Tuesday, July 29, 2003 3:34 PM CDT

Sorry its taken so long to update. AJs labs are all back but one and all good. They did a thyroid cascade also and it came back normal. She had to have her hair piece worked on they have decided to make a new one. The one she has is beautiful but I guess that they (Wigs for kids) think after seeing it that she needs a more detailed one if thats the right word. Because of the area of hair loss, this one she has can't be cut down to fit that area once her own hair gets long enough. I can't explain it but it does make sence. They are very into details. They want it to be perfect for her. Thank you, Jeffery, Debbie, Georiana & Jayah. You are the best. The Bahamas (Make A Wish) trip was so awsome as I said she didn't want to leave. We had a few problems starting with the loss of her wallet in Kentucky the night before we were to leave. But there are angels among us. Esther, Norb, and Crista. We got the wallet back but had to pospone the trip one day then we stayed an extra day to make it up. The Atlantis was HUGE & beautiful. We spent the first day exploring. Then the girls got to swim with the dolphins that was Amandas favorite part of the trip. then we all went snorkling the girls got a little sea sick, so we headed back a little early. They have a club RUSH for teens so they headed there the last 2 nights. They Loved it. They swam in the ocean, pools and went on the water slides. It was a great trip. Thank You Make A Wish & Bob for giving Amanda a dream..............
Back to reality her MRI is this thursday, Please pray she continues to heal. My stomach is in knots. It's always worse the closer it gets.
**(CLEAN MRI)**
Thanks for stoping by and all the prayers. If you have a few minutes Please sign her guestbook.

***September is childhood cancer awareness month please check out this page to find out about it.
http://www.geocities.com/goochsplace/cancermonth.html

***I will be updating in the next day or two.***

Friday, July 25, 2003 0:59 AM CDT

We're back. We all had a great time. I was going to post the pictures today but they didn't turn out. we had 5 different cameras so I'm sure it was in the developing. Anyway they are being reprosessed so we have to wait a few more days. AJ is doing great she did NOT want to come home. We've had a little trouble with her new hair piece, but she LOVES it. It's new, we just have to learn how to attach it to her head better by ourselves. She has Clinic and Labs today. So Monday we'll go back to the Salon to get some lessons on the hair piece. Then on the 31st she has her next MRI. Please pray that God continues to heal her body & soul. We've been so blessed. Your prayers for her have meant more to us then you'll ever know. Please continue to add Steves Dad (Gerald) to your prayers he's having more surgery today. I'll update with more details about the trip as soon as I can. It's way past my bed time. Thank You for the prayers and checking on Amanda. Don't forget to sign the guestbook if you have a minute. LY, Kat

P.S. I added a link to our yahoo photos page. I add pictures all the time. There are a few of the dolphin swim from her trip.

Tuesday, July 12, 2003 10:27 AM CDT

AJ got her hair yesterday, It looks great!!! She LOVES it. Thanks to the wigsforkids.org (Michelle, Debbie, Georgiana, Jeffery Paul, Jayah & those who donated their hair) Having lost her hair as a young teen has honestly been the hardest part for her. Shes smiling so much more then she has in a very long time. I will update & post pictures as soon as we get back from the Bahamas. Got to get packing. Thanks for all the prayers and stopping by. LY, Kat

Tuesday, July 8, 2003 12:29 AM CDT

We're home now. We went to TN. to Steves parents for his birthday. We had a really good visit. It was over way to soon though. Amanda got to go shopping AGAIN (lol), Swam in grandma and grandpas pool and boating with Uncle Jeff and Aunt Julia. The newspaper photographer came over to take pictures the one day we were home. They are doing a story on her. I will let you know when it runs. He took pictures while she and Brittany her(Best bud) rode the 4wheeler. Then we went to my family reunion in WV. More shopping,(she's making up for lost time) swimming and fireworks. She will be getting her new wig from wigs for kids Friday the 11th, so we're pumped big time. It was great to see the family but very hard too. I lost my mother 1 year ago the 7th. So it was the first time to see alot of them since then. We have a huge family but it feels so empty. And life somehow goes on for everyone. I know it might sound crazy but, I get through it by imagining shes away on a trip somewhere untill I see them all gathered together and shes not there. It's a very emotional time for me. Up about AJ down about my mom so if anyone thought I acted funny to them I'm sorry. Tammy I really missed seeing you Tim & Seth. You are amazing . ILY! Well I better not start naming all the family who was or wasn't there or I'll never get off here. And I have to get laundry done and pack again for the MAW trip. AJ or I will update again soon. Thanks for all the prayers please keep them coming for all of our young warriors and their families, AJ's next labs are July 25 and MRI is July 31st.
P.S. Please say an extra prayer for AJ's Grandma & Grandpa Davis (aka) grandpa funny face.
LY, Kat & AJ

Thursday, July 3, 2003 1:18 AM CDT

1 YEAR since Amandas last surgery. 1 YEAR cancer FREE. Thank You Jesus. A rollercoaster ride that has changed our lives forever. Thank you for all the prayers. Please pray for AJs continued healing. and remember all the children & thier families who are still fighting thier own battles. LY, Kathy

Wednesday, June 18, 19, 2003 9:36 PM CDT

Hi, I thought I'de update. AJ is still doing fine. Very excited about the upcoming trips. We'll be at the Relay for life this weekend. Then we'll get Bryce and go to TN. for Steves birthday on his long weekend to see his parents. Please pray for his dad hes had to deal with more tests. When we get back Amanda, Bryce and I will just be home a day or 2 and then we're off to WV. for the family reunion on the 5th of July. July 3rd will mark 1 year since her last surgery and 1 year cancer free.
(((((THANK YOU GOD)))))
Then we'll be going on her Make a wish trip to the Bahamas about a week and a half after that. She is even going to get to swim with the dolphins. It's going to be crazy around here the next few weeks. We found out today that a gentleman named Bob actually adopted Amandas wish. We don't know anything about him, Other then his name & he must be very special person to do something like this for a child he doesn't even know. Thank You, Thank You, Thank You, very much Bob for making her wish come true. Theres no way we could ever thank you enough. We do hope to meet you soon. Well I'll try to update again soon. Please don't forget to sign the guestbook. We love to hear from you. Thank you for all your prayers please keep them coming she has another MRI at the end of July. LY, Kat >^..^<

**** I put a couple new pictures on the photos page.****

Wednesday, June 11, 2003 10:03 AM CDT

HAPPY SWEET 16th BIRTHDAY AJ
Today is Amandas Birthday shes 16 years old. I just have to say THANK YOU GOD & Thank you, to all of you for all the prayers. I know prayer is what got us here. GOD is AWESOME. And so is Amanda she is doing so much better then we could have ever hoped for. I've said it before but she is my hero, And everything I could have dreamed of in a daughter. I feel very blessed that God entrusted her to me. 11 Months 8 days cancer free. 6 months off treatment. Thank you for checking in and all the prayers, Please keep them coming for AJ and all the other children who are fighting, have fought or will fight for their lives.

I have sad news another child has lost his battle he is a beautiful angel now. Please pray for him and his family. Please stop by his site and leave a note of support.
www.caringbridge.org/pa/colby/
Jack, Laura, Cameron & ANGEL COLBY
(Feb 14 1998 - June 12 2003).

If You would like to make a donation to Relay For Life please make checks out to me at the address below. You can also let me know if you would like a Luminaria lite in honor or in memory of someone they ask for a minimum $5.00 donation to place your order. They will be lite Friday night at dusk. June 19th. If you have any questions you can contact Ross county American Cancer Society office at (740)702-1160. Thank You.
LY, Kathy

Friday, June 6, 2003 4:06 PM CDT

Hi, Everything is going good here. Amanda is almost finished with drivers Ed. We are all getting excited about the M A W trip and counting down the weeks till her hair piece comes in. American cancer society is having their annual "Relay For Life" at the fair grounds on the 20th of June they ask for Amanda to come and be part of the Grand March of Survivors. If You would like to make a donation please make checks out to me at the address below. You can also let me know if you would like a Luminaria lite in honor or in memory of someone they ask for a minimum $5.00 donation to place your order. They will be lite Friday night at dusk. If you have any questions you can contact Ross county American Cancer Society office at (740)702-1160. Cancer is a monster that needs to be eradicated, and it helps others that are still fighting to see that it can be beat!! I met another mom who has a 15 yr old daughter Emily, with choroid plexus (papilloma) the same type of tumor as Amanda but not cancerous, She Had surgery today to remove it. Everything went great. Please continue to pray for her and her family. Your Prayers have meant everything to us. Thanks for checking in and please keep the prayers coming for AJ and all the kids. LY, Kathy

Monday, May 12, 2003 0:05 AM CDT

Hey,its Amanda! Everything has been going pretty good. Im almost done with my 9th grade work(finally).I started drivers ed, im pretty happy about that. Theres 4 people in my class that I know from school and they're friends,even though I havent talked to them for a long time, they are people I get along with. I went shopping while I was in West Virginia...that was fun!!I love to shop! I had fun getting to visit family. Im waiting on my wig to be made, its gonna be a while but its something to look forward to. Well thats all there is to say....me or mom will update soon. Thanks for the prayers,please keep them coming!L/Y all! *Amanda*

Please say an extra prayer for our friend Connor
www.caringbridge.org/tn/connorhunley
He under went major surgery 5/23/03.
The surgery was a great success, Thank God!! But he still needs our prayers. Stop by and say hello.

Wednesday, May 7, 2003 10:21 PM CDT

We went to the Mother, Daughter spa day that Adventures for wish kids and Charles Penzone Salon sponsored, It was a very nice turn out. I got all my hair cut off and donated it to wigs for kids. They are the ones making Amandas custom wig. If It can help make one kid half as happy as she is to get her hair, I'm on it. If anyone is interested you can get more information on the org. through thier website. www.charlespenzone.com
We just got back from WV. It was a good trip. The Grandmas are doing great. Thankfully we didn't run into any of the bad weather and AJs asthma didn't flair up. Moms headstone turned out real nice. I'm so glad it was finished in time for Mothers day. Thank You Dad and Barb for everything. We love you. Amanda is feeling very good after just having surgery last Thursday. Steves Aunt Carolyn sent us a page I wanted to share with everyone. I think God uses her sometimes to remind me of things just when I need reminding. http://www.oneangel.net/Cards/sweet/ss/ss.html
Thanks For checking in & All your prayers!!!! Please sign her guest book if you don't know what to say just sign your name. So she knows who's stopped by. LY, Kathy

Monday, May 5, 2003 10:07 AM CDT

Amanda is doing well. She got fitted for the hair piece. It should be here in time for the trip. I miscounted the time so we should hopefully be fine on time. Thank Goodness. The spa day was nice. We're headed to WV. now so I can check my moms headstone. We'll be back in a day or two depending on how Amandas asthma does while we're there. She doesn't do well around the cat. If you don't want to leave a message just sign your name so she knows who stopped by to check up. Thanks for all the prayers. Gods is hearing them. LY, Kat

Friday, May 2, 2003 1:31 AM CDT

Amandas port removal went smooth. She did great. She was TUFF as always. Shes not having much pain at all. Not like when they put it in. She will be getting measured and a mold done for her hair piece tomorrow shes very, very excited. She looks forward to getting that hair more then her trip to the Bahamas. I think I would too if I was her age. It takes them 8-10 wks to get the hair done so we're really cutting it close. I hope she gets it in time for the trip or she'll be so disapointed. Well we will update again soon. Please sign the guestbook, If you don't want to leave a message just sign your name so she knows who stopped by to check up. Thanks for all the prayers.

Aunt Murhl,
I got a call today, Moms stone is done. They were setting it today. So I'll be heading to Grannys probably this comming Tuesday. I already called Granny and let her know about it. I also called Richard he will try to come Memoral wk. end. I'll try to come in again then. I hope to see you.

Love You All,
Kat

Saturday, April 26, 2003 1:35 AM CDT

The Doctor visit went well. He did tell us that the two small spots (flakes they call them) are more then likely the a chemical they use to stop bleeding during surgery. It was great to finally have the Dr. who did the the surgery look at all the films. It's so good to have him back. You can't even imagine. If you didn't know he had a health emergency himself last summer, so for a while we didn't know if he would still practice. They have scheduled Amandas port removal for May 1st. I know that's fast, but we really want to get it done and over with. No more port flushes. They weren't a big deal, just a pain in the butt. Drive an hour up there sit for 3 or 4 hours. A whole day wasted for something it takes less then 5 mins to actually do. Then the hour drive home. Plus the fact she can feel it in there, and it sometimes gets irritated. We have Bryce this weekend so we're all happy little campers. Life is good. Thank You God. Thanks for stopping by and your continued prayers they are being heard and answered. Please continue to pray for us all. LY, Kat

Wednesday, April 23, 2003 2:54 PM CDT

Not anything new to tell. Amanda is doing great. She will have the molding of her scalp done soon for her new hair piece. She is so excited about it. She's happier then I've seen her in the last 15/16 months. We go to see the neurosurgeon tomorrow. It still makes me nervous even though the MRI was stable. I just guess it always will. She's still gaining weight. Ever since this all began her clothes size kept going down. Everything got to big, now shes outgrowing her clothes again(YEAH)!!!! Well I'll post again soon. Thanks for stopping by all the prays. Please continue to pray for all the kids and thier families.
LY, Kathy

Wednesday, April 16, 2003 1:39 PM CDT

We just got the preliminary results from the MRI. The MRI is stable no changes since the last one in January. THANK YOU JESUS.
Surgery to remove port is being scheduled. Will let you know.
I got this from Steves Aunt Carolyn today and it fits, so I thought I should share it. Thanks for stopping by and all the prayers. We Love You all. Steve, Kathy & Amanda



YOUR CROSS

Whatever your cross
Whatever your pain
There will always be sunshine.
After the rain


Perhaps you may stumble
Perhaps even fall
But God's always there
To help you through it all.


P.S. Happy Birthday Grandma Joanne.

Monday, April 14, 2003 11:36 PM CDT

Here are a couple things I've found as I've visited other childrens pages. I barrowed them tonight to keep me company. Please keep Amanda in your prayers. She's my gift from God. Everything a mother could ever hope for in a daughter. She's my Hero! Please remember all the children who are fighting their own battles.
Tests were done. Hopefully we'll have results from MRI tomorrow sometime, but we wont have the results from the B.A.E.R hearing test for one to two weeks. The tech. who gave the test said her hearing seams fine, but of corse we have to wait for the Dr. to tell us. Right now there doesn't seem to be any damage.
P.S. Make a wish called today the trip to the Bahamas is on for
July,14th -18th.

THE SCAN

A Sleepless Night

Tomorrow our lives could change again
forever...forever...
Will the scan be clear, will the tumor return,
now...or never?...
We try to smooth the ups, the downs.
It's been nice breathing calmly, nice not to frown,
But tomorrow our lives could change again,
forever...forever...

Tomorrow we'll sit while the bangs and clicks
surround us...engulf us....
staring down the tunnel, waiting for the films
that free us...or damn us...
The probation could last for another four months,
Or find us retreating behind false fronts
That we take out tomorrow to hide the anguish
around us...within us...

Tomorrow our lives could continue on course
or falter...get altered...
It's amazing to think that one simple test has
such power...such impact...
To the world around us the test dates come
one after another, eventually numb
To the fact that tomorrow could leave us again
bewildered...off kilter...

Tomorrow we hope that the treatments have helped
change things...delay things...
Are there further treatments that we can survive
do we want them?... can we stand them?...
Has the Cancer been killed; does it lie there in wait?
Will it show up tomorrow, or some much later date?
Tomorrow a crossroads, or merely a rest stop
on a journey....to eternity...

Tomorrow our lives could change again
forever...forever....
Tomorrow our world could be turned upside down
tossed asunder...it's no wonder...
That we dwell in the past, trying to recall the way
That we made it through "tomorrow"
when it was yesterday
And why we hope to face "tomorrow" again and again
forever...forever...
~Steve Fass



The Strenth of an Egg
By Juliet Freitag


Parents of children with cancer, or really any serious condition, are often referred to or viewed as having strenth "like a rock". Albeit flattering, it isn't quite true.

It is more like the strength of an egg. An egg, you ask? Yes! If you'll think about it, you'll see my point. An egg has a polished, smooth outer appearance, with no cracks or weak spots visable. It seems almost inconceivable that the inside might not be so smooth or solid.

Most children, at some point are shown the famous egg trick. An egg set at just the right angle can withstand enormous amounts of pressure and cannot be cracked or broken. Yet the same egg, tapped gently at an ever slightly different angle, will break. The contents, once so neatly concealed, will come spilling out. The no longer perfect shell will be crushed. It looks so fragile that it seems inconceivable that it ever held any strengh.

A rock, on the other hand, is solid all the way through. To break it is almost impossible. If you succeed, you will find that there is nothing inside but more rock.

It takes a lot more than pure hardness to hold the hand of hope. Parents of children with cancer are not solid all the way through. We hurt, we cry, we hope. It takes a very careful balancing act to keep the shell from being shattered. "Balancing an egg" while running a household, going for doctors visits and hospital stays, keeping the family together, and holding on to the constantly unraveling ties of your sanity can be very tricky indeed! Occasionally, the angle will be off and the shell will break, shattering hope and all the neatly secured appearances of a truly fragile existence.

Unlike Humpty Dumpty, though, parents of kids with cancer will pick themselves up and put themselves back together again.

OVER and OVER again........

*****"For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you." (Isaiah 41:13)

*****"I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.

Thursday, April 10, 2003 8:19 PM CDT

Hi, Amanda and Steve just got back from his parents in TN. They had a really good visit. She slept like a log when she got home. She and Grandma went shopping which ,(of course) she thoroughly enjoyed. I went to WV. to visit. I Really missed her. It's been her & I 24/7 for a while so it was hard to be away from her, But at least she was with her dad so It felt safe, and she did just fine without me. We're going tomorrow for clinic, labs and her hair consultation. Thanks for all the prayers and stopping by. LY, Kat

Friday, April 11, UPDATE: Labs & Port flush went fine. Saw the Dr. today, he said she is doing very well. Shes has gained some weight. She's up to 108 lbs. The hair salon was very helpful, we got some good ideas. They will be sending me some paperwork from "Wigs for kids". The website is www.beautifulhairagain.com
They will cover the cost. if not totaly at least a large portion of it. Anyway I will keep you updated ASAP on the upcoming MRI & BAER hearing test. Please keep the prayers coming. Thanks

Monday, March 31, 2003 2:45 PM CST

Dr. appointment went well. Did labs to check carbatrol levels, They just called, levels were all good. Scheduled (BAER) Hearing test April 15 also. Some very slight hearing loss in Rt. ear we think. Due to nerve damage maybe from Chemo or rads, nothing is for sure. But I will update as soon as I find out anything. It's time to get her eyes checked again too so I'll have to schedule that pretty soon. I thought that I had already posted about the Mother, Daughter Event May 4th that we were invited to, But I must not have. The Charles Penzone Salon is doing a spa day Facials, manicures, pedicures, massages, We're really looking forward to it. The wish kids org. and Childrens hospital are sponsoring it. I looked at they're web page and found out they have hair pieces and wigs that are designed for kids so they fit them better. I called and made an appointment to take her on the 11th the same day she has her clinic labs. They have hair pieces that just cover areas not the whole head they're made with a new light weight breathable material which will be perfect for her since she has a lot of hair where shes got it but where she had rads (large area) she still has no hair and I'm not sure it will come back at all. Or if what she does have would be long enough to get weaved. We'll go and see what will work for her then decide if we have to take out a personal loan to pay for it. LOL! The wig she has now is starting to look a little worse for the wear. She's wore it everyday since the day she got it. Sorry I got a little windy on this update. Thanks for stopping by and keeping Amanda and the other children in your prayers it means EVERYTHING to us. Please con't to keep our troops abroad in your prayer also. LY, Kat

Sunday, March 23, 2003 10:19 PM CST

Hi, Not a lot new to tell really. Amanda went out last night to a "church scavenger" hunt with her friend Kenda & a few other girls. I thought It was neat idea. Groups of kids went from house to house of people on a list from the church (it's a small town)and had to answer questions about Bible scripture and they would get one of the ingredients to make a pizza for a party later. So they did that then they went to the school and hung out together, then came back and made the pizzas. She was nervous about seeing alot of the kids she went to school with and hasn't seen for so long, but she had a real good time & she said it wasn't as bad as she thought it might be. She said it was good to see alot of them. That might get her closer to wanting to go back to school. Her MRI is coming up on the 15th, but the Dr. office sent a letter that he wont be in the office that day so they have us coming back the 24th for the results. We can't wait that long, we have never had to wait more then maybe 20-30 mins after a scan. We'll try to get something else worked out there. Tutoring is going good now things are starting to click again for her. I'll let you know how the neurologist appointment goes friday. Thanks for stopping by and keep those prayers coming for all of the kids. Pray for our president also, To make the right decisions for us here at home and our troops away from home.They need our prayers too. He has the weight of the world on his shoulders. Agree or disagree with the war , We're there. Like it or not.
LY, Kat
UPDATE: Dr. appointment went well. Did labs to check carbatrol levels, will let us know. Scheduled (BAER) Hearing test April 15 also. Some very slight hearing loss in Rt. ear we think. It's time to get her eyes checked again too so I'll have to schedule that pretty soon.

Sunday, March 16, 2003 10:29 PM CST

Hey everyone! This is Amanda. I have been doing pretty good, except for I have been coughing alot and its making my throat sore, but mom got me some meds so maybe those will work! It has been really nice out lately so ive been out side alot, especially because Bryce was here! He is sooo cute,I love him so much!!! I dont really know when my next Dr Appt is but I think its in like a week or more, its just a check up at least. Well thats all there is to say for now! keep checkin in and thanks for all the prayers please keep them coming. love and prayers ~Amanda~

NOTE: The appointment is with the neurologist Mar.28 @ 2:00. Follow up on seizure meds. Nothing new, no problems with them. Also they did check her sinuses when she had the last MRI, They said they were fine, She is still having problems with them so I will be calling the Dr. back. LY, Kat

UPDATE: I took her to the Dr. today & I told him she hasn't had an allergy shot in well over a year could that be it? he agreed thats all it is, so he put her on (zyrtec) and refilled her meds for her nebulizer. So I hope it clears it up.

Friday, March 7, 2003 6:39 PM CST

AJ had her port flushed today, Everything went fine. She must be feeling pretty good cause shes been in rare form lately. She has put on about 5 Lbs. and is getting a few nubbs on her head where they did the rads. We put some new pictures in the photo section. (you will have to scroll to the right to see them all). We wanted everyone to see her HANDSOME nephew(we're not partial lol)and her new toy. Thanks for stopping and the continued prayers.
LY,
Kathy, Steve & AJ

Monday, February 24, 2003 1:38 PM CST

Hi, Things are going well. Amandas appitite is still not up to par, but she continues to try to eat and her color is looking alot better. The fatigue still comes and goes, hopefully when her appitite returns she will start eating better and feeling stronger. Her next port flush and labs will be Mar 7. The MRI is scheduled for April 15. We still haven't heard anything from her school or tutor. The weather has been so bad here school has been closed so once they get going again I guess we'll hear something. We have heard back from "Make A Wish", with good news. She wanted her friend Brittany to go with her and made that part of her wish. They let us know today that she can come. We are thrilled. The trip will be planed for some time around July which is great that way her hair has more time to grow back in so maybe she wont have to wear a wig and she will have more time to put some weight back on so she'll feel better about the way she looks. She is after all a 15 year old girl and she wants to look good on the beach LOL! Thanks for stopping by and all the prayers. Don't foget to sign the guest book. LY, Kat

Wednesday, February 19, 2003 6:22 PM CST

Hey everyone! This is Amanda. Im doing good. We have got like 10 inches of snow, it's been crazy! I havent had school b/c of snow and my teacher hasnt felt to good. I havent got to see my nephew lately which makes me sad :( but I have no control over that. Im pretty sure I'll be going to the Bahamas, dont know when though. They said only people who live with me can come but we have been begging for my best friend Brittany to go too. He just said he would ask...! I hope she can go! well i dont have anything else to say. Thanks for reading this and please sign the guestbook! ~Amanda~

Friday, February 7, 2003 7:38 PM CST

Hi, Amanda had her port flushed today . No labs. Everything went fine. She started her tutoring again but the tutor has been sick this week. Hopefully she'll be back this coming week. Amanda has a lot of work to catch up on. We haven't heard anything else from make a wish yet, but I expect to in a week or two. Amanda is still feeling the after effects from the radiation and shes lost more weight. One of the nurses told us that is to be expected for maybe 6 months. I don't know. I really hope she doesn't lose anymore weight though. It really bothers her. She does try to eat more. Thanks for checking in and all the prayers. Please sign the guest book, she does check. and it means alot to us all . LY,
Kathy, Steve
&
Amanda

Saturday, February 1, 2003 3:24 PM CST

Hi all, Things are going well. We went to the neuro/psych review, and things went as I expected. Nothing is happening yet we will have to go to her school and update her IEP and find out what our options are. In the mean time she still has a several hours left of home tutoring to get through which she is entitled to 1 hr. per day that she has missed of school. We went and got the car shes been wanting and we love it. She really likes driving it. It's alot easier then the van to learn in. Shes feelng better everyday. The trip to TN. has been postponed until later in the month. We will be making another trip to WV. also. Her next apointment is FEB.7th for her port flush. Thanks for checking in, all the prayers and please sign the guestbook. LY, Kathy, Steve, & AJ

**Make A WIsh sent someone over to meet with Amanda this past Thursday to talk to her about her wish. She's very excited about it.


Sorry about the web page. Hopefully we'll have it fixed soon.

Wednesday, January 22, 2003 at 08:17 AM (CST)

We're back home. It was great to see everyone. They sure were glad to see Amanda . It was hard for me to be there without my mom anymore I just really miss her. We're going to get our little sunshine fix (grandson) Bryce, today or tomorrow . Thats all Amandas talked about for days (when? when? when?). The neuro/psych tests came back so we'll go talk to them about the results next Friday. The report was great with everything she's been through, and they think maybe she should go back to school as soon as later this year which she wants no part of until she feels and looks more like her old self and catches back up with "Her own Class". We'll see what they have to say, but she's made up her mind already she says & thats it. She's her fathers child so they will have their hands FULL LOL! If they try to change her mind . Once they decide something it's in stone.. I think thats a great thing, nothing holds either of them down for long. Got to go now. Thanks for checking in and all the prayers. Please remember to sign the guest book. There are a couple pages I'de like for you to check out. There are angels among us, these ladies prove it. www.chubbychica.com click on caringbridge. and www.caringbridge.org/page/gooch. adopt a kid.
LY, Amanda, Kathy, Steve
***NEW PHOTOS***

Friday, January 17, 2003 at 10:13 PM (CST)

Hey, Just a quick note to let you all know AJ is finally starting to feel human again. The Rads really kicked her biscuit. We also wanted to let you know we will be away from the computer a few days. AJ got a new phone and is really excited about it. It should be here when we get back. We're finally going to go see the Grandmas YaY!!! That really excites me. So we will update as soon as we get back, maybe by then, i'll have figured out how to download the scanner on this new computer so I can update pictures. Thanks for checkin on her and all the prayers, please continue to pray for all the C-kids and their families and please sign the guestbook. LY, Kat.

Friday, January 10, 2003 at 04:52 PM (CST)

GREAT NEWS AJ is cancer FREE the MRI was CLEAN ! Thank You for all the prayers . She won't have to have another MRI for 3 months . She will still have to have her port flushed once a month untill she gets it removed, which should be after the next clean MRI. We stopped in to see our friends Brad Wilson and Aaron Conkle on the Hem/oncol ward J/5. They were both looking good and feeling fine. I checked on Spencers page no news on his MRI results yet. I will be checking on Andrew in the next few days he's a little boy the same age as my Grandson Bryce. We meet in clinic but haven't seen in a while. They live here in the same town . I will update again soon. Thanks again for all the prayers and checking in. Please don't forget to sign the guestbook. LY, Kathy

Sunday, January 05, 2003 at 05:43 PM (CST)

Hi , hope you all had a great christmas ours was. My dad and Barb (stepmom), were here and so was Bryce (grandson). Steves dad is doing much better. AJs counts were all good & her followup with her radiation oncol. was good, so now were just waiting for that (CLEAN) MRI on the 10th. I pray that 2003 is better for us all. So far so good . We still haven't made it in to Clarksburg to see the Grandmothers though so hopefully we'll get there soon. Steve & AJ will be going back to Tenn, so when they get back I think we'll go. Only one vehicle we trust to go that distance. Please add Spenser to your prayers for the clean MRI on the 10th he also had the same kind of tumor Amanda had . There's a link to his page below check it out. Thanks for checking in and all the prayers . LY, Kat

Monday, December 23, 2002 at 02:12 PM (CST)

Hey, this is Amanda! How come you guys are not signing the book? You dont love me any more!LoL! Anyways...Im doing really good, we just got back from Tennessee. My grandpa had to have heart surgery, they had some problems but hes doin great now! Would everybody please say a prayer for him?! My other grandpa might come down for christmas along with my grandma of course :)!

I have a doctors appt. on the 27 to get my port flushed. hopefully that will be coming out soon, cause I hate it!
well theres really no other news I dont think...but we will keep you updated!!!Thanks for all the prayers, and please remember my grandpa! THANKS! *Amanda*

Friday, December 20, 2002 at 07:23 PM (CST)

M E R R Y C H R I S T M A S
Hi , Amanda finished up her neuro/psych testing today everything went fine. She was really tired but managed to get through it. We also went to see the neurologist for the EEG she had they didn't find anything , but said that, that is not unusual for seizures not to show up even if they are actively having them. Does't make sence to me but as long as she doesn't have anymore in the next 2 years they will start to wean her of the meds. We are changing the meds also now to see if it helps with her eating and maybe her thinking will get clearer . The Dr. didn't act like he thought it would be very helpful, but I guess he thought it would be worth a try because he is changing them. She is out now at the skating rink which is like a normal life, like it used to be for us. before D Day hit . Skating every weekend . No she's not skating, just Chillin , but if she wants to skate she will put the helmet on . We will be in TN. for the weekend (Sat/Sun). We will be home before christmas though. Steves Dad is having surgery so we want to go check up on him. AJ has a port flush and counts on the 27th and then the MRI on Jan 10th. Thanks for checking in and please continue to keep all the kids & their families in your prayers, expecially the ones who have to be in hospital during the holidays. Please take a minute to sign the guest book. Since the counter isn't working we can't tell if you've been here. Thanks LY, Kat

Friday, December 13, 2002 at 02:11 PM (CST)

UPDATE : AJ says stay off the sidewalks. She got her drivers permit today . LOL :op"

Monday, December 09, 2002 at 01:29 PM (CST)

Hi just thought I'de give you all an update . Everything is going well . She had her neuro/psych testing the first day was good and it didn't seem like it went as long as the second day . That day we ended up leaving before she was done . It ended up frustrating her to much, she only had 2 things left to do. We will finish the testing on Dec, 20 which is the same day we find out what the neurologist has to tell us about the EEG she had. She did end up loosing the weight she gained back so I think I'll ask the Dr. when we're there if he can change her seizure medicine, because I think that's what is causing the problem. Well thanks for checking and please continue to pray for her and all the other kids. LY, Kathy

Wednesday, December 04, 2002 at 06:42 PM (CST)

We're home . She's done with radiation. I took her to Renos Restaurant on the way home to celebrate, she asks to stop every time we go by. We did end up staying an extra day because the neuro-psych testing she was supposed to have last month got canceled until Jan. but they called Monday to see if I wanted to bring her this Wednesday and Friday for the test so we are doing it now . I wanted to get it over now otherwise we'll have to start with the new year new deductable, new insurance and her IEP for school is late but the school extented it through January. Then they plan to do another one. They didn't do the first one until Aug. so it took them eight months and 2 brain surgerys to tell us she does't qualify for any extra help to get caught up which I really don't think NO I know they don't know what their doing It's very frustrating not only do we have to deal with the illness, we also have to find out what they are supposed know & be doing (thier JOB) and then tell them how to do it. GRRRRR! So I'll feel better with people that know what they are doing testing her and then giving the school instructions so they will do right by her. Thanks for checking on her, all your prayers and please sign her guestbook. Love, Kathy

Sunday, December 01, 2002 at 12:25 AM (CST)

I hope you all had a Happy Thanksgiving. Ours has been good and bad. AJ and Shawn broke up so that hasn't been so great for her, but shes been out with her friends at the skating rink a couple times which shes always loved so at least shes not letting it get to her to much . Needless to say we are very Thankful to get through this year. Steve always fixes most of the Thanksgiving meal so It was great . He's a very good cook. Amanda ate pretty good. Thank You Gerald and Joanne for teaching him. Amanda slept alot when we first got home, I'm glad because she is so tired now she really needs a lot of rest. She's a typical Teenager she wants to stay up late and go all the time even if she draggin butt. Thank God the treatments are almost over. She has one monday and tuesday and thats all . She'll be done. So we can come home to stay . Steve and I are going shopping for christmas and to clean the apartment out tomorrow. It should be a lot of fun, Steve just loves to shop(NOT)! Oh well I think I can get in and out of the stores pretty fast . Amanda showed me everything as long as they didn't move any displays it should go quickly enough. AJ will spend the day with Brittany so I'll be ok leaving her . Thanks for checking in and please keep us all in your prayers. Don't forget to sign the guestbook. LY, Kathy
** New Photo **

Tuesday, November 26, 2002 at 08:35 PM (CST)

AJ is doing fine . She's made plans to go skating this weekend with some friends, she's really excited about it . If she decides to skate, and not just hang out, she knows she has to wear her helmet so I doubt she'll skate. But who knows. Right now she's watching Real World on MTV. I got a little shopping done for xmas with Steve this past weekend . But there is still a lot left to do . Amanda is completly done with hers . Thank You to the couple from church who helped with that. Steve and I are going to come back up here to clean out the apartment probably Sunday so we'll do a little shopping then. Bryce was up this last weekend he's a little bit ornery(ms) He was in a MOOD and wanted nothing to do with anyone except Amanda. She grooved on it, but Old Mem(me) didn't care for it much lol. He usually likes me when he's in a MOOD. Oh well it made them happy I guess I can share a little(not that I had a choice.) I'll update more when we get home . I hope everyone has a great Thanksgiving . I know we will. Three treatments left. Tomorrow , Monday, & Tuesday and we're out of here. {{{{Doing the happy dance}}}} I would like to do something to mark the end of radiation , but I have no idea what . Thanks for checking in and please continue to keep us and all the familys going through these battles in your prayers. LY, Kathy

Sunday, November 24, 2002 at 11:09 PM (CST)

We're home for the weekend, getting ready to go back to columbus. It's so good to be home. It woun't be long this week and next and we're done, 3 days this week and 2 days next . We will have to make the trip still yet for follow-ups maybe 1 or 2 times a week for a while, but we can deal with that. Amanda is not eating very well she lost a little weight again. I'm getting another refill on the pills she takes to help her have an apitite(ms)[megastrol]. Hopefuly that will do the trick. She's still doing great other than that. She's almost done with her xmas shopping. I, on the other hand have barely started . It's hard to do when she's with me all the time in columbus. I woun't leave her that long and thats were the stores are at that she likes so what can ya do?. Wait and go back up by my self after we come home so she can stay with her dad I quess. Well it feels like I've written enough for a novel. Thanks for checking in on her and don't forget to sign the guestbook. Please pray for all the kids and their familys that are going through now what we've already been through this past year that God will also get them through it . LY, Kat

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

Wednesday, November 20, 2002 at 07:07 PM (CST)

Everything is going well . She's almost done. Tomorrow is the last all over ventracle treatment, then she has three more that will be more focused, and then the last three will be focused only on were the tumor was. Then she's done God willing Dec.3. Her MRI will be Jan. 10, In a way I wish they could do one every day to watch, but it's like our world could fall apart with each one. So we dread them. I'm not going to think about it now . I'm going to try to make it a wonderful thanksgiving & christmas for her , because we have a lot to thank God for. We'll try to wait until tomorrow to worry about tomorrow. She does have a little sunburn going on , on her head & ears now . Shes not liking that much . But she doesn't complain about anything much. She's way tougher then me . You all know I would be whimping out big time. But then I'm a sissy she's not. Thanks for checking on her and all the prayers please keep praying. I think it's working. Don't forget to sign the guestbook. LY, Kat

Thursday, November 14, 2002 at 06:40 PM (CST)

We're back in Columbus. The long weekend at home was wonderful!! Shes almost done shes had 20 treatments as of today . She has around 8 to 10 more to go. It feels like we've been doing this so much longer then we actually have. She is doing so good, just tired and weak but it's nothing she can't handle. Shes tough! It seems like her hair is growing in so fast . I just noticed it coming in the other day now it's really filling in. Well I'm going to get back to her. I don't like leaving her to long. Thanks for checking on her and please keep praying for all of us. Don't forget to sign the guestbook . We love to hear from all of you. LY, Kathy

miss you grumpy

Saturday, November 09, 2002 at 01:54 PM (CST)

We're home for the weekend. Her counts seemed to be good Friday. She has her EEG November 21, she will see her gastrologist (for stomache trouble) the same day and also has her Neuro-psych testing (brain function) on the 27th and the 29th those test take about 3 - 4 hours each, so those will be long days for her. We went and got her hip hair cut so she's a happy camper. We haven't set a date yet but she will have her MRI in about 8 weeks. Please pray it is clean and that it stays that way. She has about 3 weeks left of rads then they like to give the brain 6 weeks to let the swelling & inflammation go down, otherwise they can't get an accurate reading. She seems to be getting a little bit of new hair in the very back of her head above the nape of her neck but also losing eye lashes and brows at the same time, when they hadn't come out when her hair came out. I don't know how that works it's just strange. She's still feeling good just tired. Thanks for checking in and always the prayers. Please remember to sign her guest book. LY, Kat

Thursday, November 07, 2002 at 05:06 PM (CST)

Hi nothing new to tell really . Amanda has her regular counts tomorrow, radiation and home for a long weekend . I still haven't heard when they want to do her EEG , I called the Dr's. office but they haven't returned my calls yet . I think I may just stop by there tomorrow while we're at Childrens anyway to find out whats up. Shes feeling good and says shes ready to get back to her school work So if you're reading this Terri we need to work something out. AJ said she might try out for cheerleader again next year. I think shes missed out on enough so I hope she does. Well I better get back over to the apartment . Thanks for checking in all the prayers and please keep praying. Don't forget to sign the guest book. LY, Kathy

Sunday, November 03, 2002 at 10:35 PM (CST)

Well we're headed back to Columbus in the morning. Hopefully She'll be done right before Thanksgiving or shortly after . She gets tired easy, but when she isn't tired she leaves me in the dust. The place we stay isn't that bad now that we're getting used to it. We can get videos, play pool, ping pong, (tennis, basketball) to cold for outdoor play for me though. Berlina & Brittany have come up every week so far so that helps alot . Last week we all went to City center mall. Shopping is always a good pass time for us girls . Berlina did some xmas shopping, the girls ran around on their own some and I got AJ some things she needed not for christmas. Thanks for checking in , all the prayers, & Please don't forget to sign the guestbook. LY, Kat

Friday, November 01, 2002 at 03:29 PM (CST)

Treatments are going fine. There really isn't anything new to tell about that. We came home last night so she could go trick or treating with Brittany. Yes they are a little big for it , but alot of kids their age were out. At least the kids were staying out of trouble. I love watching all the little ones in their costumes they're so cute. We drove to columbus and back today for the treatment. I don't think I would last a week if I had to do it everyday. I'm so glad we have a place to stay up there. The Hip hair finally came this week it's long, straight, Beautiful & I LOVE it. She does't want to wear it though until she gets it cut and styled. I'm a little scared about someone trying to style it because it's not a full wig. I know it will be hard to do. Thank you for checking in and all the prayers. Please remember to sign the guest book. LY, Kat

P.S. Hi Grandma Libby and Granny I love and miss you both very much. Please take care of yourselves and I hope to make it in before christmas if the weather isn't to bad and all else goes well, Amanda should be done with her treatments sometime in the begining of December.

Friday, October 25, 2002 at 08:27 PM (CDT)

Sorry it's taken so long to update . I didn't have a lot of chances to go use the computer and when I had a chance the doors were locked up. I don't like to leave her alone because she could have another seizure so I'de rather not be gone to long and she didn't feel like going . Anyway So Wed. she saw the neurologist . He wants to do a brain wave test on her, con't on the anti seizure meds and do some blood work. Nothing is set up yet except the blood work was done today. She also saw the radiologist oncologist Mon. Just routine on Mondays. She also saw her regular oncologist for blood counts & physical today. She is doing well no burning or skin irritation so far. We had company this week so that helped pass the time alot. She wasn't feeling very good the day her friend Brittany came but when her Dad came Wed. she was back to feeling pretty good again. She ended up not having rads. on Thursday because the whole campus lost power so her machine was down and they sent us home for the day. Thanks for checking in and all the prayers, please keep praying. Don't forget to sign the guestbook we have time to check just not time to update as often , but I will try to do better. LY, Kat

Friday, October 18, 2002 at 04:17 PM (CDT)

Hi we're home for the weekend Yeah!! It is sooooo boring there. But we'll get used to it and it'll be ok. It's a beautiful area. Her radiation is going ok I guess , The doctor will check her every Mon. until she's done with it. We have an apointment with a neurologist on the 23rd at 2:45. Shes had headaches every evening & a little queezy & a little off balance sometimes. She says her eyes get blurry alittle bit. We'll see I can't wait for her apointment, I will feel better knowing they are on the job. It's hard to know what to do sometimes about different symptoms. Well please keep her in you prayers. Thanks for checking up on her & Thanks to all who sign her guestbook.
LY, Kathy

Tuesday, October 15, 2002 at 04:46 PM (CDT)

I'm really wore out but I'll update now cause I don't know when I'll be able to next. She saw the radiologist,oncologist yesterday, they went over everything with us again and then they made the mask of her face(Which she hated!)and did the mapping so that they have it ready to start tomorrow (WED.). We did get an apartment up there. If you want the address or phone number just call my cell phone or email me and I'll give them to you. She had clinics today and they went well. They are sill trying to set up an apointment with neurology but can't seem to get ahold of anyone, So in the meantime they started her on the anti seizure meds. That is a little relief & I'll take any relief I can get at this point. I will not be able to get to my outlook email so If you want to email please use my katdd@yahoo.com. Thanks for the prayers and stopping by. LY
Kathy

Sunday, October 13, 2002 at 07:56 PM (CDT)

We had to call the squad to get Amanda last night because she had a siezure . Shes gone through two brain surgeries (Jan. & July) and this is the first time shes ever had one. It was all very scarey for all of us . Steve is my rock , I was just going back and forth I didn't know what to do with myself. They said they thought it was her blood sugar level was low enough to cause it. The chemo has done such a job with all her other blood counts , I guess I can imagine it could cause this to. They let her go home after they monitored her for a while and talked to some of the Drs. at Childrens. Shes eaten well today and says she feels like nothing ever happened. We all went (Steve, Jeff, Amanda , Shawn & I ) to the creek and meet up with some friends we go four wheeling with and had a small bonfire & cook out. Steve and I were thinking about not going after last night and because we're both sick but , Amanda said she was really looking forward to going, so we went down it was really nice we had a good time. We go tomorrow to the Radiologist oncologist at 1:00 then Tues. to see her regular oncologist for her counts as usual . Then they plan on having her seen by the neurologist soon after . Well as always thank you for stopping by and please keep her in your prayers. LY, Kathy

Thursday, October 10, 2002 at 11:32 PM (CDT)

We're home now she's doing great , Tired yes but we can deal with that. Her next appointment is with the Radiology oncologist Dr. Baur at OSU on the 14th then she has clinics on the 15th at Childrens with Dr. Olshefski again. I don't know when she will start the radiation until after she sees Dr. Baur on Monday. I will update then Thanks for checking in, all the prayers and please sign the guestbook. LY, Kathy
P.S. check out the new pic. of her and her "hunny"

Thursday, October 10, 2002 at 08:11 PM (CDT)

We're home now she's doing great , Tired yes but we can deal with that. Her next appointment is with the Radiology oncologist Dr. Baur at OSU on the 14th then she has clinics on the 15th at Childrens with Dr. Olshefski again. I don't know when she will start the radiation until after she sees Dr. Baur on Monday. I will update then Thanks for checking in, all the prayers and please sign the guestbook. LY, Kathy

Tuesday, October 08, 2002 at 08:23 PM (CDT)

Well today started out ok, But her counts were still to low expecially her platlets which help the blood clot so they started giving her some and when she was almost finished with the first bag she started having a bad reaction to them. She broke out in hives she looked like she had a really bad sunburn she itched and burned all over then of corse her heart was going over time and she started having trouble breathing and her arms and legs were jerking and shaking . They gave her a double dose of IV benidryl, albutrol, 2 breathing treatments plus steroids. She finaly started getting better after about 45 min. It was very scarey. She slept after that for a few hours and woke up ate real good and is feeling alot better. They said she may need more platlets but they would use a different donor if she HAS to have them. I'll update asap I don't want to leave her alone now. Thanks for stopping and please keep praying , "With God all things are possible". Don't forget to sign the guest book. Eigther she or I will email you when we get home in how ever many days that is . LY, Kat
P.S. They thought it was a blood infection but it isn't that .The doctor said it was probably a virus.

Monday, October 07, 2002 at 10:07 PM (CDT)

Update AJ is back in the hospital. She started running a fever last night and the doctor said I should have brought her in then but I waited until this morning she has some type of blood infection don't know what it is yet but it got bad just overnight her counts dropped, her BP dropped real low and her heart rate raced they gave her meds that are working so/so. And another blood transfusion , this time 3 units instead of 1 unit which is what she got the last time . She'll be in here for a couple days if not a week the doctor said. She seemed to be coming out of it for a little bit tonight THANK GOD! I feel bad now for waiting. She just hates to have to come back and she is so tuff I think shes better when she says she is . It will not happen again . They did say it's not uncommon for this to happen after chemo . Thanks for the prayers and stopping in don't forget to sign the guestbook . she (We)loves to read it. LY, Kat

Thursday, October 03, 2002 at 02:58 PM (CDT)

Clinics went well today. Her counts are good, But she was sad because shes lost more weight 99Lbs and one of the other children (Shane Jones) that had been on her ward passed away. She does't understand how God could let kids get sick and die. I tried to tell her that he had a job to do and now his work is over here. I believe that.., but sometimes it is harder to keep the faith. I don't know what I'de do if God wasn't getting me through this awful, wonderful year. I know that might sound crazy but I am greatful to God for the time I did get to spend with my mother 40 years , and the family who came together when it really mattered most and for delivering our daughter to us at her birth and after 2 major brain surgeries. And a great marriage, I have so many blessings I just have to remember to count them all & look for the rainbow. Hope things go well for you Lew we will be praying. The Dr. said AJ will probably start her Rads in 2 or 3 weeks so the chemo is over, hopefully forever. Thanks for the Prayers and checking in. Please sign the guestbook. LY Kat

Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 07:10 PM (CDT)

Im feeling better today, still not great, but better. I,ve got sick once since I got home so thats pretty good. Im getting my old attitude back which is GREAT, theres been someone (no names) being a jerk to me and it just made me get my hot-headedness back and im happy about that!!lol!Anyways....thanks for signing my guestbook and for your prayers!! I go for clinics on the 3rd. Hopefully my counts are up, moms been giving me those shots just to keep them up. Well I dont have anything else to say so ...Im out-peace*

Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 10:02 PM (CDT)

Up-Date this stay has been the worst so far. The Chemo meds make her back hurt they give her meds for that that make her vomit, And she needed a transfusion yesterday . The Great news is they did the MRI today and found NO signs of new growth so what we will probably do is STOP the chemo (yeah)!! and go straight to radiation (yuck). Her Dr. is going to consult with another couple of Drs. to be sure thats the direction we should go. Barb has stayed with us this time . It's so much easier then when I'm alone here. Sometimes I get scared and she talks me down and It's good when amanda is sleeping or so I can get breaks. Hope your new job is going well Dad . Hi Grandma Libby. Thanks to everyone for checking in and all the prayers. Did you know this is childhood cancer awareness month wear a gold ribbon and please donate your blood I Know how important it really is now to these kids when there counts go down. I owe someone out there many thanks and God bless for giving when my child needed it.

Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 10:15 PM (CDT)

Things are about the same. We got her counts Thurs. and they were good. So more then likely they will keep things as scheduled for her to go in on Tues. Sept. 24th for her 6 day stay. People are welcome to visit any time, She loves the company. Her back is still hurting so she's still takes the meds that knock her out. Star Bear is a big stuffed teddy bear with a backpack on him. He goes and sits in her seat at school while she can't be there so her friends can send her notes, videos, CDs, tapes or anything and the teachers can also, and then she can send things back with him. I think its a great way to keep them in touch. She is a little unsure of it, as far as if some people wanted to keep in touch or she is thinking a teacher might have made it an assignment so they did it for a grade or because someone said she thinks they are forgetting about her . Which she didn't say. she just doesn't want pitty friends . Does that make sense? People kept in touch with her great at first but now their back in school and she's not . I just think people especially kids don't know what to say or there scared they'll ask thee wrong question or say something dumb. I'm like that myself so I can understand. She also has to have an MRI this coming week while she's in hospital. Please pray it comes back clean. For those who may not know just because she gets to make a wish, doesn't mean things are hopeless it's for critically ill children not just the ones they don't think will make it. I'm really sorry if I scared anyone. Don't forget to sign her guestbook. Thanks for checking on her and all the prayers. LY, Kat P.S. I barrowed this from katelynn page you can get there from AJs Guestbook

THE SCAN

A Sleepless Night

Tomorrow our lives could change again
forever...forever...
Will the scan be clear, will the tumor return,
now...or never?...
We try to smooth the ups, the downs.
It's been nice breathing calmly, nice not to frown,
But tomorrow our lives could change again,
forever...forever...

Tomorrow we'll sit while the bangs and clicks
surround us...engulf us....
staring down the tunnel, waiting for the films
that free us...or damn us...
The probation could last for another four months,
Or find us retreating behind false fronts
That we take out tomorrow to hide the anguish
around us...within us...

Tomorrow our lives could continue on course
or falter...get altered...
It's amazing to think that one simple test has
such power...such impact...
To the world around us the test dates come
one after another, eventually numb
To the fact that tomorrow could leave us again
bewildered...off kilter...

Tomorrow we hope that the treatments have helped
change things...delay things...
Are there further treatments that we can survive
do we want them?... can we stand them?...
Has the Cancer been killed; does it lie there in wait?
Will it show up tomorrow, or some much later date?
Tomorrow a crossroads, or merely a rest stop
on a journey....to eternity...

Tomorrow our lives could change again
forever...forever....
Tomorrow our world could be turned upside down
tossed asunder...it's no wonder...
That we dwell in the past, trying to recall the way
That we made it through "tomorrow"
when it was yesterday
And why we hope to face "tomorrow" again and again
forever...forever...
~Steve Fass

Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 07:21 PM (CDT)

She had her blood counts done and they were great. That means she can stop having the daily shots of Neupogen for now. ( She LOVED that news)! We will have a count done locally Thursday because one of the Drs. wants it checked again then. The VCR(vincristine) is really hurting her back, and her fingertips are still numb. We are giving her Perciset(ms)it does help some but it makes her real tired. She told the nurse practitioner her make a wish was to go to disney world again so they are making plans for that probably after her treatments are over. They don't like to take the chance of the kids having low counts, fever or getting sick and possibly being in a hospital somewhere else. Which I can understand. I heard from a couple of the moms at clinic today that the first 4 months of chemo are the worst so shes half way there at 2 mos. into it. Then it should get easier. I HOPE!!! I'll tell you about the Star Bear program the next update. I have a cold and I'm not feeling the greatest so I'm going to take some Tylenol and chill. Thanks for checking , all the prayers and don't forget to sign her guestbook so she knows you were here. P.S. Check out the new photo in the photos section. LY, Kathy

Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 07:07 PM (CDT)

Things are going ok. Her soar throat is pretty much gone. Her boyfriend shawn had a cold so he was staying away but they are both feeling better so we're letting them visit this evening as long as they both wear a mask. She started back with her tutor today that seems to be going well too. She has about 24 more hours of 9th grade time left then she will start on her 10th grade work. So it shouldn't be to much longer and she will be completely caught up I think. She is having numbness in her fingertips from one of the chemo meds' hopfully that will go away soon. She will go back to clinic for her bloodwork, VCR shot and hearing test tuesday the 17th, then the 24th she goes for the 6 day stay. Thanks for checking in and all the prayers. Don't forget to sign the guestbook. LY, Kat

Saturday, September 07, 2002 at 09:03 PM (CDT)

Amandas throat has been hurting for a few days so they told us to bring her to the ER at Childrens to check her out and give her some fluids so she wouldn't dehydrate from not eating or drinking. She has Farengitis(ms) a virus that just has to run its coarse. So they didn't have to admit her thank goodness. She ate a little something for me this evening so thats good. Now I will put her schedule in the guest book. Thanks for the prayers and stoping by. LY, Kat

Friday, September 06, 2002 at 03:48 PM (CDT)

We're home now. She was a little bit of a crank butt until they let her leave thursday not to bad though. We had to wait until 5:00 to get her neupogen shot 22 hrs after her last chemo ended. Thats the shot she has to get every day now to help her counts come back up quicker so she can stay on schedule. I'll update the schedule in the guest book.
(Please sign so we'll know you stoped by). Hopfully we will be able to stick to it this time. Thanks for checking in and all the prayers LY, Kathy

Friday, September 06, 2002 at 03:48 PM (CDT)

We're home now. She was a little bit of a crank butt until they let her leave thursday not to bad though. We had to wait until 5:00 to get her neupogen shot 22 hrs after her last chemo ended. Thats the shot she has to get every day now to help her counts come back up quicker so she can stay on schedule. I'll update the schedule in the guest book.
(Please sign so we'll know you stoped by). Hopfully we will be able to stick to it this time. Thanks for checking in and all the prayers LY, Kathy

Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 07:24 PM (CDT)

Amandas counts were high enough this week. She started getting her chemo tuesday yesterday and she got nausiated. They gave her a shot for it and we think she is allergic to it because her legs and arms were tingling , crawling, hurting. we had thought the last time it was the chemo but this time she had different chemo and we noticed it didn't start until after the shot. So they gave her something else today and she hasn't had any problems with it. This Chemo has really knocked her for a loop though. She has slept all night last night and all day today. She has ran a slight fever so it could be her body is just really tired from trying to fight an infection or sometimes I heard Chemo drugs can even cause a fever. Thanks for checking on AJ and all the prayers from every one. We love you.

P.S. We should be going home tomorrow.

Monday, August 26, 2002 at 07:21 PM (CDT)

We went back today for the chemo and again her counts are still to low, but they ARE coming back up(finally). So maybe next Tuesday she can get back on track. She's just taking a little longer to bounce back. One of the nurses did tell me that we should see about them giving her some type of injection they can give some people after chemo that helps the blood counts recover faster. She tolerated the trip to TN. well. She was really tired and very nervous about peoples reaction to her. Thanks for stopping and all the prayers. LY, Kat

Thursday, August 22, 2002 at 11:20 PM (CDT)

Update: Her counts were still to low, So we go in Monday to check again. It's thrown her schedule way off. So I guess it's a wait and see thing. I got her some Gatorade & I'm feeding her veggies and juice, They haven't told me not to yet, but they get to a point when they don't allow you to give them raw fruit or veggies because of bacteria. I think that may be if they get tranfusions or something to do with their bone marrow. I'm not sure about anything. We just learn as we go. We are going away for the weekend to Steves parents 50th anniverary so AJ got a new dress and shoes shes excited to wear them. We'll get pictures to post. I'll update as soon as I can. Hopefully she'll get to have her Chemo this time. Thanks for stopping in and all the prayers. It always good to hear from you Aunt Murhl.
LY, Kathy

HAPPY 50th ANNIVERSARY Gerald and Joanne

Saturday, August 17, 2002 at 09:30 PM (CDT)

Amanda went back for her 2nd clinic visit and her white count was down and so were her platlets but the doctor wants to check again because he doesn't think it was an accurate reading. They took the blood from a finger prick and he wants to take it from her port so it will be done before she can start Mondays Chemo. If the counts are really to low she will have to wait untill they come back up to get her chemo. I don't know of any way we can get them up, I guess they have to come up on their own. If anyone has any ideas let us know. Amanda said she feels better now then she did at the first clinic visit thats one of the reasons he questions the results plus the blood acts differently when it's taken from a finger prick he said . So I guess we shall see. Shes lost almost all her hair now. She hates it. She is the bravest and strongest person I know, by far. She is my hero no doubt. She trys never to cry and if she does start to cry she takes a couple deep breaths and thinks of something silly and laughs it off. Steve and I have to buck up. she just floors us all the time. Thanks for checking in, and all the prayers . We'll let you know whats going on soon . LY, Kat

P.S. New picture in photos section.

Monday, August 12, 2002 at 05:52 PM (CDT)

Hey everyone! This is Amanda. I wanted to say thanks to everyone whos been signing my book! I have been doing good. My hair is starting to fall out but we knew that was coming. thats all thats been going on today! My mom will update soon! love, * Amanda *

Friday, August 09, 2002 at 10:27 PM (CDT)

Hi I know it's been a few days since I've updated so heres whats going on. She went to the fair just to hang out the other night and It wore her out a little bit more then she expected. She was just ready to leave as soon as I got there' which was maybe 1 1/2 hours. But she was ok just tired. Today we went to her clinic appointment. She only lost 1 lb. And her White cell count was down (meaning her ability to fight infections is down). Not a good thing. She will have to avoid close contact with people right now and wear her mask in crowds. The Doctor said they will probably continue to go down more next week before they come back up. She didn't have to have any blood products though so she didn't have to stay so thats a good thing. Right now we just have to watch for any sign of a fever And take her to the hospital right away if she starts to get one. Well I think thats about it for today. She has another clinic appointment next friday too so they'll check everything out again. Thanks for checking in on her and the posts they really mean more then you know. LY, Kat
P.S. No Fair dance She was'nt really up to it. Not to mention she didn't want to wear the mask. (Can't say I blame her)

Tuesday, August 06, 2002 at 05:08 PM (CDT)

Nothing new to tell she's still doing great so far. She's happy the Dr.s office said she can go to the fair dance friday after her clinic visit. Thanks for checking in LY, Kat

Sunday, August 04, 2002 at 12:13 PM (CDT)

Amanda is still doing good. She had her friend Brittany spend the night. Brittany likes her wig . She was wearing it last night and she put it on when we got back from church this morning. It's good to be home from the hospital, for now anyway. I'm going to put her schedule up on the Guest Book . I don't know the room # she'll be in each time but she will always be in ward J-5. If you dial the 1-800# that I gave you just ask for her room . If I forgot to give it to anyone let me know and I'll email it to you. Thanks for the prayers,& checking in LY, Kat

Thursday, August 01, 2002 at 11:27 PM (CDT)

Amanda did start feeling alot better as the day went on. Thank God. She's taken a few good naps. It realy makes a difference when she can't sleep. I've met a lot of other parents who have kids going through chemo too. The kids I've met seem to do pretty well. (knock on wood). But everyone is different. Different meds different
proticals (ms). Well It's late so I'll update as soon as I can. Thanks for Checking in LY, Kat

Thursday, August 01, 2002 at 11:20 AM (CDT)

Today hasn't started out so great for Amanda. Shes starting to really feel it now. Mornings are the worst for her anyway , but as the day goes on she has been coming around. I hope it continues to be that way. I'll try to update later so you'll know. Thanks for checking in. Please keep her in your prayers. LY, Kat

Wednesday, July 31, 2002 at 02:27 PM (CDT)

Amanda is still doing fine. She has no appitite (ms).and shes sick to her belly but shes not vomiting. Shes primping right now coz her honey is coming for a visit today. There's a picture of them in the photos section . He really makes her feel good about herself. with part of her head shaved and all he tells her it does'nt matter she looks good. So alot of the time when he's with her she does'nt even cover her head . I think he's a real good kid. He stayed up here with us when she had the last brain surgery the entire time. Anyway enough about him . Well I better get back to her. Thanks for checking in. Keep us in your prayers. LY, Kat

Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 03:36 PM (CDT)

AJ is doing fine after her first day of chemo. so far side affects aren't to bad (knock on wood)! It is early in the treatment though so I just hope it doesn't get to bad . Shes sleeping now. I will try to update daily, but these computers at the hospital are fickle. Thanks for stopping by and all your prayers. Kat >^..^<

Friday, July 26, 2002 at 03:36 PM (CDT)

Hi things are still the same here. AJ will start her 1st round of chemo this monday the 29th. She got a new wig it's real cute . It's a Sharon Stone style, short and sassy . Bryce is here for the weekend. He is such a ray of sunshine. You can almost forget your troubles with grandchildren. I guess I'll update when she gets done with this 1st round. If shes feeling good enough I'll try to make the trip back to Grannys the following week. Thanks for checking in . L Y, Kat
Don't Forget to pray, for All the kids that go through these awful illnesses. May it be Gods will to heal them.

Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 09:33 PM (CDT)

I was wrong about the Chemo start date. Amanda will go in for testing on Tuesday the 23rd, hearing? , blood , urine and so on. then starting either that Friday 26th or the next Monday 29th she will have 5 days of Chemo. then the next time she'll have 3 days then 5 then 3 .... for 12 weeks every 20 something days. If she does ok they will go another 12 weeks. It really sucks . It's all starting to sink in to her now and shes so sad and mad and tired of it. We are going wig shopping tomorrow locally and then in Columbus when we go for her tests. I'm tired of it all too and I'm still dealing with the fact mom isn't here for me to lean on and ask advice from. But then thats something I guess I have to except and get used to. Like I said it Sucks.
Thanks for stopping by, Kat
Please continue to keep AJ & all the other sick children in your prayers.

Tuesday, July 16, 2002 at 07:09 PM (CDT)

Amanda got her stitches out. She is doing fine. We will take her back to get her port for chemo in, on thursday the 18th. Then start receiving the chemo on Monday the 22nd. Her oncologist talked to St. Judes and they think radiation is the way we should go because there is a slight chance 5% or less, chemo will cause a secondary cancer most likely (leukemia). And they say the chances of survival from that will be very slim. We've decided since it's so aggressive we are going to start with the chemo and then add the radiation to give it a one two punch as the Dr. puts it. That is if she can tolerate it all. We are between a rock and a hard place but we have to do something. We will be going wig shopping soon . AJ wants a wig before she even starts treatment. Thanks for stopping by. Kathy

Monday, July 08, 2002 at 09:41 AM (CDT)

Amanda came through the surgery with flying colors. No problems. She will get her stitches out July 9th tomorrow. Her Oncologist is going in for surgery himself so she will probably start chemotherapy in 2 weeks. She wants to go shopping for a wig before she starts chemo. At first she got very depressed, but she seems to be in a lot better spirits now. She made it. I just want to add a note of thanks to everyone at Childrens, all our friends and family for being there for us. Expecially my aunts Murle, Johnny, Mary cousin Tammy and everyone else who took care of my mom for me so I could be with my daughter Amanda. Mom is in the arms of the angels now with her little angel Crystal . Shes with me all the time now . Please keep us in your prayers .
Thanks for checking in, Kathy

PSALMS 42
&
PSALMS 46
GOD IS OUR refuge and strength, a tested help in times of trouble.

Wednesday, July 03, 2002 at 03:27 PM (CDT)

The surgery was canceled until today, she is in right now. Everything is going well. I guess they are going to leave a cathider(sp) in for the hematologist. I think so they can use it to deliver a certain type of medication. I don't know if it will be the chemo or a new way to use liquid radiation . I can't remember the name of it off the top of my head . I'll update after surgery or as soon as I can. Please continue to pray for all these children. Kat

Tuesday, June 25, 2002 at 08:04 PM (CDT)

We went for her MRI today. The results were not good. The tumor is back & she will have to have surgery on Monday July 1st. Then start radiation soon after. The Doctor feels confident that the surgery will go well.
Please remember her in your prayers. With God All Things Are Possible.

"Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them."
MARK 11:24.

"Again I say to you that if two of you agree on earth concerning anything that they ask, it will be done for them by My Father in Heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, I am there in the midst of them."
MATTHEW 18:19-20

Saturday, June 15, 2002 at 09:21 PM (CDT)

Amanda had her MRI, which came back with a spot on it. They sent us to a Dr. of radiology we decided to wait for the results from another MRI (June 25) before we do anything. We're looking forward to going to the zoo this week for "blossoms of hope" A day for cancer survivors. AJ is feeling good and being sassy like any other 15 yr. old. Thank God she got to celebrate another birthday. That's about it for this week . I'll catch up next week. Kathy

Thursday, May 30, 2002 at 11:35 AM (CDT)

This page is about Amanda Davis. She is 14 yrs old . She was diagnosed with a rare brain tumor called choroid plexus carcinoma in January of 2002. I don't realy know very much about it. From what I understand it is usually found in much younger children or adults, more boys than girls and that it can reoccur. I haven't found very much info on it. She had surgery and they were able to do a gross total resection (removed the whole tumor.) I think they use these medical terms just to make me scratch my head. She hasn't had any further treatment yet. One Dr. says "she should have radiation" & one says "if it ain't broke don't fix it." We are going for another opinion today . So far all the CT scans have come back clean (Thank you Jesus!) But she had her first MRI since the surgery and there was a small spot which the Dr. said is more then likely some scar tissue or blood. That was 3 wks ago . They are going to do another CT scan this Wed. Please pray for her. I know God hears our prayers. I will update soon. Thank you for stopping by .

>^..^<
P.S. We will be {{CELEBRATING}} her 15th birthday. She will be 15 June 11th.

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