Xander will be very limited. Each caregiver may spend about 30 minutes in Xander’s room during the 1st 24 hours. I am very thankful that my parents are going with us tomorrow. My mom will stay the entire time and my dad will be with us until Saturday. So we are going to space out our time with him. Each day radiation levels will be tested and our time with Xander will slowly increase as the radiation levels decrease. Once we are released from the hospital (after 5-7 days) Xander will continue to have his levels tested daily and hopefully they are where they need to be so we can head home on April 10th.
Please pray that Xander will be able to entertain himself in his hospital room and that he will not be anxious about the treatment process.
Pray that Xander will “obediently” take his oral meds each day! He will be taking meds to protect his thyroid glands every 6 hours around the clock.
Pray that we will be able to minister to the doctors and nurses we meet. I want us to have opportunities to share what God has done in our lives and share the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Pray for Carter, Charli, and McClain.
Pray for healing. Pray for a miracle. Pray for God to heal Xander.
I cannot tell you just how much support we have received. Our family has been blessed beyond belief! The cards, the emails, texts, and financial gifts are overwhelming. We know that people are praying for us and thinking of us constantly. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
Ricki Lea and Doug
Tuesday, March 8, 2011 4:34 PM CST
It has been way too long since I have updated. Where does the time go?
Xander will have testing done tomorrow and Thursday and these results will be a baseline before he begins the MIBG therapy at UCSF Medical Center on March 30th.
We will be going to San Francisco on March 21st-23rd for a consult and then return on the 28th to begin treatment on March 30th. Hopefully we will return home on April 10th.
We are hoping that this will be quick and painless! It is never easy being away from the family but we know that God has a plan and He will give us all the strength that we need to carry it out.
Thank you for checking in on us and please continue to pray for healing in Xander's body.
Thanks,
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, January 19, 2011 4:06 PM CST
I don’t know where to begin since some of you have heard more than others over the past few days. So I’ll start from the beginning!
Last week Xander’s MIBG scan showed an area of new disease. This indicated that the anti growth therapy Xander had been receiving at Children’s in OKC was not working. On Friday we decided that Therapeutic MIBG would be the best thing at this time for Xander. This treatment is not offered in OKC. It is only available in Philadelphia, San Francisco, Cincinnati, and Houston. Therapeutic MIBG requires that the patient have their own stem cells for a rescue following the treatment. Xander has stem cells stored from January 2005. On Tuesday the plan was to go to San Francisco in February. Quickly (about 30 minutes after we heard that news) we found out that Xander would need more stem cells than he had stored. Getting stem cells involves getting the immature cells revved up where we can draw them out of the blood. The absolute best way to do that is to give chemo. Today, we have decided to start chemotherapy Monday the 24th at Children’s. This chemo will be given over 5 days in the clinic and then we will harvest stem cells.
Once we have harvested stem cells we can choose to go ahead with the MIBG therapy in San Francisco or see what other treatment is available at that time. But regardless, we will have stem cells for whatever and whenever we may need them.
We are learning to be flexible and that things can change quickly. It is difficult as parents to know exactly what to choose for your child. Please pray that over the next couple of weeks Doug and I will be able to look into all of Xander’s options and make the best decision. Therapeutic MIBG may still be the option we choose but now we have a few weeks to pray research and discuss and not feel so rushed.
Pray that Xander will be “ok” with the news of chemo. Boy does he love his hair!!! But he does know that we must do whatever we have to in order to make him healthy. It‘s tough when you are 9.
This may be way more info than some of you are wanting. I just wanted to share the latest with you so you will know exactly how to pray.
We know that although we don't know the plan way in advance, God does, and none of this catches Him by surprise. There is amazing comfort in knowing He knows exactly what we need and He will provide it.
Friday, January 14, 2011 8:30 AM CST
There is a new spot showing up on Xander's MIBG scan. We were hoping that this new treatment would keep everything stable and stop the growth of his disease, but we now know that it is not working. The doctor is making some calls and working on a plan for Xander. Of course the worst part is the waiting and not knowing where it will be or when it will begin.
We will update as soon as we know something.
thanks for praying for Xander
Monday, January 10, 2011 12:16 AM CST
Xander has been doing great!
He has had 6 doses of the "growth inhibitor" anit-body, and has handled it really well. He will have a bone marrow biopsy and an MIBG scan this week (Tuesday and Wednesday) to make sure that the cancer is stable/unchanged. This will let us know if it is safe to continue with this treatment plan.
We had a fabulous Christmas and are already back into the swing of school and Upwards basketball. There is never an "off time" for this family and we wouldn't change it for the world.
We are so blessed and encouraged by your prayers. We serve a God who is the same yesterday today and tomorrow! He will continue to take care of us no matter what we face.
I leave you with this passage:
Ephesians 3:12-21
"In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence. I ask you, therefore, not to be discouraged because of my sufferings for you, which are your glory.
For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen."
Thank you for praying
We will let you know how the testing goes as soon as we hear something.
love
ricki lea
Wednesday, November 24, 2010 9:46 AM CST
Doug and I met with the dr. in OKC yesterday and discussed the options for Xander. On Friday we were told that all the options that were available at this time would be out of state. On Tuesday morning our dr. checked one last time for any "open" studies at Children's Hospital in OKC and there was ONE. There was an opening that had not been there on Friday or Monday! She reserved it for Xander, knowing that we would have 7 days to make a decision before it would re open for someone else. This process is pretty complicated, when treatment is in study phase it is not just open for anyone at anytime. There are very specific criteria that the patient must meet and then there is a limited amount of patients allowed in the study each time it opens up. So, needless to say, we believe that God opened this space up for Xander and we jumped on board.
Xander will begin on Monday at Children's. It is something we can do in the clinic (out patient) and it is NOT CHEMOTHERAPY. The study is another form of antibodies, similar to the one we completed at St. Jude. The side effects are minimal and Xander will be able to attend school and keep up his regular activities, thank you Jesus. It will be a 1 hour iv infusion given once a week. We will be going to the clinic twice a week, but so much better than getting on a plane and leaving the rest of the family! Xander will do this for 8 weeks and then we will have a complete round of testing to see if he is responding in a positive way. If so Xander could stay on this study for 2 years if needed. If his disease does not respond well, then there are several other options that we discussed yesterday, about 5 to be exact and it was mind boggling discussing each of them! But there are so many new advances in Neuroblastoma.
This treatment is not chemo, it is not a cure, it is a growth inhibitor and is designed to keep Xander's small amount of disease "in check" or "stable". I never thought Doug and I would say " a little bit of cancer is ok" but we believe that this is a good thing right now and could possibly "buy time" until a cure is found! We are not limiting God! We will continue to cry out to God for healing and know that Xander's cancer could be completely gone tomorrow. It is very important to us that Xander is able to be "normal" and do the things he loves, so if there is a way to provide that for him, we want it!
The emails, cards, phone calls, texts, and visits have meant so much to us. We know that we are not battling this alone. God has blessed us with an amazing support group of family, friends, and even people we will never meet this side of Heaven. I can't imagine going through this without you! Being at the clinic yesterday was weird, but very familiar and comforting to know that we are going to be with nurses and drs that have cried and rejoiced with us over the last 6 1/2 years.
We love each of you and continue to ask for your prayers.
Love
Doug, Ricki Lea, Xander, Carter, Charli, and McClain
Sunday, November 21, 2010 3:51 PM CST
Friday the doctor told Doug and I that Xander's cancer has returned. We are heart broken to say the least. Xander is sad and afraid, but he is ready to fight! Then he and Doug went straight to the air hockey!!! The doctor has given us a few options and we are waiting for a few more test results to come back before we make our decision. Once again we find ourselves in a fight for Xander's life, and once again we ask that you would pray. Pray that God would clearly direct Doug and I as we decide what comes next. Pray that Xander would not be afraid of what is to come. Pray that God would comfort Carter, Charli, and McClain. Pray that God would be glorified in all that we say and do. Pray for healing in Xander's body.
I know this is a lot, but I also know that so many of you have walked each step of the last 6 1/2 years with us and pray for Xander like he's your own. We are so blessed that you are a part of our lives.
We had a big weekend with the St. JUDE Give Thanks Walk and Xander's birthday is Tuesday and then Thanksgiving! What timing God has, He knows exactly what we need to keep us busy as we wait!
love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, November 17, 2010 9:50 PM CST
I know that it has been way too long since I have updated, but we have been doing great!!! and that keeps us really busy!!!
Xander and Doug left for St. Jude yesterday and will return Friday. Xander had a CT today and will have an MIBG scan tomorrow and a bone marrow biopsy. We are praying and believing in God's power to keep Xander's body free from cancer. We know that God is in control! I was just telling someone tonight at church that it doesn't do any good to worry, it won't change what God has planned.
This weekend we are participating in the St. Jude Give Thanks Walk in OKC. This is the first year for OKC to participate and we are really looking forward to it. Xander has a team and has raised around $1900 so far! If you are in the area and would like to walk with us on Saturday Nov 20th, we would be honored. It is a Penn Square Mall in OKC. You can find out more about the walk at www.givethankswalk.org If you would like to join Xander's team or donate on his behalf its not too late.
Thank you for your continued prayers.
Love
Ricki Lea
Friday, August 20, 2010 10:56 AM CDT
Just met with the dr and heard good news! MIBG and bone marrow are clear!!! We will go back to St. Jude in November for testing. I can't explain how thrilled, blessed, and thankful we are. Xander said "God took care of us"! I don't think he was ever nervous.
Thank you God for taking care of us. Thank you friends, family and strangers for praying so diligently for my son. I look forward to see what God has in store for his life.
thanks,
Ricki Lea
Thursday, August 12, 2010 11:25 AM CDT
Today was the 1st day of school!! I cried like a baby. Charli is in pre-k, Carter is in 2nd grade and Xander is in 3rd grade. That leaves McClain and I at home all alone!!
We have had a tremendous summer. Can't believe it is over. Xander and I leave for St. Jude on Tuesday August 17th. Xander will have a complete round of testing. This is just routine. We haven't been to St.Jude since May. It has been wonderful :) I'm sure you will notice the thick head of hair on Xander's head. He has not had chemo since Sept. 09 and has the darkest, thickest hair to show for it. Just like his daddy!
Please pray that all of the results are good and that there are no signs of cancer in Xander's body. I know that we serve a mighty God who has the power to heal. We trust in His plan for Xander's life. I can't tell you how much we appreciate your faithfulness to pray for Xander and our family. The blessings in our lives are too many to count.
I will update when we get back from St. Jude.
thank you
Ricki Lea
Tuesday, June 15, 2010 10:24 PM CDT
June 15, 2004.......6 years ago today we spent our first night at children's hospital with Xander. I remember how afraid I was and I am in awe of God's provision. "The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy." Psalm 126:3
thank you for sticking with us all these years.
love
ricki lea
Sunday, May 9, 2010 10:33 PM CDT
NO CANCER!!!
we are thrilled beyond belief. all tests were clear and we don't have to go back to st. jude until August!!!
Prayer is so powerful and we feel very blessed to have so many of you praying for Xander.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
Love
Ricki Lea
Tuesday, May 4, 2010 12:14 AM CDT
Xander, my mom, and I are headed to St. Jude this afternoon. Xander will have several tests done this week. We are praying for no cancer and wonderful results. Everything looked great during his April trip and he has been going strong since. I feel very blessed to have a full and busy life for our family. God has been so good to us and we are continuing to trust in His word and His promises to never leave us nor forsake us!
I will update you as soon as we have any results. Please join us in prayer for continued healing.
thank you
love,
ricki lea
Wednesday, April 7, 2010 5:39 PM CDT
It has been awhile! Rest assured no news is good news!! We have been doing great. Xander did not go to St. Jude in March as planned. My mom was going to take him but she was very very sick when they were supposed to go, so our dr there said we could just see our doctors at OU medical and come see them at St. Jude in April and May. Xander left this afternoon with my mom and will be back on Friday. He is just going for a check up and a CT.
We have enjoyed staying put the past 2 months and doing the most normal thing for us, baseball!! The boys are gearing up for the pre season tournament this weekend. This is our 2nd year in coach pitch and we have already won more games in pre season games than we did our entire last season. So it is looking better for the Lexington Cubs!
I want to say thank you for praying for Xander. I don't ever want to take for granted how many prayer warriors Xander has. As we approach 6 years since his diagnosis this June, I am beaming because I know the power of God. It is undeniable how the Lord has provided a way for Xander and our family. May God be glorified in our lives and in your lives when you tell of Xander's story.
thank you
love
Ricki Lea
Saturday, February 13, 2010 11:34 AM CST
Just got the call this afternoon from Xander's dr at St. Jude and Xander's bone marrow is clear! There were no tumor cells on either side. His MIBG scan was negative for any neuroblastoma as well. So we are more than thrilled with these results. She wants to see Xander in March for a few tests and then back again in May.
So many people always ask "does this mean remission?". That is a tough question! There is no cancer detected in Xander's body, yet doctors hesitate to say "remission". As I am writing this I feel as if I have written the same words before. Doug and I are choosing to just be thankful for what we have been given and not try to label it anything other than wonderful! We were told that all of the tests were negative for cancer cells and we will rejoice. If you could have seen the look on Xander's face when we told him ( or the back of his head as he flipped over the back of the couch) you would know that he is rejoicing too! I'm pretty sure he has been dreaming of a baseball season without chemo for a long time. God is so good.
Thank you for praying and I hope you have a wonderful Valentine's weekend.
Love
Ricki Lea
Sunday, February 7, 2010 7:13 PM CST
We are back at St. Jude
Where has the time gone, it feels like we just left.
Testing will take place this week for Xander. Doug is with us this trip and Xander is enjoying showing him around.
Xander has been doing so good. His hair is so dark and thick, I just love it!
He and Carter have enjoyed basketball so far, although Xander is ready to play "for real"!
I am not sure when we will have the results from the tests, but I will let you know.
We are just going to enjoy our time here together and pray that Xander will continue to show God's powerful healing in his life! We have been truly blessed.
love
Ricki Lea
Friday, January 15, 2010 10:09 PM CST
We are at St. Jude!
We arrived yesterday and will be here until Wednesday. Xander will be admitted into the hospital tonight (we like to wait until the last minute) so they can begin the first infusion tomorrow morning.
His best friends Kaden and Seth showed up today, with their mothers, who just happen to be two of my best friends! It was such a surprise for Xander. Their presence helped take his mind off of missing home and thinking about going into the hospital.
Then we got to meet Carrie Underwood! There was a "meet and greet" of famous country artists at the Chili's Care Center today. The Chili's Care Center is part of the St. Jude Hospital, and no they do not serve chips and salsa although the famous Chili pepper logo is on the building!
We had no idea what artist we would meet because they kept it a secret and they rotated them every 20 minutes or so. How perfect that we were able to meet a fellow Oklahoman!
She was beautiful and extremely friendly. I am so thankful she was willing to give her time for these kids. But, not sure who was more excited, Xander, Kaden,and Seth.....or my mom, Jennifer, LaKeta and I?
I hope this course of infusions is smooth. Thank you for praying for Xander.
love
ricki lea
Tuesday, January 5, 2010 9:20 AM CST
We had a wonderful Christmas! It was white and beautiful!! I don't remember the last time I had a white Christmas. The kids loved it and thought it was perfect for McClain's first one. Xander and Carter have been a little sad that they have not had great weather to ride their new electric scooters.
Xander has been feeling great. He has not been on chemo since September and I think it is finally out of his system. His hair has returned to its normal dark brown and has really thickened. I love it!!!!
He and Carter had their 1st Upwards basketball practice last night. Xander will have to miss the first game, but I know he understands why. He has handled all the traveling and being gone from school really well. He always amazes me.
We will head back to St. Jude on January 14th for the last course of infusions. We will test again there in February and possibly March. All of Xander's tests have remained negative for any Neuroblastoma and the bone marrow did not show any disease either!! We rejoice but the doctors are always a little more hesitant. Our doctor there is very pleased with Xander's progress. I am anxious to see how the next few months go as we wait to see what is next for Xander.
Thank you for praying for us. Thank the Lord daily for the many blessings in your life, we sure are.
love
Doug and Ricki Lea
Saturday, December 19, 2009 8:30 AM CST
Back at St. Jude......
Xander is on the 2nd day of course 3 and so far so good. In fact he is playing basketball right now on his hoop that hangs on the back of the door. Hope the nurses don't mind that we brought it!!!
We found out yesterday that Xander's bone marrow biopsy did not show any tumor cells. This is wonderful news! But we have learned that this is just a "sampling" and there may still be a few cells lingering. However, Xander has not been on chemo since September and his disease has not spread, it has decreased. So for this we are so thankful and Praise the Lord for this opportunity for Xander to receive this antibody treatment. All of his scans are also negative for any disease.
My mom came with Xander on the 15th and was with Xander during the outpatient testing. This allowed me to have a few extra days at home with the rest of the family and I arrived here yesterday.
If all goes according to plan, Xander, my mom, and I will fly home on Tuesday Dec 22nd. A whole new meaning to "I'll be home for Christmas"!
Thank you for praying so faithfully. I pray that your Christmas will be wonderful and that you will experience God's wonderful peace. I hope that each of you will know and give thanks for the gift of Jesus this season and always.
love
ricki lea
Thursday, December 3, 2009 11:11 AM CST
We are home from the 2nd course of the antibody treatment. Xander did really well with this course. We left St. Jude on the 25th and headed straight to Breckenridge, CO to ski with the family.
Xander has been feeling great since we have been home, much different from the last time. We believe that he just had a virus after the first course.
Things are busy as Christmas approaches and Xander returns to St. Jude on Dec.15th thru the 22nd. Just in time for Christmas!!!
thank you for praying. please enjoy this holiday season, remembering that the greatest gift we will ever receive is the gift of Jesus. I pray that you will celebrate His birth and give thanks for the things He has done in your life.
love
Doug, Ricki Lea, Xander, Carter, Charli, and McClain Moore
Wednesday, November 11, 2009 10:18 PM CST
Things have been so crazy since we came home from St. Jude! Xander was so so sick for a solid week. We think it was just a virus, like so many have had, but it really took a toll on his body. He had to receive fluids twice because he was dehydrated and lost a few pounds. But praise the Lord he is back to normal and we will just pray that this was not related to the antibody treatment. The drs feel like it wasn't, we shall see. Xander's port has been giving us trouble for the past few months and we found out last week that the tubing is torn. So in the morning at 7:45 he will have it removed and a new one put in.
Then Saturday have an early birthday party and we will leave for St. Jude on the 17th.
Our time at home has gone so fast, especially since Xander was so sick. But we are a little bit more relaxed about going this time since we know what to expect.
Please pray that tomorrow's surgery goes well and that Xander will not be nervous.
love
ricki lea
Thursday, October 29, 2009 10:18 PM CDT
We are finally home! We arrived in OKC last night and it was so wonderful to see Doug, Carter, Charli and sweet baby McClain.
Xander finished the 1st course very strong. He is excited about the Halloween party at school tomorrow and his best friends birthday party on Saturday. Back to priorities, huh?
I am so thankful for all of the prayers being said on Xander's behalf. Our trip was very smooth and it feels good to have one under our belt. Next time will be easier to prepare for.
Xander will have a few clinic visits in OKC before we head back to St. Jude on November 17th. We will be there on Xander's birthday, but I assured him we will celebrate there.
As I was missing my other children and husband I was surrounded by so many families that had been at St. Jude for several months, separated from their loved ones. God has a way of showing me that I am blessed even in the midst of trials. Xander and I are very lucky to be home tonight with our family. God is so gracious!
If all goes well, Xander will receive 4 courses of this antibody and will finish up late January. He will have a few follow up visits after that but hopefully some can be done in OKC.
We will update again when we head back to st. jude, until then we are going to enjoy being home.
love
ricki lea
Saturday, October 24, 2009 12:18 AM CDT
The fun begins!!! Xander was admitted last night into the ICU so he could begin the antibody infusion this morning. He is only in the ICU because they need to monitor him so closely during the infusion, taking his vitals every 30 min ect. The biggest side effects during the infusion are pain, fever, and a cough. He will be given an infusion every day for 4 days, each lasting 4 hours. They have pre-medicated him with morphine, Benadryl, and Tylenol to try and stay ahead of the pain. I was told the first day is always the worst and then it gets better with each following day. If all goes well with this 1st course and he doesn’t have any major problems then we will get to do courses 2 thru 4 in a regular room. I did learn that the study only consists of 4 courses. That was such good news; I originally thought it would last for 12 courses.
Xander has had a few anxious moments and he tells me he wants to go home so bad. This is so hard to hear. As a parent you hope you are doing the right thing, even thou at the moment you have taken a seemingly healthy child and put him in the ICU and he is hooked up to morphine. I know that is just Satan causing me to doubt. I truly believe this is the best thing for Xander to be doing right now. Doug and I both feel very peaceful. I know Xander will get used to a new hospital and new nurses, slowly but surely.
We will be coming home Wednesday the 28th in the evening. I am so ready!! Doug has been good to send me little video clips of the kids and his mom has sent me some pictures. We already know we will be returning on November 17th for testing and course 2. Xander is not pumped about being in the hospital for his birthday on the 23rd, but I told him we will have a party and invite the nurses! In between testing and going inpatient we were able to get out and visit Graceland, the Children’s Museum, and the Memphis Zoo. We’ve had dinner at Neely’s BBQ (thanks Aunt Marlena) and dinner at J. Alexander’s (thank you T.W.) and managed to get Xander’s haircut!
Thank you to everyone who has been praying for us. We are really ready to come home, but have felt the Lord’s strength each day.
Love
Ricki Lea
Tuesday, October 20, 2009 10:05 PM CDT
we made it to st. jude last night around 8 and got straight to business. they registered us, drew blood, and had an exam right away. they do this for all new patients before clearing them for lodging at the Memphis Grizzlies house. when we got to our room we had a super surprise, my aunt marlena (my mom's sister) was waiting for us! she lives in nashville and had told me she was hoping to come later in the week for a visit but just wasn't sure. Xander ran to her arms and let the door shut right in our faces. it was great to be greeted by family.
today was busy with meeting the doctor, orientation and a bone marrow biopsy. right before the biopsy xander said he wanted to go back to oklahoma and his nurses. it will take a little getting used to but overall was a smooth day. i was very encouraged after meeting with the dr. she thinks xander is a great candidate for this therapy.
tomorrow he will have a CT and then an MIBG scan on Friday.
we miss doug, carter, charli, and mcclain like crazy,but are thankful to have my mom with us.
thank you for praying and spreading the word to others so they can also pray for Xander.
God has allowed us to be in this very place at this very moment for a perfect reason. Xander reminded me today that "God has a plan for his life" he also added that he hoped it included a trip to incredible pizza. let's keep it real huh?
love
ricki lea
Sunday, October 18, 2009 10:11 PM CDT
It has been a crazy 48 hours! We are headed to Memphis tomorrow. I didn't expect it to happen so quickly, however, I am ready to get going. We will be gone a little longer than we originally thought. Xander will have testing done before the antibody treatments begin. We will be there until the 28th.......9 days! I thought it would all be outpatient but it turns out that 4 days will be spent in the hospital. We haven't been in the hospital in years. Xander took the news well. I, on the other hand, have really had a hard time with this. I have never been away from McClain over night, so to leave her for the first time and for it to be for 9 days has really made me cry, a lot. Doug and I have never been away from each other for this long either. So please pray for the family as we are split up. We know that our focus has to be on Xander right now.
I will keep you updated on how things are going once we get to St. Jude. Thank you for lifting Xander up to the Lord. I want God to be glorified in all that we do.
love
Ricki Lea
Thursday, October 15, 2009 9:47 PM CDT
We met with Xander’s dr on Wednesday afternoon to discuss different treatment options. Dr. McNall is very encouraged by a clinical trial taking place at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Xander has a spot if we want it!! Wow, I was really expecting her to suggest something being done at Children’s in OKC. After discussing the trial with her, Doug and I felt very peaceful and excited about the opportunity. I have always prayed that God would give clear wisdom to our doctors whether they were personally believers or not. We have been so blessed to be able to complete all of Xander’s treatment in OKC and have trusted the guidance our doctors have given us. This clinical trial has shown success in the children that have been involved so far. It began about a year ago and is still in very early stages.
We are waiting to hear from the doctor at St. Jude (hopefully tomorrow). Xander’s treatment will consist of 4 days in Memphis every 4 weeks. This is a Phase 1 Trial of the Humanized Anti-GD2 Antibody. We do not know when Xander will have his first treatment, but expect it to be within the next 2 weeks. I am very anxious to hear from St. Jude and get a plan in action.
Of course I am anxious, but not afraid. I know that this is just one more step we must take in order to keep fighting this battle with cancer. There are a lot of uncertainties that come with going to a new place, lots of questions and concerns. Please pray for us as we get everything lined out. It will be hard for me to leave the other children, but I know this must be our main focus right now. God has blessed us and provided for us in ways we would have never imagined and I don’t expect that to change now. As soon as we have a plan I will pass it on to you. Thank you once again for praying for Xander.
And Xander is super excited that chemo will stop and he gets to ride an airplane again!!
Wednesday, October 7, 2009 10:09 PM CDT
We did not get to meet with the doctor today. McClain tested positive for the flu this morning so I was unable to leave her with anyone and I didn't think it was smart to take her to the clinic. We will meet with the doctor next Wednesday the 14th. Carter is recovering from the flu as well. Please pray that this will move quickly through our home.
thanks,
Ricki Lea
Friday, September 25, 2009 11:43 PM CDT
I have recieved so many emails and text messages from many of you wondering if we had the results back from Xander's tests. We did not get a call from the clinic until 2pm today! I was getting a little nervous. The news was not what I wanted to hear, but I have heard worse. All of Xander's scans looked great and were clear of any disease. The bone marrow,which was clear in January and in April, showed less than 1% cancer cells on the left side and less than 5% cancer cells on the right side. The doctors are not discouraged and they reminded me that this is just a "sample" of the bone marrow. These cancer cells could have been there all along, just not showing up in what we were collecting from the marrow in the previous tests. Xander has been on this type of chemo for 2 years now and it has kept his disease "in check" to quote the doctor. This may be a good time to look into other treatment options. We are going to meet with one of our "really investigative" doctors on Oct. 7th and discuss all of the possibilities. I have been letting this soak in all afternoon and evening. I told someone today that I am dissapointed but not defeated, and I really believe that! A friend suggested that I remind Xander of the story of David and Goliath. During this long week of testing and chemo there were moments that Xander was very afraid and wanted to quit. I told him that David faced a situation that seemed impossible too, but God gave him strength, bravery, and victory! When we told Xander the news he was not upset at all, in fact he told us he wasn't even 2% worried, and in the same breath asked Doug to go do some batting practice! I am going to take Xander's lead and not be worried. I am so thankful for your prayers and I ask that you would continue to pray for Xander and Doug and I as we decide what we will do next. I long for the day when Xander is perfectly healthy and free from cancer, but until then we will trust God and continue to give Him all the glory for the miracles we have experienced so far.
love
ricki lea
Friday, September 18, 2009 8:21 AM CDT
Good morning!
Just a quick update to let you know that Xander's bone marrow test is still on Monday the 21st and he will have a CT on Tuesday and an MIBG scan on Wednesday. We will probably not have results until Friday.
Please and thank you all in one breath! Xander is here and doing so well because the Lord has allowed him to be. The prayers of God's people have been the biggest blessing to us! Please continue.
thanks,
Ricki Lea
Monday, August 31, 2009 3:44 PM CDT
I thought I would share a family pic with you! Do you know how hard it is to get everyone looking and smiling at the same time?
We are doing great! School has started and the boys love it. Charli is back at our church preschool two afternoons a week. Fall baseball starts in 2 weeks for Xander and Carter and Charli begins her very first dance class this week. That pretty much leaves McClain and I following them around!!
Xander will have his bone marrow tested on September 21st and begin another round of chemo the same day. I am waiting to hear the exact dates for the rest of his tests. Please keep praying for Xander. We have been so blessed! My prayer is that Xander will continue to be cancer free and live a life that is pleasing to the Lord. Thank you for keeping up with our family.
Thanks
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, July 29, 2009 9:40 PM CDT
Where has the time gone? McClain is already 7 weeks old and school starts in 2 weeks!! What a summer!!
We are completely enjoying little McClain. She is such a good little baby and is already sleeping 8 hours at night. The kids are such big helpers and enjoying staring at her and making her smile. There will never be a dull moment in her life.
Xander just finished up another round of chemo and has been feeling so good. Except for the bad case of swimmer's ear that was just diagnosed today. I always get nervous when he complains about something, so I was happy with swimmer's ear. We went to Great Wolf Lodge last week and spent 3 days in the water so I was not surprised.
He will do another round of chemo August 24th and then we will do all of his scans and bone marrow in September. We are enjoying summer and continuing each day to be thankful for the many blessings the Lord has given to us. Xander will be in the 2nd grade this year and my heart overflows with joy. I am amazed at the past 5 years and the trials we have faced, yet so much joy in the midst of it all. God is so good and we are so thankful. Please keep praying for healing.
love
Ricki Lea
Thursday, June 11, 2009 7:39 AM CDT
McClain Faith Moore arrived June 10, 2009 at 4:37am. She weighed 7lbs 12 oz and 21 1/4 in. long
She looks so much like Xander did when he was born. TONS of dark hair.
The kids are so in love with their new little sister!!
Wednesday, May 27, 2009 11:17 AM CDT
Well, we have finished school and are ready for SUMMER!
Xander began chemo yesterday, we gave him an extra week off so he could finish school strong!
Carter graduated from Kindergarten! I can't believe that next year I will have a 1st grader and a 2nd grader.
We have been very busy with baseball. This week we have a break, no games, so its a good week for chemo.
Our baby is due June 1st so needless to say........I am READY at any time to get this baby here. The kids are excited too. I think it really became a reality when we started working on the nursery. It is so neat to hear them talk about their new baby brother or sister.
Everyone is doing great! We ask that you continue to pray for healing in Xander's body and for a safe delivery of our new baby.
We will update as soon as he or she gets here.
I added new photos to the album.
love
ricki lea
Today Doug and I are celebrating our 10th wedding anniversary! Wow! God has blessed us beyond belief.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009 10:08 AM CDT
Our visit with the doctor on Friday went really well. We walked away with a big decision to make for Xander. At the place we are in treatment there is really no “official” road map. Xander has been on treatment this time around since September 2007 and the treatment has done exactly what we had hoped for. It has cleared up his bone marrow! There is no exact time frame as to how long Xander can be on this “maintenance therapy” (that is how the doctor referred to it). He assured us that staying on this treatment would not “damage” Xander’s body. It comes with minimal side effects, as we have lived with the past 19 months.
From a medical standpoint, Xander could remain on this therapy and relapse. Xander could quit therapy and relapse, or Xander could never relapse. There is no cure for Neuroblastoma and the goal is to find one! In the mean time research is ongoing and new therapies are becoming available each and every day. So the question is do you take a break from therapy or keep going?
We asked Xander. Xander said that he “didn’t want to die” and that he “wanted to be a hero”, he wants to continue with therapy. As heart wrenching as that conversation was, Doug and I know that Xander is fully aware of his circumstances. We assured him that no matter what, we would KEEP PRAYING and KEEP TRUSTING in GOD like we have since the very beginning. The blessings during Xander’s battle with cancer have been amazing and this is just one more. Xander has responded once again to treatment and we must proceed with complete confidence in God.
Thank you for praying for us. Please keep praying for Xander’s healing and his little heart and mind. He has had to endure so much more than any 7 ½ year old should ever have to. My prayer is that he will continue to trust in God.
Xander will begin next week and this time is on a 4 week schedule instead of 3 weeks. We will continue to check his bone marrow periodically.
Love
Ricki Lea
Monday, April 6, 2009 5:25 PM CDT
Wonderful News!!
All of Xander's tests came back showing no cancer.
We are so happy and thankful that the Lord has continued to heal Xander's body. We will meet with the doctor on Friday morning to decide what is next for Xander.
Thank you so much for praying. It was a long weekend of waiting but we know people were praying for us and appreciate it so much.
love
Ricki Lea
Sunday, March 29, 2009 7:59 PM CDT
I just wanted to let you know that Xander will be testing again on Tuesday the 31st and Wednesday the 1st. He will be having a CT on Tuesday and an MIBG scan and bone marrow biopsy on Wednesday.
Xander has been doing so good! In fact his last bone marrow in January showed there were no neuroblastoma cells in his bone marrow and his scans have been clear since last April. The doctors feel that if all of these tests are still "negative" for any disease then maybe it is time for Xander to stop treatment. That is so scary and excting!! I know that God wants us to trust Him and we can't always be on chemo. But there is something oddly "safe" about being on treatment.
Xander has been on this treatment since September 2007. What a perfect time to quit, we are begining baseball season and our new baby is due June 1st, there are plenty of other things to keep us busy to say the least.
So, once again, I ask that you please pray for healing and God's perfect timing, Pray for Xander's peace of mind during the testing. Pray for Doug and I to be comforted and not afraid. Pray for Carter and Charli to experience security and contentment as the next few days are hectic, and most of all Pray that God will be glorified in ALL that we do.
We will let you know as soon as we have results. I thank you from the bottom of my heart!
love
Ricki Lea
Saturday, March 7, 2009 9:23 PM CST
A friend kindly reminded me today that I had not updated since January!!! I guess we just get into our routines and I forget. But it is nice to not have anything to update.
The above photo is of Xander at Art With A Heart. His piece, Prince Froggy, went for $1000. He was so pumped. All the money goes to the Oklahoma Children's Cancer Association. Thank you to the Tri Delts!!!!
Xander is doing great. He just finished basketball today and we will quickly jump into baseball next week. I love this time of year when the weather is getting nicer and we can spend so much time outside.
Carter and Xander will move up to coach pitch this year. They will be on the same team again and Doug will be their coach.
Charli turned 3 on Feb. 25th. It is hard to believe that my baby is 3. But soon, she won't be the baby anymore. I have 12 weeks left and I am really growing. I am starting to get anxious to know if this will be a boy or a girl, but we will have to wait and see.
I spoke at a Women's Retreat last night. It was the first time I have had an opportunity to share my testimony and the journey that we have been on for nearly 5 years. It was such an amazing experience for me. I was thankful to get to share that Xander is doing so good and that God's blessings have been abundant in our lives, even in the midst of uncertainty.
Xander will have tests done again in April. If everything is still clear, we will discuss stopping treatment. Pray that he will still be cancer free and that we will make the right decision about future treatment.
We are so thankful for each of you that check this website and pray for Xander. You will never know how much it means to us.
love
Ricki Lea
Saturday, March 7, 2009 9:09 PM CST
A friend kindly reminded me today that I had not updated since January!!! I guess we just get into our routines and I forget. But it is nice to not have anything to update.
Xander is doing great. He just finished basketball today and we will quickly jump into baseball next week. I love this time of year when the weather is getting nicer and we can spend so much time outside.
Carter and Xander will move up to coach pitch this year. They will be on the same team again and Doug will be their coach.
Charli turned 3 on Feb. 25th. It is hard to believe that my baby is 3. But soon, she won't be the baby anymore. I have 12 weeks left and I am really growing. I am starting to get anxious to know if this will be a boy or a girl, but we will have to wait and see.
I spoke at a Women's Retreat last night. It was the first time I have had an opportunity to share my testimony and the journey that we have been on for nearly 5 years. It was such an amazing experience for me. I was thankful to get to share that Xander is doing so good and that God's blessings have been abundant in our lives, even in the midst of uncertainty.
Xander will have tests done again in April. If everything is still clear, we will discuss stopping treatment. Pray that he will still be cancer free and that we will make the right decision about future treatment.
We are so thankful for each of you that check this website and pray for Xander. You will never know how much it means to us.
love
Ricki Lea
Thursday, January 29, 2009 4:31 PM CST
The results are GOOD!!!
Xander's bone marrow biopsy was negative, meaning there were no neuroblastoma cells detected!!! We are so thankful and give all the glory to the Lord.
Xander will keep doing chemo until this protocol is finished. We will retest his bone marrow in 3 months. We know this cancer is an awful beast, but we do not want to discredit what God has done. We will be very cautious to use the term "remission". So I will just say that "the nurse told me today there was no cancer in my son's body" and I think that is one of the sweetest things I have ever heard!!!!!
THANK YOU for praying for Xander.
Love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, January 28, 2009 8:19 PM CST
The clinic called this afternoon and told me they did not have the final report on Xander's bone marrow biopsy yet. It will probably be ready by morning, so we will keep waiting!!
thanks for praying and I will update as soon as I know something.
Ricki Lea
Sunday, January 25, 2009 9:06 PM CST
The Lord's Supper
Today we observed the Lord's Supper at church. It was a precious time for me to sit with both Xander and Carter and have them participate, now that they are Christians. I couldn't help but be overwhelmed with tears as I held the little cup of juice, I thought of Jesus' blood. I thought of the power of His blood. It has the power to wash our sins away and save us. I prayed right there that the same power would heal Xander.
In the morning Xander will have a bone marrow biopsy and begin more chemo. Please pray for good results. Pray that God will give us peace as we wait until Wednesday for the results. This is always such an agonizing time for me because the devil really likes to distract me.
Thank you for checking in on us and continuing to pray for Xander and our family.
love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, January 7, 2009 9:43 PM CST
Happy New Year!!
We celebrated the New Year in a big way! Both Xander and Carter asked Jesus into their hearts over the past year and decided to be baptized together last Sunday!
It was so special for Doug to baptize both of his boys.
Please pray for them as they begin this new journey.
Xander has been sick this week, and not from chemo. It started with Carter, moved to Xander and now its Charli's turn! Although Xander was sick he was still able to start chemo on Monday.
He will have a bone marrow test on January 26th. Please pray that we will know what to do next. Most of all, Pray that the cancer is gone.
Upwards Basketball has started and the boys are excited! Games start next week. It is Carter's 1st year to play and he can't get enough of his uniform!!
thanks for praying for Xander continuously.
love
Ricki Lea
Saturday, December 27, 2008 9:35 PM CST
Hope each of you had a very Merry Christmas! We sure did, but are now exhausted!!!!
The kids are so excited that they have another week off from school.
Xander will return to the clinic on Jan 6th for more chemo and we will schedule a testing time for January.
We are enjoying our holidays and I pray that you are too. May you be blessed this time of year and remember why we celebrate.
love
Ricki Lea
Sunday, December 7, 2008 10:07 PM CST
We went to the Christmas Party today at the hospital......thank you so much to OCCA and Ally's house, we had a great time.
Charli would not sit on Santa's lap so I jumped in the picture too. I should have had Doug get in there with us!!
Xander is doing great. We will start chemo again on Tuesday.
Only 2 weeks til Christmas break. The kids are getting so excited.
Thank you for your continued prayers
love
Ricki Lea
Sunday, November 23, 2008 8:49 PM CST
Happy Birthday to my sweet 7 year old, Xander!!!
What a great time we have had celebrating and we still have more celebrating to do this week. We like to have Birthday "weeks" at our house!
love
ricki lea
Thursday, November 20, 2008 6:33 PM CST
I first want to say thank you for praying for us this week, Xander did really well!
The doctor called today and informed me really quick that the news was "not bad"! We learned that Xander's MIBG was negative, meaning that there was no lighting up, there was nothing detected. This is very good news!!! Xander's bone marrow has changed a little bit: In April 2008 the left side was 0 nd the right side was less than 1 Now the left side showed 5 nd the right side showed 2-3 We know that when a bone marrow biopsy is done they are only able to "test" from the sample that they get, therefore it is not 100 ccurate. The doctors feel that this change is not significant enough to change Xander's treatment. They feel that it is the best thing for Xander to be on right now. Although it may not be a "cure" it is keeping the cancer stable. Doug and I are fine with keeping the treatment the same for now. We will retest Xander's bone marrow in January and then go from there.
Of course I cried at this news and had to explain to Xander why I was crying!! It is not the worst news we could have received by far. Doug and I know that we could have been told a lot worse today. But it still takes some time to digest. More than anything we wanted to hear "no cancer" today.
My heart is truly thankful for the news we received. With all of my heart I know that God will deliver us from this somehow and someway! At times it seems like Xander will be on treatment forever and we will never live "normal" lives. I told Xander today that we will keep praying, keep trusting, and keep taking the medicine. He seemed to be fine with that. He was more concerned about EATING, he is always starving after school. Talk about living for today!!!
Have a Happy Thanksgiving, I know we will.
Thank you for praying faithfully.
love
Ricki Lea
Tuesday, November 4, 2008 11:42 AM CST
Hope everyone made it out to vote today!
Just wanted to let you know that Xander is doing great. He will have a complete round of testing done on November 18th and 19th. Bone Marrow, MIBG, and CAT Scan! Please begin (or continue) praying that all of these tests show no evidence of cancer in Xander's body. We are so ready for complete healing.
I love this time of year, as the leaves are falling from the trees, it gets dark early and as Xander would say "it's time for chicken n dumplings"!!
Some have asked "when is the baby due?" We had an ultrasound last week and were told June 1st!! Yeah for a summer baby. Although as most of you know our summers are insanely busy with Super Summer, Falls Creek, VBS and countless other youth events. Isn't it great to know that God's timing is ALWAYS perfect!!!
Have a wonderful day.
love
ricki lea
Wednesday, October 22, 2008 9:27 AM CDT
I am way overdue for an update!!
Xander did begin chemo on the 6th and has been doing great. We have been enjoying Lexington High School football games and this beautiful fall weather. Chemo is scheduled for October 27th and testing the 3rd and 4th of November.
We have some exciting news for our family!!! Doug and I are expecting our fourth BABY. We are VERY excited!!! Although, I have been feeling awful. I was never sick with the others so this has been quite a shock to me.
For those of you that have been with us since the begining you know that at times it seemed our lives were standing still and it was hard to imagine the future. We have learned to accept that our future is uncertain, as is everyone's, and to keep living our lives to the fullest. When we found out we were pregant with Charli I remember how happy Doug was. Learning to have joy in any and all circumstances was a hard but valuable lesson for our family. And once again we feel God's blessings being poured upon us.
Oh, the requests have been made, Xander wants another sister so it will be even. Carter a baby brother since he doesn't have one and Xander does! It is quite comical. But most importantly my request is for you to pray that this baby will be healthy and that our family will continue to experience healing, and that Xander will be a testimony to all.
love
Ricki Lea
Monday, October 6, 2008 8:52 AM CDT
We are headed to the clinic this afternoon for chemo. Xander's counts were too low last week so we enjoyed an unexpected "free" week! So we will try again today!
I'll let you know if this changes our testing schedule.
Have a great "praise the Lord for the rain" Monday!
love
ricki lea
Monday, September 22, 2008 12:11 AM CDT
Sometimes if I am in need of a "good" cry I will read over the past journal entries. Today I have been doing that......it brings uncontrolable tears along with overwhelming joy and amazement in what God has done in our lives.
The boys are enjoying a day off from school (professional day)! It is beautiful outside. We picked up some hay and pumpkins for the front porch. It is perfect day to reflect and enjoy our family.
Chemo is scheduled for Monday the 29th and testing is scheduled for November 4th, 5th, and 10th. So please be in prayer that everything will still be clear and that the last little dab of bone marrow disease will be GONE FOREVER!
Thank you
love
Ricki Lea
Sunday, September 7, 2008 9:50 PM CDT
Xander will begin chemo again tomorrow. It goes so fast! We have had a really good few weeks, getting into the routine of school and activities.
It has almost been a year since Xander relapsed. I will never forget getting the phone call from the doctor. I couldn't breathe, it was like I had been punched in the stomach. I remember being so afraid. How was this going to unfold? Looking back over the past year it is clear that God provides a way. He has provided a way for this "awful" thing to be a part of our daily lives. He has provided a way for us to thrive as a family even when nothing is certain. He has shown me so much. I am so thankful for all God has done in our lives. Thank you for walking with us this past year (actually 4 years since the begining) thank you for praying so faithfully.
love
Ricki Lea
Sunday, September 7, 2008 9:37 PM CDT
Xander will begin chemo again tomorrow. It goes so fast! We have had a really good few weeks, getting into the routine of school and activities.
It has almost been a year since Xander relapsed. I will never forget getting the phone call from the doctor. I couldn't breathe, it was like I had been punched in the stomach. I remember being so afraid. How was this going to unfold? Looking back over the past year it is clear that God provides a way. He has provided a way for this "awful" thing to be a part of our daily lives. He has provided a way for us to thrive as a family even when nothing is certain. He has shown me so much. I am so thankful for all God has done in our lives. Thank you for walking with us this past year (actually 4 years since the begining) thank you for praying so faithfully.
love
Ricki Lea
Monday, August 25, 2008 2:33 PM CDT
Xander was able to have chemo last week. It was pretty smooth and uneventful! The boys are getting back into the school routine. Charli is very happy to see them each afternoon.
We are anxious for football season to be here, we love watching our Lexington Bulldogs play. Not to mention Xander's interest in the Sooners!
We are enjoying a little bit slower pace these days. God is so good and we continue to trust in His power and deliverance.
Thank you for praying for Xander.
love
Ricki Lea
Monday, August 11, 2008 3:03 PM CDT
Well, Xander's counts were too low today to start chemo. We won't think twice about it.........today is Doug's 30th birthday and the kids get to meet their new teachers tonight. Now all Xander has to think about this week is FIRST GRADE. Praise the Lord!!!!
Until next week,
Ricki Lea
Saturday, August 9, 2008 7:03 PM CDT
We had a great time in Chicago. And yes, for all of those wondering......we were at Wrigley Field when the stands had to be evacuated because of a tornado. We thought that we had left Oklahoma!! We waited it out and the game resumed only to play 2 more innings and then called because of the lightning. I am sure you can just picture Doug in the streets of Chicago in the pouring rain at 11pm hailing a cab for us! Memories were made.
The trip was so much fun. We were able to see and do so much. We are home and gearing up for school and chemo next week. Xander is now fascinated with the Little League World Series on tv. I don't know what he'll do when baseball season is over.
love
ricki lea
Friday, August 1, 2008 2:35 PM CDT
Xander had an MIBG scan yesterday, it was routine but a little early. We wanted to get it done before we went on vacation and before school started. It was negative for any Neuroblastoma. So we will wait until October to test his bone marrow again and will continue on with chemo until then.
Thank you for those who were praying. I know I didn't get to update his page in time but I know some of you check daily and pray daily for my son. For that I am forever grateful.
We are headed for Chicago tomorrow. We are going to see 2 cubs games and just take in ALL that Chicago has to offer. Everyone is really excited to hit the road. We will be gone a week and then school starts on the 13th!
This will be the 1st trip to Wrigley Field for the kids. Precious Moments!!!!!
I will post pictures when we get back.
Go Cubs Go!!
Ricki Lea
Monday, July 21, 2008 8:58 PM CDT
We have had an amazing summer so far! Camp was wonderful, I loved being a sponsor this year (without any of our kids there). VBS was great. The kids really loved it and I was amazed at what Xander was able to tell me from each daily lesson. He is getting so big! Carter loved it, but he really likes being with me. Charli decided to pee on the potty, not the best week for me. I was a little busy, but we are managing to get her potty trained. She is almost 2 1/2.
Xander is on chemo this week. We will go to Chicago in August and then school starts on the 13th!! It's crazy yet FUN. Xander will be testing sometime soon, I will let you know when I have exact dates so you can begin praying, or just keep praying!
Thank you for continuing to go to the Father on Xander's behalf. It means more to us than you will ever know.
love
Ricki Lea
Sunday, June 22, 2008 10:12 PM CDT
It was 4 years ago today that Doug and I sat down with the doctor and he told us that Xander had Neuroblastoma. Wow! Has it really been that long? In the past 4 years there have been many joys, sorrows, challenges, deaths, births, milestones, blessings..........things that I am so blessed and thankful to be a part of. Thank you for being here with us.
Today we are enjoying life and praying for healing in Xander’s body. We have been so busy and are leaving for camp tomorrow. VBS is coming in July and then we head to Chicago in August. I love that the Lord has given us this time with our children. We are changed people and I pray that God will be glorified in our lives, no matter what.
Thank you Lord for the past 4 years.
Love
Ricki Lea
Monday, June 2, 2008 10:25 PM CDT
Well, we are full swing into summer and loving every minute of it! The boys are playing lots of t-ball, going to Bulldog Day Camp at school and swimming! We should be doing chemo this week but we are postponing it because we are going out of town for a few days and I “just didn’t want to mess with it”! We will do another round of chemo on June 9th.
Our wonderful church family is sending us on a little getaway to Texas to watch a Rangers game and stay 2 nights at a hotel. Doug and I have been at First Baptist Lexington for 7 years!! The boys are looking forward to it; we can’t get enough baseball in this house!! The other morning Xander asked to watch Sports Center instead of a cartoon, what is happening?
We continue to be thankful and amazed at what the Lord has done for us. As we approach the 4 year mark of Xander’s diagnosis everything seems to be sweeter. There is a song we sing in church and I want to share the words with you.
“Every day with you Lord, is sweeter than the day before. Every day with you Lord is sweeter than the day before. Every morning I will worship and every evening I’ll adore, cause every day with you is sweeter, sweeter than the day before.”
Sometimes I fear the future. The unknown is so scary, but I know that each and every day has been planned by the Lord and He only desires the best things for us.
Thank you for praying so faithfully for our family.
Love
Ricki Lea
Monday, May 19, 2008 1:01 PM CDT
Tomorrow Xander will graduate from kindergarten! Yeah!!!!!
To say we are thankful is an understatement. Doug and I are so blessed. There have been many days that we have wondered if this day would ever come. We will never take for granted each milestone in the lives of our children.
I want to thank each and every one of you that have prayed for Xander. God has brought us to this very place for a purpose and each trial that Xander has endured has also been for a purpose and has come as no surprise to the Lord.
Thank you Lord, for TODAY!
Love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, May 7, 2008 1:37 PM CDT
" But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given unto you." Matthew 6:33
Praise the Lord.
Xander's bone marrow is ALMOST clean!
The left side has 0 umor cells and the right side has less than 1 We are so thankful for the progress. God is so good!
Thank you for praying with us and for us.
love
Ricki Lea
Monday, May 5, 2008 5:57 PM CDT
Xander's bone marrow biopsy went smooth today. It seems to be getting easier and easier. We were out of the clinic by 10:30 and on our way to the Switzer Center. Xander was asked to be in a promotional video for "Special Spectators". It is a wonderful organization that allows kids with cancer to meet coaches, players, and be treated like VIP's at sporting events! Remember Xander hanging out in the locker room with The Paris Twins and hugging Sherri Coale? That was all thanks to Special Spectators.
When Xander's interview was over he and Doug went on a tour of Coach Stoops office, given by Bob Stoops himself! Such a lucky little boy!
Xander's counts were not high enough today so he did not get to start chemo. We will go back on the 12th. Yeah, another FREE week.
Thank you for praying today, and always. We will let you know as soon as we have results.
love
Ricki Lea
Saturday, April 26, 2008 10:05 PM CDT
Xander's bone marrow biopsy has been moved to May 5th. We are going to combine the procedure with the start of the 11th round of chemo. We are looking forward to the week off and feel comfortable waiting since the test results were so good last week. Thank you for your continued prayers. We have an extra week to pray for clean bone marrow!!
Thursday, April 24, 2008 10:28 PM CDT
Well, we got the call this afternoon that both the CT and MIBG were clear, negative, unremarkable, ect. I will never cease to praise the Lord for His mighty work in our lives. He has provided so many things for us, so many miracles, and so many blessings. One of which was tonight watching my boys play t-ball. They played two games back to back! Won the 1st and lost the 2nd. That makes 5 games in one week. Did I mention Xander was on chemo last week?
How awesome is our God? I will treasure these days always. Sometimes I wish Xander would hurry up and be 16 so he would be out of the woods, then I realize all the precious things I would miss. Thank you God.
Thank you for praying. From the bottom of my heart I thank you! Xander's bone marrow is Monday at 9am. Pray for 0 tumor cells!!!!!
love
ricki lea
Thursday, April 24, 2008 10:28 PM CDT
Well, we got the call this afternoon that both the CT and MIBG were clear, negative, unremarkable, ect. I will never cease to praise the Lord for His mighty work in our lives. He has provided so many things for us, so many miracles, and so many blessings. One of which was tonight watching my boys play t-ball. They played two games back to back! Won the 1st and lost the 2nd. That makes 5 games in one week. Did I mention Xander was on chemo last week?
How awesome is our God? I will treasure these days always. Sometimes I wish Xander would hurry up and be 16 so he would be out of the woods, then I realize all the precious things I would miss. Thank you God.
Thank you for praying. From the bottom of my heart I thank you! Xander's bone marrow is Monday at 9am. Pray for 0 tumor cells!!!!!
love
ricki lea
Monday, April 21, 2008 1:27 PM CDT
Xander has a Cat Scan tomorrow at 2pm and an MIBG scan on Wednesday at 1pm. His bone marrow biopsy is scheduled for Monday April 28th at 9am.
We are confident that God is in control. We know that He has a plan for our lives. We trust that He knows the desires of our hearts and that is for Him to heal Xander. Please pray with us that Xander will be found cancer free and that God's glory will be made known.
We are so thankful for your prayers and encouragement.
Xander and Carter are gearing up for the T-ball season. We had a pre-season tournament game on Saturday and lost by 1 run! So we play again tonight at 6pm. The regular season begins next Tuesday. Did I mention Charli loves this season too! She is all about playing in the dugout or digging in the dirt. Just what I always dreamed of for a little girl!
Xander is feeling ok. He was a little sick this morning but decided to go to school at 9:30. The sickness really comes and goes.
We will let you know as soon as we have results.
love
Ricki Lea
Sunday, April 13, 2008 9:52 PM CDT
"Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." Hebrews 11:1
Tomorrow Xander will start his 10th round of chemo. On April 22nd he will have a CT and April 23rd he will have an MIBG scan. He will also have a bone marrow biopsy but we don't know what day that will be.
Please pray with us that these tests will not show any remaining cancer. Xander has told me he is ready for the cancer to be gone, I am too!
He lost another tooth. He is very proud. He is also proud about all the reading he has been doing. He has read over 50 books at school and now he is ready for 1st grade. Oh, my 1st grade!!! Where has my baby gone? Praise the Lord for His deliverance to this day.
love
Ricki Lea
Monday, March 31, 2008 9:18 PM CDT
Xander finished up chemo on Friday and has been feeling good!
Today I got weepy when I realized that Xander was going to play t-ball this year with his port in. Then all in the same moment I THANKED GOD that Xander was HERE to play t-ball, with or without a port!!
Thank you for praying for Xander today and always.
love
Ricki Lea
We won our game by the way. Xander hit a homerun and Carter got a base hit!!!
Tuesday, March 25, 2008 12:53 AM CDT
I hope that everyone had a wonderul Easter Weekend. We had a great time with our families. Xander is always the 1st to volunteer to pray. At my parents house the other kids were playing upstairs (it seems they would rather play than eat) so we weren't going to wait on them. Xander was ready to eat with us so he prayed something like this
"Dear God thank you for this house, thank you for this Easter. I only found 10 eggs at Mema's but that is not it. The real thing is, its about you dying on the cross and raising from the dead"
I always go from laughter to tears when he prays. He really gets it. The joy that fills my heart is unexplainable.
Spring Break was wonderful. The boys went to Arizona with Doug, his dad, his brother Jeff and their cousin Zac! They went to 3 Chicago Cubs spring training baseball games. It was only 1000 miles each way!!!!!!I missed them terribly but I know they had a great time.
So we are leaving basketball behind and moving full speed into T-ball season. The first practice was last night. We are the LIL Boomers again this year but Doug is the new coach. That will be really special for him. We want the boys to play on the same team as long as possible.
Xander started his 9th round of chemo yesterday. After his 10th round on the week of the 14th. He will test the week of April 21st. The doctor wants us to test every 3 months.
The doctor was pleased with him and said he looked great.
I am thankful for this chemo. It has allowed us to keep going in our normal routine and life. At first I struggled with not wanting to accept it into our "normal routine". Looking back over the past 6 months I am thanful for it.
I am also thankful for your prayers.
Ricki Lea
Tuesday, March 11, 2008 2:52 PM CDT
This just came to me and I have to share it with you. As parents we "think" we will never forget the things are children say, but we do, so I want to write this one down.
Xander had his last basketball game on Saturday. He isn't too sad because we will soon be starting t-ball! But during the team prayer time he prayed
"dear God you are the best God I've ever had"
hope you are having a great week, WE ARE!!!
love
Ricki Lea
Saturday, March 1, 2008 5:11 PM CST
We had a wonderful time at the art show. Xander loved riding in the limo. He loved all the strawberries. He loved losing his FIRST TOOTH!!!
I think that became the highlight of the night for him. He was so excited. He said "momma we have to call everyone we know!"
I look forward to him participating next year. If you would like to see his artwork or order anything (note cards, coasters, coffee mugs) with his artwork on it go to www.kidsartetc.com select Art With A Heart 2008 and look for Xander. He has two pieces of art. Proceeds go to OCCA (Oklahoma Children's Cancer Association)
Thank you to everyone who made the art show possible. It was such a wonderful evening. Check out the new pics.
love
ricki lea
Friday, February 29, 2008 10:27 AM CST
Xander did get to have chemo this week! He just finished up and is already at school. He is looking forward to the big art show tonight. (www.artwithaheartokc.com)
He has two pieces of artwork to be auctioned off. He will get to ride in a limo and "walk the red carpet" He is not sure what a limo is, but very excited!!!
It has been a good week. Thank you for praying for us. We are so thankful.
love
Ricki Lea
Monday, February 25, 2008 9:26 AM CST
Happy Birthday to Charli!
Check out the new video of Xander playing basketball.
He is #4.
We are hoping to start the 8th round of chemo today.
We will let you know. Thanks for praying.
love
ricki lea
Thursday, February 21, 2008 11:22 AM CST
"Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?"
Matthew 6:27
How true is this scripture? So simply put but yet so difficult for us to accept at times. Some days I don't worry at all and other days that is all I do. I'm working on it!
Xander is at school today and Carter is home sick. Go figure, the one with low counts is at school! Sickness is everywhere. So many from school and church have the flu. Just another reason to be ready for spring.
Xander will begin chemo again on Monday if his counts are high enough. When he had his blood work done on the 18th the nurse said his white count was really low and she was surprised he wasn't sick.
Xander just cracks me up sometimes! He has a dental appointment in March and he is NERVOUS. If only he realized he had experienced much WORSE than the dentist!!!!! He can handle chemo and needles but the dentist freaks him out!!!
We are looking forward to our new pastor coming on March 9th. It has been a long year without a pastor. I’m excited to see what God has in store for our church. Our Easter drama is March 14th, 15th, and 16th. The boys are both in it this year. Their favorite song is “Miracle Man”, I love hearing them belt it out from the back seat. I was afraid when they tried on their costumes that they wouldn’t understand why they are wearing “dresses”. Thank goodness no one threw a fit.
I hope everyone in your family is well. Thank you for praying for Xander and checking in on us. We are so thankful. God is so good.
Love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, February 13, 2008 1:28 PM CST
The above picture is of Xander and Carter. I have been making them heart shaped sandwiches lately. They are both getting so big (Charli too)!
This is a busy week for the kids. Snack days, which mean you also get to bring show and tell, and Valentine's Day parties! Last night Xander sat at the bar for an hour and 1/2 just working on his valentines and a card for his teacher. He is such a perfectionist! Carter on the other hand wanted me to sign his name for him. They are so much the same and yet soooooo different.
Friday night we are having Charli's birthday party. My aunt is coming in from Nashville so it worked out to have her party early. She is too young to know the difference. It will be a fun time with all of our families.
It has almost been a year since Xander had the tumor removed from his abdomen and we learned that it was dead. It seems like ages, so much has happened. Looking back you wonder should we have started treatment then? Was radiation the right choice? Doug and I still believe that we made the best decision for Xander. We had a wonderful spring and summer. God has guided us through each phase of this journey, only Satan wants us to doubt.
We are ready for spring. The kids have been playing in the backyard each chance they get. You know in Oklahoma it can be 60 one day and snowing the next!
Please pray for Jhett. He is doing great and is expected to come home from Houston on Feb. 29th if all goes well. He has a long road ahead of him but he is truly amazing the doctors. How can anyone deny God's power? I will never cease to testify of His many miracles.
Love
Ricki Lea
Tuesday, February 5, 2008 10:17 AM CST
Xander's counts were good yesterday so he was able to start the 7th round of chemo. He is already off to school today. He was up early enough to get the chemo done and to school by lunch time, that is always his goal!
We had a great "free" week. I love it when things are so normal. On Saturday Xander played another great game of Upwards Basketball. He really enjoys it and wishes practice was every night.
The Lord has blessed us. We are so thankful for the good test results. Now we keep going! Sometimes it is hard to not know "what" is next, God knows;
"For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11
For now WE plan to;
play basketball
have valentine's day parties
celebrate Charli's 2nd birthday
get ready for the boys (& Doug) to head to Arizona on Spring Break to watch Spring Training for our Chicago Cubs!!!
Thank you for praying and trusting with us that God's Glory with be made known.
love
Ricki Lea
Monday, January 28, 2008 11:36 AM CST
Today we went to the clinic to start chemo and Xander's counts were too low! I was a little shocked because in our almost 4 years of treatment this is only the 2nd time for chemo to be delayed. The doctor said his body is probably trying to fight off a cold or infection. Not too surprising since Carter and Charli have both been sick recently. They are not concerned because all of his tests and blood work looked good last week.
We also learned that Xander's MIBG scan was CLEAR. This scan showed 7 or 8 places of Neuroblastoma in September 2007 so we are VERY thankful!!! Praise the Lord and thank you for praying.
So, we will take this week off and try again in one week. After all of the testing last week we will gladly take some time off. Maybe this is one kind of "freedom" Xander was praying for.
Love
Ricki Lea
Friday, January 25, 2008 4:12 PM CST
We're making progress!!!
Xander's bone marrow showed a big decrease in tumor cells, not completely clear but......almost. The right side showed about 5 umor cells and the left side showed 1-2 BR>
All CT's were clear!
The MIBG may or may not get read before the weekend so we will be patient. I feel better knowing that the chemo is working and that the bone marrow is responsive to the treatment.
Thank you for praying. God has continued to bless us. We give HIM all the glory for the healing that is taking place in Xander's body. We will keep going in hopes of reaching "freedom" from this disease.
love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, January 23, 2008 2:32 PM CST
update:Thursday 10pm
Xander's MIBG scan will be tomorrow at 2pm. Please pray that nothing lights up on this test. Please pray that Xander will be once again in remission!!
"Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever." Hebrews 13:8
Xander's bone marrow biopsy went so smooth today. I know many must have been praying. When Xander woke up he kept saying over and over "that was so fast". He was really nervous about going to sleep so the doctors decided that two of them would do the biopsy to make it go fast! It did, we were finished and waiting for Xander to wake up at 9:50am. We were home and Xander was already back to school by 12:15!!! Where does he get the energy?
Yesterday his CT went smooth too. The results of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis are clear. We are waiting for them to read the brain CT. His MIBG has been changed AGAIN. Hopefully third times a charm! We will inject tomorrow at 1pm and then scan on Friday. I will let you know the time as soon as I find out so you can be praying.
The nurse said today that nothing was showing up in the bone marrow aspirate! That is good. We will know about the biospy Friday. I just pray that all the cancer is gone!
At lunch yesterday Xander prayed that his cancer would be gone and he said "God I just feel so free when my cancer is gone" Doug and I just stared at each other in awe. I love being Xander's mom. He makes me so proud. He's right, there is freedom in God's healing power. Keep praying for FREEDOM!
love
Ricki Lea
Monday, January 21, 2008 10:59 AM CST
Xander has been doing great! He had his first Upward's basketball game Saturday at church. You would have thought he was playing for a National Championship or something. He was up at 6:50am all ready to go! He loves sports!!!!
His testing schedule has changed just a bit: Tuesday, CT of brain, chest,and abdomen. Wednesday, bone marrow biopsy and MIBG injection, and Thursday, MIBG scan.
Please pray. We know that God is in control and we know God has a purpose. Doug and I have always prayed that God would be glorified through Xander's life and treatment process. We still pray for that.
Each week during Upwards basketball practice the kids are given a card with a memory verse on it. Last week the verse was "For Nothing Is Impossible With God" Luke 1:37 How important is it that we teach our children that at such a young age. I pray that Xander will claim that verse and believe in its power! Nothing is impossible with God.
Thank you for lifting us up this week. I will update as soon as we have results.
love
ricki lea
Thursday, January 10, 2008 9:02 PM CST
I have to share a funny conversation with you!
This afternoon Xander and I were reading through his baby book. He saw Charli's and had been asking where his was, so we finally looked through it.
There was a page where I wrote down my dreams for his future. He wanted me to read it, so to be brief it said;
"I pray that someday you will become a Christian and love the Lord with all your heart....... and I wouldn't mind if you became a professional baseball player too!"
He looked up at me with the biggest eyes! "Momma, it came true" I said which part? (hoping for Christianity!) In all seriousness he said to me " I am a professional baseball player, I play with Pops all the time. Aren't you so happy?"
I didn't know whether to laugh or cry. I love him so much!
I had no idea while writing that over 6 years ago how precious it would be.
Wednesday's update:
Xander began his 6th round of chemo on Monday. So far, so good. His testing will include a CT of head, chest, abdomen and spine, MIBG scan (full body) and a bone marrow biopsy. This will all take place on Jan. 22nd and 23rd. Please pray that all the cancer will be gone.
Tonight Xander was sad because he couldn't take a bath. When his port is accessed on chemo weeks he can only take a sponge bath. That is sometimes really tricky with a 6 year old boy. I believe they need soaking daily!!! He said Carter and Charli were so lucky because they got to take a bath. It is difficult to disagree. I know Xander handles his circumstances like a champ most of the time, but sometimes you can't argue with it being unfair.
Thank you for checking in on us and praying so faithfully. I am anxious for testing time. I know God can deliver Xander from this disease. I know He is more than able. We must trust in His plan and His timing. Please pray and trust with us.
love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, January 9, 2008 9:24 PM CST
Xander began his 6th round of chemo on Monday. So far, so good. His testing will include a CT of head, chest, abdomen and spine, MIBG scan (full body) and a bone marrow biopsy. This will all take place on Jan. 22nd and 23rd. Please pray that all the cancer will be gone.
Tonight Xander was sad because he couldn't take a bath. When his port is accessed on chemo weeks he can only take a sponge bath. That is sometimes really tricky with a 6 year old boy. I believe they need soaking daily!!! He said Carter and Charli were so lucky because they got to take a bath. It is difficult to disagree. I know Xander handles his circumstances like a champ most of the time, but sometimes you can't argue with it being unfair.
Thank you for checking in on us and praying so faithfully. I am anxious for testing time. I know God can deliver Xander from this disease. I know He is more than able. We must trust in His plan and His timing. Please pray and trust with us.
love
Ricki Lea
Saturday, December 29, 2007 1:14 PM CST
"Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, His love endures forever" 1 Chronicles 16:34
We had an amazing Christmas! We were surrounded by our families and just enjoyed ourselves. I think as the years have passed Christmas has become sweeter and sweeter. To enjoy it through the eyes of our children is priceless.
They got scooters, strollers, babies, guitars, drums, hot wheels, dinosaurs.......need I go on?
As we approach the New Year we pray that God will provide even more blessings than we could ever imagine. There is a little anxiety because we do not know what lies ahead. I know that the Lord reveals things to us at just the right time and in just the right way. He is perfect and faithful to provide everything we need.
I pray that your holiday season will continue to be filled with the knowledge and presence of God. Trust Him with everything!
Right before Christmas Xander was able to attend the OU women’s basketball game and meet Sherri Coale and the Paris twins, just to name a few. He loved it! He also went to a special party recognizing the OU Sooners for their involvement at the Jimmy Everest Center. This included lots of pics with the players and Xander’s friend, Bob Stoops!
Monday Xander will be going to the Holiday Classic Paint Horse Show. He is getting to be apart of lots of special things!
Xander's last round of chemo was really smooth and the side effects were minimal. Thank you for praying for him. He will have chemo again the week of January 7th and then testing on January 22nd and 23rd.
Thank you for praying for our friend Jhett. Some friends and I went to see him in Houston yesterday and he is truly amazing. Just one month ago he received a new heart and now crawling all over the place like a healthy little boy. Praise the Lord for His healing power!
Love
Ricki Lea
new pictures in the album!
Wednesday, December 19, 2007 9:43 AM CST
"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Xander started his 5 round of chemo on Monday and has been doing well. We learned that the chemo had been increased by 10mg for the last round and that is why it took him longer to recover. WOW!! That made Doug and I feel better!!
So it will be the same from here on out. I am fine with an increase, in fact the stronger the better! It is just nice to have a "reason" for the increased sickness. We will finish up on Friday so we can enjoy the Christmas Week without medicine.
Today the boys had Christmas parties at school so they were excited to go. The parties were early so Carter is already home with me. He'll take any chance he can get to leave school. Of course, Xander is still there. We will do chemo this afternoon.
Yesterday there was a Fiesta Party at the clinic for the OU football team. It was fun, the kids really enjoyed getting autographs. Xander helped pour in the ingredients for the "sooner magic" punch. Each of the players and Coach Stoops took a sip to ensure a victory! You know I am a OSU Cowboy fan, raised that way and will stay that way!!! However, it is so wonderful to see the sincerity of the Coach and players. They really invest time in these kids and seem to have a good time doing it. Thank you Sooners! How many 6 year olds do you know that consider Bob Stoops their friend?
Our friend Jhett continues to do well. He was released from the hospital last week and will stay in Houston for the next 3 months going to regular clinic visits. The pictures we have seen of him are amazing. God's healing power is overwhelming at times. This little boy has a new life!
Xander will have another round of chemo Jan. 7 and then have scans the week of Jan. 21st. Please begin praying that the cancer will be gone. God Has The Power!!!
Merry Christmas to each of you. My heart is overflowing with thanks and emotion. This time of year is so sweet. Pray that we will embrace it and not worry about our future. God will take care of that.
"If God is for us, who can be against us?" Romans 8:31
love
Ricki Lea
Thursday, December 6, 2007 8:59 AM CST
Xander finished chemo on Friday and overall the week was pretty smooth. He had a few days that his stomach was really bothering him. In fact yesterday was the first day in a week that he didn’t complain. I am sure it was just the effects of chemo, but it is always a little unnerving for Doug and I.
The boys are anxious for Christmas! Xander has asked for drums and a guitar; is he kidding? I think he wants to start a garage band at the age of 6!!! Carter wants a red bike and a blue helmet, not to specific huh? Xander was asking how the mail man gets all the letters to Santa. I love BELIEVING in Santa with them!
“The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” Psalm 27:1
“His perfect Love casts out all fear.”1 John 4:18
Thank you for your continued prayers. Please pray that fear would not have any power in our lives. Pray that each day we would live by faith.
Jhett received a heart transplant on Wednesday November 28th. God has been so faithful in providing for this family. Please pray that Jhett’s body will accept this heart and he will make a full recovery. His mom was able to hold him today for the 1st time in 31 days!! Praise The Lord.
Love
Ricki Lea
* check for new photos
Monday, November 26, 2007 8:38 AM CST
This chemo week! Xander went to school this morning and I will pick him up at noon to go to the clinic. Last time he threw up several times so I am hoping to avoid that with some Zofran today.
We went to the OU/OSU game on Saturday and the boys had a great time. It was their 1st OU game. The cold/snow/drizzle wasn't too bad. We got them some hand warmers to keep in their pockets. This morning on the way out the door Carter asked if we still had "those warmer hands"! He is so cute.
We also put up the Christmas tree and the boys have one in their room this year. Remember we moved in April so we have almost twice the house to decorate this year. Charli has already broken 2 ornaments and received a spanking over the tree. It sounds harsh but I have to be able to leave her alone in the living room during the next month!!
Now she just stands there with her hands folded saying "pretty tree".
Last night Xander wanted me to read what was on his website. After I read it to him and Carter, Carter said “momma do you have any words about me?” Talk about break my heart in two. So here are some “words” about Carter.
Carter is the most precious 4 ½ year old. He is the best big brother to Charli. He LOVES to play game boy and he loves orange juice! He kind of likes going to school, it just depends on how he wakes up. He wants to be wherever Xander is. Carter has light brown hair and blue green eyes. I love you Carter Douglas!
With a sad heart I have to tell you that our friend Anna went to be with Jesus Sunday morning. There must be something about Sundays because Kraleigh went to Jesus on a Sunday too. I imagine it was the most spectacular worship time ever in their lives. It is difficult because I try and avoid the fact that children die from cancer, yet it is such a reality. I try and protect myself from the emotional breakdown, yet I can't keep from going to Anna's website to mourn with her family. The aching that fills my heart for her mother is unbearable. Oh, dear God how I pray I will never have to be there.
Please pray for the Salamy's as they prepare for Anna's service. Pray for her 3 older siblings that are dealing with immense pain as well. Pray that the pain will one day end. Pray that Xander will be healed here on this earth. Praise the Lord that this world is not our home.
“Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”
2 Corinthians 4:16-18
http://www.caringbridge.org/ok/annajane/
Love
Ricki Lea
p.s. Jhett is making progress. He had a Berlin heart put in last week and is slowly coming out of sedation. His mother said he is looking so much better. This piece of equipment will sustain him until he gets a new heart. Please pray for his family they are in Houston, TX so far away from us.
Monday, November 19, 2007 1:50 PM CST
We had a wonderful weekend. Xander will be 6 years old on November 23rd, so we celebrated Friday night! He is so proud to be "almost" 6. You will never know just how proud Doug and I are. As we were singing happy birthday to him I couldn't help but tear up. This will be the 4th birthday Xander has celebrated since he was diagnosed with cancer. It is almost hard to believe at times. I am so thankful for this birthday. I am so thankful for each day.
As Thanksgiving is just a few days away, my heart overflows with thanks. I am thankful for my Savior, Jesus. I am thankful for my husband and three precious children. I am thankful for each person that has ever prayed for Xander. I am thankful that the boys went to school this morning happy and healthy (for the most part)!
I am thankful for each day we have been given.
Please continue to pray for our little friend Jhett. He is now on the list for a heart transplant at Texas Children's Hospital in Houston. The past 2 1/2 weeks have been so devastating to his family. We pray that a heart will become available soon for him. It is a difficult prayer to pray because we know another family will have to suffer so that Jhett's family won't. I'm so glad that God is in control of this situation and He has a perfect plan.
Also, pray for Anna (http://www.caringbridge.org/ok/annajane/)
Thank you all for praying.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving. Tell the Lord thank you for the blessings in your life.
“Praise the LORD. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good;
his love endures forever.” Psalm 106:1
Love
Ricki Lea
Tuesday, November 6, 2007 7:13 PM CST
Xander began round 3 of chemo yesterday at the clinic and the rest of the week will be at home.
Yesterday he threw up several times at the clinic. I think it was a combination of nerves and medicine. He gets so worked up.
He did really well today. He made it to school just in time for lunch. (barely) This morning as he was hooked up to the pump we were scurrying around the house getting the boys dressed, teeth brushed ect. Xander was combing his hair, new thing, and said "you know mom this is making the chemo go faster" the little distractions I am thankful for!
I have told many of you about our friend baby Jhett that is in the hospital. He is 10 months old and was just diagnosed with a VERY rare heart defect. The doctors are trying to get his heart regulated with medicine so that he can have a pacemaker/defibulator (not sure which one) put in. Please pray for his family. Jhett's mom is Carter's pre-k teacher and was Xander's teacher last year. She goes to our church too. Xander is so concerned about Jhett. He keeps asking me "why Jhett's heart didn't grow right?" I just keep telling him it is one of many things that we don't understand, just like his cancer, but we will continue to trust in God's perfect plan for both of their lives.
Thank you for praying for us.
The picture above was taken last week by Doug’s brother (http://www.capture1000words.com) there is another one on the photo page.
Love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, October 31, 2007 4:31 PM CDT
Praise the Lord!
Xander's bone marrow shows a signigicant decrease in tumor cells. His right side was unchanged but his left side went down about 60The MIBG showed great improvement. There is now minimal activity where there was lots of activity. Basically there are about 3 places that are lighting up and there were about 7 places lighting up when we did this scan in September. So the chemo is working.
This is wonderful news. I know that there are some situations in which a childs body has not responded to treatment and the disease has progressed while receiving chemo. Doug and I must always be thankful for what God has given us. Today He has given us good news.
We will return to the clinic on Monday for round 3 of chemo.
Thank you so much for praying and giving us so much support.
love
Ricki Lea
Monday, October 29, 2007 9:21 PM CDT
Today Xander had a bone marrow biopsy. It went pretty smooth. This time around we are dealing with anxiety. He gets really nervous about things, which I can understand. I just hate that he gets so worked up.
When we got home he was ready to go to school. It was already 2:30, but he insisted. So, he got his back pack and I walked him to school. He got to his class just in time for his teacher to empty his bag and refill it. She also managed to get a Drug Free Red Ribbon on him and tell him the letter they were studying this week. Just as if he had been there all day. We really love her!! Later this evening we went on a bike ride. Where does the energy come from?
Tomorrow after his Halloween party he will get his MIBG injection and then have the MIBG scan on Wednesday at 11am.
Xander has been feeling a lot better the past few days. He is getting to be such a big boy. He is recognizing so many words when we read books and just yesterday his "youth" friend Emily was teaching him about negative numbers! I wish you could hear him say "ca-negative".
The preliminary report for Xander's bone marrow shows that it is better than last time. We will have to wait until Wednesday to know exactly how much better. If the doctors feel Xander is making adequate progress on this treatment we will continue and begin the 3rd cycle on Nov. 5th. This means he will be feeling really good in time for his 6th birthday on Nov. 23rd. Can't believe he will be 6!
So many have asked what they can pray specifically for; pray that Xander’s cancer will be gone and never return for 200 years (from Xander’s mouth) that his body will continue to be responsive to treatment, and that Xander will have peace in his little heart.
Doug’s cousin’s little boy, Austin, has AML. This is the “good” kind of Leukemia. He has just gone home after his first round of chemo. He is only 4 years old. Please pray for his parents Patty and Jeff.
I’ll leave you with this scripture.
“In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.” 1 Peter 1:6-7
love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, October 24, 2007 4:28 PM CDT
Xander is doing pretty good. I feel like if I say he’s not doing “good” we are being defeated. But how good can he feel when he has just been pumped full of POISON?
He has been to school all day everyday so far this week. I think it helps when he has that distraction. Fall Break was last week and so he didn’t have anything to look forward to each day. His best friend’s birthday party is Friday night and he is really excited. Saturday is our Fall Festival at church, so lots to do this weekend!
We were told that Xander would not lose his hair with this treatment. Well, he is. It is getting very thin. If you know Xander personally you know that he has A LOT of hair. It isn’t the end of the world, but when you are not expecting it, it kind of takes your breathe away.
Monday Xander will have a bone marrow biopsy; Tuesday an MIBG injection and Wednesday the MIBG scan. Please join us praying that Xander’s cancer will be responding to this chemo. I pray that there is little or no detection in his body. We know that it is POSSIBLE.
Xander and Carter both have memorized Phil. 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength” This verse was very helpful when Xander was crying saying that he “just couldn’t take the yucky medicine”
Another prayer request: Doug’s cousin’s little boy, Austin was diagnosed with Leukemia yesterday. Doug went to Children’s to see them last night and it was really hard on him. Austin just turned 4 this month. Doug couldn’t help but relive those first few days in June ’04. He just hugged his cousin because he knows there are no perfect words to say at that time. Please pray for this family. We don’t know many details yet. He was having a spinal tap and bone marrow biopsy today.
Thank you to all who check on us and pray so faithfully. God is faithful.
Love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, October 17, 2007 2:52 PM CDT
The Halloween costume is in!! Xander is going to be Fred Jones from Scooby Doo. He is most excited about the wig. He just loves it. I will post a picture soon.
This week has been going good. I am officially a nurse now, in Xander's eyes. I administered his chemo all by myself today.
The boys are on fall break and that thrills Carter! He could do without school. He is the complete opposite from Xander. Doug has to claim that.
Above is a picture of Xander playing his Wii. A sweet girl at our church won it and said she "had" to give it to Xander. Thank you Kaylee! This morning while hooked up to chemo Xander was literally sweating as he was playing the baseball game. Nothing is going to keep Xander down! Praise the Lord.
Love
Ricki Lea
Saturday, October 13, 2007 7:05 PM CDT
Psalm 33:20-22
"We wait in hope for the LORD;
he is our help and our shield.
In him our hearts rejoice,
for we trust in his holy name.
May your unfailing love rest upon us, O LORD,
even as we put our hope in you."
I'm going to keep this scripture on here for the time being, it has really spoken to me lately.
Xander is doing GREAT. He had a full week of school and you would never know he has a port. After the bandage came off it was as if nothing ever happened. He is such a tough kid, and at times that word seems inadequate to describe him.
We carved pumpkins today and had a wonderful relaxing day at home. Those seem to be far and few between. The boys are excited about their halloween costumes. Xander is waiting each day for his to arrive in the mail, "its not fair Carter's is already here" Hasn't he learned by now that life is NOT fair?
Monday he will begin his 2nd round of chemo. We will go to the clinic for the first day and then HOPEFULLY, Option Care will come to our house Tuesday thru Friday.
Each day we are trusting in the Lord to deliver Xander from this horrible disease. Each day we are thankful for God's peace and presence in the midst of uncertainty. Each day we pray for healing and each day we desire for God to be glorified.
Thank you for praying each day.
love
Ricki Lea
Monday, October 1, 2007 7:59 PM CDT
Xander had a busy day. He had a port put in at 9:00am was out of surgery by 9:45am, we left the hospital at 12:15 and believe it or not was begging to go to school. So, (shh, don't tell the doctor) I went with him to school. I told him I was staying with him. It was just about an hour and 1/2. He looked so pale and had had nothing to eat all day, where he found the energy was beyond me!
He then came home and took a 3 hour nap. He ate spaghetti and garlic toast followed by waffles for dinner!!
This morning was rough. Xander was so nervous and scared about the surgery. I went to the operating room with him and he was terrified. He just cried and wanted me to hold him. Before we went back he needed to go to the bathroom. I thought he was stalling but he really did go. While sitting on the toilet he looked at me and asked "mom, why did God make me this way?" WOW! I just cried and said " I don't know Xander." I don't know why and it was just heartbreaking to see the sadness in his face. Some day we will ask Jesus and it will all be revealed. But we must wait.
Psalm 33:20-22
"We wait in hope for the LORD;
he is our help and our shield.
In him our hearts rejoice,
for we trust in his holy name.
May your unfailing love rest upon us, O LORD,
even as we put our hope in you."
Thank you for praying,
Ricki Lea
Thursday, September 27, 2007 2:51 PM CDT
Things are going pretty smooth. It has been really hard emotionally to get back in the swing of things. Xander has had 3 treatments this week and seems to be hanging in there. He kept changing his mind about going to school today after treatment. He slept for an hour and then asked if school was over yet, he went at 1:15. Better than nothing at all. I just want him to do what he feels like doing. Which last night meant playing basketball in the gym at church. He played so hard that the IV in his arm bent and wouldn't work this morning. We had to get a new one and that was traumatic.
Monday morning he will have surgery to put in a port. I know he dreads it a little but he also knows it means no more needles in his arms!
I want to share a scripture with you that was given to me by a friend.
"The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom (or what) shall I be afraid?" Psalm 27:1
As I type this I have to admit there is fear in this situation. But there is no fear that the Lord can't overcome if we let Him. We must daily surrender our fears to Him and let Him lead us and take care of us.
Thank you for all the encouraging words, cards, and emails. Praying for Xander is the most important thing you can do for us.
Love
Ricki Lea
Monday, September 24, 2007 4:08 PM CDT
Today was encouraging.
That may sound weird, but I must look for the positives!
Xander's bone marrow does have disease in it. Tomorrow we will start chemo in the clinic. They will cram 5 days of chemo into 4 days this week so we can go ahead and get started. Then we will have 2 weeks off and do it again for 5 days, this cycle will continue every 21 days. This chemo should allow Xander to continue to go to school and have minimal side effects. It has been successful in bone marrow disease.
Tomorrow Xander will also have a CT of the head, chest, abdomen and pelvis. I don't think they suspect cancer to be there but we want to have a baseline before we start treatment. So far all the cancer is in the bone marrow. The places that were lighting up on the MIBG scan were clusters of disease in the bone marrow. So the bone itself does not have cancer. I hope this is not too confusing. Bottom line is; we have a plan, God is in control of that plan and therefore we must trust and keep going.
If we can find a home health agency that will administer chemo we will be able to do 4 of the 5 days of treament (the next cycle) at home!!! Please pray we get that opportunity.
We have felt your prayers over the weekend and we can't say thank you enough. Please keep it up. Our God is so powerful and is bigger than any fear we may have.
love
Ricki Lea
Saturday, September 22, 2007 6:44 PM CDT
Oh how I hate to make this journal entry.
The doctor called yesterday to tell us that cancer has returned to Xander’s body. The MIBG test is showing activity in about 6 or 7 different places. The conversation is kind of a blur. We will go Monday morning to have a bone marrow biopsy and talk with the doctors about what to do next. We are speechless to say the least. It feels like I have been punched in the stomach. My healthy looking and active child who was playing football with his cousins last night and running tirelessly up and down the bleachers of a football game Thursday night has cancer again?
I say with complete confidence that this did not surprise God! He has allowed this to happen. He has given this to us for a reason. We don’t have to like it, but this is what it is. We will never give up hope that the same God who healed Xander’s body before can do it again.
There are so many different scenarios running through our heads right now and it is hard to not know what will happen next. I guess that is part of trusting God. Hopefully Monday will have some answers as to when and what we will be doing.
I have to share with you what Xander said when Doug and I told him. I hope you can follow along.
“the clinic called and said the cancer is back”
Xander “what are we going to do?”
“we will probably do chemo; we are going to do whatever the doctors say”
Xander “will I get a toy off of the toy cart?”
“probably”
Xander “will I have another port?”
“probably”
Xander “what if we do chemo and then go test again and there is still cancer?”
“we will do more chemo and keep fighting”
Xander “will I stay in the hospital?”
“probably”
Xander “will I miss school?”
“I bet Mrs. Proctor would bring you some work to do!”
Xander “well, we could just pray and then when the doctors look again there won’t be anything there”
So we prayed and then Xander said “can I go play now?”
Let Xander’s faith be strength for us all.
Love
Ricki Lea
On Thursday September 20th, at 2:30 am, Brody Hall Anderson was born. My little sister now has two boys 1 year and 1 day apart. Xander is so proud to have a new cousin with his middle name. Brody was 7 lbs 8 oz. 21 ¼ in. long.
Saturday, September 22, 2007 6:41 PM CDT
Oh how I hate to make this journal entry.
The doctor called yesterday to tell us that cancer has returned to Xander’s body. The MIBG test is showing activity in about 6 or 7 different places. The conversation is kind of a blur. We will go Monday morning to have a bone marrow biopsy and talk with the doctors about what to do next. We are speechless to say the least. It feels like I have been punched in the stomach. My healthy looking and active child who was playing football with his cousins last night and running tirelessly up and down the bleachers of a football game Thursday night has cancer again?
I say with complete confidence that this did not surprise God! He has allowed this to happen. He has given this to us for a reason. We don’t have to like it, but this is what it is. We will never give up hope that the same God who healed Xander’s body before can do it again.
There are so many different scenarios running through our heads right now and it is hard to not know what will happen next. I guess that is part of trusting God. Hopefully Monday will have some answers as to when and what we will be doing.
I have to share with you what Xander said when Doug and I told him. I hope you can follow along.
“the clinic called and said the cancer is back”
Xander “what are we going to do?”
“we will probably do chemo; we are going to do whatever the doctors say”
Xander “will I get a toy off of the toy cart?”
“probably”
Xander “will I have another port?”
“probably”
Xander “what if we do chemo and then go test again and there is still cancer?”
“we will do more chemo and keep fighting”
Xander “will I stay in the hospital?”
“probably”
Xander “will I miss school?”
“I bet Mrs. Proctor would bring you some work to do!”
Xander “well, we could just pray and then when the doctors look again there won’t be anything there”
So we prayed and then Xander said “can I go play now?”
Let Xander’s faith be strength for us all.
Love
Ricki Lea
On Thursday September 21, at 2:30 am, Brody Hall Anderson was born. My little sister now has two boys 1 year and 1 day apart. Xander is so proud to have a new cousin with his middle name. Brody was 7 lbs 8 oz. 21 ¼ in. long.
Monday, September 10, 2007 10:46 AM CDT
It has been so crazy since school started. Xander and Carter both love school, Xander a little more than Carter! They see each other at lunch and get to play together on the playground. Charli and I are getting adjusted to our alone time. She is slowly but surely learning to play in her own room.
Xander was sick last week with a fever which of course made me a nervous wreck. He saw his pediatrician and I called the clinic just to make sure we didn’t need to see them too. They suggested that we have labs drawn just to make sure everything is still looking normal. We were able to do all of that in Norman and praise the Lord everything was fine. The doctor said he had every symptom of “just a bad cold”.
We are anxiously awaiting the birth of my little sister’s 2nd baby. She was due Aug. 30th, so any day now!!! Xander has scans on September 18th and 19th. Please pray that he is still cancer free. It feels good to get further and further out from his diagnosis date but it is still so scary when you hear of so many children relapsing. I am so thankful that God is bigger than all of these feelings we have. Each day Doug and I must choose to be thankful for THIS day and nothing further. We have been so blessed. Thank you for praying.
Love
Ricki Lea
Tuesday, August 14, 2007 1:30 PM CDT
Well, another milestone. Kindergarten! It was heart wrenching this morning. Xander started kindergarten and my little Carter went to Pre-K. Both of the boys will be gone all day, everyday!!!
Of course I cried, but they didn’t. Both were very excited to start school. Xander couldn’t believe I wouldn’t let him walk to class by himself this morning. He informed me that tomorrow he could walk I by himself, but 1st he would drop Carter off at his class. So independent! Xander reassured Carter that he would see him at lunch, although you have to sit with your class they can play together at recess.
I know we are so blessed to be able to send Xander to Kindergarten. Three years ago we learned that we are not guaranteed anything, and not just concerning Xander. I am more thankful for my children than you can imagine. I am grieving this morning for mothers and fathers that will not be taking there children to school. I know far too many that will dread this day forever because it is a constant reminder of what they have lost.
Dear God thank you for giving us this beautiful day. Thank you for allowing us to have a strong little boy who has overcome so much. Thank you for a support group of praying people and thank you for your faithfulness.
Love
Ricki Lea
Thursday, July 19, 2007 3:48 PM CDT
An amazing prayer said by Xander;
“Dear God please don’t let my cancer come back for 200 years”
It has been awhile, but we have been BUSY. I know that is the case with everyone this time of year. I can’t believe school starts in less than a month. Where does the summer go?
Xander has been doing great as usual. He had a CT on Tuesday. It was just routine, but we had it scheduled in June and were unable to do it because the nurses could not get an IV started for the contrast. After 6 tries we decided he was dehydrated and we would need to reschedule. I just called the clinic to give them a kind reminder to call me when they get the results.
This weekend is my 10 year high school reunion. Doug and I graduated from different schools so we get to do this twice. I am really excited. Tomorrow night is dinner with a small group of my close friends and their husbands. I’m looking forward to seeing lots of old friends. But it is always awkward when they ask you what you have been up to. Do you really want to drop the bomb on them that your son had cancer when they least expect it? I see it as a way to share our faith in Jesus. Our pastor last week said “when something is really important to you, you can’t help but talk about it”.
We are leaving for Falls Creek on Monday. We have about 90 kids signed up. If we have 100 kids, they get to do whatever they want to Doug’s hair. I am envisioning a Mohawk by the end of the week! Whatever it takes to get kids to bring their friends, huh?
Charli will be with Doug’s mom and the boys will be at camp with us. They can hardly wait. Last year they learned how to play UNO, so hopefully this year they will learn something else beneficial. You never know what they will pick up hanging around teenagers for a solid week.
Thank you as always for your prayers and encouragement. We are enjoying each day God has given us and continue to remind ourselves that this world is not our home. Our hope is in Jesus and Him alone.
Love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, June 20, 2007 9:02 PM CDT
A dream fulfilled….......
In the midst of VBS this week; we managed to find the time to drive down to Arlington yesterday to see our CUBS beat the Rangers. Doug is a HUGE Cubs fan and it has already been passed down to the boys. Xander and Carter loved watching the game and I think their t-ball knowledge helped them follow along. Xander was amazed at how far they could hit the ball. We got into bed last night around 2am and were back at church by 8:15am. It was well worth it.
In May of 2004; just weeks before Xander was diagnosed, Doug and I celebrated our 5th anniversary in Chicago watching the Cubs, shopping, ect. It was a wonderful trip. We have not seen the Cubs since. It was a special moment for us to get to take our boys to their 1st game. When we make it to Wrigley Field with the kids that will be another special moment.
VBS is going great. We had 152 kids yesterday! It is worth it all to have that many children under our roof, allowing us the chance to tell them about Jesus. The boys are having so much fun. In fact I need to go wash their VBS t-shirts because Xander insists on wearing his everyday.
Thank you for rejoicing with us in our good news last week. We are so fortunate to have so much support. Please pray for our friends Anna and Emory. There websites are listed below.
Love
Ricki Lea
Check the photo album
http://www.caringbridge.org/ok/annajane/
http://www.caringbridge.org/ok/emoryhood/index.htm
Wednesday, June 20, 2007 8:56 PM CDT
A dream fulfilled….......
In the midst of VBS this week; we managed to find the time to drive down to Arlington yesterday to see our CUBS beat the Rangers. Doug is a HUGE Cubs fan and it has already been passed down to the boys. Xander and Carter loved watching the game and I think their t-ball knowledge helped them follow along. Xander was amazed at how far they could hit the ball. We got into bed last night around 2am and were back at church by 8:15am. It was well worth it.
In May of 2004; just weeks before Xander was diagnosed, Doug and I celebrated our 5th anniversary in Chicago watching the Cubs, shopping, ect. It was a wonderful trip. We have not seen the Cubs since. It was a special moment for us to get to take our boys to their 1st game. When we make it to Wrigley that will be another special moment.
VBS is going great. We had 152 kids yesterday! It is worth it all to have that many children under our roof, allowing us the chance to tell them about Jesus. The boys are having so much fun. In fact I need to go wash their VBS t-shirts because Xander insists on wearing his everyday.
Thank you for rejoicing with us in our good news last week. We are so fortunate to have so much support. Please pray for our friends Anna and Emory. There websites are listed below.
Love
Ricki Lea
http://www.caringbridge.org/ok/annajane/
http://www.caringbridge.org/ok/emoryhood/index.htm
Wednesday, June 20, 2007 8:54 PM CDT
A dream fulfilled….......
In the midst of VBS this week; we managed to find the time to drive down to Arlington yesterday to see our CUBS beat the Rangers. Doug is a HUGE Cubs fan and it has already been passed down to the boys. Xander and Carter loved watching the game and I think their t-ball knowledge helped them follow along. Xander was amazed at how far they could hit the ball. We got into bed last night around 2am and were back at church by 8:15am. It was well worth it.
In May of 2004; just weeks before Xander was diagnosed, Doug and I celebrated our 5th anniversary in Chicago watching the Cubs, shopping, ect. It was a wonderful trip. We have not seen the Cubs since. It was a special moment for us to get to take our boys to their 1st game. When we make it to Wrigley that will be another special moment.
VBS is going great. We had 152 kids yesterday! It is worth it all to have that many children under our roof, allowing us the chance to tell them about Jesus. The boys are having so much fun. In fact I need to go wash their VBS t-shirts because Xander insists on wearing his everyday.
Thank you for rejoicing with us in our good news last week. We are so fortunate to have so much support. Please pray for our friends Anna and Emory. There websites are listed below.
Love
Ricki Lea
Friday, June 15, 2007 9:32 PM CDT
We couldn't ask for more. Xander's MIBG and MRI are both clear. Praise the Lord for His healing power!!!!!!
We celebrated tonight at Outback. Xander loved the "chocolate" bread. Charli and Carter loved the cheese fries and Mac and cheese. Needless to say we ate way too much. We were celebrating an early Father's Day, clear scans, and 3 years of SURVIVAL!
It was 3 years ago today that we spent our 1st night at Children's Hospital. I remember it like it was yesterday, all the people coming to support us. The halls of 3G were lined with our friends and family. I just knew I was having an awful nightmare and would soon wake up. I also remember telling my mom I wanted someone to tell me that Xander wasn't going to die. No one would tell me that. Oh, what a scary night that was.
But on this night I am listening to my boys talk while coloring at the bar. As we speak Xander is telling Carter that he is using a brown marker because “some people are brown”! Soon I will tuck two little boys into bed and thank the Lord for allowing us to still have Xander. I will also pray that He will allow Xander to grow into a young man that will boldly proclaim the miraculous story of healing and deliverance. Thank you God, you deserve all the praise for this wonderful life we are living. This has become one of my favorite verses:
“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed,
for his compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
I say to myself, "The LORD is my portion;
therefore I will wait for him."
Lamentations 3:22-24
Love
Ricki Lea
Friday, June 15, 2007 7a.m.
Update:
Xander's MRI was normal!! Praise the Lord. I am so glad we did radiation. We will let you know as soon as we get results from the MIBG.
Thank you for praying.
Wednesday, June 13, 2007 4:13 PM
Xander's MRI went well yesterday. As soon as it was over he was ready to go swimming!
We don't have any results yet.
The schedule changed a little because the pharmacy was not able to deliver the MIBG injection until today. He was injected today and the MIBG scan will take place in the morning at 9am. This will be the 1st scan for me to miss. Xander is with my parents and they will take him in the morning. We have two HUGE work days for VBS on Thurday and Friday and I really need to be there. Yes, it would go on without me, but so will the scan. Xander is in capable hands and I know that as soon as the doctors know something they will call me. I did jokingly, but seriously request that it be before the weekend!!!
Thank you for praying for us yesterday, today, and always. Xander was glad to get this over with. I told him we needed to keep praying that the tests would be good and then we wouldn't have to come back for 3 months. It was really precious when he later told the nurse the same thing. I have always hoped our lives would be an open book showing our faith in Jesus. I love hearing God speak through Xander so boldly.
We will update as soon as we know something.
love
Ricki Lea
Monday, June 11, 2007 7:49 AM CDT
It’s testing time. We are ready to put this behind us! Tuesday Xander has an MRI and MIBG injection. Wednesday is his doctor’s exam and MIBG scan. We were unable to fit the CT in on these two days so that has been scheduled for Monday, June 25th (after VBS). I’m sure we won’t have any results until Thursday.
Xander has been doing amazing. T-ball is almost over; the lil boomers were 10-1 for the season and had a post season tournament last weekend. They played 3 games on Saturday! Hot!! They won 2 and lost 1 and I was not too sad because if we won we would have played on Sunday afternoon. Everyone got a trophy and that’s all they cared about.
The last 6 weeks have been so peaceful for me. I know my faith is stronger and I have learned to let go of a lot of my fears. On June 15, 2007 it will mark 3 yrs since we spent our 1st night at Children’s Hospital. I can’t believe it! All of those feelings rush back as Doug went to Super Summer and as we prepare for Vacation Bible School because that is exactly the “normal” life we were living. Guess what? This is now our “normal” life! I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Will you join me in giving thanks for this life? Xander is here today on this earth while so many of our friends are not. Some that were diagnosed before him, some after him. Regardless of what these tests show we are blessed.
I pray that the spots are gone and I pray that people will continue to see God’s glory through my son’s life. I pray that Xander will continue to amaze the doctors. All these things are possible because we believe in THE ONE and ONLY GOD. We trust in His power and in His plan for each situation we face. To quote an old hymn; “All that fills my soul is Jesus; He is more than life to me”. Thank you for praying for Xander.
Check out the new pictures. The boys are becoming quite the ball players; wish I could claim that talent :)
Love
Ricki Lea
Monday, May 21, 2007 4:21 PM CDT
The picture above was taken on Mother's Day. I just love it! My precious babies!! Xander 5 1/2, Carter 4, and Charli 15 months(almost).
Xander has completed Pre-K and Carter's preschool program is tomorrow afternoon, summer here we come. Things have been going really well. The Lexington lil boomers are 5-1 for the regular season and we are headed to Lindsay, OK tonight for hopefully, another victory!
Doug and I are celebrating our 8th anniversary on the 27th. It has been an amazing 8 years, full of much more than I could have ever imagined.
We heard a wonderful message in church yesterday. The text was Philippians 4:4-9
"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you."
As we wait for testing time we rejoice,even though we face the unknown. Praise God for what we do know, and that is His perfect peace.
Xander will test on June 12th and 13th to see the complete effects of the radiation. Please pray that we are once again in remission. Doug and I are so thankful for your prayers and encouragement.
love
Ricki Lea
P.S. I still have not heard results from the CT from a few weeks ago. It goes to show how much I am not worrying. I keep forgetting to call.
Wednesday, May 9, 2007 12:27 AM CDT
Radiation is over! Xander acts as if it never happened. He is feeling great. He is enjoying his new backyard; the fence was finished yesterday so he is really happy! We are getting settled in our new house and enjoying it so much.
Carter will be 4 on Saturday, where does the time go? I was just thinking yesterday as we were waiting for Xander's CT (which went fine, don't have results yet) that most of Carter's life has been "post cancer". Sadly, I don't remember much of what life was like before cancer.
But, I do know what it is like now. Life now is the most amazing thing I could ever ask for. I have 3 beautiful children and a wonderful husband. God has been so good to us. We are thankful for each and every blessing.
Have a wonderful day and take time to count your blessings!
love
Ricki Lea
Next: Complete testing on June 12th and 13th
Tuesday, May 1, 2007 9:51 PM CDT
Only 3 days of radiation left!! We are very excited to say the least.
Xander admitted this morning, while waiting to see the doctor, that he was “having a bad attitude.” I said that was alright, sometimes it happens. I was glad he realized it. I could easily say “he has earned the right to have a bad attitude”, but I can’t. Even though he has been through so much more than most kids and definitely more than anyone should have to go through. I don’t want him to use that as an excuse to be a brat! Some of you fellow “cancer moms” know exactly what I am talking about.
Each day we are getting more and more settled into our new house. Each day also brings us closer to the end of school, more T-ball games, Super Summer, VBS, 10 year High School Reunions, and all the other crazy events that being a youth minister’s wife brings you to. I am looking forward to it. I truly love the life we are living, although quite hectic, I am constantly reminded of how blessed I am to have these opportunities.
Xander is feeling great. He has had a few mild side effects but still going strong. He is becoming such a little man. We have some of the BEST conversations ever!
Xander will have a CT on May 8th, it was scheduled back in Feb. so we are going to go ahead with it but wait until June 12th & 13th for the MRI and MIBG scan. The complete results of radiation may not be evident until 4-6 weeks after the last treatment. So we will pray that the radiation will be successful and that Xander will once again be cancer free. I am so thankful for your prayers. We have been comforted by God’s people once again, His peace is truly amazing.
Have a great week.
Love
Ricki Lea
Monday, April 23, 2007 8:15 AM CDT
Well, 1 week down and 2 to go! Xander is doing just fine with the radiation. He goes each weekday morning at 8:30am (Doug took him today) He likes to get back to school in time for lunch. He hasn't had any side effects. He and Carter played two T-ball games on Saturday and have another won tonight. They are both really enjoying it. Carter likes hanging out in the dugout a little too much!!
I don't remember if I mentioned this or not, but we are moving! Yes, right in the middle of all of this. We are moving to our church parsonage. It is going to be wonderful; more space! We are scheduled to move out tomorrow and close on our house on Thursday. So I have been furiously painting the new house and getting it all ready. Thank you to those who have been helping me! The boys are finally excited. Xander wasn't sure he wanted to leave "his" house and Carter has constantly been asking "do we get to take our toys, TV, trampoline, ect." I keep reassuring them that EVERYTHING is coming with us.
The trip to the city each day for radiation is crazy, packing and painting are exhausting, our church is looking for a new pastor and I was elected to the pastor search committee just last night, needless to say I feel that my "plate is full". But you know what? God knows just how big my plate is, and I am thankful that we have these hectic days. So I will not worry, we will trust that God will guide us through each day.
Matthew 6:33-34 "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."
Thank you for prayers
Ricki Lea
Friday, April 13, 2007 7:40 AM CDT
Good Morning!
I’m sorry I didn’t update sooner but Wednesday was emotionally exhausting.
Our visit with the doctor went well. We quickly agreed that radiation will be the best treatment for Xander and it will allow him to continue his active lifestyle and not be knocked down by chemo. The doctor feels that since the cancer is isolated to the spine there is no need to treat the whole body at this time. We also want to reserve chemo in case it is needed later. Xander has never had radiation, but from talking with other parents I’ve learned it is quick and there are minimal side effects. Xander will have 15 treatments and they will last literally seconds on the table. We will spend more time traveling and parking.
The drs are almost positive that the spots on the spine are neuroblastoma and that they are active. As I have been telling everyone “I didn’t learn anything new when we talked with the doctor” meaning that everything she mentioned I have known since the beginning. Neuroblastoma has a high rate of relapse, there could be cancerous cells undetected in Xander’s body at anytime, there are no two cases alike, and so on. It was just difficult to “revisit” all of these things.
However, it does not change what Doug and I believe and hope for. We have trusted and will keep trusting that God’s purpose is greater than what this world has to offer. We are thankful to be doing something rather than waiting for the disease to spread and then act. We also know that the disease may never decide to spread; only God knows.
Xander had his 1st appt. with radiology yesterday. He was tattooed and fitted for a mold that he will lay in each day. Monday will be his 1st radiation treatment and we will do this M-F for 3 weeks. Please pray that this will be effective.
As always we pray that God will be glorified in all that we do.
Love
Ricki Lea
Tuesday , April 10, 2007
April 10, 2007
Doug and I will meet with the doctor tomorrow at 2:30pm to discuss what is next. Please pray that Doug and I will know God's direction. Enjoy the new pics in the album.
Thursday, April 5, 2007 8:34 AM
Well, we received word that Xander’s MRI did not show anything new. That is good!! But it still leaves us with this lingering question of “What is this?” Some would say, of course it is Neuroblastoma, but others would agree that until it is proven we don’t know. Doug and I are holding to the fact that no doctor has told us Xander has relapsed or that this is 100euroblastoma.
We have 3 options at this time:
1.Do a biopsy of the vertebral area; if positive for NB we would be eligible for an oral medicine/chemo. There are risks with this and we have not talked with the doctor in detail about them yet.
2.Assume that the spots are NB and do localized radiation.
3.Continue to watch and wait. Rescan in May.
I give you these options in detail because I want you to pray that Doug and I would be filled with wisdom and peace. No one wants to look back and think you have made the wrong decision. Our doctor wants to sit down and talk with Doug and I about these options and the risks of each. So please be praying that over the next few days Doug and I will know what to do.
On a happier note, it has been 2 years since we were told Xander had no evidence of disease in his body, NED or remission. I struggled all day yesterday with the question of “has Xander relapsed?” Doug said “no” so I will be a submissive wife and agree!! God has given us so much over the last 2 years. It all came flooding through my heart on Monday night went Xander stepped up to the plate to bat for the 1st time at his T-ball game. What a joyous moment that I will never forget. Who cries at T-ball? It was just a reminder of where we are and how we have gotten here. Only by God’s grace. Only by the resurrection of His son. Only because Jesus conquered death do we have hope. Because of this we know that as Christians this world is not our home and someday we will be with Jesus and the fears and heartaches of this world will be wiped away.
Happy Easter and thank you for praying.
Love
Ricki Lea
Friday, March 30, 2007 6:43 PM CDT
Hello everyone,
I spoke with one of our doctors yesterday. She said that in conference Thursday morning all the doctors looked over Xander's scan and agreed that an MRI might give them a different perspective of the 2 spots on Xander's spine. I was glad to hear that there is something else we can do besides "watch and wait". If the MRI is normal we will do just that, watch and wait, but if the MRI is abnormal they will discuss trying to biopsy them or doing radiation. Of course there is risk with doing a biopsy of vertebrae so they want to make sure it is necessary.
Xander is finally feeling back to normal and is now "somewhat" proud of his scar. Both of the boys are enjoying T-ball and we have our first game on Monday!
I know that God is sovereign. I believe that each step we have faced has made us stronger in our relationship with HIM. At times I wish there were a few less steps. But as I look at Xander and think of all he has been through I am honored to be his mother. I am honored to be apart of this miraculous journey. Thank you for being apart of this too. Your prayers have lifted us in times of fear and uncertainty. I have faith that this testing time will be no different, we will Praise the Lord in good and bad.
Xander's MRI is Monday, April 2nd at 12:15 and we will probably not have results until Tuesday or Wednesday. We will let you know as soon as we have them.
Love
Ricki Lea
Thursday, March 22, 2007 2:28 PM CDT
Thank you for praying. I had an amazing peace yesterday. We had to wait until this morning to hear results!!!!!
The nurse called and said Xander's scan was stable. This means that the 2 places/spots on the spine have not changed. I had to stop and think for a minute because I had been praying that these spots would either dissapear or declare themselves so that we could treat them. Sometimes God says "Wait", sometimes we don't get to have all the answers laid out perfectly. So we Praise The Lord! These spots could have grown or multiplied in number and they didn't. For that we are so thankful!
The doctor also said Xander looked great and his incision was healing perfectly.
Xander will scan again May 8th and 9th, about 7 weeks from now. Of course we will have plenty to keep us busy until then. Xander and Carter are playing T-ball for the 1st time, it is the cuteset thing I have ever seen in my life! I have a feeling from this point on I will spend a lot of time at the ball fields.
Remember to keep Xander in your prayers and together we will continue to trust that the Lord has a plan.
love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, March 21, 2007 9:57 AM CDT
I can't believe I have not updated in so long!!!
We are headed to the hospital this morning for Xander's MIBG scan and then a doctor's appt at the clinic. Hopefully we will know more about the two spots on Xander's spine.
Xander is finally feeling almost normal since the surgery. It was not fun trying to recover and then getting the cough and fever that was going around. He has had a rough time.
Please pray that the scan today will give some answers. But then on the other hand we must trust and understand that sometimes God needs us to wait. So if needed we will wait patiently.
Thank you for praying for a continued miracle in Xander's life.
love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, February 28, 2007 10:39 AM CST
We are home!!!
We left the hospital yesterday at noon, stopped at McDonald’s, picked up Xander’s medicine, unpacked and crashed.
The house was quiet by 8:30pm. Doug and I included.
One week ago I was nervously packing, dreading the surgery and the outcome, yet knowing that God was in control. And now we are home. The tumor was removed and it was dead. What more could we ask for? I told Doug as he left for work this morning that it was like we needed to push the “resume” button on our life.
Xander asked this morning if it was a school day. I told him yes, but he wasn’t going. He seemed a little confused but was quickly in my bed watching cartoons. I am very glad his pain medicine does not make him sleep all day.
We will return to the clinic in 1 week for a follow up appointment. I’m sure they need to check the incision and make sure it is healing the way it should. Then on March 20th we will inject for the MIBG scan and then scan on the 21st. Please pray that the spots on the spine will be gone. I believe that anything is possible. God will be praised and glorified no matter what.
The boys are “graciously” letting Charli play in their room with them so I need to go make sure she is not buried under a pile of ninja turtles! Her birthday party is this Friday; I hope she likes the girl toys as much as she likes theirs.
Thank you for your prayers and encouragement.
Love
Ricki Lea
Check the photo album for new pics!!!!!!!
Monday, February 26, 2007 2:01 PM CST
I guess you figured Doug was doing the updating.......I'm never that short and to the point.
This has been my first opportunity to be at a computer. We were more than Thankful to get a good report from the doctors and EARLIER than expected. The tumor was ganglioneuroma (matured dead neuroblastoma cells). This is what we were praying for.
We will scan again in about 3 1/2 weeks to check on the spots showing up on the spine. They either need to dissapear or declare themselves, because right now the doctors don't have enough evidence to go on. The spots are not consistent in the different scans. It is very confusing and not easy to explain. Therefore just pray!!! We are taking this one step at a time and so far, so good. We will continue to trust that God is in control. Xander is a miracle.
He is still in the hospital but could go home any day. The tubes are all out and we are just waiting for him to eat and digest real food and get the pain under control in a way we can provide at home. I have always known Xander to be "beyond brave", but he has really really shown it over the past 4 days.
Pray that we will be home soon and that God will take care of the places on Xander's back.
Thank you for all your prayers. Once again we have seen the power and glory of God.
love
Ricki Lea
Charli turned 1 yesterday! Happy Birthday sweet girl!
Friday, February 23, 2007 1:50 PM CST
To put it simple. The tumor that was removed yesterday was a dead tumor. This is a good thing, because there is this no proof that Xander has living cancer cells in his body.
Thursday, February 22, 2007 7:55 PM CST
Xander's surgery went smoothly. The Dr. referred to the tumor before surgery as quarter to "lemon" sized and afterward indicated that it was quite "shriveled". The Dr. related that he felt they had gotten all the tumor, we will not know the results of the pathology report until Monday.
Please pray that the pathology report will reflect no return of neuroblastoma. It is possible that these could be a more mature, non-reproducing, "dead cancer" cells. This would certainly be the best of all reports.
Thank you for your prayers and support. Please hold Xander, Ricki Lea, all the family, and I up as Xander recovers and treatment moves forward. Tonight Xander is being kept still and on pain medication.
Doug
Thursday, February 15, 2007 9:34 PM CST
The doctor called today and Xander is scheduled for surgery on Thursday, February 22nd.
They will biopsy the tumor in his abdomen, this is what they are considering to be the primary tumor. The surgeon will have to sacrifice a vein, since the tumor is entangled in it. I am very anxious and I was hoping for something to happen Monday!! The doctor laughed. I know there are other children besides Xander that need things done, so we will be happy with only waiting a week.
Please know that I am so thankful for your prayers. Doug and I truly feel peaceful about the steps we are taking. Xander is just the same as he was a week ago, loving school and playing with Carter. What more could we ask for. Each day the emotions are different but one thing remains the same and that is our trust and hope in God. He deserves all the glory for where we are today.
It was just 2 years ago this very day that Xander endured an 8 hour operation to remove the tumor from his skull. What a miracle the last 2 years have been.
It is neat to read the journal entries on the website from 2 years ago today and 1 year ago today. The same God we praised then is the same God we praise today, even in the midst of confusion.
"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever" Hebrew 13:8
love
Ricki Lea
P.S. here are the previous journal entries
Tuesday, February 15, 2005 7:18 PM CST
Thank you Lord for delivering Xander from surgery today!
Xander was out of surgery around 5pm today. He was alert and asking for his sippy cup. Later he asked for a pillow and coke!! Yeah!!!!
The surgery was sucessful and Xander's tumor is gone and they believe very little cancer cells remain. The surgeons were pleased, but it took a little longer than expected. Dr. Honeycutt prayed with us before surgery. Amen for a faithful servant! His ear is intact and the facial nerve was not harmed. This is a great day!
We are so tired but overjoyed. I have more to share from my heart but it will have to wait until tomorrow. Just know that our Heavenly Father comforted us today and protected Xander. I know God's power and I am so thankful for His faithfulness to us.
Thank you for praying without ceasing.
Love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, February 15, 2006 11:21 AM CST
One year ago today, Doug and I were sitting in the waiting room surrounded by family & friends just waiting for Xander’s tumor to be removed. Waiting to see what God would have in store for our lives. Here are a few things I will never forget;
I will never forget how long the day was and how anxious I was for it to be over.
I will never forget how Dr. Honeycutt prayed with us before they took Xander back to surgery.
I will never forget the people that were there to support us.
I will never forget when the surgeons came out and said they were successful.
I will never forget seeing Xander all bandaged up, and thinking what have we done to him.
I will never forget the presence I knew was from God.
I will never forget that long night in ICU.
I will never forget being released from the hospital just a little over 72 hours after Xander’s surgery.
I will never forget taking Xander to church that very next Sunday.
What I know now just one year later is that God has blessed us. God has brought us to a place that I never imagined. Thank you Lord and thank you prayer warriors. Xander is so very lucky to have you.
Today we are waiting once again to see what God has in store for our lives. But not in a waiting room, the boys have been playing outside on the trampoline and I am trying to keep busy while we wait for our 3rd precious gift from God.
We will let you know as soon as the baby is here!
( if you have time it is kind of neat to read the journal history from this time last year, actually its amazing!)
Love
Ricki Lea
Tuesday, February 13, 2007 3:46 PM CST
Some of you may be realizing that I am copying the email I send out, but right now that is all I have the energy for.
The bone marrow is clear.!!!!!!!! Praise the Lord.
The next step........they have to prove that the tumors are active cancer. The doctors will conference on Thursday morning and discuss with surgeons what is best; biopsy or complete removal. We must pray that these tumors are not active neuroblastoma!!! But either way God will deliver us once again, somehow, someway.
Thank you for continued prayer for our family.
Today we have victory!!!!!
love
Ricki Lea
Monday, February 12, 2007 4:27 PM CST
First, I want to say thank you to everyone who has been praying, forwarding emails, calling, and sending us words of encouragement. Doug and I know, once again that we are blessed with faithful friends and family. Many of you have said that "there are no words to say" and I will agree.
The bone marrow test went really smooth today. Xander had a great sedation and the doctor was able to get good samples. There are two parts to this test; a fluid aspiration from the bone marrow and a literal bone sample. We already know that the fluid was CLEAR. Praise the Lord!!! It will be tomorrow or Wednesday before we have results from the bone sample. It was difficult to meet with the doctor today because there are still not a lot of answers and there is fear that you won't like the few answers they have. But we do know that we are dealing with less disease than before and Xander has a lot of options available. I expressed that I was very anxious to get something started and the doctor explained that we don't want to make a quick decision and it end up being the wrong one. So we will wait until we get the test results and go from there.
Please pray for the bone marrow to be completely clean. Pray that the doctors will have wisdom in treating Xander. Pray that Xander will not be afraid, he is not a baby this time and it kills me having to explain these things to him. Pray that Doug and I would not be afraid. We believe that God is all powerful and we know that He has never left us and will never leave us, but sometimes it is really hard to keep from being afraid.
We are so thankful for each of you.
love
Ricki Lea
Friday, February 9, 2007 8:31 PM CST
There is no easy way to say this.........so here it goes.
Xander has 2 spots showing up near his spine. We had our routine testing this week and something showed up on the MIBG scan. The CAT scan was clear. We went today for Xander to have an X-ray and Bone Scan just to be sure.
Monday Xander will have a bone marrow biopsy at 8am to see if disease has spread to the bone marrow. If not they will do a biopsy.
How to pray is beyond my comprehension right now. Doug and I are hanging in there, with moments of anxiety and fear. But we do know one thing for sure. The one and only God that healed Xander's body before can do it again. He is still in control, He is still our source of hope and strength, and we want Him to be glorified.
Please pray as you have done so faithfully. I can't believe what I am typing. Are we really going to do this again?
"Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." 1 Peter 5:7
love
Ricki Lea
Thursday, February 8, 2007 8:15 AM CST
Praise the Lord!!!
So far so good!
The CAT Scan looked good but we are still waiting for the results of the MIBG. From what we could tell it was fine, but its nice to hear the "official" word.
We are so thankful for all of your prayers and concern. Xander was such a brave boy. He will tell you that too!
He weighed 55 lbs and is just about 44 1/2 inches tall. HUGE!!!
What's next? Life and lots of it. We have Valentine's parties, Charli's 1st birthday, Doug and I are going skiing over Spring Break, so many things that we look forward to. It will be two years on Feb. 15th since Xander's major surgery and I'm sure we will be celebrating what a precious gift we have been given.
God is so good. I pray that His glory will shine through Xander's life always.
Love
Ricki Lea
Monday, February 5, 2007 11:46 AM CST
Oh, how these days can be the saddest and the greatest! Testing days are so “unfun” as they are approaching, yet when they are over you shout for joy!
Today I am reading about being in God’s will, and how there is no better place to be. No matter what trial we are in, God has permitted us to be there. I truly believe that. As we get ready for tomorrow and Wednesday I am going to keep claiming God’s promises and trusting that no matter what
Hebrews 13:5-6 “Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you. The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid”
Please pray that the next two days will continue to show us God’s will and that He will be glorified in Xander’s life. Also that Xander will do just fine with the blood draw; this will be his first time without his port.
We will let you know when we have results. The testing schedule is as follows;
Tuesday
Drink contrast at 9am
CT at 11am
MIBG injection at 1pm
Exam 1:30
Wednesday
MIBG scan at 1pm
Thank you so much for praying for Xander’s continued healing.
Love
Ricki Lea
Saturday, January 13, 2007 12:49 AM CST
Well, it is sleeting or freezing rain outside and we are just watching movies and eating!!! Xander and Carter have built a tent in their bedroom and are dressed up in old Halloween costumes. Charli is just trying to keep up with them.
Xander has been doing so well. We had an amazing Christmas and New Years. So thankful for the New Year and the wonderful things we know God has in store for us. Although, as many parents will tell you that the new year for them officially starts on the diagnosis date or remission date for their child. For us that is June 2004 and April 2005.
We are enjoying our normal life these days. Xander will return to the clinic February 6th and 7th for testing. We will continue this every 3 months for another year.
Lately Xander has been saying some pretty amazing things. Some that are heart wrenching and so smart. He said that when everyone gets their port out we will tear down the clinic. Then the other night at bedtime he got really anxious and said he didn’t want to go to Heaven by himself. I just got down on my knees by his bed and said you don’t have to worry about that now. He was worried that he would need me and I wouldn’t be there. I told him whenever he needs me, I will be there. We prayed and I kissed him goodnight, closed the door and just cried so hard. Why did he say that? I know that he has dealt with Heaven a lot more than normal for kids his age. We talk about it every time a child dies and that is far too often. He knows and I know that Satan will use that to cause me to be anxious. Praise God I can take those thoughts captive and give them to the Lord.
Thank you for sticking with us and continuing to pray for Xander. Please check in on Tanner and pray for him and his family. Hopefully soon he will be beginning his transplant.
Love
Ricki Lea
Friday, December 22, 2006 10:03 PM CST
I am making a last minute effort to make Xander’s page “Christmassy”!
We have been going and going. Xander’s port came out so fast; he was in and out of surgery in 15 minutes. Later that afternoon he was playing on the swing set in the back yard. God is so good. Thank you for all who prayed and I’m sorry I didn’t update sooner.
It has been 1 year since Xander rang “the bell”. Sometimes it seems like a lifetime ago. I find myself wishing sometimes that Xander were 10 years old and “out of the woods”. Then I realize that we would miss all that God has to show us and how He can use us. So we will take it one year at a time and rejoice with each sunrise.
I pray that this Christmas season will bring hope and joy to all of you. Hope as you look to the future and Joy as you look to the past and see how God has blessed you with so much. As I write this tears are forming and I am speechless. What do you say to those who have suffered and lost? What do you say to the mothers and fathers, grandma’s and grandpa’s who will not hold their child in their arms this Christmas morning? Nothing. Nothing I can say will ease their pain. Nothing I can say will make it better.
“Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”
2 Corinthians 4:16-18
Please continue to pray.
Merry Christmas
Doug, Ricki Lea, Xander, Carter and Charli Moore
Sunday, December 10, 2006 3:14 PM CST
Tomorrow Xander is having his port removed.
Surgery is at 8:30am
Thank you for praying for him. This is a huge step for us. Xander has had the same port for 2 1/2 years. It has been a good one, but its time to go!! Praise the Lord.
Please add Joel Morris to your prayer list. He was just diagnosed with Neuroblastoma. I will give more details later. He is 3 years old.
Thank you for your faithfulness in prayer.
love
Ricki Lea
Monday, December 4, 2006 8:59 PM CST
Sorry I haven't updated sooner! Time got away from me. We haven't heard officially from the doctor about Xander's scan. But from what we could see and what the tech said. We are still clear. Praise the Lord!
The clinic was closed on Thursday because of snow and then Friday I forgot to call and I forgot again today. I am assuming once again that no news is good news. But I will call tomorrow.
We had a great time over the weekend. The boys played in the snow and we had lots of family time. Xander and Carter were in the Christmas program Sunday night. Xander had a speaking part, absolutely precious. Carter was sad because he didn't have one. I heard Xander explaining it to him on the way home "Carter, the little kids didn't have speaking parts, maybe you'll have one next year" Oh the wise old Xander.
Have a wonderful week. Keep praying for Anna and Tanner.
Thank you for praying for Xander so faithfully.
Love
Ricki Lea
Tuesday, November 28, 2006 8:04 PM CST
Xander had a wonderful birthday!
Last Thursday night as I was putting him to bed, he said “momma, I’m almost 6 now”
Then he said “only 3 more birthdays until I’m in the 2nd grade”
He cracks me up, he is always thinking.
I forgot to let you all know that the second CAT scan was normal. We were just so happy and ready to celebrate Xander’s birthday and Thanksgiving. Today Xander had the MIBG injection and the scan will be tomorrow at 1pm. Please pray that it will be clear and we can continue on the journey to forever healing.
Today at the clinic I was given one of the new calendars that are created by the Leukemia Transplant Fund. The most wonderful women in the world volunteer at the clinic and do so much more, including the calendar. It is compiled of art work done by kids going through cancer treatment. Last year Xander’s drawing was in it. The very last page is dedicated to those who have lost the earthly battle with cancer. I swear the list of names had doubled from last year. Among the names were our dearest Kraleigh, Noah, and Fletcher. It doesn’t seem possible.
There is fear in each parent that someday their child’s name will be in the “back of the calendar”. Oh dear God, protect us from that fear, do not let it consume us. This scripture is for all who fear.
The LORD is my light and my salvation—
whom shall I fear?
The LORD is the stronghold of my life—
of whom shall I be afraid?
When evil men advance against me
to devour my flesh,
when my enemies and my foes attack me,
they will stumble and fall.
Though an army besiege me,
my heart will not fear;
though war break out against me,
even then will I be confident.
One thing I ask of the LORD,
this is what I seek:
that I may dwell in the house of the LORD
all the days of my life,
to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD
and to seek him in his temple.
For in the day of trouble
he will keep me safe in his dwelling;
he will hide me in the shelter of his tabernacle
and set me high upon a rock.
Psalm 27:1-5
Please pray with us for a clean scan and we will update as soon as we know anything.
Love
Ricki Lea
Tuesday, November 28, 2006 8:03 PM CST
Xander had a wonderful birthday!
Last Thursday night as I was putting him to bed, he said “momma, I’m almost 6 now”
Then he said “only 3 more birthdays until I’m in the 2nd grade”
He cracks me up, he is always thinking.
I forgot to let you all know that the second CAT scan was normal. We were just so happy and ready to celebrate Xander’s birthday and Thanksgiving. Today Xander had the MIBG injection and the scan will be tomorrow at 1pm. Please pray that it will be clear and we can continue on the journey to forever healing.
Today at the clinic I was given one of the new calendars that are created by the Leukemia Transplant Fund. The most wonderful women in the world volunteer at the clinic and do so much more, including the calendar. It is compiled of art work done by kids going through cancer treatment. Last year Xander’s drawing was in it. The very last page is dedicated to those who have lost the earthly battle with cancer. I swear the list of names had doubled from last year. Among the names were our dearest Kraleigh, Noah, and Fletcher. It doesn’t seem possible.
There is fear in each parent that someday their child’s name will be in the “back of the calendar”. Oh dear God, protect us from that fear, do not let it consume us. This scripture is for all who fear.
The LORD is my light and my salvation—
whom shall I fear?
The LORD is the stronghold of my life—
of whom shall I be afraid?
When evil men advance against me
to devour my flesh, [a]
when my enemies and my foes attack me,
they will stumble and fall.
Though an army besiege me,
my heart will not fear;
though war break out against me,
even then will I be confident.
One thing I ask of the LORD,
this is what I seek:
that I may dwell in the house of the LORD
all the days of my life,
to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD
and to seek him in his temple.
For in the day of trouble
he will keep me safe in his dwelling;
he will hide me in the shelter of his tabernacle
and set me high upon a rock.
Psalm 27:1-5
Please pray with us for a clean scan and we will update as soon as we know anything.
Love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, November 15, 2006 10:02 PM CST
The CT from Tuesday was normal!!
Yeah, thank you Lord.
The MIBG scan was rescheduled because of a scheduling error. The injection wasn't ordered! So it will be Nov. 29th.
Xander had another CT today and the doctor will call tomorrow or Friday with those results. So I will let you know.
Xander's port will be removed on December 11th. Shhhhhh, we aren't telling Xander. He is kind of attached to it after 2 1/2 years and he doesn't want to be cut.
Thank you for your prayers once again. We are so blessed.
I will update soon.
love
Ricki Lea
Friday, November 10, 2006 10:25 AM CST
“Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed,
for his compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
I say to myself, "The LORD is my portion;
therefore I will wait for him."
Lamentations 3:22-24
This is by far my most favorite time of the year!
I celebrated my birthday last month and now we look forward to Xander’s birthday on the 23rd, Thanksgiving and then Christmas. There is always so much going on and we are surrounded by friends and family. We truly have so much to be thankful for.
The other day we went to the pharmacy to pick up a prescription for Carter and myself; Xander was shocked nothing was for him. We went inside the pharmacy as opposed to the easy drive thru and the ladies that work there commented on Xander’s size and how good he looked. I am always amazed at how many people have walked this road with us. I never realized that those ladies filling those prescriptions knew exactly what they were for and were probably feeling so sorry for us each time we came by. But I am sure, along with many others, they were praying for Xander.
I look at my almost 5 year old son and my eyes fill with tears. He is so strong and so brave and has been through more than anyone should have to go through and yet he wakes up each day excited to go to school. He wakes up each day dying to know the schedule. He loves life. He loves learning. He loves Carter and Charli. He prays so hard and so seriously. Dear God, thank you! Thank you for each day. I hope that each of you will see that no matter where we have been, where we are, or where we are going God has a plan for us. Two and a half years ago and had no idea what we were facing and where we would be now. Praise God for His deliverance. Don’t let this Thanksgiving season go by without thinking about the things you are thankful for and tell people what the Lord has done for you.
Please continue to pray for Tanner. Tanner’s website is below and he and his parents really need to be lifted up in prayer. Tanner has a long road to healing, but we must trust that God Has The Power to do it!
Pray for Anna.
Pray for Xander’s upcoming scans.
Pray for my heart and mind to be protected.
Pray for all the families that have lost a child and will be spending this holiday season without them.
Thank you for praying,
Ricki Lea
Saturday, October 28, 2006 8:40 AM CDT
“Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed,
for his compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
I say to myself, "The LORD is my portion;
therefore I will wait for him."
Lamentations 3:22-24
We do not have an "official" report yet, but the bone scan looked good to us and to the nuclear med technician. So we will take that as a good sign. We will go ahead with our scheduled testing for November 14th and 15th. I am so relieved to know that Xander's leg pain had to have been growing pains or a pulled muscle. He is running all over the place and has not mentioned his leg hurting at all. Who knows why we have have these frightening moments.
I was able to visit with Tanner's parents and grandparents yesterday. Tanner looked good and was going to begin chemo last night. Please Please pray for Tanner. He has "another" long road ahead of him.
I am thankful today and everyday that God has continued to bless us with Xander's health. He is truly a miracle.
Our desire is to glorify God with our lives and to have faith and keep trusting Him no matter what each day holds.
Thank you for praying.
love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, October 25, 2006 10:09 PM CDT
WHAT A DAY!
This morning Xander woke up and could not move his left leg. He had complained the night before a few times that his leg hurt but then went about playing. Later we learned that he had also complained to his grandfather over the weekend as well.
To make a long story short, we called the clinic and made an appointment. We saw the doctor today and had blood work done an exam and an X-ray. He was already walking more on his leg and feeling "a little much better, but not very much better" to quote Xander. I just was not going to rest until he was seen by a doctor. So many times disease has come back and children have had leg pain. So my heart fell to my feet and Satan was already causing my mind to race. I felt like I could throw up at any moment, all day long.
Xander's blood work looked great. His x-ray was clear and normal. The doctor said to be "cautiously optimistic", but they feel it is a good sign that the x-ray was clear and that most of the time a lesion or disease would show up in an x-ray. I was told to take a deep breath and get a good night's sleep. We are going to go ahead with a bone scan on Friday just to cover every base.
Dr. McNall squeezed us in today because she understands what it is like to worry about every cough every ache and pain. I don't have the luxury of waiting a week to see if "it" passes, I have to act, and that is what we did. I feel so much better knowing that he has had an x-ray and will have another scan on Friday.
Please pray that it will also look good and that Xander has just pulled a muscle. He is already walking so much better and running a little bit.
Yesterday we learned that Tanner Gilbert, website is listed below, has developed AML. We were told in the beginning that some of the chemo given could cause a form of Leukemia. I just don't want to imagine the shock and fear that is gripping Tanner's parents. Please visit his website faithfully and pray for his complete healing from this cancer. He is only 3 years old. For so long I referred to him as "the other little boy" doing so well. Dear God please deliver him again.
“Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed,
for his compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
I say to myself, "The LORD is my portion;
therefore I will wait for him."
Lamentations 3:22-24
We will let you know as soon as we get results from Friday's bone scan. Keep Praying.
love
Ricki Lea
Sunday, October 15, 2006 7:32 PM CDT
Things have been so great!
We are enjoying two new babies in the family. Along with my nephew Judd, born 9/19, we now have Boston. He was born October 13th and was 8lbs 10 oz. He is so chubby!!! That makes 3 new babies for our family in the year 2006. Christmas will be crazy.
Xander got his hearing aids. We are still working on the "rules" that go along with them. His visit to the clinic last week was really good. He has routine scans again on November 14th and 15th. After that we will take his port out and only go to the clinic every 3 months instead of monthly. It is a lot to take in. It is so awesome to have been off treatment for a year, yet so scary. This is kind of "unchartered" territory. There are not many that have gone before Xander successfully. But praise God that doesn't matter. God has Xander's life planned out in a way we can't question. Xander is truly a miracle.
Please begin praying that the November scans will be clear and that Xander's story will continue to be one of Hope and encouragement for others.
Please pray for Anna
http://www3.caringbridge.org/ok/annajane/
Love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, September 27, 2006 12:52 AM CDT
I'm happy to announce that I have a new nephew.
Judd Wyatt Anderson was born September 19th at 7pm on the nose. I was so proud of my little sister. Judd was 7lbs 12 oz and 21 1/4 in. He has beautiful red hair and the biggest feet I have ever seen.
Carter did great last Thursday. He didn't wake up after the surgery very happy, but what child does. He is very proud of his "gray" teeth. I am glad that is behind us. Thank you for praying.
One quick funny Xander story for you.
Monday night Xander asked me to please put "1 dollar and 18 dollars" in his folder. I asked him why (knowing that there was a book fair at school this week, I wanted to hear his reasoning) He said " well the library girl at school said we could buy some books" I was sure to tell the LIBRARIAN that my son thinks she looks really young.
He then said he wished he had $100, and I said " so do I"
Oh, how simple his life is right now. I am so thankful for these book fair days and the wonderful life that Xander is living.
Thank you for always chiecking in and being faithful to pray for Xander and our family.
love
Ricki Lea
Monday, September 18, 2006 12:21 AM CDT
Hi everyone,
Just a quick note to say everything is going well.
We are anxiously awaiting the birth of my little sister, Rachel’s, 1st baby. As of today she is 11 days overdue! It stinks; I’ve been there with Carter. Carter was exactly 2 weeks late!
Please pray for Carter on Thursday. He is having A LOT of dental work done and will be going under general anesthesia. It’s no big deal for Xander, but our little Carter has never had surgery before so I’m a little anxious to see how he handles it. His surgery is the 21st at 8:30am.
Xander is continuing to love school and is learning so much. He is counting, recognizing letters, and singing songs. His teacher said he can recite the classroom rules verbatim. He gets that kind of memory from Doug!!
Charli is all over the place. Bathroom doors must be closed now. She is becoming such a beautiful little girl. We are so blessed and thankful for the wonderful family God has given us.
Please continue to pray for Anna Salamy.
http://www3.caringbridge.org/ok/annajane/
*check the album for new photos
Thank you for checking in,
Love
Ricki Lea
Thursday, September 7, 2006 3:54 PM CDT
I am so thankful for one more smooth visit at the clinic. Dr. McNall said Xander looks good and healthy. We will take that and as Xander says "get outta here"!
I always get very emotional as I drive away from the hospital. The reasons are too many to list, but yesterday my heart was overflowing with thanks. God has allowed Xander to become an amazing little boy. He has given us so many blessings. If God were to take Xander tomorrow I have been given SO MUCH MORE than so many other mom’s. That is why I cried, this time!
“You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing to you and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give you thanks forever.” Psalm 30:11-12
Please pray for our friend Anna.
http://www3.caringbridge.org/ok/annajane/
Thank you for always praying,
Ricki Lea
Saturday, September 2, 2006 9:25 PM CDT
I have been dying to share this picture with you. Doug's brother Jeff, A Thousand Words photography, took this and I personally think it is PERFECT. Doug and I are so blessed!
Xander is almost an "All day" Pre-K student. He loves it so much! He stayed all day 4 out of 5 days last week. I am still struggling with having him gone all day. To be quite honest I just don't like his absence. I know it is just Satan trying to have power in my life. I have been thinking a lot about Calysta Burnett and the fact that she misses Kraleigh “all day" and how horrible that must be. So when Carter is wandering around the house, bored and missing Xander Satan really messes with my mind. But Praise the Lord for His power over Satan!
Please pray for all the families that are adjusting to school and all these new beginnings for their family, yet there is someone missing. "Dear Lord please comfort them."
"He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds" Psalm 147:3
We haven't heard anything about the CT from the 21st, so no news is GOOD news! Xander goes to the clinic Wed. Sept. 6th at 2pm for blood work and an exam.
love
Ricki Lea
Monday, August 21, 2006 9:38 PM CDT
Things went really well today. Xander got a little antsy during the CT because they wanted him to hold his head in a few very uncomfortable positions. I sang “All the Way to Calvary” to him and he was very still and settled down, I’m sure the nurse thought I was little crazy, but it worked. The clinic will call soon with the results from the CT.
Then we were off to Dr. Saunders, he said Xander’s ear looked great. We will see him again in 6 months. He didn’t think it was time to do any reconstruction surgery yet, but he was going to look at the CT as well and let us know if he felt differently. Next, Xander had a hearing test to make sure there hadn’t been any changes in his hearing loss. He went into the room all by himself; he said he didn’t need me in there. Too big! Everything has stayed the same so they went ahead made an ear mold. He liked this part because they filled his ear with this pink foam and then waited for it to harden and pulled it out. He was pretty amazed to see what his ear canal looked like. His hearing aids should be in within 2-3 weeks. And boy will they be stylish……..red, white, and blue. I was cringing as he was looking at the color samples saying to myself “please don’t choose the neon orange”, but I guess that is just my vanity speaking. They aren’t for me so why should I stand in the way of his color scheme.
Xander is loving school so much. My original plan was to pick him up at noon everyday because he is just too young to stay all day and he has the rest of his life to be in school all day. Or perhaps I’m just not ready to “miss” him all day. Well, Xander does not like being picked up “early” and he sure doesn’t like the fact that “the kids keep playing after I leave”, to quote him. So we (I) have decided he can stay 2 days a week all day for now and we will see how it goes. My friends already have a wager that by the month’s end Xander will be a full time student, thanks for their support huh?
Well, I feel like I have been a little long winded tonight, but that’s just my heart. It is overflowing with joy and excitement about the days to come for our family. “The Lord has done GREAT things for us, and we ARE filled with JOY.” Psalm 123:6
I just can’t say it enough. Thanks for praying.
Love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, August 16, 2006 9:14 AM CDT
"So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness." Colossians 2:6-7
It was a big day in the Moore house yesterday! Xander went to Pre-K. Carter and I cried when we left him and Charli cut her 1st tooth. What more could we ask for?
God has been so gracious to us. Doug and I feel so very blessed to get to take Xander to his 1st day of school. This is huge milestone in his life. I know he will be fine, but I still cried. 2 years ago we were in the hospital for Xander's 3rd round of chemo, last year we were getting ready to go on our Make a Wish trip to Disney World and now Xander is in school. Praise the Lord for all he has given us.
Xander will have a CT on Monday the 21st. Believe it or not they forgot to scan his head last week. I'm glad they do two different scans on him. The MIBG scan of his head looked good, but we want a CT so we can make sure all the bases are covered. After that he will see Dr. Saunders to talk about hearing aids and his metal plate. Pray for a smooth day and good results once again.
Thank you for your prayers,
Ricki Lea
Please pray for Anna, her website is below
http://www3.caringbridge.org/ok/annajane/
Thursday, August 10, 2006 9:55 PM CDT
“The LORD has done great things for us,
and we are filled with joy.” Psalm 126:3
We have once again been blessed with clean scans.
Thank you so much for praying for Xander. He is truly a miracle. I know that someday his life and testimony will be used for God’s glory.
Xander had a rough time this time around, not wanting to be still, impatient ect. Therefore we are all exhausted to say the least. Please rejoice with us and this great news.
Tomorrow is Doug’s birthday. Happy Birthday!!!
We are going bowling and to eat pizza with the youth. It’s kind of a back to school/b-day party. Xander starts school on Tuesday, thank you Lord for allowing this day to come.
Tears of joy stream down my face because I KNOW without a doubt that God is watching over us and good or bad, HE is in control.
Love,
Ricki Lea
Upcoming: August 21st Xander has an appointment with the ear/nose/throat doctor to dicuss hearing aids and the metal plate in his head. Eventually it will need to be replaced since he is growing like a WEED!!!
Monday, August 7, 2006 10:19 PM CDT
“Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed,
for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness. “ Lamentations 3:22-23
Please visit this website and pray for Anna
http://www3.caringbridge.org/ok/annajane/
Well, once again I went too long without an update. We had a great time at Falls Creek.
We had about 86 kids go to camp and it was awesome. Several decisions were made. There is nothing more wonderful than seeing people come to know Jesus.
Xander learned how to play UNO and has been playing continuously since. He is actually pretty good and he loves to make me “draw 2”. He wants to play first thing in the morning and doesn’t seem to understand why I can’t sit and play cards with him all day.
Xander has been swimming tons. He has learned to jump off the diving board and swim to the side of the pool without his life jacket. He is swimming all over the pool. I am so proud of him. Tomorrow is his last swim lesson. He told me we need to sell his life jacket in a garage sale!!
Carter is doing great as always. He is really looking forward to starting preschool this year. Only 2 mornings a week but plenty for me to be without him.
Charli survived without us for a week. She did come down for a visit ½ way through the week, more for me than her! She is getting so big. She wants everything in her mouth and can roll her way to almost anything she wants.
Xander has testing this week. He has a CT on Wednesday and an MIBG scan on Thursday. I’m trying not to worry because I know it doesn’t help. Having these tests is a reminder that our lives can change in an instant (not that I need a reminder). I keep telling myself that God has delivered us this far and He will not leave us now. Please pray for clean scans and no signs of cancer. Satan tries to cause us to doubt and be afraid. So pray also that we will continue to be faithful and trust in God’s perfect plan.
I will update Thursday when we have the results from the tests.
Love
Ricki Lea
Friday, July 21, 2006 4:47 PM CDT
(this is my new favorite picture of Carter, Charli and Xander)
I am shocked myself that I have gone so long without an update!!! Donnie this one is for you :)
Things have been going really well in the Moore household. Xander is feeling much better and only has a few days left of his antibiotic. We went to White Water and that was fun, the boys loved the kiddie pool. It took me back to the days of junior high when I would go almost daily. That seems like ages ago.
Xander¡¦s check up at the clinic was great. Dr. Meyer said he looked wonderful and that his ear was looking good. Xander was all over the craft room at the clinic, more than ever before. They were painting rocks to look like hamburgers, he thought it was awesome. We love those ladies!
Carter and Xander have been swimming a lot and are getting better and better at it. Swim lessons are really helping Xander. Carter just wants to play. Charli is rolling all over the place and is much happier now that she can roll from her back to her tummy.
Doug, the boys, and I are leaving for Falls Creek on Monday and Charli is going to my parents for the 1st half of the week and then to Doug¡¦s parents. I ¡¥m not sure what I am going to do without her all week, I¡¦m trying not to think about it. Please pray for our youth while they are at camp and for Doug. Camp is always wonderful but very spiritually and physically draining for him.
We cherish your prayers and know that we are so blessed to have so many still checking in on us and praying. I tell Xander as often as possible that so many people pray for him. In fact we have really been encouraging him to pray for other boys and girls who have cancer. The other day I was at a little boy Mitchel¡¦s website and Xander was looking at his picture asking who he was. I told him Mitchel¡¦s story briefly and that we needed to pray for Mitchel. Xander said ¡§well, can we pray for Mitchel right now?¡¨ I pray that Xander always feels that urgency to pray for others, not later, but now!
We love you all.
Love
Ricki Lea
Friday, July 21, 2006 4:19 PM CDT
(this is my new favorite picture of Carter, Charli and Xander)
I am shocked myself that I have gone so long without an update!!! Donnie this one¡¦s for you ƒº
Things have been going really well in the Moore household. Xander is feeling much better and only has a few days left of his antibiotic. We went to White Water and that was fun, the boys loved the kiddie pool. It took me back to the days of junior high when I would go almost daily. That seems like ages ago.
Xander¡¦s check up at the clinic was great. Dr. Meyer said he looked wonderful and that his ear was looking good. Xander was all over the craft room at the clinic, more than ever before. They were painting rocks to look like hamburgers, he thought it was awesome. We love those ladies!
Carter and Xander have been swimming a lot and are getting better and better at it. Swim lessons are really helping Xander. Carter just wants to play. Charli is rolling all over the place and is much happier now that she can roll from her back to her tummy.
Doug, the boys, and I are leaving for Falls Creek on Monday and Charli is going to my parents for the 1st half of the week and then to Doug¡¦s parents. I ¡¥m not sure what I am going to do without her all week, I¡¦m trying not to think about it. Please pray for our youth while they are at camp and for Doug. Camp is always wonderful but very spiritually and physically draining for him.
We cherish your prayers and know that we are so blessed to have so many still checking in on us and praying. I tell Xander as often as possible that so many people pray for him. In fact we have really been encouraging him to pray for other boys and girls who have cancer. The other day I was at a little boy Mitchel¡¦s website and Xander was looking at his picture asking who he was. I told him Mitchel¡¦s story briefly and that we needed to pray for Mitchel. Xander said ¡§well, can we pray for Mitchel right now?¡¨ I pray that Xander always feels that urgency to pray for others, not later, but now!
We love you all.
Love
Ricki Lea
Tuesday, July 11, 2006 9:16 PM CDT
(The above picture is of Xander driving the boat with my dad and my neice Ava.)
Well, we have been to the lake and welcomed Aunt Callie home. Now we are exhausted!
Xander went to the doctor today; he has a horrible ear infection. He spent so much time learning to swim underwater that I wouldn’t be surprised if the two were related. It is always scary when Xander complains of anything. So, last night Doug took Xander to our friend who is a PA and had him look at Xander’s ear. He assured us that it was very irritated and infected and causing the lymph node right behind his ear to be swollen and sensitive to touch. We heard the same thing from two different doctors today. It is his right ear that was affected by the surgery to remove his tumor and that canal is smaller than the left ear canal. Having said all of that; Xander was begging me to give him his medicine in the car as we left the pharmacy. He said he didn’t want to hurt anymore.
The lake was wonderful. Xander and Carter both tubed with Doug and I, Xander rode on a Sea Doo, Doug tubed and loved being thrown off, and I skied and realized how out of shape I am. Overall it was great! Oh. How could I forget Miss Charli, she loved the water and napping in the cabin.
Doug’s sister Callie came home Sunday night and it was wonderful to see her. She has been in Turkey for the past 2 years so she met Charli for the first time.
Charli is growing and growing. She weighed 16 lbs 3 oz today (still smaller than the boys) Xander did not like her getting shots and neither did she.
We are all doing great. Xander goes to the clinic on the 18th , he and Carter are starting swim lessons, and camp is just around the corner. But as we go about our normal life I can’t help but think about the parents who aren’t getting to do these things with their children. There is an aspect of guilt and I hate feeling that way. Only God can heal the pain from these losses. Only He knows why there have to be losses. I must continue to trust Him each day.
Please pray for Jamie, Cameron’s mom, and DeAnn, Darren’s mom as we approach the 1 year mark from when their boys went to be with Jesus. It doesn’t seem possible that a year has gone by.
http://www3.caringbridge.org/ok/darren/index.htm
Love
Ricki Lea
Thursday, June 29, 2006 11:19 PM CDT
I can't believe it has been so long since I have updated!
We have been so busy with Vacation Bible School. This is my 5th year to direct our VBS so you would think I would be able to do it in my sleep, but it is very time consuming, yet very much worth it! Tomorrow is the last day.
The boys have been having a blast. Xander has a "motto"
BE STRONG
BE COURAGEOUS
FOLLOW JESUS
He also told me one day that his Bible story was about Jesus, but that it happened a long time ago! I have enjoyed watching he and Carter participate this year.
Charli is now 4 months old and perfect, at least we think so. She is really a precious little girl who smiles at every glimpse of Xander or Carter. They are pretty in love with her too.
Xander is feeling great. We are so thankful for him. I am so thankful for his life. I could go on and on but its late.
Doug's sister Callie is coming home on July 9th (she has been in Turkey for almost 2 years and has not seen Charli yet).We go to the clinic July 18th for a check up. We are going to the lake with my family on July 7th and Falls Creek July 24th -29th. And sometime in there we have to take Xander and Carter to see Superman, they are superman crazy lately. The fun never ends, PRAISE THE LORD.
Thank you for praying and rejoicing with us in these good days.
love
Ricki Lea
I added new pictures!
Thursday, June 29, 2006 11:10 PM CDT
I can't believe it has been so long since I have updated!
We have been so busy with Vacation Bible School. This is my 5th year to direct our VBS so you would think I would be able to do it in my sleep, but it is very time consuming, yet very much worth it! Tomorrow is the last day.
The boys have been having a blast. Xander has a "motto"
BE STRONG
BE COURAGEOUS
FOLLOW JESUS
He also told me one day that his Bible story was about Jesus, but that it happened a long time ago! I have enjoyed watching he and Carter participate this year.
Charli is now 4 months old and perfect, at least we think so. She is really a precious little girl who smiles at every glimpse of Xander or Carter. They are pretty in love with her too.
Xander is feeling great. We are so thankful for him. I am so thankful for his life. I could go on and on but its late.
Doug's sister Callie is coming home on July 9th (she has been in Turkey for almost 2 years and has not seen Charli yet).We go to the clinic July 18th for a check up. We are going to the lake with my family on July 7th and Falls Creek July 24th -29th. And sometime in there we have to take Xander and Carter to see Superman, they are superman crazy lately. The fun never ends, PRAISE THE LORD.
Thank you for praying and rejoicing with us in these good days.
love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, June 14, 2006 11:33 PM CDT
As I sit here on the eve of “the” day, it is almost too much to grasp. It was June 15, 2004 that Xander was admitted to Children’s Hospital and our lives were changed forever. During the past 2 years we have experienced many joys and sorrows, but one thing has not changed; God.
God was with us when we saw Xander’s first CAT scan. June 15, 2004
God was with us when we waited for the biopsy results, all weekend. June 17-22, 2004
God was with us when the doctors told us it was cancer, Neuroblastoma. June 22, 2004
God was with us when the 1st bag of chemo began to drip into our child’s body. July 1, 2004
God was with us through Xander’s stem cell harvesting. January 2005
God was with us when Dr. Honeycutt prayed with us before removing Xander’s tumor. February 15, 2005
God was with us during Xander’s stem cell transplant beginning March 1, 2005
God was with us when Dr. Rooms said “his liver is enlarged” March 14, 2005
God was with us when we left the hospital as a family, March 18, 2005
God was with us when we heard the words “all clear” for bone marrow and MIBG scan. March 31, 2005
God was with us when Justin died, April 29, 2005
God was with us when we found out about baby # 3, June 18, 2005
God was with us when Cameron died, Neuroblastoma, July 13, 2005
God was with us when Darren died, Neuroblastoma, July 14, 2005
God was with us when Xander rang THE bell, December 22, 2005
God was with us when Charli was born, February 25, 2006
God was with us when our house had serious termite damage and we had to live in a trailer for 2 months March – April 2006
God was with us when Fletcher died, May 2006
God was with us when Noah died, Neuroblastoma, May 12, 2006
God was with us when Kraleigh died, Neuroblastoma, June 4, 2006
God will be with us………….
As you read through the list above you will agree there have been many emotions, too many to count. I am in awe of God’s provision and protection over our family. He has allowed all of these things to take place and some day we will see the big picture.
My dad told me in June 2004 “this is not about Xander, Ricki Lea; it’s about bringing glory to God”
Thank you for being apart of this with us. Thank you for praying for Xander and his many friends and for supporting us with your love and encouragement. Please don’t ever stop.
" Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; Great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him."
Lamentations 3:22-24
Love
Ricki Lea
Saturday, June 10, 2006 8:51 AM CDT
What a week! Kraleigh's service was beautiful. Her father called it a "Victory Party" and it was. Kraleigh is no longer suffering and she is now with Jesus, the cancer no longer controls her body and that is a victory. We released balloons at the cemetery and I think that was helpful for all the little kids there. I've never been to a funeral were there were so many sweet little boys and girls trying to cope with the fact that it would be a long time before they see their friend again. But through accepting Jesus as their personal savior and putting their faith in Him, they will see Kraleigh again!
Doug is headed for Super Summer in Shawnee, OK today and Xander, Carter, Charli, and I are headed for Oklahoma City. My Aunt Marlena is coming from Nashville for the week so we will get to spend some quality time with her. She will meet Charli for the 1st time. I choose not to spend a week at home alone with 3 children; I might go out of my mind. My parents are gracious enough to let us move in!
Xander goes to the clinic on Tuesday, June 13th for blood work and an exam. This will be exactly 2 years ago that "the bump" was noticed. So expect a journal entry this week to re cap the beginning days :)
Doug was at Super Summer when this all began so one of our youth, Alyssa and I were reliving the dreaded day that we went to the hospital. Thank you Bob Miller for loving our youth that day and sharing such awful news with them so gently. We all grew up a lot that day.
Please continue to pray for Kraleigh’s family, especially her twin Calysta. I know they have been touched by the emails.
Xander is doing so well. Please pray that he stays that way forever. I can’t explain the emotions that come with Kraleigh’s death, but you can imagine fear is one of them.
“Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you, and when you pass through the rivers they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord your God the Holy one of Israel, your Savior” Isaiah 43:1-3
I posted this verse after Cameron passed away last summer. It was true then and it is true now.
I know that God has a plan and it has been for our good and it always will be. He loves us and will see us through each day just like He has done for the past 2 years. Even in Kraleigh’s death her parents proclaimed that God used her life for good. How powerful!
Love
Ricki Lea
Monday, June 5, 2006 12:24 AM CDT
We met Kraleigh in August 2004. She had the most beautiful long blonde hair. I remember the Burnett's sitting in the waiting area at the clinic. You recognize a "new" family right off the bat. I could hear them talking and I heard them mention our pediatrician's name. I couldn't help but introduce myself. I knew what it was like to be there for the 1st time and hate every minute of it. From then on we experienced so much with their family. I remember times that Misty encouraged me and times I hopefully encouraged her. It was always a roller coaster. But every step of the way they were faithful, faithful to God. They trusted in Him and surrendered Kraleigh to Him. We will miss Kraleigh. We will miss her precious smile and sweet spirit. I know that she is perfect now and that her smile is bigger than ever, because she is at the feet of Jesus. What a perfect place.
Please continue to pray for Misty, Rhett, Calysta, Scarlet, and the rest of their family. The days ahead will be so painful, but I know they will make it through this storm and honor Kraleigh's precious life forever.
Love
Ricki Lea
Sunday, June 4, 2006 1:14 PM CDT
Kraleigh Grace Burnett is now with Jesus.
She left this world and entered the arms of Jesus this morning. I spoke with Misty and agreed that Kraleigh is no longer suffering.
We are so sad right now. Our hearts are hurting. Please pray for the Burnett family, especially Kraleigh's twin sister Calysta.
I will write more later.
love
Ricki Lea
Saturday, June 3, 2006 10:15 AM CDT
My heart is so heavy today. We went to the zoo last night for "Dream Night" sponsored by the OU Medical Center and several others. It was great and not so great.
Wonderful that we could be there with all 3 of our precious children to enjoy free rides and no crowds. But sad, because none of our little friends were there. We saw the Lehew family and that was special, although their son, Daniel passed away December 2004. Last year we sat and ate with Cameron's family and Kraleigh's family. Well, Cameron is gone. Kraleigh wasn't there because she is in so much pain and they have learned that there are no more treatment options left for her.
So, needless to say I am grateful we were there but there was sadness in knowing what others have gone through and are going through right now. Ther are just days when it STINKS!!!
Please pray for Kraleigh. I can't think of anything else to say about the situation. We love her and are praying for her healing.
Pray also for Anna. My heart is longing for these two families to experience peace, hope, and comfort as they face the days ahead.
here are their websites.
http://www.kraleighgrace.com/
http://www3.caringbridge.org/ok/annajane/
love
Ricki Lea
Sunday, May 28, 2006 3:07 PM CDT
I know it has been longer than usual, but we have been busy! We had our 1st youth swim party last week and Xander was really confused on why we were swimming and calling it “summer time” when he had one more day left of school. He is so literal about things.
His school program was darling. I was proud to see how many poems and songs he had memorized. I can’t believe Carter will be there next year and Xander will be at the “big” school. Time flies so quickly.
Doug and I celebrated our 7th wedding anniversary yesterday. We were able to have a date night on Friday. Thank you to my parents who watched the kids. Yes, Charli has already had her 1st night away from home and she survived. I wasn’t really worried about her, but me! So much has happened in 7 years, college graduation, moving to Lexington, 2 precious boys, cancer, remission, and 1 beautiful baby girl. Thank you God. We owe every moment of joy and sorrow to Him. He has led us down many rocky paths, but never left us. He has delivered us from many storms that we thought would never end. He has given us so much to be thankful for.
I have two very special requests of you. First of all, Miss Kraleigh Grace, she is beginning a brand new treatment on Thursday. Please pray that this will be just what she needs to rid her body of Neuroblastoma. Pray that she will gain strength and weight. Her website is below. Please follow the updates and pray, pray, pray! Kraleigh was diagnosed a couple of months after Xander and we love her and her family so much.
And now Anna, a sweet little girl that is from OKC. Her grandmother works at the Baptist Building where my dad works. Anna’s cancer has returned and her only option is chemo and another liver transplant. She is in Delaware for treatment that will begin on Tuesday. She has 3 siblings that are here in OKC. This makes it extremely difficult for her parents to be needed in two places at once. Pray that God will heal Anna’s body and meet all the needs of her family. http://www3.caringbridge.org/ok/annajane/
Pray for Misty and Rhett Burnett and Richard and Marlo Salamy. These parents are in the battle of a lifetime. Pray that they will feel God’s presence so strongly and they will know His grace and mercy each day. Pray for the girls, that they will have no fear and that they will continue to have the sweet spirits that they have always had.
Please visit both websites and pray that this week will bring hope for these families.
We truly appreciate you loving Xander and praying for him. I thank you in advance for praying for our friends.
I added new pics in the album!
Love
Ricki Lea
Sunday, May 28, 2006 2:38 PM CDT
I know it has been longer than usual, but we have been busy! We had our 1st youth swim party last week and Xander was really confused on why we were swimming and calling it “summer time” when he had one more day left of school. He is so literal about things.
His school program was darling. I was proud to see how many poems and songs he had memorized. I can’t believe Carter will be there next year and Xander will be at the “big” school. Time flies so quickly.
Doug and I celebrated our 7th wedding anniversary yesterday. We were able to have a date night on Friday. Thank you to my parents who watched the kids. Yes, Charli has already had her 1st night away from home and she survived. I wasn’t really worried about her, but me! So much has happened in 7 years, college graduation, moving to Lexington, 2 precious boys, cancer, remission, and 1 beautiful baby girl. Thank you God. We owe every moment of joy and sorrow to Him. He has led us down many rocky paths, but never left us. He has delivered us from many storms that we thought would never end. He has given us so much to be thankful for.
I have two very special requests of you. First of all, Miss Kraleigh Grace, she is beginning a brand new treatment on Thursday. Please pray that this will be just what she needs to rid her body of Neuroblastoma. Pray that she will gain strength and weight. Her website is below. Please follow the updates and pray, pray, pray! Kraleigh was diagnosed a couple of months after Xander and we love her and her family so much.
And now Anna, a sweet little girl that is from OKC. Her grandmother works at the Baptist Building where my dad works. Anna’s cancer has returned and her only option is chemo and another liver transplant. She is in Delaware for treatment that will begin on Tuesday. She has 3 siblings that are here in OKC. This makes it extremely difficult for her parents to be needed in two places at once. Pray that God will heal Anna’s body and meet all the needs of her family. http://www3.caringbridge.org/ok/annajane/
Pray for Misty and Rhett Burnett and Richard and Marlo Salamy. These parents are in the battle of a lifetime. Pray that they will feel God’s presence so strongly and they will know His grace and mercy each day. Pray for the girls, that they will have no fear and that they will continue to have the sweet spirits that they have always had.
Please visit both websites and pray that this week will bring hope for these families.
We truly appreciate you loving Xander and praying for him. I thank you in advance for praying for our friends.
Love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, May 17, 2006 3:25 PM CDT
Nothing's changed!!
There are still no signs of cancer in Xander's body!!
We are glad to have one more round of tests behind us. Xander was a pro. He has grown up so much since all of this began, he wouldn't let the nurse access his port until he straightened our her glove. What a change.
We are so thankful that God has brought Xander so far and we will continue to give Him glory for the things He has done in our lives.
Please continue to pray for Kraleigh as they are still waiting to find our what is next. Pray that her family will be filled with wisdom and that the doctors will make the right decisions for her.
Fletcher's funeral was really nice. He was such a great kid and very unique. His service was a true reflection of his life.
Xander returns to the clinic June 13th for an exam and bloodwork. Until then.......let the summer begin. Doug's schedule becomes crazy with youth events, Vacation Bible School, Aunt Callie comes home, camp, swim days, and so much more!!! Thank you Jesus.
love
Ricki Lea
Monday, May 15, 2006 7:46 AM CDT
Well, we are headed to OKC this morning for a funeral. Our friend Fletcher Vines passed away last week. Noah’s funeral is Tuesday but we will have to miss it because of Xander’s testing. Tomorrow Xander has a CAT scan at 11am and on Wednesday he has an MIBG scan at 10am and an exam at the clinic. This is his regular 3 month check up. Xander has been doing amazing but, as you can imagine with the loss of Noah and Fletcher last week Doug and I are a little anxious to get good results from Xander's tests and put this behind us for another 3 months.
It's hard to explain the feelings and emotions that continue even while in remission. God has blessed us with so much over the past (almost) 2 years. We have made so many friends along the way that have suffered and died or are still suffering. There are times we want to question, why?
But as I look at my sweet Xander and see the precious life he is living and remember the ultimate sacrifice that God made so that he may have that life and that we as Christians have. I can't question. I must continue to trust, continue to pray, continue to look into the eyes of these mothers that have lost their children and tell them that God is still on His throne and that He will never leave them nor forsake them.
Please pray for Xander, pray that he will continue in remission and that the tests this week will show no evidence of cancer. Pray also for Noah and Fletcher’s families as they face the hardest days of their lives. Pray for Kraleigh as her parents decide what the next step in treatment is and pray that God will heal her body in his perfect way. We appreciate your faithfulness to us in prayer and we trust it will continue. I will update as soon as we know results, probably late Wednesday afternoon.
*see new pics
Love
Doug and Ricki Lea
Monday, May 15, 2006 7:22 AM CDT
Well, we are headed to OKC this morning for a funeral. Our friend Fletcher Vines passed away last week. Noah’s funeral is Tuesday but we will have to miss it because of Xander’s testing. Tomorrow Xander has a CAT scan at 11am and on Wednesday he has an MIBG scan at 10am and an exam at the clinic. This is his regular 3 month check up. Xander has been doing amazing but, as you can imagine with the loss of Noah and Fletcher last week Doug and I are a little anxious to get good results from Xander's tests and put this behind us for another 3 months.
It's hard to explain the feelings and emotions that continue even while in remission. God has blessed us with so much over the past (almost) 2 years. We have made so many friends along the way that have suffered and died or are still suffering. There are times we want to question, why?
But as I look at my sweet Xander and see the precious life he is living and remember the ultimate sacrifice that God made so that he may have that life and that we as Christians have. I can't question. I must continue to trust, continue to pray, continue to look into the eyes of these mothers that have lost their children and tell them that God is still on His throne and that He will never leave them nor forsake them.
Please pray for Xander, pray that he will continue in remission and that the tests this week will show no evidence of cancer. Pray also for Noah and Fletcher’s families as they face the hardest days of their lives. Pray for Kraleigh as her parents decide what the next step in treatment is and pray that God will heal her body in his perfect way. We appreciate your faithfulness to us in prayer and we trust it will continue. I will update as soon as we know results, probably late Wednesday afternoon.
Love
Doug and Ricki Lea
Monday, May 8, 2006 8:36 PM CDT
Hello everyone!
Doug told me it might be a good idea to update :)
It has been awhile, but we have been very busy moving back into our house!! It is wonderful,yet crazy getting everything back into place.
The kids are great. Last night at church Xander sang with the preschool choir. It was asolutely darling, he actually sang this time. At Christmas he did more dancing than singing. Carter will be 3 on Friday and is having a birthday party on Saturday. His birthday will forever be special to me for many reasons.His 1st birthday was the last time the whole family was together without a care in the world before cancer entered our lives and changed them forever. I can't believe how big my little boy has become. Thank you God for his special little life!
Charli is just as sweet as ever. We are enjoying her so much. She was 10 lbs and 10 oz. at her 2 month check up.
Relay for life is Friday night and Xander will walk in the survivor walk. Saturday is Carter's party and Sunday is Charli's baby dedication. So needless to say we have a very fun and busy weekend ahead of us.
Xander will have scans on May 16th and 17th, please keep praying for continued remission and that I will not be anxious or fearful. Joshua 1:9 " Haven't I commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid, do not be discouraged for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go"
Please be in prayer for our friend Noah who has relapsed and learned that there is nothing else they can do to treat his cancer. Just pray that the family will feel God's strength and comfort.
Also for Kraleigh who is still going through chemo. She is a tough little girl! Pray that God will heal her.
God has a plan for Xander, Noah, Kraleigh, Mitchel, Tanner, Anabel, Kai, Jake, Anna, Brian, Emory, Fletcher, Zachary, Cooper, Nick, Monica, Jared, Bailey, Brent,Josh, Kendal,and Kyle. These are just a handful of the kids we follow and pray for that have had cancer or our still battling it. I pray that God will heal these precious bodies and give their families strength to face the uncertain future. But one thing is for certain and cannot be changed, God is in control and He will provide a way.
love
Ricki Lea
check for new pictures!
Tuesday, April 25, 2006 10:35 PM CDT
Well, we have been really busy lately getting our house ready. The "small" termite trouble grew into a massive remodeling of our house. Now, 2 months later we are so close to moving back home! The carpet is being installed tomorrow and Thursday then we can move back in.
The boys are so anxious to play in their backyard. We can't wait to have Charli at her real house. Everything is so wonderful. We owe a huge thank you to our church family. So many people have donated money, time, and supplies to get our house back together and quick! We love FBC Lexington.
Tomorrow Charli goes for her 2 month check up. It does not seem possible for her to be 2 months old. She is growing so much and has the most beautiful smile you have ever seen, I'm not biased at all!
Xander will have scans on May 16th & 17th. Please begin praying (& continue always) for clear results. I am trying hard not to think about them. Daily I try to give my anxiety to the Lord and truly let Him take care of everything. He has done a wonderful job so far.
Everyday is a gift with Xander, Carter and Charli. Doug and I are overwhelmed with the blessings the Lord has given us. I pray that everyone who reads this website will know the joy that we have in the Lord and in Him alone.
Check out the new pictures.
Love
Ricki Lea
Tuesday, April 25, 2006 10:19 PM CDT
Well, we have been really busy lately getting our house ready. The "small" termite trouble grew into a massive remodeling of our house. Now, 2 months later we are so close to moving back home! The carpet is being installed tomorrow and Thursday then we can move back in.
The boys are so anxious to play in their backyard. We can't wait to have Charli at her real house. Everything is so wonderful. We owe a huge thank you to our church family. So many people have donated money, time, and supplies to get our house back together and quick! We love FBC Lexington.
Tomorrow Charli goes for her 2 month check up. It does not seem possible for her to be 2 months old. She is growing so much and has the most beautiful smile you have ever seen, I'm not biased at all!
Xander will have scans on May 16th & 17th. Please begin praying (& continue always) for clear results. I am trying hard not to think about them. Daily I try to give my anxiety to the Lord and truly let Him take care of everything. He has done a wonderful job so far.
Everyday is a gift with Xander, Carter and Charli. Doug and I are overwhelmed with the blessings the Lord has given us. I pray that everyone who reads this website will know the joy that we have in the Lord and in Him alone.
Check out the new pictures. The one on this page just gives a small glimpse of Xander's goofy personality.
Love
Ricki Lea
Tuesday, April 11, 2006 9:09 PM CDT
We took the kids to see the Easter bunny tonight. It was so cute, Carter was concerned that Charli would be scared and he said "I'll be there to batect her" I think he meant protect! For those who may not be able to tell who is older, Carter is in yellow (almost 3) and Xander is in green (age 4 1/2). Of course Charli is in the middle and she 6 weeks old.
Tomorrow Xander has an appointment at the clinic. He goes once a month for blood work and an exam. He is very excited to introduce Charli to "his" nurses and he already told me he is going to ask DeAnna for a ninja turtle band aid. You would think he owned the place :)
We had a wonderful time in Arkansas and traveling with 3 kids by myself was not as bad as I expected. My sister was happy to have us there and the boys were sad to leave.
Please pray for Kraleigh. Her tests last week did not show what they wanted to see. Her tumors did not shrink and there was actually some tumor growth. They are going to increase the dose of chemo and continue. As a parent you feel completely helpless, yet you know that placing your child at the feet of Jesus and trusting Him to take care of them is the most important thing you can do. I know that Kraleigh's parents would appreciate your prayers.
Thanks for checking in and continuing to pray for Xander. He will have scans again in May. Pray that Xander will remain cancer free and healthy FOREVER!!
Have a wonderful Easter weekend. Celebrate the resurrection of Christ, His defeat over death, preparing a way for us to have eternal life through HIM.
Love
Ricki Lea
Monday, April 3, 2006 3:07 PM CDT
It will be one year ago tomorrow that Xander has been in remission. Words cannot describe how thankful we are for Xander's health. Each day I am reminded of how blessed we are and I think of those who lost their battle with cancer.
The changes in our life are too many to count. We have learned so much in such a short time, although I can't believe that it has almost been 2 years since Xander was diagnosed.
Xander is growing into a precious little boy that has so much energy and knowledge that it blows me away. I enrolled him in pre-k last week and I actually cried at the parents meeting. I praise God that this day is here!! Xander has overcome so much and we will never cease to give God the glory.
Carter and Charli are doing great! Charli is 5 weeks old. I am getting used to all 3, but it does make for some hectic days. The new picture above was taken this morning. Xander looks so serious but he said he liked that face, what a goober!
Xander will be going to the clinic soon for his one month checkup and blood work. I am trying to get it rescheduled so I can take the kids to see my sister in Arkansas this week. In May Xander will have scans again so please begin praying for clear results.
Also there is a little girl named Anna that I would like you to pray for. Her website is http://www3.caringbridge.org/ok/annajane/
Please visit her site and pray for healing in her body.
Kraleigh is having some testing done this week also. Pray that the chemo she is on is working.
Thanks for checking in on us.
Love
Ricki Lea
Monday, March 20, 2006 12:18 AM CST
I can’t believe it has been so long since I have updated, I guess I have been busy with 3 kids!! It is going to take a little time to get completely adjusted. I have no idea when I will venture out to Target with all three kids. I will let you know.
Xander has been doing great. In fact he has out grown his second “set” of jeans. We started out this fall in a boy’s size 4, at Christmas we bought 2 new pair in size 5 and on Friday those were all of the sudden too tight and I had let out the adjustable waist as far as it would go. So now we move on to a 6. I can’t believe it, but it is a great problem to be having. Fortunately, nothing goes to waist because Carter is right behind Xander, at least for now.
Charli is 3 weeks old and just as precious as can be. She went on her first road trip last Friday to Kansas. My wonderful friend from high school got married and it was great to see so many old friends.
Our house is coming along nicely. We are so blessed to have so much talent in our church and such wonderful men to give so much of their time to help us. There is still no estimated time that it will be ready so we will just stay put in our rental property as long as needed. The only drawback is there is no yard and with 2 active boys it has been a little crazy with the nice weather we had last week. But I will not forget that last year at this time Xander had just been released from the hospital and had not been outside for 18 days!! Thank you God for today.
We love each and every one of you that keep up with us and are continually praying for Xander’s health. Each day is a gift from God and I am so blessed.
Please check Kraleigh's website and keep praying for her and her family.
Check the photo album!
Love
Ricki Lea
Saturday, March 4, 2006 8:41 AM CST
The boys are absolutely enjoying Charli. If Carter can't see her he asks me "Where is my little sister named Charli" I guess he likes being so formal. She is doing wonderful. I am doing fine. I haven't been alone with all three of them yet, so I will let you know how that goes!
Xander had a check up at the clinic Wednesday and everything looked great. He has gained another pound, bringing him to a whopping 46lbs!
When I think of where we were this time last year my eyes well with tears. We were just begining Xander's stem cell transplant. WOW isn't GOD so good. He has delivered Xander through so much. I know that even if Xander were still suffering from cancer GOD would still be good. Our faith and strength can't waiver with each circumstance, it must remain firm of the foundation that we have built our lives on; His unfailing love and promise to take care of us no matter what the situation.
Charli's middle name JOY was chosen by Doug. Doug came home one day last August and said "If we have a girl her middle name will be JOY, because we have learned the meaning of real JOY". Joy is not in our circumstances but in our choice to choose to be joyful in everything.
"The Lord has done great things for us and we are filled with Joy" Psalm 126:3
So to those reading this, thank you for being a part of our lives. Thank you for praying for our family. I pray that you would choose to be joyful in every circumstance that you face, knowing that God is always with you.
love
Ricki Lea
P.S. Our church is going to rent us a place to live until our house is ready. So we are headed to Lexington this evening. We love you FBC Lexington!!!
Sunday, February 26th
Charli Joy Moore arrived last night at 11:05pm!!! She weighed 6 lbs. 14 ozs. And she was 19 ¾ inches. She has plenty of light brown hair to top that precious little round face!!! Charli and Ricki Lea are doing fine (and so is Doug and brothers). In fact Xander slept through the whole birth, but Carter didn’t miss any of it!
Wednesday, February 15, 2006 11:21 AM CST
One year ago today, Doug and I were sitting in the waiting room surrounded by family & friends just waiting for Xander’s tumor to be removed. Waiting to see what God would have in store for our lives. Here are a few things I will never forget;
I will never forget how long the day was and how anxious I was for it to be over.
I will never forget how Dr. Honeycutt prayed with us before they took Xander back to surgery.
I will never forget the people that were there to support us.
I will never forget when the surgeons came out and said they were successful.
I will never forget seeing Xander all bandaged up, and thinking what have we done to him.
I will never forget the presence I knew was from God.
I will never forget that long night in ICU.
I will never forget being released from the hospital just a little over 72 hours after Xander’s surgery.
I will never forget taking Xander to church that very next Sunday.
What I know now just one year later is that God has blessed us. God has brought us to a place that I never imagined. Thank you Lord and thank you prayer warriors. Xander is so very lucky to have you.
Today we are waiting once again to see what God has in store for our lives. But not in a waiting room, the boys have been playing outside on the trampoline and I am trying to keep busy while we wait for our 3rd precious gift from God.
We will let you know as soon as the baby is here!
( if you have time it is kind of neat to read the journal history from this time last year, actually its amazing!)
Love
Ricki Lea
Monday, February 13, 2006 11:45 AM CST
Well, it has been a difficult week.
Xander is fine, I'm fine, the baby is fine (just not here yet), but some of our friends could use your prayers.
1st of all, on Tuesday we learned that Noah has relapsed. We met Noah in Oct. 2004 when he was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma. He is Carter's age (2 1/2). He had surgery on Friday to remove a tumor in his brain. Please pray for Noah's mom as she and the doctors decide what to do next.
Then, on Thursday we learned that Kraleigh has also relapsed with Neuroblastoma. She just finished 6 rounds of accutane and they found tumors in her abdomen. Kraleigh and her family have become like our own. Please pray as she will begin a new trial of chemo on Monday.
My heart has been torn. Why these children? I know that it is not by chance that Xander had cancer and I know that it is not by chance that Noah and Kraleigh have relapsed. God has a plan and He has not left it. He knew from the day that Noah and Kraleigh were born what was going to happen in their lives.
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and petition with thanksgiving present your requests to God. And the peace of God which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4: 6-7
Please pray for these families. Pray that they will not be anxious and that God's peace will fill their lives and minds. Pray that they would be focused on what God is going to do and not to be discouraged.
Below is Kraliegh's website so you can read her updates there.
We will let you know when the baby is here. Only 8 days til my due date!!!
I love this picture of Xander coming down the slide!!
love
Ricki Lea
Saturday, February 11, 2006 8:52 PM CST
Well, it has been a difficult week.
Xander is fine, I'm fine, the baby is fine (just not here yet), but some of our friends could use your prayers.
1st of all, on Tuesday we learned that Noah has relapsed. We met Noah in Oct. 2005 when he was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma. He is Carter's age (2 1/2). He had surgery on Friday to remove a tumor in his brain. Please pray for Noah's mom as she and the doctors decide what to do next.
Then, on Thursday we learned that Kraleigh has also relapsed with Neuroblastoma. She just finished 6 rounds of accutane and they found tumors in her abdomen. Kraleigh and her family have become like our own. Please pray as she will begin a new trial of chemo on Monday.
My heart has been torn. Why these children? I know that it is not by chance that Xander had cancer and I know that it is not by chance that Noah and Kraleigh have relapsed. God has a plan and He has not left it. He knew from the day that Noah and Kraleigh were born what was going to happen in their lives.
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and petition with thanksgiving present your requests to God. And the peace of God which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4: 6-7
Please pray for these families. Pray that they will not be anxious and that God's peace will fill their lives and minds. Pray that they would be focused on what God is going to do and not to be discouraged.
Below is Kraliegh's website so you can read her updates there.
We will let you know when the baby is here. Only 8 days til my due date!!!
I love this picture of Xander coming down the slide!!
love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, February 1, 2006 3:49 PM CST
Praise The Lord!!!!!
We just got home and the news is good!
Xander did wonderful throughout the testing and was such a brave boy.
The scans were clean. So Xander is still in remission!!!!!
We return to the clinic for blood work and an exam on March 1st and then we will scan again in May.
Thank you for praying. God has TRULY given us so much to be thankful for, now we can focus on this new baby. We will never cease to PRAISE the LORD for the things HE has done in our lives.
love
Ricki Lea
Monday, January 23, 2006 10:19 AM CST
Hello friends and family,
We are all doing great. I am now 36 weeks and getting very anxious to see just who this baby will be. Carter is still stuck on a sister and nothing else and Xander has finally realized that “ the baby will either be a boy or a girl” he is so smart! I will see my midwife again on Jan. 31st.
Xander will have scans done on Jan. 31st and Feb. 1st. He will have an EKG, CAT scan, and an MIBG scan. We will meet with the doctor on the 1st for an exam and test results.
Please begin praying for these results now. Pray that God will calm our anxious hearts and be the peace giver we know He is.
I have been stuck on this scripture lately, “ There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear” 1 John 4:18.
God’s love is perfect and there is no need for us to fear because He has been with us since the beginning and will be with us til the end.
Carter is great, just busy keeping up with Xander. They are quite the playmates!
Doug is busy with Upwards basketball and Disciple Now Weekend Jan. 27th.
God is good and we are seeing His blessing daily.
Thank you for praying for us and for being such an encouragement to our family.
We will update again when there is anything new on Xander or the baby!
Love
Ricki Lea
Saturday, January 7, 2006 9:13 PM CST
We have been doing great! Very busy, yet normal. Today we had a wedding and it was wonderful. Doug officiated the ceremony and Xander and Carter were ring bearers. I could not have been more proud of all my boys! The picture above is of me and boys, maybe you can get a glimpse of my growing belly.
Xander and Carter did great for being 4 and 2 1/2. They were precious in their tuxedos, or as Xander called it his "tex".
Xander has been feeling great. I have been growing...a lot. Doug is getting ready for Disciple Now at the end of this month and Carter is just being a precious little boy who has lately been calling me "his best friend". He sure does melt my heart.
Today during the wedding I sat there and was in awe of my child standing on the stage being a part of such a special occasion for Justin and Micki. Of course I cried because I was so glad that Xander was able to be there with them. I will never take for granted each moment we have with both of our boys. Thank you God for allowing me to have such tenderness towards everyday life moments. God has given us such a gift that so many take for granted. Doug and I pray that wherever you are in your life you will always Praise God for the things He has done in your life, even the tough stuff.
Xander will be testing again on January 31st and February 1st. He will have an EKG, CAT scan and MIBG. After this round of testing we will begin the 3 month routine for scans and monthly exams. It feels like it will never be OVER, but that is ok, this is what God has planned for Xander and we will continue to trust in Him.
Please remember Mike and Jamie Carey this week, Cameron would have been 5 yrs old on Jan. 10th. Please visit his website and pray for God's comfort to be so real to his parents.
*check the photo album*
Love
Ricki Lea
Saturday, January 7, 2006 8:55 PM CST
We have been doing great! Very busy, yet normal. Today we had a wedding and it was wonderful. Doug officiated the ceremony and Xander and Carter were ring bearers. I could not have been more proud of all my boys! The picture above is of me and boys, maybe you can get a glimpse of my growing belly.
Xander and Carter did great for being 4 and 2 1/2. They were precious in their tuxedos, or as Xander called it his "tex".
Xander has been feeling great. I have been growing...a lot. Doug is getting ready for Disciple Now at the end of this month and Carter is just being a precious little boy who has lately been calling me "his best friend". He sure does melt my heart.
Today during the wedding I sat there and was in awe of my child standing on the stage being a part of such a special occasion for Justin and Micki. Of course I cried because I was so glad that Xander was able to be there with them. I will never take for granted each moment we have with both of our boys. Thank you God for allowing me to have such tenderness towards everyday life moments. God has given us such a gift that so many take for granted. Doug and I pray that wherever you are in your life you will always Praise God for the things He has done in your life, even the tough stuff.
Xander will be testing again on January 31st and February 1st. He will have an EKG, CAT scan and MIBG. After this round of testing we will begin the 3 month routine for scans and monthly exams. It feels like it will never be OVER, but that is ok, this is what God has planned for Xander and we will continue to trust in Him.
Please remember Mike and Jamie Carey this week, Cameron would have been 5 yrs old on Jan. 10th. Please visit his website and pray for God's comfort to be so real to his parents.
Love
Ricki Lea
Tuesday, December 27, 2005 2:56 PM CST
How can I begin to say "thank you" to all who came to Xander's bell ringing and party......it was truly amazing.
My Aunt Marlena surprised us, coming all the way from Nashville!!!!
We had an amazing Christmas. For those who don't know, Xander was on the front page of The Oklahoman on Sunday
Go to http://newsok.com/article/1715234/ to read the article.
It was very special to us to share Xander's story with so many people. Doug's sister was able to be here for Christmas and the bell ringing, she has been overseas since Sept. 2004. We had a great time with you Aunt Callie!
Throughout Xander's battle with cancer I have learned so much. But there are still things we will never understand, simply because our minds would not be able to fathom God's huge purpose and plan all at once. As we celebrated and had a wonderful Christmas our friends lost a loved one. On Christmas Day, Gary Williams past away due to a heart attack. I have spent the last year and a half praying for my son's survival and then in an instant someone whose life was not threatened by cancer was taken home to be with Jesus. It reminds me that we are all here for a short while and that our home, if we are Christians, is in Heaven with Jesus. Each one of us has a time to go and therefore we should not be consumed with things of this world "so we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." 2 Corinthians 4:18
Thank you for continuing to pray for Xander. Please pray for the Williams Family. I will be singing at the funeral tomorrow, please pray that God will allow me to minister to this family that has been so good to us during Xander's illness.
Xander will retest in January. I will let you know when as soon as I can.
Love
Ricki Lea
Saturday, December 17, 2005 2:14 PM CST
We are getting ready for Christmas. Xander asked me this morning if it was time yet. He is just so excited about all the presents under the tree. We saw Santa at the mall yesterday and as we were leaving Xander said " oh I forgot to tell him one more thing" but Santa was on a lunch break, so we are going to write him a letter today.
More importantly, we read the story of the Candy Cane Wednesday night. Since then, every Candy Cane we see Xander is sure to tell me "it is the Jesus letter". I want him to know that it is the Birthday of the King, Jesus our Savior, our Healer, our Provider and so much more. Please remember this as you celebrate with your families.
I saw a friend at the mall yesterday and we talked about how this year was going to be so much better than last year. I explained that last year wasn't "bad", God was still taking care of us even in the midst of Cancer. I think sometimes we forget that even when things aren't going our way, God is still in control. We have learned so many valuable lessons, lessons we would have never chosen but are so thankful for.
I pray that during this Christmas season you will experience the true meaning and gift of Jesus Christ.
Please pray for the Carey's, the Scott's, the Lehew's, and the Ernst family. All of these families have lost a child to cancer this past year and will be celebrating Christmas without their precious child. Nothing we can say to them will take away the horrible emptiness, but praying that God will comfort them is the best thing we can do.
Love
Ricki Lea
P.S.
Xander’s bell ringing is Thursday December 22nd. There will be a VICTORY PARTY at the Baptist Building in Oklahoma City from 4:30-6:30 (come and go). We would love to have everyone join us to celebrate this long awaited moment in Xander’s life. So many of you have been praying for Xander faithfully and supporting us the past 18 months and we want to say thank you and give you a HUGE hug.
Tuesday, December 6, 2005 9:53 AM CST
Things have been so busy......I just love it!
Xander's appt. with the speech path went really well. She thought he had great language skills and usage, but there are some sounds missing. There is not a time line that must be followed so we are still making our decision. It seems so trivial after all we have been through, but we do want Xander do have the best learning experience once he gets to school. So we will keep praying. For now we are enjoying Xander's "low maintenance" schedule.
Xander and Carter are so anxious for Christmas. I remember as a child thinking Christmas would never come and now it gets here way too fast. We went to the OCCA Christmas Party at the hospital on Sunday and it was lots of fun. It is always good to see old faces. I was reminded of just how blessed we are this year to have made the journey we have. This holiday time is so sweet and precious.
Xander had a Christmas program at church Sunday night and lets just say he did more dancing than singing. He was the funniest thing I have ever seen. He just couldn’t be still. So much for that “Southern Baptist anti-dancing thing”. We were very proud!!
Xander’s bell ringing is scheduled for Thursday December 22nd. There will be a VICTORY PARTY at the Baptist Building in Oklahoma City from 4:30-6:30 (come and go). We would love to have everyone join us to celebrate this long awaited moment in Xander’s life. So many of you have been praying for Xander faithfully and supporting us the past 18 months and we want to say thank you and give you a HUGE hug.
I hope everyone is enjoying the Christmas season. I pray that you are truly remembering the reason we celebrate. The gift that Christ has given us through His son is the greatest gift we will ever receive.
Love
Doug and Ricki Lea
Tuesday, December 6, 2005 9:23 AM CST
Things have been so busy......I just love it!
Xander's appt. with the speech path went really well. She thought he had great language skills and usage, but there are some sounds missing. There is not a time line that must be followed so we are still making our decision. It seems so trivial after all we have been through, but we do want Xander do have the best learning experience once he gets to school. So we will keep praying. For now we are enjoying Xander's "low maintenance" schedule.
Xander and Carter are so anxious for Christmas. I remember as a child thinking Christmas would never come and now it gets here way too fast. We went to the OCCA Christmas Party at the hospital on Sunday and it was lots of fun. It is always good to see old faces. I was reminded of just how blessed we are this year to have made the journey we have. This holiday time is so sweet and precious.
Xander had a Christmas program at church Sunday night and lets just say he did more dancing than singing. He was the funniest thing I have ever seen. He just couldn’t be still. So much for that “Southern Baptist anti-dancing thing”. We were very proud!!
Xander’s bell ringing is scheduled for Thursday December 22nd. There will be a VICTORY PARTY at the Baptist Building in Oklahoma City from 4:30-6:30 (come and go). We would love to have everyone join us to celebrate this long awaited moment in Xander’s life. So many of you have been praying for Xander faithfully and supporting us the past 18 months and we want to say thank you and give you a HUGE hug.
I hope everyone is enjoying the Christmas season. I pray that you are truly remembering the reason we celebrate. The gift that Christ has given us through His son is the greatest gift we will ever receive.
Love
Doug and Ricki Lea
Sunday, November 27, 2005 10:04 PM CST
We had a wonderful Thanksgiving. It was so special knowing that we have received the best blessing of all; Xander in remission! The above picture is of Xander and Carter cutting out Turkey sugar cookies.
Xander has an appointment with a speech pathologist on Wednesday at 9:30 and then an appointment with his pediatrician at 1:50. It will be good to see Dr. Stacy.
The boys have been faithful to the new trampoline regardless of the cold weather. What I would give for their energy.
I am feeling fine, approximately 28 weeks pregnant. I see my midwife on Thursday.
Thank you for keeping up with us and continuing to pray. God has been so faithful to deliver us through the past 18 months. I will never cease to praise Him!!!
Love
Ricki Lea
Sunday, November 27, 2005 10:03 PM CST
We had a wonderful Thanksgiving. It was so special knowing that we have received the best blessing of all; Xander in remission!
Xander has an appointment with a speech pathologist on Wednesday at 9:30 and then an appointment with his pediatrician at 1:50. It will be good to see Dr. Stacy.
The boys have been faithful to the new trampoline regardless of the cold weather. What I would give for their energy.
I am feeling fine, approximately 28 weeks pregnant. I see my midwife on Thursday.
Thank you for keeping up with us and continuing to pray. God has been so faithful to deliver us through the past 18 months. I will never cease to praise Him!!!
Love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, November 23, 2005 8:38 AM CST
We had a wonderful Thanksgiving. It was so special knowing that we have received the best blessing of all; Xander in remission!
Xander has an appointment with a speech pathologist on Wednesday at 9:30 and then an appointment with his pediatrician at 1:50. It will be good to see Dr. Stacy.
The boys have been faithful to the new trampoline regardless of the cold weather. What I would give for their energy.
I am feeling fine, approximately 28 weeks pregnant. I see my midwife on Thursday.
Thank you for keeping up with us and continuing to pray. God has been so faithful to deliver us through the past 18 months. I will never cease to praise Him!!!
Love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, November 16, 2005 5:19 PM CST
Praise The Lord!!!!!
Xander’s tests came back normal. We are so relieved to have this behind us. He is officially off treatment!!!
There is no way to describe the overwhelming joy that we feel. We know that in good and bad situations God is still in control and we claim that with confidence. Thank you, Thank you for praying for Xander.
So what is next?
We will return to the clinic once a month for blood work and an exam then every 3 months for scans. The most important thing to Xander is NO MORE MEDICINE!
On December 22nd at 1:30pm we will ring the bell in the clinic. This is a day we have longed for since June 2004. Then we will have a party to celebrate this HUGE victory. Everyone is invited to share in this joyous moment with us. More details to come.
Xander’s 4th birthday is the 23rd and his party is this Saturday. We are so excited to have so many good reasons to celebrate. Once again thank you for praying and please continue.
Check out the new pictures.
Love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, November 16, 2005 4:44 PM CST
Praise The Lord!!!!!
Xander’s tests came back normal. We are so relieved to have this behind us. He is officially of treatment!!!
There is no way to describe the overwhelming joy that we feel. We know that in good and bad situations God is still in control and we claim that with confidence. Thank you, Thank you for praying for Xander.
So what is next?
We will return to the clinic once a month for blood work and an exam then every 3 months for scans. The most important thing to Xander is NO MORE MEDICINE!
On December 22nd at 1:30pm we will ring the bell in the clinic. This is a day we have longed for since June 2004. Then we will have a party to celebrate this HUGE victory. Everyone is invited to share in this joyous moment with us. More details to come.
Xander’s 4th birthday is the 23rd and his party is this Saturday. We are so excited to have so many good reasons to celebrate. Once again thank you for praying and please continue.
Check out the new pictures.
Love
Ricki Lea
Saturday, November 12, 2005 10:06 AM CST
" Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; Great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him."
Lamentations 3:22-24
Hello Everyone,
We are doing great! Xander’s appointment with the speech pathologist was rescheduled for this Wednesday the 16th. So we have been enjoying our time off.
This Tuesday Xander has at CAT scan of his head, chest, and abdomen and then Wednesday he has an MIBG scan. The MIBG scan will light up any tumors in Xander’s body. Please begin praying and continue to pray that these tests are clear and there is no sign of cancer.
We believe we are raising a little miracle. Everyday Xander amazes us more with the “normal” life he is getting to live. I think back to a year ago when things were very uncertain for us. But Praise God the days were never uncertain for Him!!
God knows and has always known the plan for Xander’s life. I don’t know how parents face these challenges without that peace because it is the only thing
that brought us through those very tough days.
Tonight we are headed to the New Orleans/Oklahoma City Hornets basketball game. I’m hoping Xander will enjoy it. I’m not going to take a chance with Carter; he’s still a little too busy!
Thank you for praying for Xander and continuing to check in on him. We will update as soon as we know the results from Xander’s scans.
11 days until Xander’s 4th birthday!!!
Love
Ricki Lea
Friday, November 4, 2005 2:43 PM CST
Nothing new to report!
I just wanted to share a Halloween picture with you.
I also added one of Carter in the photo album.
Thank you Lord for these precious days we are having!!
Prayer Needed: Anna is a precious little girl who really needs prayer. Her grandmother works at the Baptist Building with my dad. Her website address is below. Please visit her site and leave a word of encouragement for her family and begin praying for her.
http://www3.caringbridge.org/ok/annajane/
Prayers Answered: Our dearest Kraleigh got the “ all clear” from the doctors. This is just what every parent wants to hear. There is no evidence of cancer in her body!!!! Thank you Jesus, and thank you for praying.
" Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; Great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him."
Lamentations 3:22-24
Love
Ricki Lea
Friday, October 28, 2005 11:06 AM CDT
" Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; Great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him."
Lamentations 3:22-24
The curls are gone!!! I can’t believe I actually went through with it. Xander got his haircut yesterday. He loves it and I think it makes him look so much older.
It was the 1st time he has had a haircut since July 2004 when we shaved his head after his 1st round of chemo. Thank you God for the opportunity Xander has had to grow such a beautiful head full of hair. And of course it is October in Oklahoma and Xander is outside playing with no shoes or shirt on. Only in OK!
His lips are a little cracked, but pretty mild compared to round 4 of the accutane.
He will be done with round 6 on Tuesday. Xander has a CT and MIBG scan scheduled for November 15th and 16th. Please begin praying that Xander will remain cancer free and that both of these tests will be clear and normal. We also scheduled an appointment with a speech pathologist for November 9th. I am looking forward to learning where Xander fits in among other children his age. Of course I think he will far exceed normal. But I’m just his mom!!
We have a busy weekend: Xander and Carter are going to the pumpkin patch with their friend Kaden tonight for Kaden’s birthday. Tonight after the high school football game we are having a 5th quarter until 1am for the youth. Tomorrow is the Fall Festival at church and then Sunday afternoon we are going to Bentonville, AR. My brother in law Jarrod is being ordained at First Baptist Church, Bentonville. We are so proud of you Jarrod.
So for now thank you for praying for Xander faithfully. The Lord has blessed us with many prayer warriors and we are so thankful. Have a wonderful weekend.
Love
Ricki Lea
Thursday, October 20, 2005 9:22 AM CDT
Xander now weighs 42.8 lbs!!!!
I am not shocked, he eats constantly. Besides the weight gain and normal physical growth that pleases me, the dr. was very pleased with Xander's exam. He has been feeling great and appears to be handling the accutane really well. I asked Dr. McNall and Dr. Meyer what they thought about taking more than 6 rounds of the accutane. I have read about other children taking it longer and I just wonder why and what the benefits could possibly be. There is a Children's Oncology Group conference in Dallas coming up and they both said they would ask around and see what others are doing. We shall see if this is the last round of accutane or not!! Xander will have scans done again in 4 weeks.
Jamie met me at the clinic yesterday and it was good to see her and Madison. Madison is getting so big! I know it is so hard for Jamie to come to the clinic. The memories of Cameron are around every corner, but I know she truly loves us and wants the best for Xander. Thank you Jamie for your support. Also, Audra Lehew was there with Anabel. Just to recap, Audra lost her son Daniel in Dec. 2004 from Neuroblastoma. Then I believe it was in March or April of 2005 her daughter Anabel was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. It doesn't seem possible that two children in one family could suffer this way. It was good to visit with both of them, but very difficult. As we discussed what the holidays would bring for these two families and what they did or will do with the boys things my heart just ached. It is so tempting to ask God Why? But we simply must accept that He knows why and that's all that matters. I pray that I can be a friend for Audra and Jamie, the bond is unexplainable. I pray that I will never be in their situation and I thank God for Xander. It just didn't seem fair that I was able to walk out of that clinic with Xander and they will never walk anywhere with Cameron and Daniel.
I know this is long, but I really want to share this:
" Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; Great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him." Lamentations 3:22-24
Please pray for Jamie, Audra, and DeAnn (Darren's mom).
God has blessed our family in ways I will never truly comprehend. Thank you for always praying for complete healing for Xander and his many friends that still suffer.
Love
Ricki Lea
Sunday, October 9, 2005 5:31 PM CDT
Here are some new pics from the game yesterday. Xander had a blast. Thanks Kay!!
Friday October 8, 2005
Xander's hearing test went well. He still has severe high pitch loss. The audiologist reccomends hearing aides. However, Doug and I are not there yet. If you know Xander personally and are around him this probably comes as quite a shock! It seems that hearing aides are a little extreme. I do understand the need for him to capture everything at this developmental stage (the teacher in me) but 1st Doug and I will pray about it and see a speech pathologist. This will give us a baseline for his speech and then we will see Dr. Saunders again in January. Pray that Doug and I will hear a clear word from the Lord on what to do.
Dr. Saunders did say that everything with Xander's scar, ear and healing around the plate in his head looks great. In about a year from now we will discuss reconstructive surgery. All of this seems so mild in the grand scheme of things. Thank you God for where we are!
Tomorrow Xander will be a special spectator at the OSU game in Stillwater. We are so excited!!! My dad a little more than Doug (Doug's a Sooner fan). Xander will get to meet Coach Gundy and the players, participate in THE WALK, tailgate, and sit in a SUITE!!! We will take lots of pictures.
Thank you for your faithfulness to us through prayer for Xander. We see God's hand in our lives and I pray you get a glimpse of it through this website. God is so good to meet all of our needs and so much more.
love
Ricki Lea
Friday, October 7, 2005 10:27 PM CDT
Xander's hearing test went well. He still has severe high pitch loss. The audiologist reccomends hearing aides. However, Doug and I are not there yet. If you know Xander personally and are around him this probably comes as quite a shock! It seems that hearing aides are a little extreme. I do understand the need for him to capture everything at this developmental stage (the teacher in me) but 1st Doug and I will pray about it and see a speech pathologist. This will give us a baseline for his speech and then we will see Dr. Saunders again in January. Pray that Doug and I will hear a clear word from the Lord on what to do.
Dr. Saunders did say that everything with Xander's scar, ear and healing around the plate in his head looks great. In about a year from now we will discuss reconstructive surgery. All of this seems so mild in the grand scheme of things. Thank you God for where we are!
Tomorrow Xander will be a special spectator at the OSU game in Stillwater. We are so excited!!! My dad a little more than Doug (Doug's a Sooner fan). Xander will get to meet Coach Gundy and the players, participate in THE WALK, tailgate, and sit in a SUITE!!! We will take lots of pictures.
Thank you for your faithfulness to us through prayer for Xander. We see God's hand in our lives and I pray you get a glimpse of it through this website. God is so good to meet all of our needs and so much more.
love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, October 5, 2005 8:42 AM CDT
Just a quick entry to let you know we are all doing wonderful!
Xander finished round 5 of accutane yesterday, only 1 more round to go!Praise the Lord. He can't wait to ring the bell at the clinic. We are finally adjusted to being home and now the biggest concern is "What will I be for Halloween?" Xander wants to be everything of course. He and Carter were actually arguing the other day about who was going to be Buzz Lightyear! Oh how I love the simple life these days.
Thursday Xander has a hearing test and then a visit with the ear, nose and throat surgeon , the one who assisted Dr. Honeycutt. He just wants to make sure everything is healing the way it is supposed to. Please pray that Xander's hearing loss will be minimal or completely normal. We know that God can heal anything!!
Love
Ricki Lea
Monday, September 26, 2005 8:29 AM CDT
We are home!!!
We arrived home early Sunday morning and were in bed by 2am after about 21 hours of traveling. We had a wonderful time in Turkey with Doug’s sister. It was definitely an “experience” traveling with 2 young children overseas. They are still a little confused on which time zone they are in. There is an 8-hour time difference. Thank you for praying for us while we were out of the country. Nothing feels better than home. The boys are playing with all of their toys as if they were brand new.
I will add some new pictures as soon as I can; we took some great ones on the beach. Everyone is doing great, Xander is ready to go to school tomorrow and wants to know why he can’t go today.
Please continue to pray for our friends. Noah is in remission, Kraleigh has started accutane/oral chemo, and Tanner is still doing great as well. Also Cameron and Darren’s family. As time continues they both deal with different issues that are challenging. I pray that God will comfort them as only He can.
Xander began his 5th round of oral chemo Wednesday. He only has one more round after this one. It is a little scary to think of being done with treatment. As I think about all that Xander has been through I know that nothing has changed, God is still in control. God will continue to take care of us; therefore I should not be afraid of what happens next. Please pray that we would always trust God and give Him all of our fears.
Love
Ricki Lea
Thursday, September 15, 2005 9:59 AM CDT
Well, we are almost packed and ready to leave. The boys are so excited to see Aunt Callie. Pray that our overseas travel is safe and "uneventful". We leave today at 6pm from OKC and will return late on Saturday the 24th.
Xander handled the antibiotics really well and maneuvered his IV pole like a champ! I sat in the clinic all day thanking God that we were not getting chemo. It was such an awkward experience. Feeling so blessed and anxious at the same time. I realize that even thou we are moving on with our lives there is always someone else who is receiving terrible news or facing uncertain days. Dear God please heal these children forever! Comfort their families like only YOU can do.
We will have blood work done in Purcell on Sept. 28th and then to the clinic on October 19th. You read correctly over a month of freedom. Xander will start round 5 of accutane/oral chemo on Sept. 21st while we are on our trip. Pray that his skin will tolerate this round a little better, although I'm afraid it might get worse with each round. But most of all, pray that Xander will remain in remission forever and that this precious little boy will be able to tell others the wonderful story of God's miraculous power in his life.
I added a new photo of Doug and Xander on the go-carts at Celebration Station last Saturday. And the above photo is of Xander on the slip and slide last week, check out all that curly hair!!!
One last thing, I am feeling great. I visited my midwife again this week and the baby sounded great. Xander loves hearing the heartbeat. I don’t think Carter can comprehend it yet. At night Xander prays for a brother so he can have two of them, boy how he changed his mind. Carter prays for a little sister! We shall see.
Love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, September 7, 2005 8:58 AM CDT
Hello Friends and Family,
Not much going on here, which is really nice!!
We are mentally preparing for our trip to see Doug's sister on Sept. 15th. Our doctor has a few things she wants Xander to do before we travel overseas, an oral antibiotic and an IV antibiotic that will boost his immune system. Sometimes I forget that Xander did undergo a stem cell transplant in March. He just feels so good it is easy to forget. We will go to the clinic on the 12th for an exam and the 4 hour IV drip. We haven't spent that much time at the clinic in a long time so it will be interesting to see how Xander reacts when he is "hooked up" to that pole!
This last round of accutane was really hard on Xander's skin. His little hands even peeled. I am a little nervous for rounds 5 and 6 because the dryness seems to get worse with each round. But that is still minor in the long run.
Thank you for checking Xander's website, but most of all thank you for praying continuously for Xander's health. Each day I thank God for just how much He has blessed our life and I pray those blessings for so many other children that we know. I pray for God's protection over their families and that their faith would be strengthened and that they would trust God in the midst of everything.
love
Ricki Lea
Tuesday, August 30, 2005 4:30 PM CDT
Where do I begin?
Disney World was amazing!!! Our trip was so wonderful, but we are exhausted to say the least. We went to The Magic Kingdom, The Animal Kingdom, MGM Studios, and Universal Studios………all in 5 days, and some we went to twice!!!
The Give Kids The World Village was perfect. The purpose is to make sure that your family has the time of their lives, and we did. In fact Xander said this morning that we need to go back real quick because there was something else he wanted to get! Carter has also requested to go back to Disney World. Oh, how they have no idea. Xander has really been into Peter Pan lately and could not wait to dress up like him. He does look pretty darling in the outfit. (see pics) He rode the Peter Pan Flight 3 times!
Xander had a button that said, “ Give Kids the World and his name” this was magical. We were taken to the front of every line, rides and character greets. We saw everyone there was to see at least once and by day two Carter had no fear of all the characters. I just downloaded 180 pictures to Wal-mart.com (we were busy).
I did in fact almost cry several times because I couldn’t believe we were actually there. It seemed like such a dream. God has given us so much to be thankful for and I just kept thinking how blessed we were to be on a great trip together as a family.
Xander had his 1st day of Preschool today, and once again, I cried. (pregnancy!!!) But I did have a little more self-control than Carter, he cried so hard and screamed “my brother” the whole way out of the building. They are rarely apart these days.
Well, Xander is on day 7 of the accutane so we will have blood work this week and then have some time off. I really like that. But not for long, we go see Doug’s sister on Sept. 15th. We miss you Aunt Callie!
Thank you for continuing in prayer for Xander, his friends and their families. God hears the prayers of His people and I ask that you pray that this cancer will never return and that those who are still battling would be in remission soon.
Love
Ricki Lea
****Check the photo album
Friday, August 19, 2005 4:52 PM CDT
Xander's CT was normal. Praise the Lord, we give God all the glory for the things that He has done!!!!
We went swimming this morning and are going to the Relay for Life ceremony tonight in Purcell. My group "4joy" is singing and Xander will get to walk with the cancer survivors. What a moment!!
Thank you for praying faithfully for our family. We know God's presence. I probably won't update until we get back from Disney World, we leave on the 23rd!!!!!
Here is a picture from this morning. Xander's hair is getting so long and curly!!!Carter will be as big as Xander in no time.
love
Ricki Lea
Friday, August 19, 2005 4:40 PM CDT
Xander's CT was normal. Praise the Lord, we give God all the glory for the things that He has done!!!!
We went swimming this morning and are going to the Relay for Life ceremony tonight in Purcell. My group "4joy" is singing and Xander will get to walk with the cancer survivors. What a moment!!
Thank you for praying faithfully for our family. We know God's presence. I probably won't update until we get back from Disney World, we leave on the 23rd!!!!!
love
Ricki Lea
Thursday, August 18, 2005 3:29 PM CDT
Praise The Lord!!!!!!
Xander's bone marrow biopsy came back negative (no tumor cells present) or CLEAR as I like to say!
We could not be happier! Disney here we come. It feels so good to have this behind us.
The CT results are not in yet, but I will let you know as soon as we here from the doctor. The CT was interesting to say the least. My mom and Doug had to handle it on their own since I can't be in the room while pregnant. It took about 2 hours to get the orders straightened out and then get Xander to cooperate with the positions they needed him to be in for some detailed scans of his skull, ear, and orbit. But that is also behind us now. Thank you Lord!
Thank you for all of the prayers this week and always. I cannot begin to tell you the peace that we have because of them. We know that God has been with us every step of the way and I know we could not survive without Him. I will never hesitate to share that testimony with anyone who will listen. God will use all of this for His Glory!
Love
Ricki Lea
Tuesday, August 16, 2005 2:53 PM CDT
" Its okay momma, be brave"
Those are the exact words out of Xander's mouth as I laid on the table to hear the baby's heartbeat, wow! It certainly brought tears to my eyes. My "little" boy is growing up. The baby sounded great. Carter didn't care to listen but Xander was very curious. He told my sister later that "we didn't get the baby today". It could be a long 27 weeks for him.
Xander's bone marrow biopsy went soooo smooth today. Thank you Lord, it was probably the smoothest test ever. The fluid aspirate of the marrow is clean so now we just wait until Thursday to find out about the "bone" sample. Thank you for all of the prayers this week as we wait patiently.
God has been so good to us and shown His power in so many ways.
Xander now weighs 42 lbs, I'm sure its all the hair!!!
We saw Kraleigh today and talked with her about her trip to Disney. She and her sister had a wonderful time. Pray for Kraleigh, she is having some leg pain. Pray that the doctors will quickly find the cause of this and get it taken care of.
We will update Thursday afternoon or evening when we know more. Thank you for lifting us up to the Father.
love
Ricki Lea
Thursday, August 11, 2005 9:55 PM CDT
Happy Birthday Doug!!
We just celebrated at Ted's, so if you are from the metro area you know how stuffed we are!!! The boys just can't eat there enough and I mean all 3 of my "boys".
We had a great time at the lake and actually ate at Ted's on our way home. Xander and Carter both enjoyed the water. They liked looking for "crocodiles" in the water. ( i added new pictures)
Next week will not be so relaxing. Monday I see my midwife for the 1st time and am anxious to hear this little baby's heartbeat. Tuesday Xander has a bone marrow biopsy and then Thursday he has a CAT Scan of the head, chest, and abdomen. Please pray that all of these results are clean and cancer free. I have been praying every moment of the day that God would allow Xander to live a long life telling others about the miraculous healing in his life. I pray that we as a family would be a living testimony of God's power. I lay all of my fears and anxiety at God's feet and give Him all the glory for the things He has done in Xander's life.
One year ago on Doug's birthday we were visting the clinic 2 times a week, in the middle of high dose chemo and hospital stays. Praise God for His deliverance. I will never forget where we have been and I look forward to where we are going.
Thank you for your prayers in advance. Tuesday and Thursday are BIG days. We will let you know results as soon as we get them.
12 days to DISNEY!!!!!!!!
love
Ricki Lea
Read Journal History
Thursday, August 11, 2005 9:39 PM CDT
Happy Birthday Doug!!
We just celebrated at Ted's, so if you are from the metro area you know how stuffed we are!!! The boys just can't eat there enough and I mean all 3 of my "boys".
We had a great time at the lake and actually ate at Ted's on our way home. Xander and Carter both enjoyed the water. They liked looking for "crocodiles" in the water. ( i will add new pics soon)
Next week will not be so relaxing. Monday I see my midwife for the 1st time and am anxious to hear this little baby's heartbeat. Tuesday Xander has a bone marrow biopsy and then Thursday he has a CAT Scan of the head, chest, and abdomen. Please pray that all of these results are clean and cancer free. I have been praying every moment of the day that God would allow Xander to live a long life telling others about the miraculous healing in his life. I pray that we as a family would be a living testimony of God's power. I lay all of my fears and anxiety at God's feet and give Him all the glory for the things He has done in Xander's life.
One year ago on Doug's birthday we were visting the clinic 2 times a week, in the middle of high dose chemo and hospital stays. Praise God for His deliverance. I will never forget where we have been and I look forward to where we are going.
Thank you for your prayers in advance. Tuesday and Thursday are BIG days. We will let you know results as soon as we get them.
12 days to DISNEY!!!!!!!!
love
Ricki Lea
Monday, August 1, 2005 12:04 AM CDT
We had a wonderful time at Falls Creek. We took 74 youth and had at least 7 youth make a decision to accept Christ. Xander and Carter were in Heaven all week. Tons of attention and lots of icee’s!!! However I am still working on the laundry. We leave for the lake next Sunday evening for a week so busy, busy, but I will not complain! We were reminded this last week that 1 year ago when Doug was at Falls Creek Xander was in the hospital for his 2nd round of chemo. At that time life seemed so scary and we were still getting used to things. Praise God for His deliverance. I am thankful everyday that 1 year later Xander is doing so well. I pray that we never forget all God has done for us.
Xander is on his 3rd round of acctuane and we will go to the clinic tomorrow for blood work. Just a quick in and out, we like that!! Xander has a CAT scan scheduled for August 18th and tomorrow I will see when the bone marrow biopsy can be scheduled. I know this time will come every 3 months and there is no way to avoid it. Please start praying now that Xander will remain in remission forever. Pray that Doug and I will completely trust in God and not be afraid.
Our little friend Kraleigh learned on Friday that there are some cancer cells showing up in her bone marrow again and there are 2 spots on the MIBG scan. Dear Lord, please give her parents strength as they make the decision of what to do next. Pray that she will experience complete healing. Check her website for updates.
“ May the God of hope fill you with all the joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” Romans 15:13
This is my prayer for every family touched by cancer. I pray that in these uncertain times we will trust in God and realize that He is our Hope, He is our future, and that He is the true source of our joy.
Thank you for praying.
Love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, July 20, 2005 6:50 PM CDT
Dear Friends,
The past week has been very emotional to say the least. It has been difficult to look into the eyes of parents who have lost their children to cancer. The day after Cameron’s passing our friend Darren Ernst went to be with the Lord too. He was 15 yrs old and supposed to be at Falls Creek this week. But instead he is at the feet of Jesus having an amazing praise and worship time I’m sure! His funeral was on Monday. There are no words except the words of God that can bring any comfort to them. Mike, Jamie, De Ann, and your families, we will always be praying for you.
It is difficult to share how well Xander is doing in the midst of this sorrow but it gives me even more reason to praise God everyday. Xander has a doctor’s appointment on Friday, a few days early because we will be leaving for Falls Creek on Monday. Youth camp here we come. The boys are so excited although the have no idea what “camp” is! Xander will start his 3rd round of accutane on July 27th. We have been swimming every chance we get and just enjoying the summer. Praise God!!
Please remember Cameron and Darren’s family. I know that the days ahead will be very difficult for them. Both of these boys had neuroblastoma, the same as Xander. I cannot tell you how it feels. But I know that God has a plan for Xander and I cannot worry day to day about that plan. God is bigger than we can fathom. I just pray everyday for his cancer to never return.
Love
Ricki Lea
Check the photo album for new pics!!
Wednesday, July 13, 2005 4:23 PM CDT
Today Cameron is with Jesus.
There is no way our minds can fathom the sorrow his parents are feeling at the exact same moment that our Father is holding Cameron in His arms. Cameron is now in eternal remission and has a new body. Praise God that this is not our home and that Mike, Jamie, and Madison will one day be with Cameron again because of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.
Please pray for the family, as these next days will be difficult. The service will be on Saturday in Alva, OK. Doug will be doing the service so please pray that he will be strengthened by God and be given the exact words to say.
“Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you, and when you pass through the rivers they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord your God the Holy one of Israel, your Savior” Isaiah 43:1-3
Thank you for continued prayer and support. The toughest days are yet to come for the Carey Family. Please do not forget to pray for them.
Love
Ricki Lea
Friday, July 1, 2005 10:55 PM CDT
Dear Friends,
I write this entry with such a heavy heart. Our precious little friend Cameron did not get good news today. His cancer has spread aggressively. He has several new tumors all over his body. He will not be able to start chemo again because there are 4 new tumors on his liver and his left kidney is completely consumed and not functioning. Cameron's parents have decided to keep him comfortable. The doctors say he has weeks to live.
Right now I just don't understand but I know that God has a reason. It just doesn't seem fair that a 4 year old should suffer this way. My request is that people pray. We have seen the power of prayer 1st hand and I know there have been times when people all over the world have prayed for Xander, many we don't even know. I want the same for Cameron. I want his family to see God's power and glory.
Please pray that Cameron will be taken care of. I know that God can make all of the tumors go away. Please pray that his family will be held in God's arms. His mother Jamie has become one of my dearest friends. The only way I can take her pain away is to pray that God will do it.
Please leave a note of encouragement on his website, the link is below. If you want to send them a card at home email me and I will give you the address. I just want to shower them with encouragement and prayer from God's people.
love
Ricki Lea
Tuesday, June 28, 2005 3:59 PM CDT
Today Xander did so good when they accessed his port!!!
He had a great check up and the doctor said he "looks great". Xander will begin his 2nd round of the accutane tomorrow. Please pray that the side affects are minimal. He will have blood work again on July 5th and then it will be a whole month before we see the doctor again. I am getting used to this!
Pray for Cameron Carey, tomorrow he is having an MIBG scan. Please pray that nothing lights up and that there is no remaining tumor. Pray that his mom and dad will have peace and comfort as the test is being done. This is the one you can watch.
I wish you could hear Xander say it in person but you'll have to imagine this!!! Today he was proud to tell everyone at the clinic that "my momma is having a baby" He was telling the truth!!! Doug and I are expecting #3 in February. We are so excited and so are the boys. Xander says it is a girl, so I hope he is not disappointed if it’s a boy.
Doug said it is the 1st time is a year that he has been "truly" happy, without any reservation or fear. God is responsible for bringing us this blessing and soooooo many more. Please begin praying now for a healthy baby, boy or girl.
We love you all.
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, June 22, 2005 4:37 PM CDT
Hello Everyone!!!
Sorry its been so long, but we are all doing great. Xander has been swimming every chance he gets. He and Carter just love the water. Its amazing to see Xander's tan line already. I cover him everyday with a 45 sun block, but he still looks like a Coppertone baby!!!
We are celebrating our victory. One year ago today our doctor told us that Xander's tumor was neuroblastoma and he would have to have chemotherapy. So much has happened over the last year and praise God for the many blessings and miracles. We will never cease to give God the glory for the things He has done in Xander's life.
Xander will return to the clinic on June 28th to begin the 2nd round of accutane. It will have been 3 weeks since his last visit. I must say that is really really nice!!!!
Please continue to pray for Xander's friends and that the cancer will never return.
love
Ricki Lea
Thursday, June 9, 2005 9:32 PM CDT
It’s been a great week!
We learned that our friend Kraleigh has CLEAN bone marrow!!
Vacation Bible School was fantastic! We had 15 decisions made to accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior!!!! That is what it is all about.
The picture above is of Xander and Carter on the 1st day in their VBS t-shirts.
Xander is doing great. His face is pretty dry and his lips are really chapped and cracking in the corners. The Accutane causes all of this. But it is minimal compared to what he has been through.
This Saturday is a huge day!
1.There is a benefit “Pond Hop” fishing tournament in Lexington for Xander and a young girl, Brittanee Baade. Brittanee is a member of our church and she is in need of a liver and kidney transplant. Two amazing young men, Trent Mitchell and Mitchell Wynn, have put this together. All proceeds go to Xander and Brittanee. Trent is a member of our youth group and his family lives down the street from us. Words cannot express how much we love and appreciate Trent and his family. So if you’re in the area of Lexington, OK stop by the High School this Saturday at 7am. For more information go to www.geocities.com/mlureco or call 405-527-6313.
2.Alex’s Lemonade Stand is this weekend. Lemonade stands are being held nation wide to raise money for Pediatric Cancer. Alex Scott had Neuroblastoma and decided to raise money to try to help heal the children. So she started lemonade stands. The idea is for people all over America to hold a lemonade stand on the same day to raise awareness and money. Last year the lemonade stands raised over $1 million. This year the goal is $5 million.
There is a stand open this weekend in Oklahoma City at: Flip's Wine Bar & Trattoria, 5801 N. Western Ave. (Corner of Grand Ave. and Western) Please check www.alexslemonade.com for a stand near you.
Also on Saturday Doug leaves for Super Summer. It is a Christian Youth leadership camp at Oklahoma Baptist University in Shawnee, OK.
Last year Doug was at Super Summer when I had to call and tell him that Xander needed to have a CT. At times it seems like that was years ago and then it seems like time has flown by. One thing for sure is we have come a long way this last year. On June 15, 2004 Xander was admitted to Children’s Hospital and our lives were never the same. I feel it has been changed in a way that can’t be “undone”. God has guided us and comforted us through so much. He has been our protector and healer. He has shown us that He is in control and that He will deliver us from anything and everything. No matter what the future holds for our family we know with confidence that it will not be a surprise for God. On June 22, 2004 when Dr. Meyer told us Xander had cancer it was not a shock to God. God had been molding and shaping us for that day, long before it happened.
We continue to give God the glory for all that He has done for us. Xander is a blessing and each day is precious with both he and Carter. I pray that in your life wherever you are you will trust God in everything.
I want to say a huge thanks to all of you that have been praying since day one. Our endurance and survival through this journey has been because of God’s people praying. So don’t stop!! There is still much to come.
Xander will go to the clinic again around the 28th of June, until then just regular 3 1/2 year old stuff!!!
Love
Ricki Lea
Thursday, June 2, 2005 5:21 PM CDT
Xander had a quick and easy clinic visit yesterday. He started the accutane and made me so proud when he swallowed the pills whole and without much fight. He was a little nervous but once he did it he thought it was fun to make them "disappear" and he actually wanted more. I'll never completely understand kids!!!
Things are going really smooth around here. Vacation Bible School starts Monday so I’m a little crazy, but it will pass! Thank you for continued prayers and messages. We are traveling this road only by the grace of God and the prayers of many. We will update as anything new or exciting pops up. Have a wonderful day!
Keep praying for Cameron, Kraleigh, and Noah
(http://www3.caringbridge.org/ok/noah)
We want them in REMISSION too!
Love
Ricki Lea
Friday, May 27, 2005 2:57 PM CDT
Yeah!!!!
I am happy to announce that Xander's bone marrow biopsy came back clear. No tumor cells!!!!
Thank you for praying! Our God is so amazing to hear our prayers and give us only the things we need. Now we have 3 months until Xander is tested again. Please pray that we will continue to give God the glory and trust in Him to lead us through this completely.
Xander has an exam on Wednesday and will start the accutane that morning. For now, life is back to normal!!!!
Have a wonderful holiday weekend.
love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, May 25, 2005 8:23 PM CDT
Good News!!!
Xander’s bone scan and MIBG scan were clear! Praise God. I am glad to have that behind us. Today was the bone marrow biopsy and it went pretty smooth. The clinic was very busy today. We were scheduled for 10am and didn’t have the biopsy done until about 12:30. Xander is unable to eat or drink before the biopsy so needless to say he was in a terrible mood.
Tomorrow he has a head, chest, and abdominal CAT scan at 11am, he will have to be sedated for this, so once again, no food or drink after midnight!
Please pray that the results of the bone marrow biopsy will be clear now and FOREVER.
I have spent a lot of time in the clinic this week and have been reminded of just how much we are blessed. In the past 6 weeks there have been 11 relapses and 11 newly diagnosed patients. The nurses have commented that this is not normal. At times like these when I don’t understand why, I must remember that God has brought us here for many reasons and some of them have not been revealed. I pray that God will be glorified through our lives and our actions.
Please pray for Kraleigh; her bone marrow will be tested on May 31st.
Cameron; pray that the results of the radiation will show the left over tumor GONE!! There are so many others, I know if you just ask God to heal “Xander’s friends” He will know who you are talking about!
I will update as soon as we know bone marrow results.
Love
Ricki Lea
Friday, May 20, 2005 8:05 AM CDT
Hello everyone,
I can’t believe I have gone this long without updating, but nothing much to report!
Xander and Carter spent 5 days with my sister, Aunt Rachel, in Bentonville, AR. They had a wonderful time and Doug and I got some much needed rest.
Yesterday Xander had a hearing test and there are still signs of high pitch hearing loss. We will go again at the end of June to see if this is temporary due to chemo or permanent. Doug and I are not too concerned considering the big picture! But we do want to make sure Xander gets help if it is necessary.
Next week is a big week for Xander. This work-up must be done before he begins the Accutane/oral chemo on June 1st. I will list his schedule below:
Monday- Bone Scan and skeletal x-rays
Tuesday- Xander and Carter meet with their Pediatrician for Carter’s 2 yr appt. and Xander’s 3yr (a little late!!) then to the clinic for an exam and MIBG injection.
Wednesday- MIBG scan and Bone Marrow biopsy
Thursday – Head, chest and abdominal CAT Scan
Friday- Doug and I will celebrate our 6th Wedding Anniversary!!!
Xander is feeling so good and looking so healthy. We are thankful everyday that God has brought us to this place. I am so encouraged when people tell me how their lives have been affected by Xander’s life. That is what it is all about: God’s glory! I want everyone to know that we give all credit to our Heavenly Father, in good times and bad.
Philippians 4:6-7
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything in prayer and petition present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Next week as Xander is undergoing these tests I pray for God’s peace, knowing that we have given Xander to Him and that He is in control. Please pray that everything is still clear and Xander will remain in remission FOREVER!
Love
Ricki Lea
Tuesday, May 10, 2005 9:51 PM CDT
Xander is still doing great! His bloodwork was good today and accessing his port was not too bad. When I put the emla cream on him before we left the house he started crying "But I want to tackle". He can't tackle or play too rough when his port is accessed and he is used to it being accessed for long periods of time. But I assured him this would be really quick.
He weighs 41 lbs. I am so proud of my little piglet, or should I say piglets? Carter weighs 33.8 lbs.
Carter had a wonderful birthday party and I had a wonderful Mother's Day weekend. I am so thankful that I have two precious children. God has blessed us with so much.
We are off for 2 weeks. I won't even begin to give you the upcoming schedule yet. Let's just say the week of May 23rd is pretty busy. Before Xander starts the oral chemo(accutane) he has to have every kind of test and scan you could imagine. I will feel better once those are over.
Please pray for Kraleigh this week as she is on her 9th round of chemo. She looked darling today with her new hair growth and healthy smile! Her bone marrow showed 1 efore this round and we are praying for CLEAR results after this round. God is able to heal Kraleigh of this disease forever and this is our prayer for Xander, Cameron,Tanner, Noah,Jake.........and the list goes on way too far.
We love and cherrish every prayer and message from you.
Have a wonderful week!
love
Ricki Lea
Saturday, May 7, 2005 0:39 AM CDT
Hello Everyone,
Sorry it has been so long, but it has been a crazy week. Xander is feeling better than ever! We go to the clinic on Tuesday and they will have to access his port……..yucky!! This hasn’t been done since the end of March. It has to be accessed and flushed at least once every 6 weeks. I’m sure Xander will cry and assume he will be keeping it in for awhile but PRAISE GOD it will just be a few minutes.
Justin’s funeral was beautiful. I was so encouraged by the number of people there and Justin’s testimony. He truly touched so many lives. Please continue to pray for his parents and siblings. I know that once things slow down for them it will really sink in that Justin’s battle with Leukemia is over. God please grant them peace.
Tomorrow (actually today) we are having Carter’s birthday party. My baby is 2!!!!!
It is very precious and emotional for me as I think about the past 11 months and how much has happened. I rejoice because God has delivered us through so much.
I was reminded this evening as I was watching “Hermie” with the boys that “if God is for us who can be against us” Romans 8:31. I claim this promise from God’s word, knowing that neither cancer nor death can defeat us. Nothing in our lives can defeat us, unless we let it.
Thank you for continuing to check in on us. Please keep praying for Xander and the many others that are still battling cancer. We pray that Xander’s cancer will NEVER return. I hope you enjoy a wonderful Mother’s Day weekend.
Please check out the new photos!
Love
Ricki Lea
Saturday, April 30, 2005 9:14 PM CDT
Our hearts our heavy today as we learned that Justin Scott went to be with Jesus last night.
Praise the Lord that this is not the end for Justin's family. Please pray for his parents and younger brother and sister. Pray that God will sustain them and give them peace. Someday when Xander is old enough to understand we will tell him about Justin and the blessing he was to us. The above picture is of Justin and Xander taken 1 week ago.
We will miss Justin terribly.
Wednesday April 27,2005
Let’s see…….Xander’s visit to the clinic on Tuesday was great! It was good to see our “friends” a.k.a doctors and nurses! Xander is now 40.2 lbs; he has gained 3 lbs since transplant. He painted a flowerpot in the craft room and of course it is a “Ninja Turtle” pot, you can guess the colors! Our next appointment is May 10th and then the week of May 23rd he will have several tests run, CAT scan, chest x-ray, MIBG scan, audiogram, and possibly a bone morrow biopsy. This is standard procedure before children begin the accutane.
Xander has felt so good it’s amazing. I am so thankful for his precious attitude, sometimes a little too big for his britches. He and Carter are at my parents tonight so I can finish their room. I have been painting and making it a little more “big boyish”. It is a happy/sad feeling to know that they are beyond a nursery and a few steps away from BUNK BEDS!!!
Thank you to all who have been praying for Justin Scott. Doug spoke with him on Tuesday morning and asked him if he was saved and Justin said, “he knew Christ”. That is all that matters now, and we didn’t want to assume anything. What a testimony his life will be, such a courageous young man. Please continue to pray for his family.
We love you all who keep checking on Xander and praying for him. We rely on your prayers and would not be where we are today without God’s healing power.
Tomorrow night Xander will be going backstage with Mercy Me before their concert at the Ford Center, thank you K-Love’s Ron Moore!!
Love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, April 27, 2005 10:06 PM CDT
Let’s see…….Xander’s visit to the clinic on Tuesday was great! It was good to see our “friends” a.k.a doctors and nurses! Xander is now 40.2 lbs; he has gained 3 lbs since transplant. He painted a flowerpot in the craft room and of course it is a “Ninja Turtle” pot, you can guess the colors! Our next appointment is May 10th and then the week of May 23rd he will have several tests run, CAT scan, chest x-ray, MIBG scan, audiogram, and possibly a bone morrow biopsy. This is standard procedure before children begin the accutane.
Xander has felt so good it’s amazing. I am so thankful for his precious attitude, sometimes a little too big for his britches. He and Carter are at my parents tonight so I can finish their room. I have been painting and making it a little more “big boyish”. It is a happy/sad feeling to know that they are beyond a nursery and a few steps away from BUNK BEDS!!!
Thank you to all who have been praying for Justin Scott. Doug spoke with him on Tuesday morning and asked him if he was saved and Justin said, “he knew Christ”. That is all that matters now, and we didn’t want to assume anything. What a testimony his life will be, such a courageous young man. Please continue to pray for his family.
We love you all who keep checking on Xander and praying for him. We rely on your prayers and would not be where we are today without God’s healing power.
Tomorrow night Xander will be going backstage with Mercy Me before their concert at the Ford Center, thank you K-Love’s Ron Moore!!
Love
Ricki Lea
Monday, April 25, 2005 9:54 AM CDT
Good Monday morning!
Things have been going so good around here, it’s amazing. We had a wonderful day of worship and fellowship yesterday at church. We have truly been blessed with a great church family. Xander and Carter are both doing good. We have a new addition to the family……….Dash! He is a Billy goat (thanks dad). Last year at Easter it was chickens and this year it was a goat. Absolutely precious, but not fit for OKC! So we brought him home and all Carter wants to do is be outside with the “baby goat”.
Xander has an appointment at the clinic tomorrow for blood work and an exam. Tuesday’s are party days in the clinic. The OCCA volunteers bring snacks and a craft for the children to do while they are waiting. It’s a good distraction.
Please pray for our friend Justin Scott. Some of you may have seen him on channel 9 news last night. He is 16 yrs old and lives in Moore. He has been battling Leukemia (a very rare form called Philadelphia) for about 2 years and has been sent home without any more treatment options. We met Justin last summer during a hospital stay and their relationship began when Justin taught Xander how to fill a syringe with water and squirt it at the nurses. You can just imagine the things Xander could learn from a 16 yr old boy! Xander just loves Justin! He always plays with Xander; they are great entertainment for each other when you are in the clinic for 7 hours of chemo. Pray that God’s comfort and peace will be abundant for his family as they face the reality of a few days to a week with Justin.
I know that in these situations we pray for God’s glory to be shown to unbelievers and that they would see what a powerful God we serve. A God who can give peace to a grieving family that is unexplainable. Our God is more AWESOME than we know; He is capable of ALL things and has planned ALL things perfectly.
Please keep praying for Xander and all of the children fighting cancer.
Have a great day!
Love,
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, April 20, 2005 6:00 PM CDT
We had a great time in Arkansas! Xander thought that my sister’s house was “Arkansas” we were playing at a park one afternoon and he said “I am ready to go back to Arkansas now” Thanks to Aunt Rachel we had a wonderful visit an awesome Ninja Turtle cookies!!!
Xander’s clinic visit went great last Thursday and we don’t go back until the 26th. His weight is now 39lbs, only ½ lb away from his pre-transplant weight! He is feeling so good and I can see a little hair coming back. I forget sometimes what he has been through when I see him being so healthy and normal. Thank you God.
This week we will take Carter for a check up with Dr. Reyes and get invitations out for his 2nd birthday party. I can’t believe my baby will be 2.And of course Xander wants him to have either a “Star Wars” or “Ninja Turtle” party. We’ll see! He and Xander are such good friends, most of the time.
We also got confirmation that our Disney World “Make a Wish Trip” will be August 15th-21st. Xander is so excited, he wants to see the Ninja Turtles there. Hope he is not too disappointed.
Thank you for continuing to pray for Xander and his friends. I am seeing so many blessings that have come from Xander’s illness and I am in awe of what God has done through one little boy. Thank you for being a part of this. I am listing a few additional sites of children that we are praying for.
Have a great week.
Love
Ricki Lea
http://www3.caringbridge.org/ok/mitchel/
http://www2.caringbridge.org/co/jacobtylercohen/index.htm
http://www3.caringbridge.org/ok/noah/index.htm
www.bornforapurpose.org/kyle
Tuesday, April 12, 2005 6:44 PM CDT
Not much to report except that Xander has been feeling really good! He went to the OSU scrimmage last Saturday and had a really good time. Some of you may have seen him on the channel 5 News Sunday evening!
Xander and Carter really enjoy being at home. I am going a little stir crazy, just not used to being a real “stay at home” mom!!! But I will gladly get used to it.
Thank you for your continued prayer. It is a little weird lately. For the past 9 months there has been SO much going on and SO much to say. Now all of the sudden its just stopped, and kind of suddenly. You could pray specifically that we would not feel anxious.
We go back to the clinic on Thursday for blood work. If all goes well we are headed to Arkansas to visit Aunt Rachel (my sister) and Uncle Judd on Saturday and stay until Tuesday!!! It’s a girl’s trip (except for the children) I’m going with my mom and sister Regan. Xander and Carter are really looking forward to it.
Kraleigh began another round of chemo in the clinic yesterday. Please pray that this takes care of the last little bit of cancer!
Check the photo album!
Love,
Ricki Lea
Friday, April 8, 2005 8:55 AM CDT
We are off to the clinic this morning for blood work. Hopefully it will be an in and out visit. But first I must share with you a few of the priceless things Xander has been saying this week.
We were getting ready for bed, I think Tuesday night, we were praying for all of his little friends and he quickly informed me that “God took his cancer and put it in the trash can” and “Carter didn’t need any cancer”. I was so overwhelmed with joy to know that he, even at this young age, knows that GOD DID IT. God took his cancer away!!! AMEN TO THAT.
One more. Yesterday we saw an OU Physicians commercial and I told Xander to look for Dr. Honeycutt. Xander said “we’re not seeing him anymore” “see when you have cancer the doctors give you owies and I don’t have cancer so I don’t get any more owies” He has been paying attention.
I just wanted to share those with you. We have had a great week. I thank God for everyday that He has given us. I’m sure all of this “free time” we have will fill up quickly.
Please continue to pray for Kraleigh, she will be doing 2 more rounds of chemo in the clinic. Her bone marrow is now showing 1% of cancer cells, but it had been 5%. Pray that it will be clear soon and stay that way forever.
Love
Ricki Lea
Friday, April 8, 2005 8:55 AM CDT
We are off to the clinic this morning for blood work. Hopefully it will be an in and out visit. But first I must share with you a few of the priceless things Xander has been saying this week.
We were getting ready for bed, I think Tuesday night, we were praying for all of his little friends and he quickly informed me that “God took his cancer and put it in the trash can” and “Carter didn’t need any cancer”. I was so overwhelmed with joy to know that he, even at this young age, knows that GOD DID IT. God took his cancer away!!! AMEN TO THAT.
One more. Yesterday we saw an OU Physicians commercial and I told Xander to look for Dr. Honeycutt. Xander said “we’re not seeing him anymore” “see when you have cancer the doctors give you owies and I don’t have cancer so I don’t get any more owies” He has been paying attention.
I just wanted to share those with you. We have had a great week. I thank God for everyday that He has given us. I’m sure all of this “free time” we have will fill up quickly.
Please continue to pray for Kraleigh, she will be doing 2 more rounds of chemo in the clinic. Her bone marrow is now showing 1% of cancer cells, but it had been 5%. Pray that it will be clear soon and stay that way forever.
Love
Ricki Lea
Monday, April 4, 2005 5:49 PM CDT
I don’t know if I’ve ever posted something twice in one day before………
The visit with Dr. Rooms went great. We decided to skip the 2nd transplant. There is not enough concrete evidence that more good than bad would come from it. Meaning that Xander’s history with VOD is a huge risk, too great of a risk!
Xander will go straight into 6 months of oral chemotherapy. This will start June 1st, 85 days post transplant. Until then we will go to the clinic once a week for blood work.
Xander will have another MIBG scan and bone marrow biopsy at the end of May and this will continue every 3 months.
It is hard to “skip” something that is in the protocol for Neuroblastoma, but we believe this is the best for Xander. We will continue to be faithful in prayer that this cancer will never return. Xander and Carter are both the most precious gifts from God. Doug and I are so blessed. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!!!!!
Of course I will continue to update as often as it is needed. It would be hard to stop, this is so therapeutic for me!!!!
Love
Ricki Lea
Monday, April 4, 2005 8:37 AM CDT
We are going to the clinic today to meet with Dr. Rooms at 1pm. Xander has been announcing all weekend that his “bone marrow is plean”!! He has a hard time making the “cl” sound. It’s pretty darn cute!! We had a wonderful weekend. The weather was perfect. The boys got in their little pool on Saturday, so now Carter thinks every time he goes outside he needs to swim. It could be a long Spring/Summer.
Remember Cameron and Kraleigh today. Cameron has an appointment to get results from his PET scan that was done Friday. Kraleigh is waiting on results from her bone marrow test done last Wednesday. I pray that God will bring comfort and peace to these families, as well as ours. There are so many ups and downs on this journey. But I can say with confidence that GOD IS BIGGER!!
Love,
Ricki Lea
Thursday March 31, 2005
I am happy to announce that Xander’s bone marrow came back CLEAR, no evidence of disease!!!! AND as you know from yesterday his MIBG came back CLEAR too. God is so good to us and we give HIM ALL THE GLORY!!! It is only by His grace that we are here.
We will meet with Dr. Rooms on Monday to discuss the results, we will be sure to show excitement when she tells us what we already know!!! It’s hard to keep good news from parents. I can’t wait to hear REMISSION.
In our rejoicing we have a little upsetting news. Our precious friend Cameron needs our prayer. His MIBG scan showed a spot. The details are still unclear but he will have a PET scan tomorrow. His parents are so very anxious to know what is next for Cameron. We know that God is in control and that He is the great and only HEALER! Please pray for his family. We have come to love Cameron as our own and we want him to be healed right along with Xander so that they can live long lives that will glorify GOD.
This change for Cameron brings me to the realization that it is never over, you never fully arrive. God gives us each day one at a time and He never wants us to “make it without Him” We need Him everyday, cancer or no cancer. Although we may be drawing to the end of our treatment, I will never cease to pray for continued health and healing for Xander. I will never take for granted every moment that we are given.
We love each and every encouraging word from you and we know without a doubt that Xander is being prayed for constantly. Thank you.
Love
Ricki Lea
Thursday, March 31, 2005 10:07 PM CST
I am happy to announce that Xander’s bone marrow came back CLEAR, no evidence of disease!!!! AND as you know from yesterday his MIBG came back CLEAR too. God is so good to us and we give HIM ALL THE GLORY!!! It is only by His grace that we are here.
We will meet with Dr. Rooms on Monday to discuss the results, we will be sure to show excitement when she tells us what we already know!!! It’s hard to keep good news from parents. I can’t wait to hear REMISSION.
In our rejoicing we have a little upsetting news. Our precious friend Cameron needs our prayer. His MIBG scan showed a spot. The details are still unclear but he will have a PET scan tomorrow. His parents are so very anxious to know what is next for Cameron. We know that God is in control and that He is the great and only HEALER! Please pray for his family. We have come to love Cameron as our own and we want him to be healed right along with Xander so that they can live long lives that will glorify GOD.
This change for Cameron brings me to the realization that it is never over, you never fully arrive. God gives us each day one at a time and He never wants us to “make it without Him” We need Him everyday, cancer or no cancer. Although we may be drawing to the end of our treatment, I will never cease to pray for continued health and healing for Xander. I will never take for granted every moment that we are given.
We love each and every encouraging word from you and we know without a doubt that Xander is being prayed for constantly. Thank you.
Love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, March 30, 2005 2:26 PM CST
PRAISE GOD!!!!!!
Xander's MIBG scan was CLEAR!!!! Yes, CLEAR!! (thank you Dr. Honeycutt and Dr. Saunders)
I am so excited! Although I don't think I am surprised. I have prayed and given Xander to the Lord and He is in control. It is a beautiful day for us.
Thank you for praying!
Tomorrow afternoon I will call the clinic to find out about Xander’s bone marrow. We are on our way to remission!!!!
Love
Ricki Lea & Doug
Tuesday, March 29, 2005 10:17 PM CST
Today was pretty smooth. Xander was easily sedated and the bone marrow biopsy was quick. Xander needed platelets today but it only took about 30 minutes to get them.
He got his MIBG injection and we go back tomorrow at 10:30 for the scan.
Thank you for praying today and TOMORROW.
Blessed encounter: Today at the Wal-Mart Market my mom, Xander, and I ran into a lady that asked us if we knew anyone from Council Road Baptist Church? Well, of course!!! She said she couldn't help but notice Xander and heard us calling his name. She has been praying for Xander! Wow, right in the middle of the grocery store she was able to meet Xander. How awesome to see the product of her prayer. I thanked her and she said it was "an honor"!
How our Lord works in such perfect ways. She went on his behalf to the throne of God, even when she didn't know him. I am so thankful for her and many others.
Love
Ricki Lea
Monday, March 28, 2005 11:57 AM CST
We had a wonderful Easter!
It was such a blessing to be together as a family. The service at church was great. I love our church!! I am always reminded of how many people are praying for Xander.
We went to both grandparents’ houses and hunted eggs. Xander really got into it and Carter only needed a little help.
The boys have already been outside playing this morning. Xander now thinks that if the sun is out he can be outside and of course Carter is right on his heels! I thank God every morning for two wonderful children.
Tomorrow is Bone Marrow Day. Please pray that the procedure goes smooth, Xander has not had this done since December. But most importantly pray that his bone marrow is still clean, no disease! Wednesday is the MIBG scan which will show if there is any active cancer in Xander’s body. The nerve-racking part about this scan is that I can watch the screen while he is being scanned. Please God, let it all be gone.
I will update as soon as we know anything. I thank you in advance for your prayers.
Love
Ricki Lea
Tuesday, March 22, 2005 9:57 AM CST
Yesterday was a quick and easy visit to the clinic! Xander is bouncing back quickly. His white blood count is high enough we get to stop the shots!!!
I feel like it is Christmas because we got out of the hospital earlier than expected and now we have a FULL week off from the clinic. We go back Tuesday March 29th for a bone marrow biopsy and an MIBG injection and then on Wednesday March 30th we will have the MIBG scan. Please start praying now that these two tests will show "no cancer"! We are ready for remission. The surgeons felt confident about the tumor resection and now we will get to see for sure if all the active/cancerous tumor is gone. I am already anxious, so I can't imagine how I will feel next week. But I say this with confidence, God is in control!
Have a wonderful week and if you don't here anything new for a few days it is because we are enjoying a wonderful time at home and a Happy Easter!
love
Doug and Ricki Lea
(i added a new picture)
Monday, March 21, 2005 9:43 AM CST
It is so good to be home!
Xander and Carter ran through the house like they had been gone years, but I guess to them 18 days might as well be years. We went to church yesterday and enjoyed seeing our friends but most of all we enjoyed worshipping. Xander went to “big church” with us and as I held him I was overwhelmed with gratitude for what the Lord has done for us. A week ago we were sitting in a dark hospital room with Xander hooked up to a morphine pump. Then we learned that his liver was enlarged and we would just have to wait and see if it would respond and function properly. I had not been that scared since they told us Xander had cancer. I knew what could happen if his liver continued to enlarge and it almost got the best of me.
But it wasn’t too long before I realized that this was not a surprise to God. Xander’s every step is in God’s hands and that is very comforting for Doug and I. The power of prayer is more real to us than ever before. Thank you, Thank you!
Xander has a check up at the clinic today at 1pm. He seems to be doing just great but I am anxious to see what his blood counts are.
Love
Ricki Lea
Friday, March 18, 2005 3:01 PM CST
God is so good.
We are going home!!!!!!!!!
I am convinced that this little boy I am so blessed to call mine is the product of so many prayers. His WBC went from .9 yesterday to 2.7 today! The doctor just couldn't imagine keeping him here all weekend. His billiruben (sp) is good and his stomach is so much smaller. He has lost the water weight and is eating and drinking pretty good.
So we are out of here is about 30 min. Carter is on his way to see his BIG brother. I am so glad this is behind us.
More updates and pictures to come. We love you and thank you for your prayers.
Love
Ricki Lea
Thursday, March 17, 2005 3:36 PM CST
It’s another wonderful day! Xander has a white blood count of .9!!! If it were not for his liver he would probably be going home tomorrow. WOW! But the doctor does not feel comfortable sending us home yet, but possibly Monday or Tuesday. Dr. Rooms told me once again that “Xander is getting better”
Xander is eating a little and up playing. I am in awe of how quickly things have changed. God has shown us once again that He has his own time table and that He is in control.
Hopefully we will get to go to church as a family Easter Sunday!!!
I saw Cameron today at the hospital. It is amazing how these kids change, he looks so good!!
Love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, March 16, 2005 11:42 PM CST
Just a quick update because its late, but Xander is still watching TV!!! Thanks Brenda for the videos, he loves them.
His CATscan looked good today. His lungs and chest are clear. His liver enzymes and billiruben(sp?) are normal. He has not had any weight gain and his output is greater than his input. All of this is good and Dr. Rooms told me "he is getting better" Yea God!!!
Xander has not had any morphine today and is doing sooooo much better. Thank you God for hearing our cry for help. I feel so much better too, knowing that we are begining the healing process.
I can't even express the way I feel. So many people are praying and sending words of encouragement. Doug and I are so blessed. We love you and thank you. Tomorrow will be here shortly and I can't wait to see more progress.
love
ricki lea
Wednesday, March 16, 2005 10:50 AM CST
Xander has a white blood count of .2!!!! Not much but something.
Yesterday was so much better. He was even dancing some!
Monday night was a very difficult night. It took sometime to process what Dr. Rooms had told us. Xander is the most blessed child! I can’t imagine the number of people that lifted his name to the Father Monday night. We are amazed at how quickly the news spread. Thank you God for providing so many prayer warriors.
The doctor is going to take Xander off of the TPN today in hopes that he will try eating more. His mouth is so much better. He is drinking lots of root beer! She will also decrease his IV fluids to the lowest possible.
Pray that the liver will heal and that they will find out why his blood oxygen level keeps dropping. He is going to have a CAT scan of his chest today. God is our comfort, healer, and strength and we will continue to put ALL our trust in Him. Thank you for PRAYING.
Carter does have a stomach virus but is doing much better. It might take a few days to run its course but he is already doing better. Pray that he will feel as good as new quick!
Love
Ricki Lea
Monday, March 14, 2005 5:43 PM CST
Dear Friends and Family,
Today Dr. Rooms told us that Xander's liver and spleen are enlarged. This is called VOD.
Dr. Rooms feels this is an early detection and is aggressively taking the steps to treat this, which consists of reducing the amount of fluids and adding medications that will help rid the excess fluids.
Please pray that God will heal Xander's body and restore his health. We believe that the prayers of many have brought us to this place in Xander's treatment. We trust in God's perfect plan! He has allowed this to take place and He can deliver us.
Dr. Rooms will watch Xander closely over the next few days to make sure this is taken care of. Thank you in advance for praying and spreading this email so others will know exactly how to pray for Xander at this time.
Love, Doug and Ricki Lea
Monday, March 14, 2005 5:41 PM CST
Dear Friends and Family,
Today the Dr. Rooms told us that Xander's liver and spleen are enlarged. This is called VOD.
Dr. Rooms feels this is an early detection and is aggressively taking the steps to treat this, which consists of reducing the amount of fluids and adding medications that will help rid the excess fluids.
Please pray that God will heal Xander's body and restore his health. We believe that the prayers of many have brought us to this place in Xander's treatment. We trust in God's perfect plan! He has allowed this to take place and He can deliver us.
Dr. Rooms will watch Xander closely over the next few days to make sure this is taken care of. Thank you in advance for praying and spreading this email so others will know exactly how to pray for Xander at this time.
Love, Doug and Ricki Lea
Saturday, March 12, 2005 10:25 PM CST
“Xander is doing just as expected” to quote Dr. Rooms.
Although we hate to see it, he is on a continuous morphine pump. This allows him to actually be awake for longer periods of time then he would be if he were just getting one big dose every 4 hours. The pump is also better for pain control. His mouth really hurts. It is so pitiful! He doesn’t want to talk much because it hurts. But the doctor said it would be “ok” if Xander slept for the next 3 days. He is very responsive if you wake him up or if he wakes up to go to the bathroom, but other than that he kind of has a “glazed” look about him. I am just thankful he is not in pain. Thank you Lord for Morphine!!
He did perk up a bit today as we were watching the OSU basketball game. I told him to look for Pistol Pete and he quickly told me “Pistol Pete is only at football games” too cute. Doug is staying with him tonight and then I will stay the next two nights. I think it is too early to say whether or not we are in the home stretch or not. We will know a little more in the next few days.
Thank you for praying continuously!
Love
Ricki Lea
Friday, March 11, 2005 7:41 AM CST
Yesterday was very interesting. Xander slept most of the day. He had a fever on and off all night Wednesday and all day Thursday. He also has 2 mouth sores. Yuck, we were hoping to avoid those with the mouthwash, but maybe he won't get many more. He was given a dose of morphine around 1pm and slept until early evening.
Once again this is all to be expected and the docotor just wants to keep to from being in pain. Me too!!!
Doug and I are taking Carter to the Zoo today, don't tell Xander. Hopefully today will be restful and painless for Xander. Mema and Nana are on duty so I am sure he will get what he needs.
Thank you for continued prayer for Xander and his friends. I long for the day when this is behind us and we will see so many blessings from the Lord (some we are already seeing). May He be glorified in all of this!
love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, March 9, 2005 3:36 PM CST
What a difference a day makes!
Xander is very tired today and not wanting to eat much. He has lost about 3 pounds since last Monday and will start TPN (IV nutrients) this evening. This is very typical if not routine for all patients during a transplant. He is sleeping right now.
He is starting to run a temp. so pray that it does not get too bad or uncomfortable. Once again fever is normal and expected. Its just different when it is your child!!
Thanks again to Aunt Regan for the Ninja Turtle Halloween costume she found at Toys R US for $1.00. I don't know what was funnier, Xander in the costume or Regan trying to explain to Xander what a GREAT bargain this was!!!
Of course Xander is asleep in the costume and I'm sure it will stay on as long as possible.
Cameron is out of the hospital!!! Its almost over friend.
I am blessed and encouraged by so many messages and emails. Thank you friends!
Love
Ricki Lea
Tuesday, March 8, 2005 10:21 PM CST
Fortunately not much to report, Xander had a pretty smooth day. Although he did inform his daddy that he was done doing the mouthwash. He said he didn’t care if he got any more prizes “he was done”!! He hates the mouthwash, but we know it can help prevent mouth sores. Doug had to get a little creative with punishment, it is hard to spank your child in the hospital!
I have added 2 new pictures so be sure to check the photo album. Xander already has a patch of his hair gone again. It was darling while it lasted!
Please pray for Carter. I could tell today that the “passing” around is getting to him. Or he just knows how to make me feel bad! He has been such a trooper.
Thank you Lord for TODAY!
Love
Ricki Lea
Monday, March 7, 2005 3:48 PM CST
I am happy to say that all went very smooth this morning. Xander received his stem cells around 12:15 and it only took about 30 minutes.They premedicated him with benedryl and phenegren to help relax him and prevent nausea. Xander sat in my lap and sipped on coke! He did get very squirmy and uncomfortable, but no vomitting!!! He was asleep by 1pm and just woke up at 3:45 asking to watch The Lion King. Kind of odd because I can't remember the last time he watched it.
Praise the Lord for hearing our prayers and giving Xander such peace and rest during this transplant. The days to come might be "long" but we trust in an amazing God that can lead us through this. Thank you for so many encouraging words and prayer this morning.
I will try to keep updating as often as possible so if you feel like you have missed something you can read the journal history.
love
Ricki Lea
Cameron's "breaking out" tomorrow!!!
Sunday, March 6, 2005 8:00 PM CST
Today began very EARLY.......4am. The nurse wanted to change Xander and his bedding (with all the fluids he is getting he soaks through a pull up in just a few hours)and Xander woke up. So she decided to go ahead and get his vitals, weigh him and draw his labs. Xander then wanted to get in bed with me, so of course I let him. He did not want to go back to sleep, he was ready to wake up and he wanted me to be awake too! We got an early start on watching the "old school" Ninja Turtle cartoon on VHS, he loves them. Why is it when Doug spends the night Xander sleeps til 8?
Xander had a wonderful day of "rest" without any chemo. Tomorrow at noon he will receive his stem cells. Sometimes this makes kids sick because of the smell and taste. Please pray that these cells are clean and healthy and this step will be one of many leading Xander into REMISSION!
I heard a song this afternoon on the radio and was reminded that God never promised us this life (or season of life) would be easy, but He did promise we would never be alone. I am resting in that promise and trusting completely in God's power to deliver us.
Love
Ricki Lea
Saturday, March 5, 2005 2:30 PM CST
Yesterday Xander slept all but a few hours in the afternoon. He woke up for a little bit, ate two grapes and started throwing up again. The nausea medicine knocks him out.
Aunt Regan made him a Ninja Turtle Blanket and he giggled and rolled around in it, he loves it so much. It was good to see him laughing.
I hope the day continues to be good. One day at a time!!
I cannot express how thankful we are for so many praying for our little boy. God is so powerful.
love
Ricki Lea
Friday, March 4, 2005 2:28 PM CST
I think today Xander hit the “bottom” that everyone told me would come. Between 7:30 and 9:30am Xander threw up 5 times!! Finally after 3 nausea medicines he fell asleep. As of 2pm he was still asleep, good medicine. I guess the turtles will not get their bath today!!
My mom and Rachel are with him today because Doug and I are spending the day with Carter. It killed me to leave, and I even cried when I told the nurse I was leaving. I know that Xander is in very capable hands and Carter needs some time with Doug and I together. Please pray that Carter will not suffer from all this back and forth stuff and that Xander will not “miss” Carter. Last night he started crying for “his Carter”. This too shall pass.
There are so many others that are suffering far worse right now. The little girl next to us needs prayer. I am not sure of all the details but she is really sick and her mother takes care of her by herself because they live 190 miles away and she has 2 brothers. Add Brittany to your prayer list please.
I know this is several requests at once but many of you like to pray for the specifics. Thank you.
love
Ricki Lea
Thursday, March 3, 2005 12:10 AM CST
Xander is doing really good, so far! Tuesday night was a little rough for Doug and Xander. The minute I left to go get Carter, Xander started throwing up. He kept Doug busy to say the least. I think it is under control now that he is on constant nausea medicine. I can't wait to get you a picture of Xander's newest activity, giving his ninja turtles a bath in the sink. He loves it and he makes a huge mess! As long as he feels like it, I'm letting him do whatever he wants. He did say he wants to go home tomorrow and I have no idea how to explain that it will be awhile. We are just trying to avoid it.
Thank you for checking on us and praying for this transplant. God has brought us here at this perfect time for a perfect reason. I know you will agree that God is using this for HIS glory.
more soon
love
Ricki Lea
Tuesday, March 1, 2005 7:43 AM CST
“Momma, I’m ready to wake up”
At 6:30am Xander was ready to watch a movie and get out his Ninja Turtles!
I thought surely he would sleep late since he was eating a Reece’s cup at 10:45 last night. I am not sure where all this energy comes from!!!!
But I will take it, I love when he acts totally ‘healthy and normal”
Today he begins chemo and it will run thru Saturday. Then Sunday, how appropriate, will be his day of rest. Monday morning he will receive his stem cells.
Pray for little Kraleigh, she has a blood infection. Pray that God will give strength and peace to her parents. Cameron is moving up and will hopefully be out SOON. God is truly working in the lives of these children. He is using them right now to touch so many people. God has a plan for each one of them.
Thank you for PRAYING!!
Love
Ricki Lea
Monday, February 28, 2005 1:13 PM CST
We’re here!!
I have unpacked and put things in place…….trying to make it feel like home!
Xander’s surgery went quick this morning and he is already up and playing, waiting for Mema to get back with McDonald’s.
We are just getting fluids today and chemo will start tomorrow.
I will update as soon as anything changes.
Pray for a successful transplant!!
Love
Ricki Lea
Saturday, February 26, 2005 1:32 PM CST
Yesterday was very busy! Xander had a hearing test, an EKG, and a kidney test. Everything is functioning fine. The doctors need a baseline before the transplant begins.
Xander will have his central line placed Monday, yeah we are 1st on the schedule, at 8am. We will then be admitted to the 6th floor.
My mom’s surgery went good. She spent the night at Mercy and is on her way home today. Thank you for those that prayed for her. Now we need to pray for a speedy recovery!
Thank you for praying. I cannot say that enough.
Doug, Xander, Carter and I are so blessed.
Thursday, February 24, 2005 10:41 PM CST
Xander did a super job today! Dr. Saunders removed the stitches that were inside his ear. Xander screamed and of course he had to be held down, but as soon as it was over he was fine. He asked the doctor “where are the stitches now?” He gets over things so quick!!
He is spending the night with Aunt Rachel and going to Ted’s for dinner, I think he’ll be fine!
Tomorrow we have several appointments, 4 to be exact! There are some tests that need to be done before Xander receives the high doses of chemo that come with the transplant. Nothing painful, just time consuming.
Please say a prayer for my mom. She is having shoulder surgery in the morning. It is hard to believe that in the midst of all this…she is having surgery. Of course my mom hates the timing but we know God is perfect in planning these things.
Only a few more days before the BIG transplant begins! I am so ready to get this going. God has provided peace and comfort beyond our comprehension and I know He is going to see us through this. Doug and I want to thank you so much for your prayers and for sharing Xander’s story with others.
Monday, February 21, 2005 7:08 PM CST
Xander is doing so good. I was prepared to stay home with him Sunday morning, but he had other plans. Doug and Carter were leaving and Xander was already really stressed about not being able to go too. He told me "I taked my medicine and you put cream on my ear.....I can go to church" Doug and I just stood there in awe! So Doug and Carter left, I quickly jumped in the shower and we made it to the 10:45 service.
It was an amazing experience for our church to see an answered prayer in the flesh. So many people had been praying for God's protection over Xander during the surgery and for a successful removal of the active tumor. Xander clearly is a walking testimony!
Thank you Jesus for meeting all of our needs. Thank you to all our prayer warriors!
Next up: Xander sees Dr. Saunders on Thursday to remove the stitches from inside the ear.
Love
Ricki Lea
Friday, February 18, 2005 7:34 PM CST
It is hard to believe that we left the hospital this morning at 9:15am after having a portion of Xander's skull removed on Tuesday. I really did still think we would be there!
Xander just had a bath, very little water, he can't get his stitches wet. He is watching a movie and already in his Ninja Turtle pajamas. He has barely slept at all today and had so much energy. It makes me very nervous to watch him jump off of the couch, but I can't keep him from being a 3 yr. old boy!!
God is amazing and I should not be shocked that Xander is doing so well. I know that the prayers of many have brought us to this day. What seemed so scary a week ago is now over, thank you Lord.
I have added a few new photos, one Wednesday after surgery and one from today. He looks so much better.
Love
Ricki Lea
Thursday, February 17, 2005 10:15 PM CST
You won't believe it..................We are going home tomorrow!!!
Tonight Dr. Saunders removed Xander's bandage(he did not want it off) and I was amazed at the incision. The swelling is already going down around his eyes. In fact he can almost open his right eye. Dr. Honeycutt said "you aren't doing anything here that you can't do at home" I agree, we will all sleep better at home!
Xander's stitches will come out in a week. We are scheduled to have a central line placed on Monday the 28th and be admitted into the hospital that day. We will begin the 1st part of the stem cell transplant (which is the 7 days chemo) on March 1st! It is time.
I am amazed at Xander's strength and ability to heal so quickly. Thank you God for your protection and healing power.
Please pray right now for a little boy named Kyle. Kyle has a brain tumor and he is having to go to St. Jude's for a clinical trial. He is 3 yrs old and precious. His parents need strength and comfort as they fight this horrible battle for Kyle. His parents are Sandy and Brian
he also has a little sister who is Carter's age. They need a miracle. Please pray!
Thank you
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, February 16, 2005 11:34 AM CST
It's a new day!!!
Last night went pretty smooth. I was able to sleep a little and feel so much better. Xander had a CAT scan this morning and Dr. Saunders said it looked good. He just wanted to make sure there was no abnormal swelling or bleeding. There is not evidence of any fluid leaking from the brain either. This was good to hear.
Xander's right eye is now completely swollen shut, which is really bothering him. He said "mommy I can't see" then he went straight back to sleep. We are trying to keep the pain medicine regular so he doesn't have to hurt.
The doctor said we should be out of ICU this afternoon or evening. Back to 3G where we know and love OUR nurses.
Thank you for the continued prayer. We have made a HUGE step in Xander's treatment.
Love
Doug and Ricki Lea
Tuesday, February 15, 2005 7:18 PM CST
Thank you Lord for delivering Xander from surgery today!
Xander was out of surgery around 5pm today. He was alert and asking for his sippy cup. Later he asked for a pillow and coke!! Yeah!!!!
The surgery was sucessful and Xander's tumor is gone and they believe very little cancer cells remain. The surgeons were pleased, but it took a little longer than expected. Dr. Honeycutt prayed with us before surgery. Amen for a faithful servant! His ear is intact and the facial nerve was not harmed. This is a great day!
We are so tired but overjoyed. I have more to share from my heart but it will have to wait until tomorrow. Just know that our Heavenly Father comforted us today and protected Xander. I know God's power and I am so thankful for His faithfulness to us.
Thank you for praying without ceasing.
Love
Ricki Lea
Saturday, February 12, 2005 8:45 PM CST
We are ready for surgery! We have a CAT scan on Monday and will do a few "pre-surgery" procedures. Surgery is at 8am Tuesday the 15th and will last anywhere from 4-8 hours. Dr. Honeycutt has said two different time frames, so we will just wait and see. I hope the waiting room on the 4th floor is ready for us.
Tuesday is a huge day in Xander's life and I want to thank you in advance for praying for him. This is a moment I have been waiting on since June 2004. Please pray that God will hold my baby in His hands and protect him from any harm.
I have added another link: Tanner Gilbert is from Edmond, he was 1 in October 2004 and the cutest little boy. Please read his website and pray for him. I only hope these children and their families will experience the peace that God has given us. Thank you for everything!
Love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, February 9, 2005 3:05 PM CST
Surgery is now Feb. 15th!!!
I was a little nervous when the doctor's office called and said they were changing Xander's surgery. But I am happy as long as it is sooner than later.
Doug, the boys, and I went to Dallas on Monday and had a great time. We visited several friends, it had been way too long, shopped, went swimming, and ate a Chucke Cheese!
And we did it all in 2 1/2 days! It was a very relaxing time and we knew things were going to get pretty busy once Xander had his surgery and we started the transplants.
Xander is feeling so good. We go to the clinic tomorrow for blood work and then surgery on Tuesday. I am so ready for this to happen. Please pray that this will be a successful surgery and that Doug and I will be comforted by the Lord during the surgery, I wish I could be sedated too!!!!
Love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, February 2, 2005 4:02 PM CST
Good News!
Xander's tumor does not interfere with his facial nerve or his eye! I am so thankful for this. Although Xander will suffer hearing loss, about 60%. Dr. Saunders will have to remove Xander's eardrum and ear canal. The inner ear will remain intact therefore vibrations will still travel to the brain. There are options for hearing devices that we have not decided on yet. To some this news may be shocking and "bad", but Doug and I were prepared for this, though tears streamed down my face when the doctor actually said it. I know that hearing is the least of our worries right now. I was very pleased with the scan results and the visit with Dr. Saunders. Thank you for praying.
Change of plans!!
Of course we wouldn't want everything going the way we initially planned it, so the surgery date has changed. February 18th will be Xander's surgery. I was a little disappointed but I know there is nothing we can do. It is just an extra week for us!
I am seeing first hand the peace of God. He is powerful and miraculous and I am so thankful to be experiencing it.
We meet tomorrow with Dr. Honeycutt at 10am. We will be discussing more surgery details. Pray again that we will receive whatever he says with peace.
Love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, February 2, 2005 7:21 AM CST
Good Morning!
We are leaving in just a few minutes to have an MIBG and CAT scan done at the same time. This will show active tumor and very detailed pictures of the tumor. We are praying that the tumor is not active near Xander's eye area. Today we also have an appointment with Dr. Saunders and he specializes in the skull. Today and tomorrow are BIG days, and we will know more in depth the details of Xander's surgery. His scan is at 8am and the doctor's appt is at 1pm. Please pray for Xander today. God is bigger than this cancer!!
Love
Ricki Lea
Thursday, January 27, 2005 8:59 PM CST
Blood transfusion!
It is not that bad, considering we have had them before. It just always amazes me that when he has the most energy it seems he shouldn't because he needs blood. So tomorrow Xander will get a blood transfusion (about 3 hours at the clinic) and then be ready for Bullnanza!!
The Make a Wish Foundation of Oklahoma City invited all of the kids to attend Bullnanza at the Lazy E Arena in Gutherie. Of course that is not at the top of Doug and I's list of fun......so my mom and dad are going to take Xander.
Praise the Lord! At the clinic today I ran into one of our doctors and she mentioned how Xander's CAT scan from Tuesday looked even better than the one done on Dec. 21st.
She said it looks like the bone and tissue are "healing" and "normalizing". She is very anxoius to see the results from the test we are doing next week. God is so good. Thank you to all who have been praying that this chemo, although extra, would still be effective.
Love,
Ricki Lea
Thursday, January 27, 2005 8:26 AM CST
Today we go to the clinic for blood work, nothing too exciting. Xander always gets a little anxious about the finger stick but gets over it pretty quick.
He has been doing great this week. We went to church last night and he "performed" his favorite Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle song for the whole adult choir. Angela handed him the mic and without hesitation let loose, even a little dancing! I wonder where that comes from. He has so much energy and looks so good and I know it always makes people feel better when they can see him. It is a visible answer to prayer.
Tuesday the CAT scan went well. Xander went to sleep really quick and woke up ready to go eat at Ted's, now we know where he gets that! He ate more tortillas than I could count. We will take the films to Dr. Honeycutt and Dr. Saunders next week. Thank you for your prayers and support. We are so blessed by all of you.
Love
Ricki Lea
Saturday, January 22, 2005 9:14 AM CST
We are home! Xander and Carter have been playing non stop since we got home. Xander is eating well, he finished the day with an oatmeal cream pie just before bed. I wish I could eat those before bed and not think twice about it!!
We will return to the clinic on Tuesday for blood work and then a catscan at 1pm. This is one of the tests ordered by Dr. Honeycutt(neurosurgeon). The time for Xander's surgery is getting closer now that he has completed his chemo. I must say that Xander is very aware of something. On Wednesday as we got off of the highway to go to the clinic Xander asked "mom are we doing my surgery today?" I simply said "no Xander today is just chemo!" and he answered "ok mom" I didn't know what to think, should I laugh or cry? He listened to me all day on Tuesday talk about his tumor being removed. It made me sad to know that surgery is on his mind,he knows more than I give him credit for. I pray that God will comfort him just as He is comforting Doug and I.
As soon as I know the exact surgery date I will pass it along. Until then please continue to pray for protection for Xander and the surgeons.
We are going to see how many times Xander can watch Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and how many times I can wash his Ninja Turtle tank top that HAS to be worn with the matching underwear ALL OF THE TIME! Have a great weekend.
Love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, January 19, 2005 8:07 PM CST
We had a very busy day. It is amazing how many people you miss seeing when you are away from the clinic for just a week or two. The time we spend there allows for friendships to be made and I love getting to catch up with parents that I haven't seen in awhile. There is an unusual "safe" feeling at the clinic.
Cameron's mom, Jamie, came by today on her way back to Texas. It was so good to see her and her belly. She found out she is having a little girl in June! I can't wait for Cameron and Xander to play together again. I'm sure this summer this will all be behind them. Cameron is out of the hospital and will stay at the Ronald McDonald house in Fort Worth until the next transplant.
Kraleigh was able to go home today after only 17 days in for her 1st transplant! Please check her website for updates as well as Cameron's. God has truly blessed us with friends we would have never made if it weren't for cancer. It is nice to have people who know exactly how you are feeling. God is changing so many lives.
Xander is feeling good, a little tired and "weepy". He tends to be very emotional while on chemo! Only 2 days left. Thank you for praying this chemo will be effective. I know that we are in this place at this time for a reason.
Love
Ricki Lea
Monday, January 17, 2005 2:03 PM CST
Say cheese!!! Here is a new pic of Xander and his new hair! It's a little blurry so I might be replacing it soon.
Xander is having a great time "off"
We went to church yesterday and he shocked everyone with how great he felt. Last night he and Carter both stayed up until 11pm and never slowed down until I made them. We had a bunch of youth over for pizza after church. It was really fun and I can't help but wish it happened more often. Doug and I love our youth but I know they understand our lives are not normal right now.
Tomorrow Xander will begin chemo. Please pray that this round, although mild, will shrink his tumor even more. The smaller the better when surgery time comes.
Love
Ricki Lea
Thursday, January 13, 2005 4:47 PM CST
It is OVER!!!
Today Xander's central line worked about the same as yesterday.We learned that yesterday we got 3.4 million stem cells harvested and we needed 5 million for two transplants. So we pressed on again and harvested for another 4 1/2 hours praying that the machine would not beep and that Xander would stay still. It didn't take much movement to stop the blood flow. Because his line is not in good working condition we decided to pull it, literally. The doctor at the blood institute snipped the 3 stiches and pulled the line right out. Xander was not too thrilled to have stitches snipped, but he rejoiced when the line was gone.
When it comes time for the actual transplant we will have to have another line put in, but we will cross that bridge when we get to it. Xander is just glad he will be able to take a huge bubble bath with Carter tonight!
Thank you for those that pray so diligently for us. God is so graciouis to give us so many people who care.
Xander will start chemo on Tuesday Jan. 18th for 4 days in the clinic. I know he will enjoy his time off.
Praise!! our friend Cameron is on his way up. His white count is moving up, slowly but surely. Thank you for going to his website (link below) and praying for him too.
Love
Ricki Lea
Wednesday, January 12, 2005 5:26 PM CST
Today was another long day!! We were at the hospital at 6:30am and in surgery by 8:30am. The surgeon said the previous central line was too big for Xander so he replaced it with a smaller one and this should work.
Well, we made it to the blood institute by 11:30 and were once again "all hooked up" and believe it or not one of the lines was not working properly. At this point tears were straming down my face, completely in awe that what some said was so simple was so difficult for us. I began praying that God would make it work. I didn't want Xander to have to endure another surgery in such a small time frame.
The nurses were wonderful, they literally "babied" the machine all afternoon. Xander slept(thanks to a little morphine after surgery) for a few hours and stem cells were harvested. The machine kept beeping but we pressed on. It took 4 1/2 hours to get about 2 hours worth of stem cells. Thank you nurses for not calling it quits! We go again tomorrow. Please pray that something will happen over night that wil allow Xander's central line to work right so that Xander will not have to go through another surgery. He is such a tough little boy and he is taking everything like a champ.
Love
Ricki Lea
Monday, January 10, 2005 4:57 PM CST
Today was interesting to say the least. We had a great visit with the neurosurgeon and learned a few things to expect with Xander's surgery. I am learning with every discussion that this is a HUGE surgery but thank you Jesus that you are BIGGER! Dr. Honeycutt feels this is the best thing to do and if all goes well Xander will not have to do radiation.
But now for the fun part.....we went to the OBI to harvest stem cells and Xander was all hooked up in the big comfy chair ready to sit for 3 hours and his central line was not working properly. The nurses tried and tried to get blood to go in and out of the lines but it wasn't happening. Off to the clinic we go to see if they can work any magic. Xander had a chest x-ray only to find out that there was a kink in the line and it was not possible to work it out. Wednesday morning Xander will go back to surgery for them to remove and replace his central line. We will then harvest on Thursday and Friday.
This is just another change of plans and nothing we can't handle. So I think tomorrow Xander, Carter, and I will do something fun together that we didn't know we would have time for. Thank you Lord for this "free" day.
Thank you all for praying.
love
Ricki Lea
Friday, January 7, 2005 3:19 PM CST
What a day today has been. I can?t begin to count the phone calls. To make it as brief and simple, for about an hour today I thought Xander?s surgery to remove the tumor was going to be Wed. Jan 12th and then it was suddenly changed to the 1st week in February. I was very confused because I thought they wanted to remove it within the next two weeks.
After speaking with Dr. Rooms and Dr. Honeycutt today I know that they want to be very thorough and do not want to rush into this. Xander?s tumor is in a very delicate place, above his ear and behind his eye. Dr. Honeycutt needs to do a few more scans to make sure he has all the specialists available to him during the surgery. One doctor that he wants there is going out of town for 2 weeks. We have to harvest stem cells next week and there is not enough time to get everything done before this particular doctor leaves. This is a huge surgery (6-8 hours) and it does not need to be rushed.
With all this said, we do not want to be ?idle? for the next month, so Xander will start his 8th round of chemo on Jan. 18th in the clinic for 4 days. He has had this type before and responded really well. When his blood counts come up from the chemo we will have his surgery. Dr. Honeycutt will be able to have all the necessary surgeons there and he will be able to devote a whole day to Xander.
We will meet with Dr. Honeycutt Monday at 9:45 before we go to the blood institute.
God is the same today as He was yesterday. I was almost afraid today when the plans changed (again) but I know that God is powerful and He will never leave us.
love
Ricki Lea
Thursday, January 6, 2005 2:00 PM CST
God is so amazing! I sit here at the computer with tears of joy and nervousness. The doctor just called and said that the "team of doctors" along with the neurosurgeon, Dr. Honeycutt agree that it is best to remove Xander's tumor before the stem cell transplants!!!
I don't have any details of times yet but know it will be within the next 2 weeks. We will go ahead with the stem cell harvesting Monday, because they can be frozen until transplant time.
Xander did great this morning and is eating fruit snacks and watching the disey channel at this very moment.
Doug and I are so happy this moment has come. It will be a big surgery and some reconstuctive surgery will be required for his head at a later date, but I know that none of that matters in the long run. God has opened this door that I prayed for. I wanted it to be a clear and easy decision to remove his tumor. I didn't want to have to track down some doctor in the United States to remove it. I am glad this will happen at Children's where we are comfortable and Xander is familiar. I can't even put into words the emotions that come with this news. God hears OUR prayers and He is so very faithful.
Begin praying right now for Dr. Honeycutt's hands.
love
Doug and Ricki Lea
Wednesday, January 5, 2005 3:20 PM CST
Tomorrow at 6:30am we will report to the surgery floor and Xander is 1st on the schedule for 7:30am. Please pray that Dr. Tuggle will do a great job and there will be no complications as he places the central line.
Hopefully we will be home by dinner!
Love
Doug and Ricki Lea
Monday, January 3, 2005 12:20 AM CST
We have a schedule!!!!!
On Thursday Xander will have a central line placed (about a 30-45 min surgery) and it will be out patient!!!
Then Monday we will go to the Oklahoma Blood Institute to begin harvesting. This normally takes 2-3 days, each visit lasting about 3 hours.
It is nice to be home for a few days and pretend to be normal. But I do get a little anxious at the thought of Xander being in the hospital for 3-4 weeks. I know it will all work out but my brain starts trying to organize who will be there with Xander and when and who will take care of Carter and when, ect. It's just my nature!
Thank you for your continued prayer. We are so thankful for all of you. Pray that God will continue to give us peace and strength.
Thursday, December 30, 2004 6:22 PM CST
ALL CLEAR!!!!
We are so excited to say that Xander's bone marrow came back clear or as the doctor said "no disease present"!
This means that we will move on to the stem cell transplant process. Because tomorrow is a holiday we were unable to schedule Xander's central line placement so we do not have any dates yet. We should know early next week. After the central line is placed we will harvest stem cells at the Oklahoma Blood Institute and then begin the transplant. We had a very lengthy discussion with the transplant doctor today about what to expect. It was a lot to take in at once! For now we will just wait for the surgery to be scheduled and enjoy time at home.
Thank you for your prayers. God has truly given us hope today, we know that He is taking care of us and allowing us to be in His perfect plan. All glory to God!!
love
Doug and Ricki Lea
Tuesday, December 28, 2004 5:25 PM CST
Today was amazing! I know people were praying. The doctors were able to sedate Xander without much trouble. They gave him benadryl about 10 minutes before and it really helped relax him, so he didn't resist being put to sleep. We also had two doctors do the bone marrow biopsy so it went much faster, one on each side.
His bone scan looked good. Nothing new showed up and his tumor was smaller than the last scan showed a month ago. All I ask for is progress!!
One of the nurses looked right at me while she was holding Xander and said "this is going to be a remission biopsy Ricki Lea, I just know it" I started crying because I was praying the samething right at that very moment. God is so powerful and He is making His presence known.
Just pray that the MIBG scan goes well on Thursday and that during our visit with the doctor Thursday afternoon we will feel God's peace as we learn about the days ahead.
Love
Ricki Lea
Monday, December 27, 2004 4:00 PM CST
Christmas was wonderful! Although I think we might need to add on to the house with all the toys our children received. We enjoyed our week off from the clinic.
Just a reminder that Xander will have a bone marrow biopsy tomorrow and a bone scan. Please pray that God will guide the doctor as he does the biopsy. In the past we have had a hard time keeping Xander sedated for the test. He fights going to sleep. So pray that the drug combination will be good and he will not feel a thing. (Too bad they don't give me any drugs!!!) We will know results on Thursday and will meet with the doctor. Thank you for your faithfulness to our family. We are so blessed.
love
Ricki Lea
Thursday, December 23, 2004 9:08 PM CST
I am so amazed at the response to Xander's webpage. I am brought to tears as I read the guestbook and know that SO many people are praying, and DAILY. God is so amazing.
Xander is just finishing watching the Santa Claus and says "I will be Santa's helper mom" He is so excited about Christmas.
Have a Merry Christmas! Enjoy your families.
love
Doug, Ricki Lea, Xander, and Carter
Wednesday, December 22, 2004 8:52 AM CST
Yesterday we went to the clinic and once again Xander was able to see Bob Stoops and several OU players. Xander had several pictures taken! Jason White knew Xander by name!!!
Xander's blood work was good and he was perectly still for his catscan, but I did have to sing some Christmas songs and hold his hand. But whatever it takes.
We will go back to the clinic on Tuesday Dec. 28th for a bone scan and bone marrow biopsy. Then an MIBG scan on the 30th and we will meet with the doctor to discuss the results that afternoon.
I truly believe that God is taking care of our family and I know that He is in control. Pray with us this week specifically that Xander's tumor has shrunk and that is bone marrow will be clean.
Merry Christmas!
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