History

Journal History

Wednesday, January 3, 2007 6:48 PM CST

It is so hard to believe that Bethany has been gone for four years. It sometimes seems like yesterday, then again, forever.

Our family has changed a lot since then. Jill and Jeremy had a son, J.J., that was born before Bethany died. Since then, they have had two more children, a little girl born 7-3-2004,(Bethany Dawn, and a new one this year born 5/22/06, Caleb Bradley Rose.
Jeremy is serving as youth pastor at West Cabarrus Church, located close to Lowe's Motor Speedway in Concord, and is in seminary. Jill is a stay at home Mom, and probably works harder than all of us.

Kim and Jimmie got married in April 2003, and Nicholas James was born Feb 2004, and this year they added Benjamin Case Ross, so for me that is five grandchildren, all 4 and under!

I also remarried, Jim Gilmore, whom I was seeing before all of this happened, and he has two grandsons also,(Thomas & Luke Justice) they are in high school, so they at least are older. We married in 2005, and Bethany's Dad has remarried also, and we are all very happy for each other.

We miss Bethany very much, especially when we all get together, we know how very very much she would LOVE all the babies. Time is a great healer, and we are now at least able to talk about it, and maybe try to reach out to others in the same situation as we experienced.

We were all very touched by Hannah Sobeski, another young girl at our church, who followed much the same path as Bethany, who passed away in November after about six months fighting sarcoma. Bethany was remembered at church during some special prayer times for Hannah, which we appreciated very much.
Hannah had a caring bridge site also, so many of Bethany's friends remarked to me how strangely familiar all the events seemed, as well as their parallel lives, both strong Christian Girls, active in Mission at First Baptist, from Roebuck, S.C., and attended the same middle school, and high school, also both died during Senior Year.
Hannah's mother shared with me a devotion Hannah had presented while in middle school which praised the way Bethany handled the strife in her life, and still put God first. Hannah challenged herself to do the same, not knowing then that she would be put to the test. Hannah came through with flying colors too, she "passed the torch" to many whose lives have been changed. Her story is incredible, if you are interested, her site is just
www.caringbridge.org/visit/hannahsobeski.

I still get contribution in Bethany's memory, both to CEF and our Youth group, which I greatly appreciate.

I think my greatest fear is that she would be forgotten, but she LIVES! Praise God.

I am posting some new photos of our family!
love in Christ,
Pam

Monday, April 26, 2004 9:03 AM CDT

Good Morning to All,

Today is dear sweet Bethany's 19th birthday. It is still very hard and we all miss her so much every day.

One of the hardest things for me is knowing how much she would LOVE the new babies in our family - and they would love her too!

We have to keep remembering she is in a better place.

I wish this could go away and we would wake up and it was just a bad dream.

love in Christ,
Pam

p.s. new photos of the new babies

Tuesday, December 30, 2003 1:30 PM CST

Sorry for the chopped up messages -but it seems to delete longer ones.

I wanted to close by asking for a favor. We want to preserve Bethany's memory by welcoming the opportunity to talk about her - who she was and continues to be (through us), and by what she stood for.

If you have the time-please drop us a note of your favorite, or most enjoyable, or funniest memory and/or experience with Bethany. And, what one POSITIVE outcome that was a direct or indirect outcome of knowing her, and/or knowing about her journey (for many of you - perhaps even walking through it with her). My desire in this is to create say "A 50 Best of Bethany" - it would be something to continue to build on her memory, and celebrate her life, and the impact it had and will continue to have each Jan. 1 - (alot more appealing option than being sad each New Year)! So please help if you have the time.

PLEASE - however, keep these light, Happy, POSITIVE! It's easy to be sad if we take the world's view. But, we for the most part have choosen to take the "eternal view".

Finally, thanks for your prayers, everyone - especially Pam - has felt her burden lightened by them.

Bethany's Aunt Patti

Tuesday, December 30, 2003 1:09 PM CST

While watching, it occurred to me that in Bethany's silliest of moments, she'd be delighted Saturday Night Live was on for 10 hours a day for 5 days - and she'd probably say, (or atleast think), "Not that I think I'm the center of the universe or anything - but they must be doing that in my honor-you know-since I didn't get to make that visit to be on the show." Being a guest on the show was Bethany's Wish to The Make a Wish Foundation.

Tuesday, December 30, 2003 1:09 PM CST

Tuesday, December 30, 2003 1:02 PM CST

Happy New Year to everyone,
I'm Bethany's Aunt Patti - this is my second attempt to update the page, as I'm suppose to be the self-proclaimed "writer" of the family.

As Pam mentioned, we delayed our Christmas 1 week -and had hoped to all get together for New Years, ands Bethany's Anniversary of her homecoming.

Unfortunately, I got the flu -so I'll be spending my New Year in FL. I did spend the last 5 days watching alot of Comedy Central's Top 50 Saturday Night Live Shows, as many of you know - that was Bethany's favorite show. So, I'm almost sure she was watching too (at least the edited versions) from heaven.

Tuesday, December 23, 2003 12:19 AM CST

Hello Everyone,
My sister spent 2 hours updating this site yesterday, and the message got lost.
We are planning to celebrate our family Christmas when Jill & family arrive, which will be just before New Years. We all wanted to be together then, anyway.
Kim & Jimmie are remodeling an old house and getting ready for the new baby, due Feb. 11.
Jill & Jeremy are expecing again in July.
They are settled in Harrisonburg, Va. and love it there. They are trying to either buy or build a house.

We have all been dreading the holidays, but are doing okay. Our memories are so vivid of last Christmas.

We know that Bethany would want us to just be happy.
We miss her so much, and we often think of how much she would love little JJ, and how excited she would be about the new babies. Not to mention Kim & Jimmie could really use her help painting, etc.

Hope everyone has a joyous Christmas season and happy New Year.
Love to All,
The Groce Family

Monday, September 22, 2003 9:40 AM CDT

Hello!

It's a boy! I had an ultrasound on September 11 and we are certain I am having a boy. So we are all really busy getting things ready for the arrival of our little one.

He is actually due on February 11 - just after the one year anniversary of Bethany's death. It works out nicely that we will have such an awesome thing to look forward to so close to the difficult anniversary. I know God set that up for us!

It is hard thinking about the one year mark. I know me and Mom both have already begun to anticipate that and are not looking forward to it. My memories are so vivid and I am beginning to think more and more about it.

Being pregnant has made me understand (a little) how uncomfortable Bethany must have been with all of the extra fluid and pressure. I already complain more than she ever did and I am nowhere near as sick or swollen as she was. She was such a strong person. I cannot believe she was able to fight as long as she did. I miss her terribly but know she is happy now - all of the time.

John Tagleri contacted me a few weeks ago. He was invited by the Mayor of Jersey City to sing "Fly Little Angel" (Bethany's song) at the September 11 memorial ceremony. So that song has been heard by MANY people now! If you haven't purchased the CD yet, please go to his website and do so - www.JohnTaglieri.com

Take Care,
Kim

Monday, August 25, 2003 8:52 AM CDT

Good Morning!

August 21 was the one year anniversary of Bethany's 2nd transplant. Part of me wishes we could go back to that time and do some things differently but then other parts would never want to return to that time. It is so strange to think it has only been a year - thinking about it seems like it was just yesterday. I have vivid memories of that time - especially when Bethany went to ICU.

One piece of advice to other AML patients facing a 2nd transplant - don't think that your first transplant MD's and facility are the only place. It is easy to go right back there because it is familiar. But if they were not successful the first time - try something else for the second.

I miss Bethany so much. I would give anything to get a good hug and hear her sing a stupid song. I am really sad that she will not be here to see my baby. I am thankful (and a little jealous) that she doesn't have to deal with bad things anymore though.

I know that Mom has contacted the bone marrow people to try to contact Bethany's donor. I will let you know if we hear anything from him.

Take Care,
Kim

Friday, July 25, 2003 12:32 AM CDT

Hello!

July 27 will be the 2 year anniversary of Bethany's diagnosis. Only 2 years. Wow! That sounds so short. It really makes you think - you never know what is around the corner. Bethany was diagnosed, received 2 transplants and was buried all within 2 years.

I will never ever forget the time during her diagnosis. I brought her to the hospital that I work at for blood work. We all thought she had mono. The lab tech could barely get any blood out of Bethany's arm - when she did it was pink. When the tech received preliminary results, she came out with tears in her eyes. She only told me to call my Mom and a doctor. Me, Mom and Bethany went home with an appointment at the Oncologist the next day. I don't think any of us could have imagined what we were getting ready to experience. While we were waiting for our appointment, several MD's that my Mom works for came over - I stupidly thought they were there because we were that "special" - Bethany was that sick. I got mad because when the nurse said that Bethany was going to be admitted for blood, they told me that I couldn't give her my blood. Little did I know she would received so may blood products over the next year or so that I couldn't have made a difference. Anyway, we made it. Bethany is not sick anymore. That is the most important thing. But what I wouldn't give to have to drive to Atlanta this weekend!

I have been getting little "signs" (at least that is what I consider them to be) from Bethany. I think she wants me to "talk" to her some more. Maybe she is just excited about the new baby. Or maybe I am just crazy. Who knows.

Everyone is doing fine. Loving the weather lately here in the Upstate!

I went for an ultrasound at Mom's office the other day and the baby was sucking his/her thumb. It was so cute!

JJ is crawling. I put a photo of him on the pictures.

Hope everyone has a good weekend. Remember to treasure each day - especially those with your Sister! You never know what you might be facing just next week.

Love,
Kim

Monday, June 30, 2003 11:05 AM CDT

Hello!

Thought I would give a quick little update...

Mom and I went to Virginia last week to see Jill, Jeremy and JJ. It was a LONG trip and I received my first ever speeding ticket but we enjoyed it. JJ is getting so big! We did some shopping, etc. It was fun.

JJ will soon have competition...
I am having a baby! I am only about 7 weeks along. Perhaps a little Bethany???

Jimmie and I went to the Kentucky Echoes last night at First Baptist. It was wonderful! Bethany loved going on the Kentucky Mission trips so much and I am sure she was there with all of you last week as well as last night. One of the Churches that Bethany spent time at was Indian Creek. They sent a plaque and a donation for the "green room" at FBS. Many thanks to them for remembering Bethany.

The t-shirts for Kentucky Missions this year had a mountain scene and "I can only imagine..." on the back. I have been told the design was "Bethany inspired". Seth (FBS Youth Pastor) sang that song at Bethany's Celebration of Life. It is nice to know she was still involved with the Kentucky Missions in some way.

The "green room" is almost finished. There is some furniture there but it still needs a little work. We will post some pictures when it is complete.

Bethany's gravesite is finished. I have not seen it yet and honestly don't know if I ever will but I hear it is nice.

Everything else is going okay. I miss my sister terribly and think of her everyday - guess I always will. I really appreciate those of you keeping in touch with us and remembering Bethany. It helps to know people haven't forgotten her!

Hope everyone has a safe and happy July 4th!

Love,
Kim

Wednesday, April 23, 2003 12:02 AM CDT

Hello!

Hope everyone is doing well. We have all been super busy! I am officially Kim Ross now. Jimmie and I were married on April 6 in Charleston. We had a great time.

Jill, Jeremy and JJ are moving to Virginia next weekend. Jeremy accepted a position at a church in Harrisonburg.

The Hangar at FBC is open and I hear fabulous. I didn't make it to the opening night but I have been told the facility is just wonderful. The senior class presented Mom with a plaque in memory of Bethany. The plaque will hang in the "green room". The "green room" is sort of "Bethany's room" in the Hangar. Mom (with help from some good friends) decorated and furnished the room in Bethany's memory. I don't think it is finished just yet but everything is ordered.

Bethany's 18th birthday is April 26. It is hard to believe that just 2 years ago on her 16th birthday I was driving around Dorman looking for Bethany's car to put Sweet Sixteen balloons on it as a surprise for her. Everything was normal. None of us had ever even considered CANCER might be just around the corner! Wow - that seems so long ago!

I miss Bethany more and more. I cannot imagine 50, 60 or 70 more years without her. I know that she is much happier and definitely in a much better place and I am glad for her. But, I sure do wish I could drive to Atlanta this weekend and see her! I think it is a little harder at this time because of the wedding, her birthday, prom, graduation, etc.

A few Sunday's ago, Jimmie and I were driving home and listening to 93.7. You will never guess what song was playing - "I Can Only Imagine" (Seth sang it at Bethany's Celebration of Life). For those who don't know - 93.7 has in the past (to my knowledge) never played Christian music. I told Jimmie that it must just be something they do on Sundays. Then later in the week I heard it again and just about everyday since. Brandy and I were talking about it the other day and were wondering if it was a "message" from Bethany. 93.7 was the station that she usually listened to and the origin of "Thelma Holister" (some of you will know what I am talking about). Whether its a "message" or not I am pretending like it is so, Thanks Bethany!

Thanks to everyone that is remembering Bethany during the Relay(s) for Life. We are receiving cards and messages letting us know that you are remembering her.

Minnie (Bethany's dog) is doing great. Jimmie and I are having fun with her. I will try to post some pictures soon.

We all have our "moments", but overall I think we are all doing well. We miss Bethany more than anyone can ever know but are glad to know she is in Heaven and feels terrific!

I don't know what Mom has in mind but I would like to leave the website up at least until we are able to contact Bethany's donor - which will be August 21. I just have a feeling he would like to see this. We are still very grateful for what he did to help a complete stranger.

Thanks for the messages - I still check everyday.

Love,
Kim

Tuesday, March 25, 2003 11:20 AM CST

Good Afternoon!

I have so much to say and don't really know where to begin so bare with me...

Lyrics for Life was one of the best events I have ever experienced. It is very clear the commitment Ken Block has to this organization. The day Ken and Chris came to visit Bethany, I told Brandy that I didn't know how Ken was able to have a smile on his face but the fact that he did meant tons to me. I still think about that sometimes- Ken Block obviously misses his brother as much as I miss my sister but he still smiles, laughs and lives. I was amazed, and still am amazed how much that visit meant to me. If you haven't been to the Lyrics for Life website, please visit - read it. I can't remember which part of the site speaks of SH leaving Universal but within the section Ken speaks of his need for the music to be more than just a song that you hear on the radio and how he and his band want it to actually MEAN something. I don't know why I feel so strongly about what he is saying but I do. Maybe because when I contacted "Rock Against Cancer" I was just trying to get a rock star to visit Bethany because it would be "cool". I never considered that "music therapy" would ever mean so much to me. One song he sang that day is "Change Your Mind" (I hope I have the title right - if not the fans will know which song I am talking about)! The words in that song are awesome. I have listened to it over and over since the event on Saturday. By the way, SH will be in Greenville in a couple of weeks if anyone wants to go and listen! I just found out that they will also be in Key West during the time that Jimmie and I are there! I am so glad because I wasn't going to be able to make the Greenville show! Anyhow, if you can't tell, I am a huge fan of Ken Block and Sister Hazel but not just for the music - they are wonderful people! For me, Ken Block and the Coker Family really "set the standard". I only encountered them briefly but that is all it took. Thanks and love to each of them.

The highlight of Lyrics for Life was meeting John Taglieri and hearing him sing "Fly Little Angel" live! Most of you know the story but John wrote the song for Bethany the day she passed away. I was in line for the restroom and Jimmie came, pulled me out of line to meet John. I just hugged him like he was my brother. He is such a nice person - it is unbelievable how he seems to know Bethany's soul. I sobbed during the entire song - Lindsey (Bethany's friend) was with me. I just held her hand and cried. I told John that I had heard the demo of the song before and already thought it was the best song I had ever heard but hearing it live made me love it 10 times more! Please go out and buy his CD - let's show him how much we apprecitate what he has done to keep Bethany's memory alive!

Jimmie bought me the photos of Bethany with the hand-written lyrics to "Fly Little Angel" and the CD with a pic of John during the auction at L4L. I will have to get Mom to post a picture of it. I LOVE IT!

I also had the opportunity to meet Christine from Acoustic Outreach at the L4L event. She is an absolute sweetheart. I am amazed at the things happening with AO - check out that website too. There are several "easy" things you can do through AO that can help brighten someones day.

I have so much more to say but had better hold some of it for later. I really just wanted to fill everyone in on Lyrics for Life and how it went. I HIGHLY recommend attending next year - it is only going to get better!

Everyone cross your fingers for me - I will be an "old married woman" on April 6!

Love,
Kim

Friday, March 7, 2003 9:26 AM CST

Good Morning All!

We are excitied about the Lyrics for Life concert on March 22 in Atlanta. John Taglieri will be opening the concert with the song "Fly Little Angel".

We are excited about this next project too. I asked Seth at church about the possibility of the friends and family of Bethany dedicating a room in the new youth center to her, either decorate,furnish, supply, or whatever, and they agreed!

We have a room called "The Green Room". Apparently that is a term in the music and film industry for a backstage room. So this room in the new Youth Center is the room that will be used for prayer before concerts, if a guest is here to perform, he will be there until the start of the concert, autograph and signing sessions, and ect.

We are going to furnish the room, and then have some photos and art work of Bethany's on display. Possibly one wall dedicated to Kentucky Missions, and such.

I think the senior class is going to do something, or be a part of this room project too.

so, if you would like to donate to the, you can send your checks to First Baptist Church in Spartanburg, designate Youth, Green Room Project, or send them to me and I will get them to the church.

You can see a preview of some of the furnishings on the PHoto link on this site.

We are still missing Bethany every day, and can't wait to see her again in Heaven. We have some very sad times, and it is still hard to believe that she is gone.

Kim and Jimmie will be getting married in April in Charleston.

We still check the site and read your messages, and appreciate them all, so keep writing.
Love, In His Grip,
Pam

Friday, January 24, 2003 at 12:48 PM (CST)

Hi
I wanted to print the words of the song that John Taglieri wrote about Bethany. He is going to release it on his next album in Late March, and he may have the opportunity to sing it at the lyrics for life benefit in Atlanta on March 22. His donation for the auction for that benefit will be theses lyrics written by him on a photo of Bethany.

He has been so great to call and check on us, and he actually got to talk with Bethany on Christmas Day

Fly Little Angel
(J. Tagliere 1/1/03)

Your smile touched a million hearts
When you left you tore them all apart
They held hope in the darkest light of day
Now I'm searching for the words to say

A ray of hope in your heart right to the end
And I am proud to say that I called you my friend

CHORUS
So fly little angel
To a better place where there won't be any pain
Just fly like an angel
Someday we'll see you again

God gave you grace and style
You inspired the world across the miles
You touched every heart, you made them see
Just what a hero's supposed to be

But on that fateful day I heard the bells all ring
And I knew a precious darling just got her wings

CHORUS

BRIDGE
We all have hopes and dreams and goals and loves we've lost
But what you showed us is that fight is worth the cost

SOLO

CHORUS X2
You can read more about John on his website:
www.johntaglieri.com

I hope you all get to hear the music. It really sounds great!
Thanks, John.

The family is all doing well. We are talking with our Church about dedicating a room or corner of the new youth center to Bethany, and the family will decorate, supply, or furnish the room or corner that they designate.
We will let you know more later.

We just really cannot believe that she is gone. It seems like she will just come walking in one day. Everyone says they cannot imagine our pain. But we can't even imagine how it feels either. You can feel it, but you can't imagine it. But we are comforted by what the scriptures tell us and we know we will see her again.

Love to All,
Mom (Pam)

Friday, January 24, 2003 at 12:48 PM (CST)

Monday, January 20, 2003 at 03:39 PM (CST)

Hey!

It looks like so many people are still checking this site I decided to update everyone.

I was thinking last night that Bethany has only been gone for 19 days, it feels like forever already. I am afraid of what it will feel like in 5 years. I have a "moment" at least once a day. I think we all do. I got in my car last week, picked up my cell phone and was going to call Bethany then I realized I couldn't. I think it is going to take a while still for reality to hit.

Overall everyone is doing pretty good. We have all gone back to work and are trying to figure out what "normal" is now. Mom has gone to Atlanta the passed two weekends to clean out the apartment, she turned the keys in yesterday.

John Taglieri, a musician from NJ, has written a song about Bethany. His plans are to release the song on his next album. I don't want to say too much about it because I am not sure what his definite plans are just yet. We will definitely update as soon as we know.

Right now we haven't talked about closing this site. I think we will leave it up at least until after Lyrics for Life. Which, by the way, is going to be March 22 in Atlanta. There is still a link below to take you to the L4L website. We are planning to have a big group go from Spartanburg. Lyrics for Life was started by Ken Block from Sister Hazel (he came and gave Bethany and I our own little concert a while back at Emory). You can read about the history of L4L on the web.

Mom received a letter from Child Evangelism Fellowship telling her that with the monies they have received in memory of Bethany a Bethany Groce Scholarship Fund has been started. Mom knows more details but it will be an ongoing fund that can be supported each year.

I have had several folks tell me that they sent memorials to Caring Bridge because it was such a help to them to be able to check on Bethany so often. That is great! Thanks!

Mom and I are still busy with Thank You cards but please know that we sincerely appreciate all of the love and support. Even the postings on the Guestbook help tremendously. I cannot believe the response that we continue to get.

Please continue to keep us in your prayers. Maybe Mom will update sometime soon as well.

Love,
Kim

Monday, January 06, 2003 at 08:21 AM (CST)

Good Morning Everyone,
I just wanted to write a note to let everyone know how much we appreciate the outpouring of love and support we have received over the past few days.

We do have much peace in knowing that our Bethany is in heaven and that she fulfilled her commission in only seventeen short years.

For those of you who were not able to be at the celebration of her life service, I am sorry. It was a great testimony of her life and over 30 people prayed the sinner's prayer and gave their heart to the Lord. We do not know exactly how many. The church was almost filled, and I have had a few of the ministers tell me it was one of the most well attended funeral they have ever held there at First Baptist.

Friday night we had well over 1000 people to visit us to offer condolences. All of this makes us aware of how many lives Bethany touched. WE do not want her to be forgotten, and I think I am now assured that she will not be.

Please continue to pray for us and let us hear from you all.
Love,
Bethany's family

Tuesday, December 31, 2002 at 03:59 PM (CST)

Thursday AM, Jan 2 7:15 Am
It is so overwhelming to read all the entries over the past few days. We know that we do have an angel in heaven now and that Bethany is happy and healed. She made the comment a few months ago that she was very happy, happier than all her friends...even having leukemia. She also said when first diagnosed that if it could make a difference in one life it would be worth it, and she was glad it was her and not any of her friends, because they couldn't take it, and she could. Our
hearts are broken but we know she is in a better place, we grieve for ourselves, not for her.
We have scheduled a celebration of Bethany's life.. We will receive friends on Friday night from 7-9 pm in the Sanctuary of First Baptist Church, 250 E. Main St, Spartanburg, S.C., Locally Floyd's Mortuary will be handling the arrangments. The real celebration will be Saturday at 3pm at the Church. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Pres Church cemetery in Walnut Grove.
We have thought of all the loved ones gone on ahead that were there to greet her, Brandon, Shon, Papa John Papa Harold and many many others, and are comforted by that.

Love Pam

It is so difficult to acknowledge that
sweet beautiful Bethany has died. She
appeared to be sleeping very comfortably
during the night and passed very quietly. We all have confidence that she
is indeed in that glorious Heaven. She
has left her footprints and touched so
many hearts here and fulfilled the Great
Commission--go ye therefore...and preach
the Gospel. She was a faithful follower
of our Lord Jesus Christ and was a
gentle witness of His love. Bethany will live in the hearts of many forever
and the seeds she planted will continue
to grow in the lives of others. Thank
you for all your support and love! Written by Ann, RN, Jan 1, 2003 6AM

On behalf of Bethany's family,

I would like you to know that Bethany unfortunately has bleed into her brain. She is currently in a coma and not in any pain. We are praying for her and her family. This has been a very sad day for us. She has been a wonderful and very special girl. We admire her very much and we are very touched by her courage in her fight with leukemia.

Diane NP
The Emory Bone Marrow Transplant Team Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2002, 3pm

Just a note to let everyone know family and friends are gathering at her bedside as Bethany peacefully leaves us and goes home. She told me last week that even if we were not in the same place we would always be together, and she knew I was wearing gold too. That is a precious memory as is the Christmas we just had all together. She is as if sleeping. We are talking to her and letting her know we are okay, and it is okay for her to go and rest. This was a shock to us all as we just though she was sleeping this morning. We will update later. Love ya'll Pam 8pm 12/31

Tuesday, December 31, 2002 at 03:59 PM (CST)

Wednesday, January 1, 2003 about 6 AM...

It is so difficult to acknowledge that
sweet beautiful Bethany has died. She
appeared to be sleeping very comfortably
during the night and passed very quietly. We all have confidence that she
is indeed in that glorious Heaven. She
has left her footprints and touched so
many hearts here and fulfilled the Great
Commission--go ye therefore...and preach
the Gospel. She was a faithful follower
of our Lord Jesus Christ and was a
gentle witness of His love. Bethany will live in the hearts of many forever
and the seeds she planted will continue
to grow in the lives of others. Thank
you for all your support and love!

Ann, RN
Emory University Hospital

Tuesday, December 31, 2002 about 4 PM...

On behalf of Bethany's family,

I would like you to know that Bethany unfortunately has bleed into her brain. She is currently in a coma and not in any pain. We are praying for her and her family. This has been a very sad day for us. She has been a wonderful and very special girl. We admire her very much and we are very touched by her courage in her fight with leukemia.

Diane NP
The Emory Bone Marrow Transplant Team

Just a note to let everyone know family and friends are gathering at her bedside as Bethany peacefully leaves us and goes home. She told me last week that even if we were not in the same place we would always be together, and she knew I was wearing gold too. That is a precious memory as is the Christmas we just had all together. She is as if sleeping. We are talking to her and letting her know we are okay, and it is okay for her to go and rest. This was a shock to us all as we just though she was sleeping this morning. We will update later. Love ya'll Pam

Tuesday, December 31, 2002 at 10:15 AM (CST)

Good Morning!

Bethany had a rough night I hear. She is having some back pain and was not able to get comfortable. But she is sleeping good right now.

Her counts all continue to look good and improve. Her platelets appear to be doing better as well as her white count.

BIG NEWS...

BETHANY WILL BE TRANSFERRED TO GIBBS CANCER CENTER IN SPARTANBURG ON FRIDAY!

That is if nothing else happens! Mom is back in Altanta packing up some things. We are going to see if the people lending us the apartment will let us have it a couple of more weeks just to be certain we are not returning to Emory. I am sure they will be happy to do it though - they have been wonderful!

Bethany is excited about coming home. She definitely needs a change of scenery and Gibbs is a beautiful facility (for a hospital). Most of you remember that Jill (our other sister) was married at Gibbs Cancer Center after Bethany was first diagnosed. Hopefully Bethany will be back in the big VIP room - I am working on it!

Anyway, everything seems very positive at this time. I don't think her MD's feel any differently than before but Bethany sure does seem better to us. We are all excited about getting back to familiar territory and back to Dr. Bearden.

I will update as we get information - hopefully only improvements!

Take care

Love,
Kim

Sunday, December 29, 2002 at 11:30 AM (CST)

Hello All!

Gosh - I am still amazed at the postings on Bethany's site! I am going to print them out today and get them to her, it may be easier that way!

Ok, update...

Bethany is on her way outside for a breath of fresh air as I type. Yesterday, she got out of bed without assistance (she did have Mom's arm for balance). She walked around the bed 3 times and sat up in a chair for several hours. For those of you that have visited Bethany over the past few weeks you know what a tremendous improvement this is! Only a few weeks ago, we were literally lifting Bethanys head and burping her like a baby. Physically Bethany has improved leaps and bounds! I am so proud of her for all of the effort she is putting in to getting well. She really has such a strong will - it is amazing.

Bethany is showing no signs of confusion. I don't know what her ammonia level is currently but obviously it is ok. The ammonia level being elevated last week is what the MD said was an indication of her liver not being able to survive life outside of the hospital at this point. I really don't know whether or not the ammonia level coming back down to normal is what the MD expected or not.

We still have not heard from the MRI - Dr. Redei said preliminary reports show nothing - GOOD NEWS!

Mom is concerned about Bethany's platelets not holding their own. She continues to get platelets at least once a day.

Bethany's white count came up on its own today - 2 points. This is also a good sign.

Dr. Redei says that medically they cannot do anything further to assist with Bethany's recovery. He says it is up to her now. I don't think they are very optimistic about the liver recovering based on their past experiences. BUT - Bethany is their youngest transplant patient and she has continually SURPRISED them by beating everything that is thrown her way. So, Dr. Redei is doing his job as a MD by telling us what we are realistically facing but he also believes Bethany is historically an exception to every rule!

Although there are obviously some problems with Bethany there are so many things improving with her that it is just hard to believe that she cannot get through this. I wonder some times do her MD's realize the things that do show improvement rather than just the bad stuff.

So, as of now this is what we are talking about...

Mom is planning to come home today and meet with Dr. Bearden (Bethany's MD in Spartanburg) to see how he feels about moving Bethany to Spartanburg Regional. Bethany really wants to come home - even if it means staying in the hospital. We want to be certain that we are not compromising Bethanys survival chances by leaving Emory. Dr. Redei has assured us that they will still consult as neccessary. I work for the Healthcare System in Spartanburg and Mom works for surgeons right across the street so we could all get back to some familiar ways of life if we do choose to move. Ultimately, the decision is Bethanys. She truely wants to come home to Pauline but Dr. Redei has explained to her that her life would be very short without hospital care. She understands this and does not want to quit treatment. She wants to LIVE!

So, I am not getting my hopes up just yet but we may be in Spartanburg within the next 2 weeks. Please understand that this move is at ours and Bethany's request. Emory is not "kicking us out". By moving we are not giving up by any means. We just feel that if the MD's at Emory feel that Bethany's recovery is now up to her - she is going to need tons of support and love. Not that she doesn't get it at Emory - they do love her - she will just get a thousand times more if she were in Spartanburg. We strongly feel that Bethany's spirit can pull her through this - she just needs her friends and family close by on a daily basis for that extra push.

Please pray that coming to Spartanburg is the right decision and is exactly what Bethany needs for full recovery.

Please pray that the improvements we currently see continue.

Please pray that Bethanys platelets begin to hold their own and her white count continues to climb.

Also, Mom has been running a fever for almost 2 weeks now - pray that she gets better soon! She is going to the MD here in Spartanburg tomorrow before returning to Atlanta. I have a feeling that she might be a slight bit stressed out - maybe!? :)

Again - thanks to everyone all over the world for the love and support. It has been amazing!

Love,
Kim

Friday, December 27, 2002 at 09:49 PM (CST)

Hello!
I have to admit that I haven't looked at the website since I posted last week but I am amazed by the number of messages that have been left!
Mom said that she would be posting tomorrow but I thought I would go ahead and update a little.

On Christmas Eve Bethany had some very special visitors. She stole a duct tape purse, ordered a case of Beacon tea and received some special penguins for her feet. Me, Jimmie and Minnie stayed at the hospital with Bethany on Christmas Eve. For those who do not know, Minnie is Bethany's tea-cup chihuahua. Minnie was really good. She slept with Bethany most of the night. Bethany woke us up at 3:00 AM wanting to go see what Santa left her. Jimmie convinced her to wait until 5:00 AM. She did, but was up and ready to go at 5:07 AM. So, the family met in the lobby here at Emory University Hospital and made it our own. We made as big a mess as we would have if we had been at home. It was pretty "normal" considering the circumstances. Minnie and JJ (mine & Bethany's favorite nephew) enjoyed their first Christmas. Mom got some cute pictures. Bethany got a new DELL laptop and handheld, a new cell phone and lots of surprises. I guess that is enough about Christmas.

Bethany has felt alright over the past few days - not spectacular or anything. On Thursday, her confusion seemed to be gone. That continued today - no confusion at all. The MD's changed today so we have Dr. Redei now - he drew 5 liters of fluid off of Bethany's stomach today. Bethany feels like a new person. She is ready for the BEACH! We are already planning our vacation. We are thinking about some time at Disney, Ft. Lauderdale and the Keys. Of course, we have to do New York and SNL first. Again, for those new to Bethany - the Make A Wish Foundation is sending Bethany to NYC to see Saturday Night Live (her favorite) whenever we FINALLY get out of here. She wanted to work with the SNL group for the entire week but that wasn't possible so she will go to a dress rehersal instead. I know that we may be jumping the gun on all of these plans but we are determined to keep looking forward.

The liver MD says that the biopsy shows that Bethany's liver is sluggish. He says that the liver has really not had enough of a break since the VOD to tell if it will totally recover or not. So, we are still in a "hurry up and wait" situation. Bethany had an MRI yesterday and we are still waiting on the results. Dr. Redei says that he will want to spend a few days with Bethany before he makes any comments on her condition. So, we are trying to be patient.

Jill, Jeremy and JJ went home today. Mom, Dad and Patti are still here. Pattti is going back home on Wednesday - it's the golf season in Florida and she's got lessons to teach! Her website it pretty cool if anyone likes golf www.knack4golf.com.

Since school is out - I would encourage Bethany's friends to come down and spend some time with her. She really enjoys the visits! We have an agreement with some of her friends that visited earlier in the week that the day she is discharged from Emory they will skip school and come pick her up. I suggested a limo to Spartanburg. So, we'll see. Bethany really does get more strength from friends visiting than anyone can know. Keep coming!

Well, I probably haven't been terribly informative but that seems to be our constant state at this time - uninformed! This is definitely a roller coaster ride!

As we know more someone will update. I will get Mom to update with some new pictures too.

Have a great New Year!

Love,
Kim

Tuesday, December 24, 2002 at 08:03 AM (CST)

good Morning
Bethany is sleeping okay, is stable, and not in any pain.
The Drs. are not saying anything different, we still have not heard from the liver biopsy.

She is still being treated just like always. She is enjoying very much visits from friends, and she manages to be clear at least part of the time while they are here, other times she is very confused.

She has a very big box that is Bethany Bear, we have not yet opened it. Yesterday it was planned but we did not get to, we hope to do it today.

She had a phone call from John Tageleri, which was special, and she was asleep. I got to talk with him though!

All the family is here and we are planning to get up early and go down to the lobby where there is a tree, and see what Santa has brought. Minnie has permission from the Dr. to spend the night here in the hospital tonight.

If the other patients hear her barking, we are going to tell their nurses to tell them that their ammonia level is high and they are confused, or that is is a reindeer and Santa. ha ha.
Seriously, we see no improvement, and the liver is apparently not functioning as it should. We are just waiting to see what the next days bring.
Please Please remember us in your prayers and tell everyone you know to pray for Bethany.
Merry Christmas,
Love Bethany & Family

Saturday, December 21, 2002 at 01:58 PM (CST)

Hi Everyone,
Bethany slept well last night, and she had a great day yesterday. She had some visitors from home, and the girls brought her Christmas cards from her high school in spartanburg, Dorman. They literally wallpapered the room with cards, and i will put a photo of them on later today or tomorrow.

She is stable right now. I asked the Drs. to leave no stone unturned, and my usual response to bad news, well, no matter what profession you are in, there is always someone who knows more, so make some calls and find out what you can do to help her.

The GI Dr. did sound a little more positive initially when seeing Bethany, and they did a liver biopsy yesterday to accurately assess the problem, but Dr. Langston is still being pretty grim.

She was less confused yesterday, more so today. She really enjoys visits, but tires easily. I am encouraging anyone who wants to see her to come, but understand that the visit may be short.

She is very happy and content and seems to have much peace about her.

Today she received a tape from an Angie concert, we are watching it later on today. She was so excited about it, and felt so special.

I am so touched by all the messages and thoughts and prayers that are coming from all over the world! That means so much to us.

The entire family is meeting with the Drs. tomorrow, so we will update again tomorrow.
WE are confident that God is in Control and we are putting our trust in Him.
We are each so very thankful for your prayers and ask that you continue them.
His,
Bethany and family

Thursday, December 19, 2002 at 02:55 PM (CST)

It has become apparent over the past 2 days that Bethany's liver is not going to function at levels necessary for her to live outside of the hospital. The MD says that her liver is just not rejuvinating itself in a way that will allow her to live. The MD is not giving us much hope. The liver MD's will come back in this afternoon and give us their opinion but we don't hold much hope that it will be anything different than what her BMT MD thinks.
We do not know a timeline at this point and I am not sure we will ask. The MD has mentioned Christmas and Bethany possibly receiving a pass so we at least think she will make it through Christmas (even if it is in the hospital).
The MD has talked with Mom about not returning Bethany to ICU and signing a DNR letter.
Bethany is very confused at times due to a high ammonia level - this level is what made the MD know that her liver is just not recovering from the VOD.
Bethany talks to Mom about Golden Streets and how happy she is. She told Mom that even though she will not be with her physically, she will always be close to her in spirit. Bethany told her RN today that she is a Christian and is not afraid to die. We aren't sure if this talk is coming as a result of the confusion or if it is just what is in Bethany's heart. We want to believe both. Bethany continues to tell Mom how happy she is. She is very at peace with herself.
Everyone will probably be going down tonight or in the morning to Atlanta. I am not sure how Mom feels about visitors but I think close friends and family that want to visit should call me, Patti or Mom beforehand.
We were all quite shocked to hear this news because Bethany has been doing so good this week. Bethany even is shopping in the Gift Store at Emory as I type. It is hard to believe her time is limited.
I sincerely want to thank everyone for all of the support and love you have given my family throughout this illness. Please pray for us as we face another tough situation.
We will update as much as possible in the next few days. Please get the pray chains started as soon as possible!
Love,
Kim

Wednesday, December 18, 2002 at 08:15 AM (CST)

Good Morning,
Bethany's lab work continues to improve.They did another paracentesis yesterday, another 5 liters was removed. If she could only keep it off!

She is working so hard learning to walk and move around again, but she is tired.

She hopes to see her own bed soon.

The nurses here are starting to bring us Christmas presents. That is so sweet and makes her feel special.

I will only update every few days now, unless something changes. We expect it only to get better!

Thank you so much for all your concern and prayers.
We love you all and thank you so much.
HIS,.
Bethany & Family

Saturday, December 14, 2002 at 07:08 AM (CST)

Good Morning,
I think it is safe to declare Bethany BETTER!!!
We are so pleased with her progress. Praise GOD!

All the lab values are getting back to normal, and the infection has responded to antibiotics.

Her biggest problems right now are eating, and walking, which she herself can do something about. She is working hard on it and we hope to get out of here soon.

I suggested a contest Between patients to decorate the IV poles, but Bethany does not want me to decorate hers. Kim says I have been here way to long....

I have tried to put note on for the past few days, but there server was being upgraded, so anyway, maybe you will notice some improvements in this website.

Thanks for the continued prayers and support!
Love,
Bethany & Family

Wednesday, December 11, 2002 at 05:33 PM (CST)

Good AFternoon,
I thought I put a message on this morning but somehow the computer lost it.

I am very cautiously going to say that Bethany is better.
She is acting more like Bethany, talking, just much more animated in general.

She is working hard on walking and getting out of bed by herself.

We both really enjoyed Jill & Jeremy's visit.

They did another paracentesis today and drew off 5 liters, so she feels better too.

Also, we moved to 616! The room seems so big, I can't believe it and there is a nice view.

So, keep on praying that everything is moving in the right direction!
Love to All,
Bethany & Family

Monday, December 09, 2002 at 10:38 AM (CST)

Good Morning,
We have had a pretty quiet weekend here. Bethany is feeling okay, not too great, just okay.

She has developed a gram negative infection which seems to be responding to antibiotics. Her white count has dropped again, she will be on the growth factor this week to help to improve that. Still have not figured out why it is not making its own white cells.

She has a little cellulitis on the hip from the bone marrow biopsy site infection that she got last week too, which makes her hip sore and painful.

The swelling has come back because she is on the vein feeding, and that makes her have abdominal pain, so she is uncomfortable again.

Let's see, we are still in the cave, have not gotten a new room yet.

She is still working hard on learning to walk again, her strength is improving, and her mood is okay, pretty good, considering.

Jill Jeremy and the baby are here for a few days, we were hoping to be back in the apartment by the time they came, but anyway, we hope to visit baby in the lobby, as they cannot come to the floor.

Please for all this to just go away and let us come home.
Love to All,
Bethany & Family

Friday, December 06, 2002 at 08:03 AM (CST)

Hello,
Remember the other week when I said it is always two steps forward and one backward? Well, it is still true.
It has become apparent that Bethany's digestive system is not working properly, on Tues and Wed, after being pushed to eat all day, she threw up everything she had in her stomach, so yesterday, they started her back on TPN, or feeding through the veins.

This morning she has fever, I think from the bone marrow biopsy site that is about 3 weeks old, but has been draining.
Her blood pressure is down and heart rate is up. I can't stand to watch her, lying there with her little chest fluttering because her heart rate is so high.
So much for going home or going out on pass.

Her spirits are better and generally her strength is returning somewhat, but as always, something new.

Please pray for us.
Love Bethany & Family

Wednesday, December 04, 2002 at 03:10 PM (CST)

Hi Everyone,
We are warm and cozy and I mean very cozy in a little room on 6E. It closely resembles a cave with no view and a cement wall outside. It really should be a closet, not a patient room. I think it is the smallest one I have ever seen, but they had to combine two floors and this is all they had for us. You cannot step around the bed without moving something. I am trying real hard to find something good about this room, the bathroom is a little bigger than the others.

Enough complaining!

Bethany is working hard on trying to eat and physical therapy. I think this is the hardest it has been on her, because when she was really sick, she was sorta out of it. THis is slow and hard You know when you are sick and can't eat? We have to force her to even when she feels she can't.
They have started her on some appetite stimulants, but she still does not feel hungry. She can walk around the bed now and almost raise herself out of the bed.

We were supposed to get a pass to go to the apartment today, but she did not feel up to it. Maybe tomorrow if the weather holds.
It is cold here but not raining or anything.
All counts are holding and meds are being changed to oral in hopes of a discharge soon.
Thanks for all the encouragement. We need it.
Praises,
Bethany & Family

Good Morning,

Praise God, Bethany is continuing to improve! Yesterday she was able to walk a little and she took a shower. She also walked around the bed twice with the physical therapist, and she is eating more.

We once again are amazed at her strength. She is the "comeback Kid" .

They are talking about either sending her back to the apartment, or the a rehab facility by the end of the week. It all depends on how much she can do. She will have to be able to get herself in and out of the car at least with help, and I will probably be calling on some of you that have volunteered to come and stay for the day to do just that.

We Thank God every day for our miracle and trust in Him for complete healing!
Thanks for all the prayers and thoughts and encouragement. It helps and we feel it!
Love,
Bethany & Family

Saturday, November 30, 2002 at 08:11 AM (CST)

Good Morning,
Bethanhy had another pretty good day yesterday. She ate a lot, but has a little diarrhea, so she is tired from getting up and down a lot.

I have some help here and got some much needed sleep last night at the apartment (12 Hours), Wow, i must have been tired.

She is looking better and seems a little more like Bethany each day. I think it is time for visitors to come, just space it out. The Jarrard's came yesterday and she enjoyed it so much.

We hope to get out of the hospital by next Weekend, and Jill and the baby are coming to see Bethany.

We are so thankful for all of you, your prayers, messages of encouragement, thoughts, that has certainly gotten us though all this.

We hope that it is soon that we can be back in Spartanburg.

Our 100 days are up, so pray that we have no more setbacks!
Love to All,
His,
Bethany & Family

Thursday, November 28, 2002 at 07:02 PM (CST)

Good Evening and Happy Thanksgiving,

We are so thankful that Bethany is a little better today.
She ate about 750 cal on Wed, and her gi tract has started working again.

They did another tap of the fluid on her abd, and removed almost another 5 liters, which made her feel much better and allows her to move a little better. One person can help her get up now and can handle it. She still cannot walk, but she is working on it.

She is really trying to eat, even though she does not want to, but we are hoping her appetite will come back soon.

She sat up in the chair about two hours today,that is a biggie for her. One of her nurses brought her Thanksgiving meal, she ate 2-3 bites of dressing, mac & cheese, and one bite of turkey I think, but she has had more than that too, with boost pudding and so forth. You can hear her talk today, her voice is stronger, so the Drs. have told her that if she can walk and eat she can go out of the hospital again. That is a big goal. the nurse made a sign that says,
"When you're up, you're oUT!!
She has a long way to go, but what a great goal. Her lab work continues to improve.
I don't mean to sound so bad one day and so good the next, but that is exactly how it really is. up and down, back & forth, and so on.
Anyway, today she is better and we are really thankful for everything.
love to All,
Bethany & Family

Thursday, November 28, 2002 at 07:02 PM (CST)

Wednesday, November 27, 2002 at 11:59 AM (CST)

Good Morning,
Another dreaded night has passed. I really dread night time, because I am afraid that Bethany will stop breathing.
don't mean to sound negative, but we are at that point, that I am afraid that she could go into cardiac arrest, or resp, arrest, and just be gone. I have not been told that this could happen, but I can see her getting weaker and weaker and so so tired.

Her lab work is not bad, ant the last bone marrow final results came in yesterday, and she is 100% donor!!!!

I am saying all this because when I say she is better it sounds like everything is so great. Some things are good, but in fact, she is so very weak, her nutritional status is very critical at this point, and basically, the Dr. has said it it up to Bethany. We have had a few very frank talks about whether she has enough energy to continue fighting, and she wants to fight. She is so weak that she sleeps most of the time. We wake her up and get her to the side of the bed, and after a few minutes, she is tired out and has to lie down. She cannot get herself in the bed alone, but she is working on it.
She is really trying hard today to eat and get some nutrition in her. This is so hard, it is the hardest thing I have ever done, coaxing and monitoring every little thing.
I have called in some help, my sister is here, and Kim and Wilbur here today, maybe Jill later this weekend.
Please pray for us all that she can find the strength to continue fighting and that there are no other setbacks, and that the new meds are working.
Happy Thanksgiving to all, We are thankful.
love,
Bethany & Family

Tuesday, November 26, 2002 at 10:07 AM (CST)

Good Morning,
Bethany is feeling a tiny bit better I think. She is still very weak, but yesterday and last night had NO pain medication!
She is working very hard at her physical therapy to get back into being able to get herself up, and stand and walk on her own.

They are going to try a different type of drug, a monoclonal antibody that is supposed to help with the graft versus host disease. It is called Remicade. It will be given once per week and let's hope and pray it will make her better.

She still has not eaten since Friday, but last night she drank about 1/2 of a nutritional supplement, and this morning, drank a whole one, so that is a few calories anyway.
I'm now down to counting the calories she takes in with her drinking and coaxing every bite I can i nto her.

Her white count is coming up, bilirubin is down a little, but still has the swelling, and has had to go back on oxygen for the fluid around the lungs.
So, like I said before small steps forward and then backward too.
At least without pain meds she is more alert. She naps a lot, and just getting up to go to the bathroom can wear her out and she has a two hour nap.
Keep us in your prayers!
love,
Bethany & Family

Saturday, November 23, 2002 at 12:38 PM (CST)

Hi,
Just a note to update.
Bethany is better from all the pain and joint aches. That is subsiding, but has left her muscles sore. That, along with all the pain medication, has left her knees wobbly and so now she cannot get up and walk. Physical therapy and occupational therapy are coming in to work with her on this.

She is not hungry, and I think i know why now. I have been almost forcing her to eat, but his morning she threw up green beans that she ate on WEDNESDAY! yuk. no wonder she has had some gosh awful burps and not wanted to eat. They are starting her on some new medication to help her digestion.

The swelling is about the same. I think she is pretty much holding her own there. Her bilirubin is up to 11, but Dr. is not too concerned, he thinks it is due to some medication and also a yeast infection that her blood cultures grew out. So,. more meds for that.

She has a really long road ahead of her for recovery, and she will i'm sure have more bumps along the way.

We know we will not be out of here anytime soon, so now we did move back into room 718, the big room, so there is room for family and friends to come and for a christmas tree if necessary.

The staff here is being so wonderful to us. One of the nurses brought her in some soup from Panera Bread, on one of the days when she did not want me to leave. They have rented and brought her movies, goody bags, and just anything she wants.

I made a new bulletin board with new digital photos of the staff, so they insisted my photo be on there too. It is entitled "permanent resident".

She is looking forward to some friends coming this weekend. I think if any of you would like to visit, she would enjoy it. Please just call so we can stagger them.

Keep praying,
Pam

Thursday, November 21, 2002 at 10:56 AM (CST)

Let me take that back about Bethany feeling better yesterday. As the day wore on, she began to have joint and bone pain, which is a side effect of the drug that makes the white cells grow. It is good when the patient has pain, it means the drug is working, but is is MISERABLE for Bethany. She has been more miserable yesterday afternnon, last night, and this morning as I have seen her this entire time.

She also has fluid around her lungs, and the morphine they give her for the pain causes her respirations to decrease, so they had to put her on a little oxygen. Right now she is not using it, she is sitting up a little, but its there if she goes to sleep.

They are not sure which way this all will go. They are hoping to get rid of some of the fluid and make her feel better. The blood count did come up a little more, but like always, it is such a delicate balance.

Right now she can't talk above a whisper, and she is so weak and debilated, they are concerned that another major setback would be about all she can take.

I am trying to get her to eat, she ate a little yesterday.
Pray for her comfort and that we can get rid of the oxygen and so much morhpihne.

If she can get through this, like I said yesterday, all other stuff looks pretty good.

Pray for us all,
Bethany & Family

Wednesday, November 20, 2002 at 08:02 AM (CST)

Good Morning

Bethany's white count is coming up a little, slowly, but at least it's in the right direction.

She feels better today, they took a little over 4 liters of fluid off her abdomen yesterday, so she feels and looks lighter and can balance better.

She is losing a little also, and they have stopped giving her all the fluids, so maybe that is going in the right direction also.

Most everything else is looking okay, this is all just related to the transplant and graft vs host, as they tell us.

She is working on her school work, and is eager to start on her anatomy, because she thinks she will know all the answers, this has been an education to us all.

Thanks for all the prayers,
His
Bethany & Family

Monday, November 18, 2002 at 01:30 PM (CST)

Good Afternoon
We had a quiet weekend with nothing much going on here, Bethany continues to put on water weight, up about 35 lbs now and quite miserable.

They stopped all her iv's and fluids so the gaining has slowed.

They are still worried about the white count which is still very low. 0.3..

All tests are still normal and most other labs are normal, so they are thinking this will be temporary, as they have been saying all along.

We are still hoping to get out of here soon, but no mention of it yet. We are not planning on going to Sptg for THanksgiving, but maybe Christmas.

She is mostly sleeping now because she has to take so much pain medicine because of the fluid.

Will update in a couple of days.
Keep up the prayers,
Love,
Bethany & Family

Saturday, November 16, 2002 at 10:05 AM (CST)

Good Morning,

Bethany slept pretty good last night, and is still sleeping.

She is feeling a little better, but they are still searching for reasons for the drop in counts and the fluid build up, which continues.

she is taking a growth factor for the white blood cells, so that may help.

She walked one lap yesterday, that is hard for her and one is all she can do right now. I think the added weight of the fluid makes it really hard for her to walk and keep her balance, because it is all out front.

The possible reasons that they have given us for the white count to drop are a virus or side effect of some of the medication. The CT of the liver was normal, so that is not the reason for the fluid. Let's hope they can figure it all out soon!
Love,
Bethany & Family

Thursday, November 14, 2002 at 03:59 PM (CST)

Hi,
Well, let's see. Bethany did feel a little better yesterday, but then they decided that they needed to do another bone marrow biopsy, there was a significant change in her blood counts, so, that was a slight scare, even though Dr. said he still thought it was Graft vs host, anyway, today he told us that there was no leukemia in the bone marrow, which is good. Now they have to find out what exactly is making her counts drop again.
They think maybe a virus of some kind, and again maybe graft vs host.
Anyway, they also wanted to do another CT scan of the liver, so that was done today.
Today she has not felt very much like doing anything. She is all swollen again and getting more miserable by the hour.

So the questions are, what exactly is making her retain all this fluid, and what is making her counts drop.

We finally gave up on going home this week and moved to a better room, e712, with a really beautiful view of the changing leaves, emory campus, and the atlanta skyline, much like we had last year.

Anyway, she is basically okay otherwise, and keep praying for total healing...soon..Thanks, Pam

Tuesday, November 12, 2002 at 08:59 AM (CST)

Good Morning!

Bethany had a pretty good night last night, but woke up about 5am in a lot of pain, and is more swollen and tight in the abdomen today.

They are going to give her some diuretics and probably another paracentesis today for relief.

The good news is that all of the studies they have done are negative, the lumbar puncture and studies on the fluid removed last week. They attribute all these problems to graft vs host disease, and they do think it will get better.

She is pretty miserable right now, but I hope they can make her feel better.

WE are looking forward to the day when she can wake up and say she feels fine today!

Keep praying for her and us all.
love
Mom & Bethany

Monday, November 11, 2002 at 10:40 AM (CST)

Good Morning
Bethany slept very good last night, and is napping again this morning.

She feels about the same.

Had a pretty good weekend, no news, nothing new to report.

We are still waiting on the test results, but they did restart her on the anti rejection medicine, to see if the graft vs host could be better controlled.

I hope we will get out one day this week.

I will update again when we get some test results.
Love to all,Bethany & Mom

Friday, November 08, 2002 at 12:53 PM (CST)

Good Morning

We have had a pretty busy few days here, with them running lots of tests and procedures.

They are going to do a lumbar puncture and paracentesis this afternoon.

Bethany's abdomen has swollen again, but it is not from the same reason as before, her ultrasound was normal regarding the liver function..so they are looking for other reasons, other than they are giving her a lot of fluids.

So far we don't have any answers, they did see a little something on the brain MRI, that is why they are doing a lumbar puncture. Dr. Redei has not said what it may be.

She actually feels a little better and is stronger, having the meals on wheels into her veins, and is eating a little bit, but now the pain of the swelling has started and so, she doesn't feel so good after all.
Like I said, It is always something.

WE are looking for a quiet weekend. Keep praying!
love,
Bethany & Family

Thursday, November 07, 2002 at 08:37 AM (CST)

Good Morning

Nothing much in the way of news, good or bad, so I guess that is good.

They are running a lot of tests and studies to try and find out why Bethany is having the symptoms she is having.
She is going to have a scope of her sinus tract this morning, and she is dreading it~ it will be uncomfortable I'm sure. (she has runny nose and cough)

Yesterday, the lab girl had to stick her for a test they cannot do through the catheter, and she hurt her so bad I made her stop. I guess they will send someone else to stick her today.

She had MRI of brain for headaches, but Kim and I think that if she could eat her headache would go away. They are going to repeat it today with contrast??? Also had ultrasound of sinuses yesterday, I think it showed sinusitis.
Apparently it's not as simple as if you or I had sinusitis.
They are afraid it is maybe fungal infection, which they would treat differently, and it is due to graft vs host.

Also, the GI Drs are wondering why her ascites is worse, even though her bilirubin is down to 3 or 4.

They are feeding her through her veins now, so maybe she will feel better with that.

So.. just pray that she will be comfortable through all the tests and she will soon be better.
Thanks
Love
Bethany and Family

Tuesday, November 05, 2002 at 10:07 PM (CST)

Good Evening Everyone,

Bethany had to be re admitted Tues pm, for nausea, vomitimg and diarrhea, which they think is graft vs host. She is also very weak, so they hope to get some nutrition into her too.

I hope this time they can really fix her up and she will start feeling better.

I am a little relieved that they went ahead and admitted her, she has been pretty much in bed since last Thursday, so it is hard to know what to do.

They did not have any beds on our floor, 7 E, so for right now we are on 9E, but hope to move tomorrow.

I will update when we get more news tomorrow.
Pray!
His,
Bethany & Family

Sunday, November 03, 2002 at 09:11 PM (CST)

Hello
Sunday night, sorry we have not updated all weekend, but it get's really hard when there is not really any news.

Bethany still does not feel well. If it is not a headache, it's itching, or dizziness, or nausea, or vomiting, or diarrhea.....every day it seems to be something else. The good news is that all these small very frustrating problems are treatable according to the Drs.

She did eat a little more today. I think probably less than any of us in one meal, but a lot for her.

She did not feel like getting up or out over the weekend.

Jill and Jeremy moved to Raleigh, actually Cary, N.C. last week and Jeremy started a new job today, as youth minister at South Hills Baptist Church in Cary. The church has a web site with a welcome to them on it. She says the baby is smiling a lot now. We can't wait to see him again...I mean them!

Bethany is getting a lot of notes from all over, I think a lot of it is the Acoustic outreach people. The are sending her stuff all the time too, which is so cool. She loves it.
I really enjoy the notes from strangers who have been touched by the story, that is so uplifting and inspiring, that so many care.

She is still a little down, so please keep the cards and notes coming.
She did do a little school work last week, so maybe she can get caught up.
Maybe next week...she will feel better. We keep saying this and keep saying this, maybe one day it will come true.

We heard from the make a wish foundation, and they cannot honor her wish to be on the set of Sat Night Live, but can get her tickets to the rehearsal, so that sounded good to her.
Anyway, I will update tomorrow if any news, in a couple of days for sure.
Love to All,
Bethany & Family

Wednesday, October 30, 2002 at 08:41 PM (CST)

Good Evening,
We spent the day in the clinic today. BEthany went with me this morning as I took her blood, she was up early!

They had to change some of the meds to IV because of the Graft vs host, and the iv's are so complicated. I have to mix the medication first, then put it in the iv bag, etc.
They were afraid she was not absorbing the medidcation for graft vs host, because she really has not improved much thisweek like they had hoped, appetite, energey, etc.

We tried to go to Lenox mall, Buth Bethany just does not have enough energy to shop. She must be sick!

We are both frustrated with this ongoing take two steps forward and one backward, but I know we will get there.
Just pray and thanks again for all the thoughts and prayers!
Love to All,
Bethany & family

Monday, October 28, 2002 at 05:55 PM (CST)

Good Evening!

We did not get back from the clinic until 4:30, so my update is late. Bethany got a good report, bilirubin now 6!

They continue to be amazed at her recovery.

The Dr. told her today he really believes the worst is behind her. Just regaining strength and beginning to eat again are the challenges now. Praise God!

Bethany is very, very weak and has lost most of her muscle mass. It is a great effort for her to even get dressed. She does walk some and they want her to exercise, but it is going to be slow going. She cannot eat much at all. Breakfast is 1/2 apple. Lunch 2 bites of power bar. Supper 2 bites of mac & cheese ,2 bites of green beans, 1/2 biscuit, and that is a big meal for her. She drinks a lot and takes vitamins though. She still has about 15 lbs of water weight, or more, and her abdomen still pretty swollen. But the jaundice is going away.

She is getting a little better each day.
Thanks for all the prayers, will update again on Wed after clinic visit, unless something new comes up!

His,
Bethany & Family

Saturday, October 26, 2002 at 11:35 AM (CDT)

Good Morning!!

Good news!

Bethany was discharged last night, so we slept in the apt and both slept very well last night

Also, the genetics portion of the bone marrow biopsy report is in, and it shows 97% donor cells, which is great!
One month ago it was 1/2 and 1/2, so by the next one we should be 100% donor!

They also found some graft vs host disease in her small intestine, which would account for her lack of appetite and nausea, etc. This is easy to treat.

So, we are hoping for a great week and feeling better every day. Bethany feels better already!
We will update again Monday after clinic visit.
Bilirubin is still 8, but she is off the amino acids now so they expect it to go down slowly now,.
God is so GOOD!
Love,.
Bethany & Family

Thursday, October 24, 2002 at 03:03 PM (CDT)

good afternoon
Nothing much to tell here today. We are just waiting on test results.

Bethany feels maybe a little better today. We hope to be discharged tomorow.

I hope you all have fun farmer's day and beat Spartan High!!
Love
Pam & Bethany

Wednesday, October 23, 2002 at 09:10 AM (CDT)

Good Morning

Bethany is still here in the hospital. Today they are going to do endoscopy, upper and lower, to determine if she does in fact have some graft vs host disease.
This could account for the poor appetite and nausea.

They want her to have a little, and the rash she has they are pretty sure it is that, but they have to monitor very carefully that she doesn't get a whopping case of it.
Just a very delicate balance they are trying to achieve.(with the graft vs host disease) A little would help to kill all remaining leukemia cells, if any.

She still does not feel well, so any suggestion for cheer would be appreciated!

Maybe after this we can be discharged to the apartment again!
His,
Bethany & family

Tuesday, October 22, 2002 at 01:42 PM (CDT)

Hello...

Bethany is still not feeling well. She is still at Emory in E701. The results from the CT are not back yet. The genetics test results should be here by Friday. An EGD is scheduled. Bethany had a temp on & off last night. She is very nauseated and feels dehydrated. She is also very depressed. The MD will schedule someone to come in and talk with her about that. No wonder she's depressed! She's sick and tired of being sick and tired! She doesn't have the feelings of "I give up" - it is more "when will I FINALLY feel good again" type thing. I know that she really didn't want to miss another DHS Farmer's Week - probably best not to mention that too much unless she asks for info. But any ideas of how to cheer her up some without making her miss home anymore than she already does - lets hear them! We are out of ideas! We have done everything from a new car to private "concerts". We are still waiting to hear from Make A Wish about her going to NYC for SNL - that would cheer her I think but still no word. We have mentioned her looking for a college - she just says she has to get out of high school first.

Mom has been frustrated with not being familiar with the staff they have had last night and today. She said that you would think as long as they were there in the hospital, they both should know everyone on the floor but evidently they have some "floaters" in there right now. Mom told me that a cleaning person came in this morning at 6 AM, turned the light on, said Good Morning, and got the trash - talk about ridiculous! It is most definitely a good thing that I was not there - some of you know well that I am not a morning person.

Anyhow, we will update when we know more!

Love,
Kim

Monday, October 21, 2002 at 09:16 AM (CDT)

Afternoon update...

Bethany was running a fever today and felt LOUSY! So, they have admitted her to E701 for probably no more than a couple of days to receive IV antibiotics. She should be back to the apartment by Wednesday.

GOOD MORNING!

Mom just called me with the initial bone marrow test results. The initial report is better than the last one and shows no immature or leukemic cells. However, there are still some genetic (DNA) test results that are not in yet. The MD's are really wanting to get these test results before giving us an "official" report. So basically - so far, so good. We should know a final report by the end of the week. So, keep on praying - we aren't done yet!

Bethany had an ok weekend - she is having a lot of pain in her back and stomach.

I took Minnie down for a visit with Bethany and I think she really enjoyed it. We went to Toys R Us on Saturday night and bought a puzzle.

Well, until we know more...

Thanks for all of the prayers and support!

Love
Kim

Friday, October 18, 2002 at 04:15 PM (CDT)

Good Afternoon,
Transplant Day 58

We had a good report at the clinic yesterday. Bilirubin 11.9!!! Platelets 76, that is a big improvement.

We will not hear from the bone marrow until next week.

Until then, nothing much going on here, Bethany has a rash and they still think it may be Graft Vs host, but a little of that would be good.

Please pray for the results!!

We will not update over the weekend as not much to report on a daily basis right now.

Maybe by next weekend Bethany will be up for visitors.
Love to All,
Bethany & Family

Thursday, October 17, 2002 at 09:10 AM (CDT)

Good Morning,
We have spent a couple of really quiet days here, nothing going on.

today is the Bone marrow biopsy around 2 this pm, I will not get her lab results until then either, so nothing really to report to you new.

The itching is a little better, weight continues to drop, color continues to improve, soo. we are just waiting on the status of the leukemia. Please pray for that test report.

Will update in the am with more, after clinic visit today.
His,
Bethany; & Family

Tuesday, October 15, 2002 at 09:25 AM (CDT)

Good morning!
It is a nasty, rainy morning here in Atlanta. We're glad we don't have to go to the clinic today!

Bethany's bilirubin is down to 15!! We are excited and the Drs. are so pleased.

Now she is having a problem with itching and a rash, it may be graft vs host, but they are not sure.

Please pray for the bone marrow biopsy on Thursday, and that the itching will cease.

She is not feeling like doing anything much but staying in. She actually wants me to cook all our meals!?? I will fix a big meal and she eats about 5 bites. So we have leftovers a lot.

THanks for the continued support and prayers!
His,
Bethany & FAmily

Monday, October 14, 2002 at 09:12 AM (CDT)

Good morning!

We had a really quiet weekend. Bethany was feeling pretty tired which is to be expected I think.

We will visit the clinic again today. I have already taken her blood samples in, and she goes back about 12:30.

We spent some time this weekend out on the rooftop of the building, where there is a pool, 18th floor. it is a really good view and nice - no one else out there. Bethany enjoyed sitting in the sun.

We are really liking this building we live in. I just dropped my dry cleaning off at the concierge desk and will get it back on Wed. We are really getting spoiled. Most of you know we are right in a strip mall, Old navy, TJ Maxx, Toyr $ us, DSW shoe warehouse right outside our door, we can and do walk to them.

Quite different from Pauline, S>C> But we miss home and are ready to get there.

Pray that this week brings continued improvement. They will do a bone marrow biopsy on Thursday, so much prayer needed there, they will assess the status of the leukemia and hope that they find only donor cells!!

Love to All,
Bethany & Family

Saturday, October 12, 2002 at 02:14 PM (CDT)

Good Afternoon!

Bethany had a good checkup in the clinic yesterday. Dr. Waller saw her and was very pleased with her progress.

They now want to assess the status of the leukemia, so next week they will do another bone marrow biopsy. So, pray that it will be exactly what they are looking for for the transplant to be successful.

Everything seems to be working, according to the Dr. Her liver - bilirubin is down to 20, basically all other labs normal, electrolytes a little off due to losing so much fluid daily. Her white count is up some, and we thought she would need platelets, she had been needing them every other day in the hospital, but they increased on their own and she didn't need them yesterday!

It is lonely with everyone gone, but Bethany is really tired and not up to having anyone anyway. I am trying to talke her into going to see Bill Cosby who is in Atlanta this weekend. She just is not up to it. Maybe a movie sometime...or shopping, or... maybe just renting a movie.

Anyway, next week I hope she can start with some mild exercise down in the gym maybe a little strength building.
She is very weak and this will be very mild.

We are so pleased with her progress and as I said enjoying our miracle!
God is Good!!
Bethany & Family

Friday, October 11, 2002 at 09:47 AM (CDT)

Good Morning!
We are headed out to the clinic for Dr. Visit. I have already taken the blood sample so maybe we won't have to wait so long.

Bethany had a good night and looks forward each day to feeling better.

I heard there was a rumor we were coming home this weekend, but it must be a misunderstanding, this is home for now, at least for the 100 days post transplant.

We really appreciate the prayers and thoughts, and are enjoying our miracle for now. Keep praying!
Love to All,
Bethany & Family

Thursday, October 10, 2002 at 10:38 PM (CDT)

Again, Sorry to be so late, we don't keep this computer hooked up so we aren't as prone to turn it on constantly.

Bethany continues to improve! Her bili was down to 21 today!!

She went for a massage today which she really enjoyed, because her back is sore and it hurts.

Jeremy came back today to get his wife and son, so they will be leaving tomorrow. We will be lonely!!

WE go to the clinic again tomorrow. They are letting me bring her blood in early for testing so that shortens her wait, thanks so much Cokers for the idea, and I'm glad they are willing to try it here. I think we are a pilot for this method or something.

We will try and update earlier tomorrow, and hope the news continues to get better.Keep Praying!

Love to All,
Bethany & Family

Wednesday, October 09, 2002 at 01:37 PM (CDT)

Hey Everybody!

I figured that I would share what I knew and Mom can update later if she has a chance...

Bethany's creatin is 1.1 (NORMAL!) and her bilirubin is 24. So everything continues to drop. The bilirubin still has a ways to go so keep praying.

Bethany is doing much, much better! She can get up and down on her own. She walked up the stairs into the apartment yesterday. She has gone down in weight a good bit - like 4 sizes. She is still a little yellow but this will continue to improve as long as the bilirubin continues dropping.

I am back at work today. Jill and JJ are still visiting with Bethany. I miss JJ more than anything! I wish Jill & Jeremy would hurry up and have another baby so that I can just have JJ!

Well, have a good day! We will update later!

Love,
Kim

Tuesday, October 08, 2002 at 06:25 PM (CDT)

Good Evening,SORRY to be so late, it has been a busy day.

We are discharged from the hospital, at the apartment, and we had the day off from any Dr, lab work, etc. We got here yesterday.

Bethany is feeling much better every day, eating better and very little pain medication. She is adjusting pretty good to being out of the hospital.

We are so blessed to be able to spend this time together with Kim, Jill, JJ, and myself Bethany.

We all thought the other had posted a note today, so I do apologize.

We are still praising God for our miracle and looking forward to seeing what the lab work will reveal tomorrow. It has been better every day so faR!

Love to all, and Thanks for the prayers!

Bethany & Family

Monday, October 07, 2002 at 09:25 AM (CDT)

Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow!!!

Bethany continues to improve!! Her creatinine is normal today, (high normal) and her bilirubin has dropped about 11 pts, to 26!!

We are packing up, hoping to be discharged.

They are making the decision about whether to use the experimental drug, but we don't think they will use it according to how the Dr. was talking yesterday!!

We are all overjoyed, and Bethany is looking better every day! She is very weak, has lost a lot of muscle mass, and is still jaundiced, but she is so much better. The pain is better and the water weight continues to drop.

Thanks for the prayers, and keep them going!
Love to All, Bethany & Family

Sunday, October 06, 2002 at 10:24 AM (CDT)

Good Morning!

Bethany made it through another night without medication! She is really sleepy today though. She doesn't know yet if she wants to go to the apartment. Her Bilirubin is down again to 29 - she still has a long way to go though, it has to come down to 3. Her creatin is down to 1.5.

Yesterday, me, Bethany, Jill and Jimmie went to Toys R Us and registered Jill. Hopefully we will be able to have a shower for her soon. It was nice though. Me and Jill were going and then Bethany said, I want to go too. Bethany did eat a little yesterday but no where near enough. I think that may be one reason she is so sluggish today- no fuel! She just drank one Boost, we will see if that helps!

Mom, Patti, Jill and JJ have all gone to Church this morning. I am not sure where but maybe with the Murrays from our building. Jimmie has gone home to get Minnie.

Not much else to tell. I think the MDs are still planning on using the Defibrotide tomorrow. I asked one of her "regular" RN's and she is happy they are doing it. She thinks it sounds really positive.

Westina, I think Bethany is ready whenever you are!

Take Care!

Love,
Kim

Saturday, October 05, 2002 at 09:10 AM (CDT)

Good Morning!

Bethany's counts are down a little more today - Bilirubin is 30.1 and Creatin is 1.6 - YEAH! Her weight was up slightly - not even a pound. She went all night without pain medicine or anything to help her sleep! As a matter of fact, she still hasn't had anything for pain this morning. I think that in itself is a definite sign of improvement! When I arrived here on Thursday, Bethany was in tears with pain - even with Morphine!

Jeremy brought Jill & JJ last night and flew back to VA this morning. Jeremy will come back on Thursday. Jimmie is in his way down as we speak. We are looking forward to babysitting today and tomorrow! I can't wait to see how much JJ changed over the last week. I hear that Patti, our Aunt, has been holding JJ for the past 2 hours - me and her will be fighting over him before it is over!

Me & Bethany are only waiting on the MD and then we are going to the apartment. We left yesterday at Noon and didn't return until 11PM last night. So, I foresee the same today.

Hope everyone has a good day. Don't forget the Hangar B Ball on Thursday. Be sure to get your tickets - Edwin McCain is performing (Bethany is an Edwin's Angel).

Take Care!

Love,
Kim

Friday, October 04, 2002 at 09:58 AM (CDT)

Good Morning

This is another small miracle! Bethany's bilirubin dropped a little more and kidney function remained the same, which is good because she is receiving diuretics that can make it go up.

The Drs. are somewhat encouraged and so are we.

She did not feel good yesterday but we hope today she will feel better.

Dr. Waller did order the experimental drug, I think one of his assistant's worked on it all day yesterday, and he paid for it himself which I thought was pretty awesome. He said it was not expensive, but I thought it would be.

They change hospital Drs. to day, so Dr. Lonial is back. We are hoping to get to go out on pass if she is strong enough. SHe is weak from staying in bed and not eating hardly anything, really since the ICU, but she has had an appetite some days, this week has been less.

Praise God for little miracles, and pray for it to continue.
Love to All,
Bethany & Family

Thursday, October 03, 2002 at 09:57 AM (CDT)

Afternoon:

Bethany lost a lot more fluid yesterday than they expected with urinating. The Drs. were very pleased and encouraged by this, and her bilirubin also went down. This is a little miracle, and they were suprised with this development, as it has continued to be the case today, her kidney function has definitely improved, so they are thinking maybe her liver had improved some, but the kidneywere compressed by all the fluid and since there is relief there, they can do a better job. Pray that this continues!
Pam
Good Morning

Bethany did get much relief from the paracentesis yesterday. She then did begin to go to the bathroom herself a lot, and lost altogether 14 lbs of fluid yesterday.

The Dr. has given us the option of going home and being surrounded by love and friends and family, or staying in the hospital and trying an experimental drug. It has become obvious that Bethany is not improving from this vascular occlusive disease of the liver and after this long if she is going to do it on her own it should be starting.
The Dr. said she has reached the end of medical knowledge, and medically there is nothing proven that can help her.

There is and always will be hope where there is life, and natural healing or miracle healing can occur, and there is a chance that the drug will help, so I think it is a no brainer, she wants and believes firmly that she is going to get better and we need to do everything we can for her, and that probably means staying here and trying the drug.

They are very concerned about making her comfortable right now and pain free.
Please please pray for her and us all and in these hard decisions, and that God does have a miracle planned for us according to his will.
Right now every day is a gift and we treasure this time we have, Jeremy, Jill and JJ are coming this weekend, so is Kim, Jimmy,and Beth's Dad.

Let me repeat, Bethany is looking forward to feeling better and believes that she will get beter, so that is how we address her right now and will continue to until she ask for more information. We do believe in miracles!!
God is in Control and we are also praying for peace!
Love to All,
Bethany & Family

Wednesday, October 02, 2002 at 09:24 AM (CDT)

Good Morning,
Bethany is totally miserable today. CAnnot walk or eat anything because of the fluid. The liver Dr. is going to do another paracentesis today for comfort for her. He is also calling out to Seattle for conference with another Dr. who has a lot of experience with this liver problem, vascular occlusive disease. We are not sure about discharge at this point, she is certainly not able to go now.

She did get up and shower, but it took all she had to do it, and then she promptly threw up.

Her labs are about the same.

On a lighter note, she had a good day yesterday as far as suprises. Seth and Steven and Steve came from the church for a visit, then later in the day, we got a call from acoustic outreach, and Angelo Aparo, a rock star and his wife came last night. He sang to Bethany and visited a little while. She enjoyed that. I will post a couple of photos of that.
Pray hard for her, she is so miserable and we cannot see any improvement, though they say it will be slow, it seems so far away.
In His Grip,
Bethany & Family

Wednesday, October 02, 2002 at 09:24 AM (CDT)

Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 10:38 AM (CDT)

Good Morning.
Today is a little better day. Bethany is not confused today I asked the nurse not to give her her morphine last night and this morning, and that seemed to help. Maybe it was just building up in her system.

She is very miserable today, but at least is alert. She lost about 1 lb yesterday, but she did not eat.

The Dr has not been in yet but the labs were about all the same.
Thanks !
His,
Love Bethany & Family

Monday, September 30, 2002 at 04:19 PM (CDT)

Good Afternoon,
Bethany has slept virtually all day. Very peaceful and restful, only talking out of her head when starting to wake up. You can awake her and she is not confused.

Her ammonia level which usually accounts for confusion is actually down today, so I'm not sure why today she is like this. Her lab values aren't really any different, so on paper she is the same as this weekend. Her urine output is down a little more, though, so that is not good. Her intake is down too, so??? I don't know really.

I have asked the Drs. to find someone who knows a little more about this, put their heads together, call the liver specialist back in, do whatever they can to get her better. Dr. Waller assured me that he will leave no stone unturned in this, and will and is doing and thinking and calling...etc. His son has leukemia too so I think he is very compassionate regarding her.

We will probably not go home to the apartment Wed as discussed earlier, unless she is better tomorrow and WEd. It's just a wait and see~ rollercoaster every day. Pray for us please.
Love
Bethany and Family

Monday, September 30, 2002 at 09:31 AM (CDT)

Please pray for Bethany today. She is not doing well. She is nauseated and throwing up this morning. Her labs stayed the same which is good, but I think she is getting a little confused again, which means her liver is not working properly.

The Dr. has not yet been in but I am anxious to see what he says. Pray hard for us!
His
Bethany & Family

Sunday, September 29, 2002 at 08:34 AM (CDT)

Good Morning!

Bethany is not feeling good today. She is really tired. We really expected this as she had a busy weekend. She is still in lots of pain from the fluid. Her back and side are hurting this morning. She still doesn't have much of an appetite. But - Good News... her bilirubin went down a little! Her creatin was the same. This is really good news. Now, just keep praying that both will continue to drop!

Have a good day!

Love,
Kim

Saturday, September 28, 2002 at 08:36 AM (CDT)

Good Morning.

Bethany and Mom met JJ yesterday - finally. They both love him to pieces although Bethany was a little aggrevated with him crying so much. Not that he is a bad baby or anything - he just had a long trip over the past few days and is still trying to adjust. Of course, I can't wait to get my hands on him again. It probably is a good thing that they don't live close to me because I already seem to find my way into the Children's Department at every store I go in. I would be broke if he actually lived in the same town as me.

Bethany did not feel good yesterday - she pushed herself to the apartment because she wanted to see JJ so bad. Her counts have improved a little. the creatin is 1.7 today but her bilirubin is still up. The fluid continues to make her miserable. The MD has stopped all meds that are toxic to the liver and/or kidneys in hopes that she will lose the fluid. They may remove more next week. The MD still thinks that she can be discharged sometime next week so, we will see. If my counting is right, this is day 49 in the hospital - we are mentally ready to be out of here - but physically Bethany just doesn't feel good enough yet. She has no appetite and doesn't drink much of anything. She does walk a little. The RN just gave her benadryl for platelets so, she will sleep for a little while this AM.

We are still waiting on the MD this morning. We will probably go to the apartment again today to say good-bye to Jill, Jeremy and JJ. I will be staying through tomorrow - Daddy will be relieving me so that Mom can have a few more hours "off".

Please pray for this fluid to disappear - walking brings tears to Bethany's eyes because of the pain from the fluid. I don't think I have ever seen her so miserable. Pray that her bilirubin will drop soon. Pray that she will be discharged this week.

Bethany just said to me - Can you believe that one week ago today Sister Hazel was here? She really enjoyed Ken & Chris coming. Thanks again SH and RAC!

The website that Mom added a link for yesterday is really good. Be sure to check it out along with the others!

Have a great weekend! The sun is finally shining in Atlanta!

Love,
Kim

PS
One thing that Bethany and I were talking about yesterday, she never got a DHS yearbook last year. Does anyone know how we can get her one?

Friday, September 27, 2002 at 05:54 AM (CDT)

I just had to sign in too... I met my favorite nephew last night! I could cry because they have to back to VA. I really, really don't want them to leave. I think Jill & Jeremy should leave JJ home with me and have another baby.

Also - to all of Bethany's friends in other parts of the country/world - go to the new acousticoutreach.org website and host Bethany's bear!

Good Morning,
After sleeping almost all day yesterday and all night last night, we are both awake early today.

I am a little worried about Bethany. She did not have a good day yesterday. Her kidney and liver functions were up a little, and she had very little output yesterday. She is not drinking a lot either, so that may be the cause. THe nurse said she may be actually dehydrated, because even though she has fluid, it is not like she is taking it in. She was nauseated yesterday also, and threw up one time. Did not want to eat, and could not walk very good. They did not do the paracentesis because her creatinine was up so much. it was 2.0, normal up to 1.0. I hope it is down today. Please pray that today she will feel like going to the apartment to meet her nephew.
She is just so fragile right now, and we have one good and and then a bad one.
She still has abd pain and now her shoulder is hurting too.

I did learn to draw the blood and she can do it too. We also had a suprise visit from 2 of the nurses from SRMC, it was so good to see them!

We are looking forward to seeing JJ and will post some photos.

Just because she is a little better, do not stop the urgent prayers for her.
God in in Control.
You may want to check out www.acousticoutreach.org, go to their friends link, and read about Bethany. Under inspiration, you will find that Brandon Coker inspired this organization.
In His Grip,
Bethany & Family

Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 11:22 AM (CDT)

Hello!

Mom and Bethany are sleepy today so they asked me to update. Nothing is wrong - just a sleepy day.

The MD came in this morning and is thinking about drawing more fluid off of Bethany's stomach. I personally think that this is a wonderful idea and hope he does it. Bethany will be much more comfortable and would possibly even feel like being discharged! Right now she is still just too uncomfortable with the fluid to make the trip to the Clinic everyday.

Jill, Jeremy & JJ are coming to Atlanta- we are looking forward to meeting JJ. Bethany will get a pass so we can all be at the apartment together. We will post some pictures.

Well, not much else to tell today. It is so yucky here in Spartanburg - this could easily be a sleepy day for me too!

Take Care!

Kim

Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 09:17 AM (CDT)

Good Morning!
Bethany had a great night last night. Slept well and was not bothered too much by hospital people.

She is feeling much better and they are thinking maybe next week can go home to the apartment!

WE are so excited!! Jill and Jeremy are bringing JJ this weekend!! So we finally get to see him!

Bethany's bilirubin went up again, and creatinine, but they think it is because of the Lasix. So they won't give it every day.

Slow progress, one step forward and the other backward.

In His Grip,
Bethany & Family

Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 09:06 AM (CDT)

Good morning! Transplant DAY 34 1/3 of the way!

Bethany felt better last night and slept better, after going again to the apartment for a visit.

She ate a home cooked meal again, and is eating a little more each day. Her bilirubin came down slightly today, which is a good sign. The other liver enzymes are almost normal range now.

Today we are staying here and getting a little more lasix. Bethany was trying to explain to the Dr. how uncomfortable this extra weight is.

If not for that, she could go shopping or at least walk around the grocery store.

I think she is much better in my view, just a general feeling I have by the way she is talking
We stayed up until about 2am talking last night. She shared with me how she has no patience for anyone who is a complainer now eg the housekeeping staff here, etc.

Today she will get a massage and I am going rest also.

To all those who thought I might be sticking Bethany with a needle every day to draw her blood, it will be drawn through her port, she can actually do it herself if necessary.

And Ray & Lisa, thanks for the idea, they are going to let us do that!

In His Grip,
Bethany & Family

Monday, September 23, 2002 at 12:44 PM (CDT)

Good Morning

Bethany slept well last night and is feeling pretty good. They want to try and get her out of here, to the apartment, but their out patient situation is a lot less than idea, so Ray Coker gave me and idea and I presented it to the Dr. this morning, and they are very receptive to the idea.

The idea is I would draw the blood sample and bring to the lab every morning, and if bethany needs something, after they get it all ready, they will call us and then we will come, and that way we would not have to sit in the clinic all day.

Her lab went up again, but one value came down.

We are going out on pass again and trying to wean from the hospital. Keep praying!
In His Grip,
Bethany & Family

Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 08:45 AM (CDT)

Good Morning!

Good News...

Bethany will get a pass today for a couple of hours. So, we are going to the apartment. Bethany is looking forward to taking a real bath! Mom is cooking lunch so we are all happy!

We are still on a Sister Hazel high! I think it is safe to call both me and Bethany "Hazelnuts" now. If you have never heard their music I highly recommend buying a CD. I think it is music for all ages and I really think everyone would enjoy it. All of the nurses are just amazed that we had enough pull to get a rock star here - so we have to tell the whole story about Rock Against Cancer, which leads to Lyrics for Life story. I will add links for both websites later. Ann, one of Bethany's fav RN's, told Bethany last night about SH doing a concert on campus and Bethany was like - yeah, I know I had a private "pre-show" bit in my room earlier. How awesome!

Anyhow, I think we will both be floating for a while. I hear Edwin McCain is coming to Atlanta sometime this week. Maybe we should give him a call.... Ok Ok I know I am getting greedy!

Anyhow, I never really thought Music Therapy amounted to much. Boy, I sure have changed my tune now! (no pun intended) Music makes everyone feel better - even when you feel lousy!

So, Bethany's counts seem better today. She still has lots of fluid but did lose a little weight.

I know that she will be worn out after the pass but I think it will be good for her to get out.

Mom said that she had the best time with all of her friends from work. I think they will have to start coming down regularly!

Many thanks again to Sister Hazel and Rock Against Cancer for making our weekend great!

Love,
Kim

Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 08:36 AM (CDT)

Post ROCK STAR visit...

WE LOVE SISTER HAZEL!!

Ken (singer) and Chris (manager) of the band Sister Hazel came today to visit with Bethany. Ken sang 3 songs and me and Bethany are both still smiling so big it is not even funny! Both guys were awesome. Great conversation, great music, great time! Me and Bethany are a little star struck even though they were very down-to-earth. Many thanks to Rock Against Cancer and Sister Hazel!

Good Morning Day 31 (Post transplant day)
Day 41 in hospital

Good News!!

Bethany got some relief yesterday. They drained 2 liters of fluid out of her abdomen, and she got a new diuretic that helped get some more out. She lost about 7 lbs yesterday, so that is about 20 for the week. She feels better and had a better night!

The ultrasound was not changed from before, she does have some vascular occlusive disease of the liver, which is causing the continued problems. This is just a wait and see situation. They hope it will resolve itself.

Kim is coming today and some girls from my office are coming to see me~!! We are excited.

Also, Sister Hazel lead singer is coming to do a private concert for Bethany this afternoon, the band is doing a concert at Emory tonight. kim arranged this.

She had lots of visitors yesterday and enjoyed them.

We are hoping for a good day and weekend!!
Praise!
In His Grip,
Bethany & Family

Friday, September 20, 2002 at 09:41 AM (CDT)

Good Morning Day 30

Bethany continues to be miserable. The Dr. changed service today, so Dr. Waller, who is the head of the BMT dept, is not seeing her.
He is a little concerned that some of the occlusive disease of the liver may be recurring, not as severe, but maybe slightly, or we may be dealing with graft-vs host disease of the liver. I don't know which is better or worse.

He did say this is a SLOW recovery diesease. We are not looking at getting out of here any time soon. 40 day and nights....so far, just like Noah!

They are talking about maybe doing a paracentesis and drawing some of the fluid out of the abdomen. That may give her some relief. He also has increased her pain medication on a prn basis.

The talked about putting her back on a Morphine pump, but I said NO. That caused her some problems in the ICU.

They can give it to her a dose at a time, and she can ask for it when she needs it.

We are developing patience here, she did go down a little less than 1 lb in weight yesterday. They also did a liver ultrasound this am, so maybe that will give them clues as to what is going on.

She is not eating very well and actually does not even want the massage ladies to come, she can't stand to be touched.

Anyway, Pray for her.
In His Grip,
Bethany and Family

Thursday, September 19, 2002 at 11:07 AM (CDT)

Hey!

Day 28

I just talked to Mom and she asked me to update...

Everything is about the same. Bethany is still in lots of pain but does seem a little better today. Today makes 39 days in the hospital this time. Right now she can't see a light at the end of the tunnel and is very upset. Not much Mom says seems to encourage her - which is totally understandable. She is getting better every day but it is a very slow process. Most of her medications that she was receiving IV are now being switched to oral. She still has lots of fluid - she didn't lose any yesterday. The MD is giving her more lasix today.

Nothing much else to report. I am going down this weekend to give Mom a break.

Love,
Kim

Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 11:03 AM (CDT)

Good Morning! Day 27

Good News! The bone marrow biopsy was pretty good according to the Drs. No leukemia.

The liver enzymes have continued to fall, but the bilirubin is up just .6 of 1 point, so they feel it is beginning to reach a plateau.

She has lost about 12 lbs, so you would think she feels better, but she still feels lousy, has lots of abdominal pain, and it hurst just to move.

As she said, "they tell me I am better" meaning she does not yet feel any better.

Patience~!
The improv group came yesterday and entertained all the patients on this floor that felt like getting out. I t was very funny and they were really good. Thanks, Patti!

I'll post some photos of the, and also some more tomorrow. I want everyone to see the baby first!
His,
Bethany & Family

Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 08:48 AM (CDT)

Good Morning Day 27

Bethany had a very rough night last night. She was in so much pain she cried. That is something she has not done. They did a bone marrow biopsy yesterday, and with all the extra fluid, they think that was causing the pain.

Her bilirubin continues to climb to 27, but the other liver enzymes are a little better today. I don't know yet what that will mean to the Dr., but we'll see.

They may proceed with the liver biopsy.

A nutritionist came yesterday and added some vitamin and minerals to her diet, maybe that will help.

She does not feel well today, and her breathing has decreased a little, so that we have added back the oxygen.

The Dr. said her lungs sounded better yesterday, so I'm not sure why this breathing is worse, only down to 88, (out of 100), but they like it to be 91 or above. She did not get up much yesterday, so maybe that's why.

All the vital signs are good and we just hope that today will bring some relief. She lost another pound or so of fluid yesterday.

Pray for the bone marrow biopsy to be clear of leukemia, that is a biggie!!

She needs patience also, this is a very slow process. We expected her to improve and get out of here in less than a week, so we are learning patience too.

New baby pics!
Update after Dr.: Dr. Lonial is VERY encouraged by the drop in the liver enzymes. Also the slight drop in fluids. So.. every improvement and good news is so welcome. The Drs. all came in wearing a nose/moustache mask today, Bethany laughed, also a Christian improv group is coming this afternoon, Patti arranged it and they will be here at 2:45, they will do their thing int the hallway so all patients can enjoy!!

His,
Bethany & Family

Monday, September 16, 2002 at 09:39 AM (CDT)

Good Morning - Day 26

Bethany is still sleeping this morning! So, I really don't know how she feels.

I think she had a pretty good night. Lisa was her nurse and she was looking forward to seeing her.

She did wake up a little, but was throwing up a little, I don't know if this will continue or not.

Her bilirubin continues to climb, as well as her other liver function studies. Normal bilirubin is .1 - 1.1, hers is now 23.1. She is very yellow. The Dr. thinks her liver is functioning, however much I'm not sure. They will probably proceed with the liver biopsy today or tomorrow to try and find the cause of this.

She is not making much progress losing the water weight, probably because the liver is not optimal.

We need patience!! She did enjoy her visitors yesterday.
Pray for patience for her, and improvement of the liver.

His,
Bethany & Family

Her kidney studies continue to improve however.

Sunday, September 15, 2002 at 10:42 AM (CDT)

Good Morning Day 25!!

This is the day that the Lord hath made Let us rejoice and be glad in it!! We were reminded of that yesterday during reading on of the entries in the guestbook.

Bethany actually feels worse today. She is looking okay, but just feels puny.

Her liver functions are still off and continue to worsen. The Drs. are just waiting and thinking it will level off.

Trying to adjust everything and are giving her more Lasix today with some albumin so try and move some fluid. She did lose a little yesterday!

She has some very welcome visitors right now.

HAve a great day!
love to all, Bethany & Family

Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 02:27 PM (CDT)

Good Afternoon, Day 24

Bethany is feeling better today. Her liver studies still are abnormal, but Dr. feels like the liver is okay, and that it is because of medication. The other possibility is graft vs host disease. If they do not soon improve, he will do a biopsy to find out.

She is eating more and generally feels much better today, even though we have both been lazy. Watching movies and sleeping all day, its rainy here.

Sorry to be so late, and thanks to all those participating in fund raiser today!!

love to All, His,
Bethany & Family

Friday, September 13, 2002 at 08:35 AM (CDT)

Good Morning, Day 23?

Bethany did not sleep well last night. She has been a trooper through all this, but she is tired of it. She is miserable and just wants to be well.

Everything hurts her. Hurts to get up , hurts to go to the bathroom, hurts to walk, with this massive swelling it is just so hard.

She is talking a little less pain medication, and her weight is down slightly, indicating the fluid is moving.

Talk about slow...tedious. Please pray for her patience and faster moving of the liquids. Her liver enzymes are also up, and her bilirubin. They think it is because of some of the medication that she is on being toxic to the liver. All other studies are better. She is jaundiced because of the high bilirubin, which they think is caused by the graft being a different blood type, and bilirubin is a by product of the break down of red blood cells, and the graft is attacking hers. They say this is just something that happens, but they are not concerned about it.

She needs some cheering up!! How do we/I do it when she really feels bad? Suggestions?

Love to All,
Bethany & Family

Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 05:34 AM (CDT)

Day 21 Thursday AM

Bethany and I both slept pretty good last night. She is getting up and walking more. We went three different times, only one lap though. It hurts her feet because they are so swollen. THey look a little better though.

We are pushing fluids and trying to eat those foods which are natural diuretics. I have been doing internet research and found that lemon is, so she is drinking some STRong lemonade. Also, watermelon and cucumbers. I went to the health food store also, but they were afraid to recommend anything other than what I already knew in her condition.

I think the massage is helping too. She continues to come daily, and that is a big deal because the parking is so terrible.

There is a girl I met while in ICU. We created them a web page, it is the same as Bethany's except /ga/sarawilliams. Actually I ment her parents, not her. She is pretty sick too and could use prayers. They have not gotten a firm diagnosis.

The Dr. said that Bethany could take a car ride at the end of the week, and he wants her to sit up today in a chair as much as she can. Again, it hurts because of the abdomen.

He said yesterday her liver function studies continue to improve, and they are trying to avoid all liver toxic medications, except the Prograf for rejection, so that may account for the slow recovery .

In His Grip,
Bethany and Family

Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 09:13 AM (CDT)

Day 21

Bethany slept well last night, but she is pretty miserable with the 40 pounds of water weight added. She is pretty swollen. They say it will take time to resolve.

Had a shower this morning and we are waiting on the Dr. and massage therapist.

Will update later!!

I know everyone remembers where they were this time last year, we were here! It was a scary day!

Love to All,
Bethany & Family

Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 06:10 PM (CDT)

Day 20 Evening

Bethany walked down the hall twice today with the physical therapist!! We also went outside in this reclining wheelchair (her abdomen hurts sitting up straight). I am not a good driver anyway, and this special chair just about got away from me! She started down a slight incline, but a lady helped me catch her!! We were laughing, not really in danger!

She is still a sleepyhead though. Has not been able to get much water, and she needs a lot to cleanse the system.

I wanted to share this card with you that Bethany received from someone in the youth group. I am not going to sign the card, but it is so special, even one of the nurses copied it to show her children:

Hey Bethany!

I don't know if you remember me, but I remember you. A few years ago, you had a b-=day party at your house and I went. That was the first time that I was invited anywhere. At the end of the party, I went out to say Happy Birthday, and you pulled me into the pool. That was the first time anyone outside of my D-group joked around w/me or even paid me any attention. At that time, I was starving for friends b/c I felt that I didn't have any. I've always remembered you as the nicest girl at our church for that. Thank you. I'll be keeping you in my prayers.

We never know sometimes how little things we do can affect people do we?

Love to All,
Bethany and Family

Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 12:41 PM (CDT)

day 20 afternoon update Bethany has been a sleepyhead today. Dr Lonial says Bethany is doing fine. The progress is expected to be slow. She has a little pain, Not too much. She is definitely progressing.

Not too much to tell really. I will let you know if anything changes.

Love to All,
Bethany and Family

Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 09:38 AM (CDT)

Morning, I was trying to wait on the Dr., but he is late today. Bethany slept well last night, just getting up to go to the bathroom.

She seem a little lethargic today, I am making her get up .

Waiting on PT also, so I will update a little later. All labs pretty much the same,. so really not better today, but not worse.
In His Grip,
Bethany & Family

Monday, September 09, 2002 at 09:29 AM (CDT)

Good Morning! Day 19

Bethany had a good night. Actually slept!! The swelling is still there, but her mental status is almost clear. She says she is still a little confused. She did not believe that we were really on 7E, so this morning we took a wheel chair ride around the unit. That helped.

Also, the physical therapist came in and walked her some, she then walked to the chair and sat up a little. The abdominal swelling makes it painful to sit up.

So, she has had a busy morning. She read her cards this morning, and has some really sweet ones.

She had some welcome visitors and does remember everyone who came.

The Dr. has not yet been in today. But all liver function and labs look better. She can eat fruit and veggies now because the transplanted cells have created a little immunity.

That looks great, =the transplant i mean.

We are looking forward each day to her beting better. Will update again later.

love Bethany & Family

Sunday, September 08, 2002 at 10:11 AM (CDT)

New Baby Pics!

3:30 update
Bethany is still doing well. She hasn't been able to eat today but is drinking lots of water. She is sleeping soundly again right now. She had benadryl and is getting platelets.

Lots of visitors today! Thanks everyone for taking the time and making the drive! I know it makes her feel good! She's ready to get back to normal life!

Good Morning!

Bethany is doing great! She knows who everyone is finally! Patti has been here for almost 10 days with her and she just recognized her this morning! Bethany didn't believe us when we told her she was on 7E so she asked Dr. Lonial this morning and he reassured her.

Bethany was up most of the night using the bathroom. So Mom and Patti are exhausted. They have gone to rest and Jimmie is coming to help me. Bethany is getting Imodium this morning - Praise the Lord! Brandy went home yesterday - she had to finish preparations for the benefit next Saturday. Please check the PHOTOS SECTION for the flier on this website or call Brandy with any questions (864.948.9485) leave a message and she will get back to you.

The Reflexologist will return again today. We will probably keep this and massage up for the 100 days at least. We really believe this, along with prayer, a few extra special Angels, and Gods Grace is why Bethany is with us now. She really gave us all a good scare.

Marie, Bethany's Nurse today, is going to give her a good shower - it has been 11 days now with just bed baths so I know she will feel better after this. Physical Therapy will start again tomorrow and we are going to get a personal trainer for her at the apartment. They have ones available at the on-site gym.

Bethany's white count is NORMAL! It hasn't been normal in 6 months! She can have anything she wants to eat but we are sticking to basics for now. I know she will want a salad as soon as she feels a little stronger! Marie, RN, told us that her graft looks really good. They still want her to have some GVHD before we can really tell anything about the Leukemia. It is hard to separate the liver problems and the Leukemia but they really are separate problems. Of course, the liver stuff is a direct result of attempts to cure the Leukemia. I have had several phone calls asking for clarification. The Leukemia never spread anywhere - the drugs they used to treat the leukemia and the actual transplant is what caused problems with the liver. I hope that I understand it correctly and that my explanation here makes some sense. Mom will correct if not.

Bethany is resting very peacefully right now without any drugs at all. Dr. Lonial and Marie, RN seem to think that we can be out of here within 10 days - probably less. Bethany is making leaps and bounds everyday. My personal guess is that she will be at the apartment by Saturday.

Jill, Jeremy and JJ are doing great. Daddy and Nanny went to see them yesterday. Jill kept Nanny with her there for the week. I am so JEALOUS! Maybe I will get to go next weekend. I think Mom will try to fly up there from here before Patti leaves. I will return to work tomorrow.

Thanks to everyone that has helped us. I especially want to thank Patti and Brandy- we would have never made it through this week without you! Alexia and Jimmie - I wouldn't have remained half-way in my right mind without you!

Thanks to everyone at DHS, First Baptist, Mt. Calvary, oh my list could go on forever! Just know that we appreciate everything everybody's doing for Bethany and our Family. It is nice to feel like home is right here with us!

Love to all,

Kim

Saturday, September 07, 2002 at 04:19 PM (CDT)

Pm update:

Bethany moved into regular room!! We are busy and tired, but overjoyed she is here. had some welcome visitors today.

if you don't see an update, know everything is okay. Will update immediately if change, so far, good day!!

Praise GOD!!
Bethany & Family

Saturday, September 07, 2002 at 06:40 AM (CDT)

morning, Day 16? I think.
Anyway, i am not yet at the hospital. But last night, Bethany was able to sit up in bed and hold a popsicle and eat it. She missed her mouth a few times, but we helped a little. She is still a little confused because of the ammonia level in the bloodstream.

This keeps getting a little better daily. yesterday she had some abd pain and diarrhea, so that was a challenge.

We did not have time or energy to do an afternoon update.

There are four of us here and we switch off, 2 at a time, it takes us all plus the nurses to care for her.

I know a lot of her friends want to come and see her, and i want you to feel free to come, but if you could space the visits out she won't get so tired out. Some come Sat, some Sunday, and maybe the early dismissals can come during the week. i think she would love to see you and she smiled really big at her Dad yesterday and gave him a kiss.

She may be moved to a regular room, they keep saying tomorrow, tomorrow... but i think she is about ready if nothing else happens.

i will post some new photos of the baby today if i get a chance.

I hope everyone realizes that her recovery is truly a miracle and the result of all of your prayers. Dr Bearden called here and was told she had less that 50/50 chance, but they do not know Bethany and her prayerful friends!!(i never want to know any numbers, because God doesn't work by numbers)

NEVER doubt the power. The Dr had told us that she was not quite to the point where they would say, people in this condition usually do not recover, but she was getting close to that point. So prayer, combined with the skill of the Drs., and the massage... helped her to turn the corner and improve. Those of you who saw her know how big a miracle this is.
But God is behind all of that too.
His,
Bethany & Family

Friday, September 06, 2002 at 09:35 AM (CDT)

Day 15,
Am
Bethany continues to improve. Had a rough night with agitation, but is very responsive and semi alert. She keeps falling asleep.

We hear a rumor that they may move her back to the floor today!!. She nurse from the floor is coming to do an assesment.

Will update later!!
Love to all and THANK you GOD
Bethany & family

Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 07:22 PM (CDT)

pm update

Bethany has had continued improvement throughout the day. The doctors says she still has some bridges to cross but is very encouraging. She has rested well today. She still has some confusion but is much better.We are hoping for a good night.

Jill is doing very well with the new baby, J.J.. We will post some new pictures soon.

Bethany and family

Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 09:06 AM (CDT)

Good Morning!!

Day 14

We are all so excited, Bethany is better!! Her lab are better, her mental status is improved, and they are going to get physical therapy in to see her today.

WE are also excited about the baby!!

Jeremy Paul Rose Jr.

I'm sure Kim already put all the stats on, but now...

pictures!!

Praise the Lord
Love
Bethany & Family (Aunt B)

Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 08:22 AM (CDT)

9:40 Am
The Nurse Practioner just told us that Dr. Langston is considering letting Bethany go back to 7E today! YES! We are ready to get out of ICU!!!! We will let you know for sure!

9:30 AM

This is my 3rd attempt to update - the computer is giving problems!

IT'S A BOY! If you didn't already know! Jill & Jeremy have a new 8.3lb baby boy that has a great set of lungs. His name is Jeremy Paul Rose, Jr. and I can't wait to get my hands on him! Everything is Virginia is great!

Patti stayed up with Bethany all night long to make sure she didn't get any morphine or ativan. Bethany was somewhat restless but we really wanted to know what her natural state was without drugs. Her pro-graft level has dropped from 17.5 to 16 - so it is obvious that her liver is working. Her white count is 3.5 from 1.4 yesterday - that is a good sign too. Bethany does open her eyes now but still doesn't talk. Her urine output is still good and above average.

Everything seems to be on the way up. We haven't seen Dr. Langston yet today so take everything with a grain of salt this morning. We will update with definites afet we see the MD.

Have a good day!
Keep praying!

Love,
Kim

Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 01:55 PM (CDT)

3PM

Ok...

We just got the pro-graft level and it has come down from 22 to 17.5. This is a therapeutic range which is good.

So, this is a good sign. It means her liver is working - even if it is only a little.

Her lungs have fluid around them which is expected due to everything being so backed up.

Bethany did wake a little a few minutes ago. I told her about Jill being in labor and she did seem to understand. She doesn't stay awake long enough to talk. She did open her eyes and I was glad of that.

The massage therapist will be back tomorrow and the reflexologist will be back on Friday. Mom thinks that this is really helping.

So, we are now waiting on Dr. L to come back in and tell us that this is Bethany turning a corner - a good one.

Someone will update later. The mood here is a lot lighter!

We are anxious for the baby. I have my PINK on and Dad has his BLUE on. Mom has orange on for Jeremy (his fav color) and Bethany has a hospital gown on in honor of Jill. Mom told Bethany yesterday that Jill was going to the hospital and Bethany nodded her head No. Mom thinks she was trying to say that Jill shouldn't go to the hospital - I think Bethany thinks that nobody should ever go to the hospital for anything! She is definitely sick of it!

Jill is at a 2 and her water is broken. We'll let you know on that too.

BYE!

-Kim

Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 11:18 AM (CDT)

2pm

Still no results from lab. Bethany is more unresponsive than we would like. We are worried about this, but no word from the doctor. Massage therapist and reflexologist just left. We are trying all we can.
Jill dilated 2, water just broke, should get some action. How bittersweetour day is PRAY WITHOUT CEASING!

Day 13 AM
Sorry to be so late with the update, we were waiting on lab results, they still are not in.

She is not any worse, the Dr. said one lab was a little better, one we are still waiting on.

We are getting a little worried about her deep sleep. WE cannot get much response. We will update again later.

Keep praying
His
Bethany & Family

Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 05:27 PM (CDT)

Afternoon,
No changes here , no news, she did get consults from several doctors today.

She looks beautiful, her color is good, and she is very much resting usually. When she wakes up, she wants to get up and you cannot keep her in the bed!! She is strong.

She did have a wonderful massage today for over an hour. Her heart rate went down lower than it has this entire time, so I know if felt good. We are playing soft music in think ENya or something in her room, and have the lights dim. No stimilant that we don't have to have, because she becomes very agitated when we tell her she can't get up.

We have some family here, and like I said before, there is a chance she can pull through this. I think they have now decided that it is vascular occlusive disease of the liver, the primary problem Some of the transplant meds are toxic to the liver and kidneys, and her liver is not metabolizing them, she has not gotten them in several days but still has toxic levels.

We are praying for a miracle and know you all are too.

We know God in in control and we are trusting him.

Jill is going to be induced tomorrow, so hopefully tomorrow night we will have a baby.

love to all,
His,
Bethany & Family

Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 10:00 AM (CDT)

Day 13
We don't have a good report today. It has become apparent that even though her liver enzymes have gotten a little better, her liver is not functioning, according to the levels of some of the other medications in her system.

Her ammonia level is very high, which causes confusion.

They are very concerned, have called in gastroenterology, renal service, and nutrition services.

The Dr. says she is not at the point that she cannot bet better, but it may be getting close to that point if we don't soon see some improvement.

We have called in some reinforcements from home,just to help.

She is stable as far as her vital signs are concerned.

The massage lady is coming today, and we still are very hopeful. Bethany is a fighter and God is in control

Please pray really hard for her and we are telling her she can get through this.

His,
Bethany & family

Monday, September 02, 2002 at 05:21 PM (CDT)

Pm update:

Bethany is just resting a lot today. She is hard to wake up right now. We're going to talk with the Dr. about her sedation mediation, maybe they can decrease it somewhat.

She has not gone to the bathroom again, but each day it is a little better, so they are pleased.

Nothing really to report.

Have a great night, we'll update in the am after the Dr. comes around.

Love,
Bethany & Family

Monday, September 02, 2002 at 08:12 AM (CDT)

Good Morning, Transplant Day 12

Bethany woke up this morning asking me to pray for her.She wanted to hear it outloud.

Then she asked if they had any food there in icu. We asked what she wanted and she said, "anything is fine with me", i'm just hungry. We thought that was a good sign.

Bethany slept ok last night, a couple of times she wanted to get up by herself, she remembers in her semi conscious state or drugged state that they always encourage her to get up while up on the regular floor. She cannot do it by herself though.

Dr. Langston is going to keep her here in ICU again today. She is going to try and challenge her kidneys with a lots of fluids. It is hard to find a balance, because the treatment for one of her problems was to keep her dry, so they just have to try and balance the meds against each other and their side effects. One of the antibiotics supresses marrow, so she has given her a marrow growth factor, but that antibiotic is going to be stopped today.

That list can go on and on. This is a very delicately balanced situation, and we think the Drs and nurses are doing a great job trying to maintain the balance.

We are going to try and find a reflexologist or massage therapist today that will come and stimulate the foot wherever the kidney spot is. It sure can't hurt anything.

She did not go to the bathroom all night, so we were getting a little worried again, but this morning went a little.

Keep praying the all the organs to recover and start working.
Love Bethany & Family

They want the graft to come on in and start reproducing good cells.

Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 07:02 PM (CDT)

Afternoon, evening update:

Bethany has rested very well most of the day. Dr. Langston wanted her to get up and in the chair, but it stresses her so just to sit up. She can barely stand (with help)and make it the the bedside commode that we have set up. Her heart races and her breathing becomes labored when she tries to get up,then she usually has to go back on oxygen.
SHe has done it, but it is really hard on her, with all the extra fluids she is carrying.

It does looks like the kidney function is improving slightly.

Her labs all look the same, and we hope she will get back to the floor tomorrow.
She is quieter with a little more medication now.

Thanks for all the prayers !
love Bethany & Family

Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 10:52 AM (CDT)

Morning Update: Day 11

Bethany's Dr. says her lab work is a little better, her creatinine leveled off, and they think her kidneys and liver are in shock more than failure. Overall Bethany's body seems to be in much better shape today.

Her mind is a different story. Bethany is still very confused at times, she hallucinates quite a bit. Some of it is funny - some of it is scary. Last night Bethany must have thought that she was in serious trouble. She asked Mom to call the MD - she felt funny - nothing like she has ever felt before. Then she started praying and then she would drift off to sleep for a few minutes and start again. 3 of her nurses from 7E came down and this seemed to comfort Bethany. I think possibly she was becoming a little more coherent yesterday and started getting scared because her experience with ICU is only that when another patient left 7E for ICU they didn't return. Maybe I am wrong- who knows.

Anyway, Bethany is on Ativan now for sleep. Today the MD wants her to sleep as much as possible but at the same time she wants her to move around as much as possible. She has been in bed for several days now and needs to stimulate her lungs so that pnemonia doesn't set in. So we will try to do both.

Me, Brandy and Dad will all most likely leave today. Patti will stay here with Mom and Bethany. Dr. Langston says that Bethany will be moved back to 7E tomorrow, she could probably go today but just to be on the safe side will wait until tomorrow.

Well, Bethany seems to be waking up so I had better get back in there. Someone will update later today.

Take Care and Keep Praying!

Love,
Kim

Saturday, August 31, 2002 at 05:51 PM (CDT)

PM, Day 10

Bethany has remained stable throughout the day. They were getting worried about her kidney function, because she had not urinated, but she finally did.

She of course is by no means well, she still has abdominal distention, pain, is very swollen now all over,and she is on boocoos of medication. STill in ICU unit.

They have had to cover her for all infection types until they can get her cultures back. So far they have not found a source of infection.

Patti, Kim, Jimmy, are here with us and Brandi is coming.

I need to thank you all for all your prayers and keep it up. It is working!!
Will update in the AM we expect a good night. Praise God for the quick turn around.
His,
Bethany & Family

Saturday, August 31, 2002 at 08:45 AM (CDT)

Bethany is definitely better!! Praise God for that!

Dr Langston says she is stable, and looks much much better than yesterday.

Whatever crisis that was is apparently over. She is going to keep her in the unit today and we'll see about tomorrow, according to how she does. She is changing her meds areound again, and adjusting others.

She has a little problem with kidney and liver, and hopefully she can work through that today.

I'll update this afternoon, or if there is a change.

Her abd is still very distended but they think it has gone down some.

Just keep praying, that's what gets up through.
love to all,
Bethany & family

Saturday, August 31, 2002 at 07:42 AM (CDT)

Morning update

Bethany is very stable now. I'm not really sure what they know regarding all the test yesterday, but her vital signs have been good all night without help from medications. She need oxygen for a while but is off now and doing fine.

She sleeps very restlessly off and on, but is agitated between. Her abdomen is very swollen and hurts, so she is on some morhpine, which makes her talk crazy.

When you wake her up good, she is alert and orientated. She has no fever and generally looks better.

I'll update after Dr. comes in.
His,
Bethany & Family

Friday, August 30, 2002 at 04:38 PM (CDT)

pm update

Bethany is not doing too well. They are moving her to ICU as a precaution, they have more drugs and monitors.

Her B/P and body temp dropped this afternoon and the Drs. became concerned, so they are taking every precaution.

She can be aroused and talks to us, but when just lying there talks out of her head.

Kim and Jimmy are coming, and another cousin is coming to help me move our stuff.

I will update later if I have a connection.
If not, I will call someone elsse to do so.
pray love pam

Friday, August 30, 2002 at 08:20 AM (CDT)

Good Morning,
Bethany is maybe a little better this morning, but it's hard to really tell yet. I'm sorry I can't be more definite, but anyway, what they are thinking is that she has several things going on. Her graft is starting to come in, or at least they are seeing some of the immature cells that indicate that it is starting to "take".

she has an infection of some sort, so they are covering all the bases as far as that is concerned.

She has some veno-occlusive changes in the liver, which is causing her some pain and abdominal distention.

Her gallbladder is thickened, so they are sending her for a Hida scan of the gallbladder to make sure that is not the source of the infection.

The important thing is that ALL of the above are manageable.

She is stable right now, wanting to rest but not really able to. Her vitals are all good.

It is hard to see her so sick, but they really have expected some of this and she has had a lot of good days so far.

I will update again later.

Pray!!

Love,
Bethany & Family

Thursday, August 29, 2002 at 08:30 PM (CDT)

pm update!Day 8

Bethany is feeling a little better! Her fever is gone with the new antibiotics, and her B/p has remained up. She started with some abdominal pain after the last update, but it is also better.

That was scary! Dr. Langston told me if this continues she would go to ICU, but now she says that is not necessary.

She feels like Bethany has a couple of things going on,
an infection of some sort, and a little liver toxicity, beside the graft versus graft fight.

They are giving her more blood tonight, but her hgb came up a little.

They did Ct abd, and KUB, both appear to be normal.

Thanks for the prayers, pray for a better day tomorrow.

She has already sacked in for th night, actually, she is sitting up on her knees facing her pillow like she is getting ready to lie down on her stomach, but she is I think ,
asleep and just hanging in mid air..drugs...

ANyway,
God is in control!
Bethany and Family

Thursday, August 29, 2002 at 04:16 PM (CDT)

Afternoon Update:
Today has been a rough day for Bethany.

Her Blood pressure was way down earlier, but is now up and stable, but they were really worried about it. Her temp has been as high as 102.4, but is now down a little. She has pretty much slept all day again. They stopped her Morhpine which I think helped her B/P come up.

They think she has a war going on inside with the new transplant and the old one. They are not totally suprised with this, it does happen, but they are just watching her very closely.

She has some distention in her abdomen and a little epigastric pain, not much. They have changed all her antibiotics, done another chest x-ray, new blood and urine cultures. So far no reports of anything.

She feels little better this afternoon, but not much. Getting ready to go for a CT of the abdomen. I'll keep you updated, will update again before bedtime.

Pray!
Bethany & Family

Thursday, August 29, 2002 at 09:08 AM (CDT)

Good Morning!!
Bethany slept all day yesterday, all last night, and is asleep again this morning. When I say all day, I mean, she did wake up to eat and go to the bathroom, but that's about it. I forced her to get up and walk 7 laps.

She still has fever, but it is better. They are sure she is fighting some kind of infection. Her nose continues to bleed some but she is getting platelets every day.

Today she will get blood also, that should perk her up some.

So, I guess she will not get a pass today. Maybe tomorrow if she feels like it.

Anyway, not much news. She does read her cards and looks forward to the mail each day.

All those of you who check this site but don't leave messages, please do once in a while..she does check it and loves to read them.

No progress from Jill.

His,
Bethany & Family

Wednesday, August 28, 2002 at 07:38 AM (CDT)

Good Morning!
Transplant Day 7

Bethany did not sleep well last night. The nurse just came in to check her this morning and she has slight fever,
so they did blood cultures to check for infection. The nurse said they had been expecting this, when the white count stays down so long, this happens.

Her nose continues to bleed a little, she got platelets the past two days, maybe again today.

The Dr. says she is doing very well. If she feels like it, she can go see the new condo tomorrow or Friday.

Jill has a Dr.s appt this morning, so we are anxious to see if there is any action there, her due date is 9/2.
Update: After Dr. Visit - no signs of progress..
Also, check out the Bethany Bear that was sent to her by some friends!

Keep praying, and thanks again.

Love to All,
Bethany & Family

Tuesday, August 27, 2002 at 09:10 AM (CDT)

Good Morning,
Transplant Day 6
Bethany can't seem to get awake this morning. She acts like she's on medication..haha.

Yesterday she went ahead and got her head shaved. It was itching so bad, she couldn't stand it.

She is still feeling pretty good. She has a sore place on her heel that looks almost like a pressure sore starting, feels like a bruise, they are really not sure what it is, so we are just watching it.

She walked some yesterday and sat up in the chair. She is working on her schoolwork some and eating really good.

So far no signs of graft versus host or anything abnormal.

Her mouth is better. Had a little nose bleed yesterday so they had to give her platelets.

Otherwise, just one day closer to getting out of here!

We continue to feel blessed by all the prayers, thoughts, and people we have met.
Love to All,
Bethany & family

Monday, August 26, 2002 at 10:39 AM (CDT)

Good Morning,

Bethany is feeling a little better with the mouth today.

She seem to be still doing quite well with everything.

The hair is definitely falling out, and that is no fun, but that too was expected.

THe Dr. still has not been in, so nothing really to report new.

We are expecting a visit from my cousins from Columbus, Ga today, as they are passing through Atlanta.

Jill still has not had the baby, due 9/2. So...

Keep praying and thanks so much for all the prayers and concern!
Love,
Bethany & Family

Sunday, August 25, 2002 at 11:33 AM (CDT)

Hey!

Sorry this is so late but Dr. Langston just left. Evidently when the MD rounds - they see the isolation patients last - which makes sense.

Anyhow...Everything is looking fine. Bethany still has mouth sores but they are not too bad. She is still able to eat but has switched to soft foods as of last night. The biggest problem she is having right now is still the restlessness and jitters. She takes massive amounts of drugs at night to help her sleep - it is unreal. I read her to sleep last night - it seemed to work like a charm. We are reading Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood. Neither of us has seen the movie so nows a good time to read the book.

Some of Bethany's hair has begun to fall out - AGAIN. This will be the third time within one year - we are determined that this is the LAST!

Well, Bethany is ready for walking. Dad is coming for the day and I will be leaving. Mom will be back tonight for the remainder of the week.

Nothing new with Jill and the baby.

She's started walking without me so I have to go. Have a great day!

Love,
Kim

Saturday, August 24, 2002 at 06:46 AM (CDT)

Afternoon UPDATE!!

Dr. Langston came by and told us that with the 2nd transplant there is a great risk for Liver and/or Kidney damage. She said they have been monitoring Bethany very closely and all of her organs are functioning perfectly. There are no signs of any damage at this point. Just thought I would let everyone know.

The Thompson's stopped by last night for a visit (they happened to be in Atlanta)and brought Bethany a beautiful bracelet. I think her and Mom were both pleasantly surprised to have them come by. Thanks to both of them!

I just talked to Jill - she is ready to have the baby but unfortunately nothing is happening yet.

Well, if anything else happens I will let you know - have a good weekend!

Love, Kim & Bethany

Good Morning!!

Bethany said "it was a long night" . She has a real problem sleeping. She is sleeping again now, after getting some Benadryl.

Her head is really itching, so we think maybe her hair will be coming out again soon.

Yesterday she did pretty good, did some crafts and walked, even though she has a sore mouth. She is not as restless as she was before.

She can't wait to get out of here!!

Kim is coming down today, so she is looking forward to that.

Everyone continues to be amazed at how well she is doing.
She got a really cute bear in the mail from friends,
i'll put it's photo up if she will pose with it.

We think today will be pretty much the same as yesterday, but thank God for uneventful days!!

Love to All,
Bethany & Family

Friday, August 23, 2002 at 11:53 AM (CDT)

Good Morning All!
Transplant day 2

Sorry I am late, I will try and do it first thing in the mornings from now on.

Bethany had a very good night. she is not as restless as before, but her mouth is getting worse. She has been up walking, took a shower, but totally missed a visit from Sam & Jimmie Davis. She slept through it all. (they were her Kentucky group leaders the past 3 years).

Dr Langston just came in and they think she is right on track, doing very well.!!

She is keeping up with her schoolwork this time too.

His,
Bethany & Family

Thursday, August 22, 2002 at 11:14 AM (CDT)

Good Morning!
Bethany slept well and is feeling pretty good this morning.

She thinks she may be getting a little bit of mouth sores, which she had last time. Otherwise, she has been doing a little schoolwork.

Everyone comments on the donor card. A lot of the nurses say they have never seen one, so that makes it real special!

if you didin't see it yesterday, you can view it under our photos link.

She is very bored and needs something to do, but nothing keeps her attention! Any suggestions?/

Love to All,
Bethany & Family

Wednesday, August 21, 2002 at 04:08 PM (CDT)

Good Afternoon!

Bethany is feeling fine. Sitting in the chair doodling.
She just took a shower, and we are getting ready to walk.

The transplant and everything went fine, and now it just wait and see how long it takes the cells to grow and become mature white cells.

We feel very good about it and Bethany is feeling better than anyone expected, so... we are hoping for a good night, she continues to have problems sleeping.

Thanks for all the prayers!

Love to all,
Bethany and Family

Wednesday, August 21, 2002 at 09:21 AM (CDT)

Good Morning!

The transplant has started!!
She is coughing so they had to slow the infusion.
She is doing fine and being monitored.

The neatest thing happened! She got a card from her donor!
I took a photo of it and will try and put it up. ! It is a real tear jerker...I think it is so special.

Pray for the transplant and praise for the donor!!I will update again after a little while! so far so good..
love B
Bethany & family

Tuesday, August 20, 2002 at 06:44 AM (CDT)

PRAY FOR THE DONOR TODAY!!!!
-Kim

Good Morning!
Bethany continued to be very restless all through the night. They gave her Benadryl, Haldol, Morphine, Ativan, Ambien,...etc etc. etc. She finally went to sleep early this morning. I conked out before she did.

The good news is that she feel very good. I mentioned to the Dr. last night that I was a little suprised that she felt so good after 3 days radiation and 3 days chemo, His reply was that he was "amazed" at her. She is so strong.

She had a very nice visit yesterday from two of the pastors from her church. It was much appreciated and enjoyed.

The big day will be tomorrow. She will get some more chemo after transplant, then once the cells engraft, we can get out of here and go to the apartment.

Keep praying, and thanks so much. Love to all,
Bethany and family

Monday, August 19, 2002 at 08:21 AM (CDT)

Good Morning!

We didn't update over the weekend because there was nothing new to tell really. Always consider our "no news" as "good news"!

Dr. Lonial officially told Bethany yesterday "no more outings". So she is stuck in the hospital feeling pretty good which is almost worse than being the in hospital sick. She is really anxious - nothing can keep her attention and nothing satisfies. I went to Michaels yesterday for crafts - that lasted all of 10 minutes! She cannot even watch a movie - you know its bad if Bethany cannot watch a movie! So, if anyone has any suggestions on how to have "fun" in the hospital - please let us know!

Bethany is finished with Chemo and Radiation. They started her on ProGraft this morning - which means she will have to have magnesium for several months AGAIN! She had this last time so we sort of know what to expect. Everything seems pretty normal.

Right now the transplant will more than likely be Wednesday. The donor cells are not scheduled to be here until after 6 PM tomorrow. This is actually better with us because one of our favorite nurses - Lisa - will be here and it is Moms BIRTHDAY!! So - Bethany and Mom will have the same birthday now!

Jill still hasn't gone into labor - shouldn't be long now!

Love,
Kim

Friday, August 16, 2002 at 10:56 PM (CDT)

Hello,
sorry it is so late to be updating, I guess I have been letting Kim do it and I forgot until late that I said I would.

Anyway, Bethany finished her radiation today. She is sore in her muscles,especially neck and shoulders, has a little heartburn, and feels a little weak, but is still eating and we went to the movie tonight also. We saw "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" it was funny.

She starts her chemo tomorrow, and probably will not feel like going out any more right now. Then her counts will get so low they won't let her anyway.

They said her transplant cells are not due to arrive until around 6pm Tuesday, so the transplant will either be Tues night or Wednesday.

Otherwise she is doing pretty good and in very good spirits. It is good to see all the familiar nurse and Dr. faces, they are happy to see her too. One of them asked me how Bethany felt about the transplant. I said "she is really happy that they can do it, because it is a chance for a cure." That is something to be thankful for.

Kim is coming down for the weekend so Bethany is looking forward to seeing her.

keep praying!!
Love to All, Pam & Beth

Thursday, August 15, 2002 at 11:10 AM (CDT)

Hi to Everyone,
Kim has been doing such a good job keeping everyone up to date, but I thought I would write a little note this morning.
Bethany is gone down for the radiation treatment right now. This is 4 out of 6. She will be finished tomorrow, and then starting on more chemo.

She has not been nauseated again since yesterday AM.
In fact, yesterday afternoon, she was eating everything in sight. I guess the steroid dose they gave to her caused her to be hungry. They only gave her one dose though!
We actually went out to the movie late last night.

The Dr. said that her counts are coming down like they want them to, they are checking twice a day.

The food service here seems a little improved.
I looked at the apartment and it is pretty nice.
Bethany is in good spirits and everyone here is so glad to see her. She has all the same nurses which is good.

Please keep her in your prayers.
(all the rest of us to, as we are just waiting for Jill to call and say she is in labor).
love to All,
Pam & Bethany

Thursday, August 15, 2002 at 07:44 AM (CDT)

Good Morning!

I talked to Bethany two times last night. She sounded like she felt pretty good. The last time we spoke her and Mom were on their way to a movie. Evidently the afternoon radiation did not make her sick at all. Hopefully this will continue.

I have not spoken with them this morning but am assuming that no news is good news. As far as I know the transplant is still scheduled for next Tuesday. I will let you know if anything changes.

Love,
Kim

Wednesday, August 14, 2002 at 01:42 PM (CDT)

Good Afternoon!

Bethany is very sick from the radiation! She was to receive her 2nd treatment at 2:30 today. She seems to be sleeping a good bit due to meds and that is good. I am not sure how many more treatments she is to recieve but please pray that she begins to tolerate them better.

Mom did make it to the apartment while Bethany was sleeping. It is only 3 miles away. Mom says it is nice but very bare. I will take some photos and things from our house down this weekend to try to make it feel a little more comfy.

Jill is beginning to get miserable. Everytime Jill calls Mom - she thinks Jill is in labor. It is funny! It shouldn't be long now!

Well - that is it for now. If anything changes, I will update.

Love,
Kim

Wednesday, August 14, 2002 at 07:35 AM (CDT)

Good Morning!

I haven't spoken with Bethany or Mom yet this morning but wanted to update anyway.

When I spoke with Mom last night, she said that Bethany was nausiated and not feeling good at all. Bethany received one half dose of chemo yesterday and was scheduled to begin radiation early this morning. I am assuming that she is probably busy with that right now. We have never experienced the radiation before so pray that she tolerates this well.

They never did make it over to the apartment yesterday. Maybe Bethany will feel like it today.

We'll update more later today!

Love,
Kim

Tuesday, August 13, 2002 at 11:54 AM (CDT)

Hello There!

Bethany & Mom made the trip back to Emory last night. Bethany's white count was over 28,000 and Dr. Langston (Emory) felt that Bethany should go ahead and begin treatment. The house was pretty lonely without her - I am actually looking forward to going to Atlanta this weekend! Mom will have to update on the treatment because I know very little about that at this point.

Bethany & Mom are going to look at an apartment today (Bethany can leave for a few hours each day while she is still feeling good). We were hoping to wait until Bethany was closer to being discharged to the Clinic to get this apartment but it is available right now and we don't think we can risk losing it! It is an apartment specifically for transplant patients and there is a waiting list for it - so we are risking not having a place to live later on if we don't go ahead and take it now.

I don't know much else to tell right now. Mom will hopefully have time to update later.

Love,
Kim

Thursday, August 08, 2002 at 04:10 PM (CDT)

Hello!

Just thought I would let everyone know that Bethany's day at the big D went well. She is really tired though. She stayed over with Heather last night and I have a sneaky feeling that they stayed up really late. I just talked to Bethany and she said it was good to be back in school - everything felt pretty normal. She did enjoy seeing everyone.

There is really nothing new to report with her health. Her counts continue to rise but Dr. Bearden says that these are all bad cells. She will be going to Emory next Tuesday for admission. She will have her first radiation early on Wednesday morning.

Please pray for our friend Sherra Harrison - she was involved in a horrible horsing accident on Sunday. She is in Asheville and I don't know much about the extent of her injuries.

I will update when there is more to tell.

Thanks!

Love, Kim

Friday, August 02, 2002 at 02:29 PM (CDT)

Hello! TGIF!!!

Just thought I would update with a little more information.

Bethany is still feeling good - first and foremost!

She will begin school with the normal people next week at the new and improved DHS! Her senior year - I cannot believe it. It makes me feel so old...but anyway... The kicker is that she only will get to attend for 4 days but it is better than nothing!

Her counts today were a little higher again - this is not necessarily good news because it probably means the cancer is growing again. I am sure we will hear more about this next week and will update then.

Minnie (the Queen) is being so spoiled! She thinks every move made is for her benefit. When we attempt to discipline her - it only makes her worse. She is stubborn -not at all like anyone in our family! HA HA

Mom is away on a much needed (although short) vacation. The trip to Emory last week was a difficult one for many reasons. Bethany's friend Heather and her Mom made the trip with them for support. Our Aunt Patti met them there after her photo shoot / tv thing at Sports Illustrated in New York (by the way - it has nothing to do with the swimsuit issue in case you wondered). Sports Illustrated did send Bethany lots of neat things and we appreciate that!

Jill is still pregnant - no baby yet - but we hope it won't be much longer. I have been out buying little girl clothes while Mom is out buying boy clothes. We are both keeping receipts for returns. I secretly hope it is a girl but worry about her having HUGE feet (anyone that knows us well will understand).

Me, Bethany, Jimmie, Brandy and Jerry are off to the movies tonight. Hope everyone has a great weekend. Remember to add Bethany to your prayer lists. The transplant is August 20 (one day before Mom's birthday).

Have a good one!

Love,
Kim

.

Wednesday, July 31, 2002 at 03:35 PM (CDT)

Hi,
We spent yesterday in Atlanta, and finished all the pre transplant workup.-so far all tests were normal.

They did move the transplant date to Aug 20, and to be admitted on the 13th.

Bethany is feeling very good and just wants to get it over with.

Please continue to remember us in your prayers.
Love to all,
Pam & Bethany

Monday, July 29, 2002 at 09:11 AM (CDT)

Good Morning to all!

Bethany has slowly felt better since the last small dose of chemo.

She has been visiting friends and family and staying busy as usual.

Tomorrow we have a clinic visit at Emory, for the last of the pre transplant testing and consents. (one day trip)

She will be admitted on the 7th and have the new transplant on the 13th.
We have several prayer requests besides the usual for Bethany's healing. Pray that the side effects of the total body radiation and the strong chemo that they have to give her prior to the transplant will be tolerated well by her with little side effects.
Strength to get though another transplant (physical and mental)
Patience while in the hospital(she hates that most of all)
Her friends will be supportive and stay in touch. (its hard when she has been out of the loop for an entire year)
The usual prayers for all of us .. strength, and special prayers for her donor. All that we know is that he is a thirty nine year old male, but he is special in that he is willing to do this for a stranger.
Pray for the availability of one of the two apartments Emory now has in the the vicinity of the hospital for rent.
They rent for 225.00 per week, much better than the going rate for Atlanta. Our friends condo was sold after we moved out last time. We will be put on the waiting list as soon as she is admitted, so that would really work out good.

Thanks for all the love prayers and support. WE COULD NOT do it without all of you..you give us strength and show us God's love in action.
Love to all,
Pam

Monday, July 22, 2002 at 01:19 PM (CDT)

Hello to All,

We arrived home Friday afternoon, with the aid of lot's of drugs!

Let me explain, Bethany received one dose of chemotherapy on Wednesday, to knock the leukemia back down a little before transplant, and she had a lumbar puncture on Monday,
so she had a headache and was nauseated, felt really rough Thursday & Friday, and we spent most of every day last week in the outpatient clinic in Atlanta.

She is feeling much better now, and they think the chemo did what they wanted it to.

She has to go back on the 30th, for the remainder of the pre transplant testing, and then she will be admitted on Wed, Aug 7, and have the transplant on Tues, Aug. 13th.

Until then she will be home, and Dr. Bearden's office is following her closely here.

Please pray for us as we embark on this next journey.
love ,
Pam & Bethany

Tuesday, July 16, 2002 at 09:19 PM (CDT)

Hello to all,
We are still in Atlanta. We were originally scheduled to come here this Thursday & Friday for pre-transplant workup, so I asked them to go ahead and do as much as they could since they also asked us to come in Monday for counts. And, it moves pretty slow, I guess because of the different departments involved. She had a lumbar puncture on Monday, which was painless (this time), and her chest x-ray, EKG, and Echo cardiogram. She had so much blood drawn they had to give her two pints!

So... everything looks good and is on go> Her leukemia was growing a little more than they would like, so tomorrow they are going to give her a single dose of chemotherapy to try and knock it back some before transplant.

We found out that out of the five final contestants in the donor race, 3 out of 5 are PERFECT match!! How awesome?
They explained that when it is a sibling match, like Jill, they test 6 HLA factors, and when it is unrelated, they check 10, and three of them are 10 out of 10!

They are proud of the fact that Bethany has kept on living, going on the mission trip and then to the beach for a week! She gets her counts done wherever she is and they fax it to her Drs. She has become pretty resourceful when it comes to that. She has done all this while neutropenic (sp?) and has been able to stay well. Neutropenic means she has very little immunity, so SOMEONE is protecting her.

We will begin updating more frequently, sorry for the long breaks in between, but don't stop writing! The plan is now for us to get the chemo in the morning (Wed.) then they have to monitor her for 4 hours, then if all goes well, we will hopefully complete the rest of the testing and not have to come back on Friday, but if they can't shedule all of them, we will have to return here Friday!

We are looking forward to a visit with Jill and Jeremy this weekend, at home, and Kim has a birthday! (she also has a new great big diamond)!

Love to all and please keep us in your prayers.
His, Pam & Bethany

Monday, July 15, 2002 at 01:44 PM (CDT)

Hello All!

Bethany and Mom have gone to Atlanta today for a check-up. With Bethany's white count rising - the MD's are fearful that the Leukemia is growing again (well faster than they want anyway). We don't know yet if she will be admitted today and begin chemo immediately or if they will wait. The current schedule is to begin chemo and radiation on August 6 and do the transplant on August 13. But I guess we will have to wait and see what today brings before that is "final".

Emory did find a donor and hold on to your seat ---- It is another PERFECT MATCH!!! The only thing we know is that it is a 39 year old male. But he matches Bethany 10 for 10 (whatever that means). They also have a "back-up" that is close - just in case.

So, we are back to the "hurry up and wait" life again. But that is ok.

Bethany is feeling great - you would never know that she is sick. She just returned from a week-long beach trip.

We will update when we have further information.

Go ahead and add Bethany to your prayer list / chains again - PLEASE!

This time it is gonna work!

Love,
Kim

Friday, July 05, 2002 at 12:27 PM (CDT)

Good Morning to All,
We had a good trip to Atlanta, everything as far as blood work checked out fine. White count up to 3.3., hgb 10.5,
platelets ok too.

Bethany must have a virus or something right now. They said probably a virus, because she started with vomiting just as we were leaving to go to Atlanta, and continued up until bedtime WEd night. She slept good and woke up yesterday nausea free!
She still has a little congestion in her nose and throat, and so do I, so I think it is allergies.

She has not felt quite as good this week, she said last week she was running, playing, and feeling great, so she is probably recovering now.

They do not have us a date yet for the transplant, so we are hanging on!

Love in Christ, Pam & Bethany

Tuesday, July 02, 2002 at 11:59 AM (CDT)

Hi,
Bethany returned from a wonderful week in Kentucky with her youth group. They had a great time and were able to reach a lot of children through bible school

She feels great and looks great too, so it is hard to believe that she is sick. She had to get platelets one day in Kentucky, and I think her blood work freaked them out.

Anyway, she is just chillin' out at home and not working again just yet. WE will go back to Emory tomorrow for a check up and let you know what they say.

Love to All,
Pam & Bethany

Tuesday, July 02, 2002 at 11:59 AM (CDT)

Wednesday, June 19, 2002 at 10:46 AM (CDT)

Bethany checked out fine in Atlanta. They have identified several donors and are checking them out a little closer, and the general plan in to do another transplant in late August.

She got blood on Monday, and has spent or is spending the rest of the week working at Bible school at Church, and preparing for the big mission trip to Kentucky. They will leave on Sat., and we have made arrangements for her to be checked while there, and have had lots of support working this all out.

she is sooooo excited and ready to be away from Mom!

Please pray for the entire group, that their trip will be life changing for them and those they encounter while there, and that Bethany will feel good the entire week and not get too tired. Also pray for her healing in the Kentucky mountains, and surrounded by all those kids that are there just to serve and grow.

It feels so good to hear her and see her planning something normal and fun! I don't take it for granted.
I will try and post picture of their departure and such.
They will leave Sat am and return the next Sat.

Thanks, and much love
Pam

Thursday, June 13, 2002 at 12:33 PM (CDT)

Hi to All,
Bethany is doing very good. She has been doing some volunteer work at the church, and working some at my office.

We have to go back to Atlanta tomorrow, but just a routine check. Maybe they will tell us the plan.

She is planning on going to Kentucky with her youth group from First Baptist, they leave Sat June 21.

Pray that she can do this and that all goes well.

His,
Pam

Wednesday, May 29, 2002 at 12:09 PM (CDT)

Hello to Everyone!

We are so delinquent with this, when Bethany is at home and doing well. Please forgive!!

She is feeling great, has recovered from the infection, and unless she needs blood or platelets, does not feel sick at all.

She is going to start doing some volunteer work at the Church to prepare for the Kentucky Mission Trip, she is excited about that.

We'll let you know if something changes.
love
Pam

Thursday, May 23, 2002 at 12:12 PM (CDT)

Hi to Everyone!

We are so bad about updating this site right now, while Bethany is feeling good.
She has been on home IV for a week (twice a day for an hour), and her infection has cleared up. She is feeling very good, unless she needs blood or platelets, which she is getting today.

She is able to get out now, and is looking for something to do. She is going to do some volunteer work at the church to help prepare for the Kentucky trip, which she hopes also to attend.

We are shooting for that, in late June.

We are all well, and Bethany is very happy to be at home. So friends, you can call and visit now, and she can go out and do some things. She has to be careful, but she can get out.

love to All,
Pam

Monday, May 20, 2002 at 07:27 PM (CDT)

Hello!

Bethany has an infection in her catheter. It doesn't appear to be too bad. She still has an appetite, no fever, and feels ok. Dr. Bearden has started her on antibotics.

We were to travel to Atlanta on Wednesday for a check up but will be going tomorrow instead because of the infection. At this point we don't know if she will have to be admitted at Emory or not. If she is it will most likely only be for a few days and then she will return to Spartanburg again.

Bethany and I went to the Brandon Coker Benefit on Saturday and had a great time! It was really nice meeting everyone.

Mom is sick (cold) so she is not able to be around Bethany for at least another week.

Other than that everything is pretty normal.

Have a great week and we will update when we have news!

Love,
Kim

Friday, May 17, 2002 at 10:50 AM (CDT)

Hey everyone,

I'm doing good, just working on school work, hopefully I'll get it all done with it this weekend. Also this weekend is The Brandon Coker Benefit. Edwin McCain will be playing at clemson Friday night and a silent auction will also be going on sometime this weekend to check it out go to
http://mypeoplepc.com/members/kdcox/thebrandoncokerbenefit/
and find out what is going on.
with love,
bethany

Monday, May 13, 2002 at 09:04 AM (CDT)

Hi Everyone,

We are enjoying very much being at home. Bethany has her nights and days mixed up , she is having a little trouble sleeping at night.

She is continuing to gain strength, but it is slow. They told me that it takes longer to recover from chemo after a transplant.

She has just been at home, not really feeling like doing anything much.
Enjoying her new puppy and her own bedroom.

Will update in a few days or if something new occurs.

Thanks so much for everyone's continued prayer and support.
Love in Christ,
Pam

Tuesday, May 07, 2002 at 04:30 PM (CDT)

Hello Everyone!

Good News Today!!
We are coming home tomorrow!!

Bethany will have to see Dr. Bearden about three times a week and come here about every two weeks, but she can continue to recover at home for the time being, while they search for a donor.

I was tested today, so that's out of the way.

The plan is just to be at home and have fun. She can have visitors as long as they are not sick.

She can't wait to see her puppy!

So please pray for a donor to surface and for the match to be perfect.

We are excited and can't wait to see everyone!

Will update every few days at home, but please continue to send messages!

God in in Control!!
Pam & Bethany

Monday, May 06, 2002 at 07:13 PM (CDT)

Hello Everyone,

Bethany is feeling pretty good today, she got a 3 hour pass and we went out to lunch, and then to Michaels.

The bone marrow results are in, and she does still have a few leukemic cells present, but not enough to get more chemo right now. Dr. Redei thinks she will need another transplant, so they are searching for a unrelated matched donor.
He will probably let her come home for a while, and he thinks that the cells may just smolder for a while, just lie there and not do anything, so we have a little time.

I don't know anything about being tested for donation right now, but I will find out because I know that will be the first thing that pops in to everyone's mind.

He said we are still shooting for a cure and that is great news.

For those who don't know, Please pray for my Mom also, who was diagnosed with breast cancer. SHe has early diagnosis and good prognosis, so we are thankful.

We still hope to get home this week, so they will confer with Dr. Bearden and the folks at home to see what we can do.

God is in Control!
Love,
Mom & Bethany

Sunday, May 05, 2002 at 08:47 PM (CDT)

Hello to Everyone!
We finally went out and bought a new laptop so we could communicate with everyone. WE could not stand not having one. Maybe when BEthany's gets fixed we can sell it.

ANyway, Bethany is feeling okay. Not great, just okay.
She had a visit from some friends this weekend that cheered her, and would like some more.
They change what they say everyday, so now they are saying we might get home sometime next week. Her counts are not yet recovered.
They did a bone marrow biopsy friday, and we should get the results tomorrow, so pray for good results.
Everyone get ready, i'm gonna put on some prom photos. I think she looked beautiful.
Love to all, and will update after the results tomorrow.
His,
Pam & Bethany

Thursday, May 02, 2002 at 04:45 PM (CDT)

Hello!

Well, Bethany is STILL in the hospital. We hope she will get released this weekend or early next week.

She is still doing well. The MD's are hinting about another transplant in the fall. Nothing is definite yet though.

She is still working real hard on school work. I think she may have procrastinated a little on that. Hopefully she will be able to get it all turned in on time.

Minnie is being a brat. She is biting everything! We still don't quite have the potty thing down either. I am ready for Bethany to be home to care for her instead of me!

I haven't forgotten about posting pictures yet. I will get Mom to do that as soon as she gets to a working computer.

Hope everyone enjoys the Spring Fling in Spartanburg. Don't forget about the Brandon Coker Benefit coming up this month. I think you can still check out the information on his Caring Bridge website - www.caringbridge.com/sc/brandoncoker

Love,
Kim

Tuesday, April 30, 2002 at 11:57 AM (CDT)

Good Afternoon!

Sorry it has been so long since an update!

Bethany and Mom are without a computer again. Bethany has a lemon - we think.

Anyhow...
Bethany had a great Birthday. The Carnes family brought her a cake, the entire staff at 7E sang to her. Minnie came down for a visit. She got TONS of cards! Thanks to everyone at Gable and Dorman for that! Thanks to the Coker Family and the "Girls" at McLeod & Jenkins for the balloons - it was a nice surprise and really brightened her room.

The Prom was wonderful! She looked absolutely gorgeous. I honestly don't think I have ever seen her look that good. Brandy did a spectacular job with both hair and make-up. As soon as Mom gets back home we will post pictures - I promise! Thanks to everyone that helped us pull that together so she could go!

Bethany is still doing good. I spoke with her earlier and she is a little sick to her stomach today. The MD says another 7-10 days in the hospital and then she can come home until we decide what (if necessary) is the next move. Hopefully it won't be necessary!

Bethany is busy trying to finish all of her school work. She only has a few more weeks left to turn it in. She will be a SENIOR next year! It is hard to believe!

Once again, thanks to everyone for all the support!

Love,
Kim

Thursday, April 25, 2002 at 12:10 PM (CDT)

Good Morning!

What a great morning it is!

Bethany is going to get a day pass for her Birthday tomorrow. Minnie can come for a visit AND - BEST OF ALL...
Bethany is going to be allowed to come to Sparkle City for one night only to attend her PROM!!!!

We are VERY excited - to say the least. Lindsey will be her date - Brandy will do her hair - Monta has taken care of reservations - Jerry has her prom tickets - everything is falling right into place. Bethany had already purchased her dress (the day before we got the news that she was sick again). So the only thing left is shoes and earrings.

Luckily Jill and Jeremy will be home too.

We are soooo excited! Thank God for Nurse Practitioners! She is the one that told us to ask the MD about the prom.

Well, Bethany is already out walking without me - I need to go. Just wanted to tell everyone the good news!

Keep praying that all of our plans will work out!

Love,
Kim

Wednesday, April 24, 2002 at 03:01 PM (CDT)

Good Afternoon!

We had a rough night last night. Bethany only slept a couple of hours - if that. She has been resting very well today though. She has some nausea - no fever - not many other complaints. She says that her mouth feels much better. Her appetite has not been as good today. Dr. Langston says that Bethany is exactly where she needs to be. Everything looks good.

Her counts are extremely low - Birthday visits are not looking good at this point. Next week would probably be better. I will talk with the MD again tomorrow and let everyone know for sure. We may just have to have one BIG birthday party when we get home.

Keep the messages coming - she checks them everyday.

Love,
Kim

Tuesday, April 23, 2002 at 03:46 PM (CDT)

HOWDY!

Well, if anyone was wondering how Bethany is feeling...let me tell you what she is doing right this very minute...

She is singing Vanilla Ice (Ice Ice Baby) to her Nurse. Her Nurse is dancing along with her. THANKS WES for the inspiration!

So Bethany is feeling pretty good today. Her mouth sores are a little better and she has been able to eat. She has laid off the Morphin today.

Our neighbor here left us a note earlier with some pictures of her Chihuahua's. All staff are asking when Minnie will be coming back for a visit. Hopefully - MD's allowing - Minnie will be here for Bethany's birthday.

We haven't finished our walking yet for today so we are off to take care of that.

Hope everyone is having a good week! We are!

Love,
Kim

Monday, April 22, 2002 at 01:56 PM (CDT)

Hello!

I finally made it to Atlanta.

Bethany is doing well. She does have some mouth sores and is taking pain medicine for those. She is a little "out of it" today - she's funny though.

We are hoping that she will feel better towards the end of the week - her 17th birthday is this Friday. We are planning to have a party here in the hospital. The only problem is we cannot figure out what to get her. Suggestions would be nice!

Well, Bethany is ready to go walk so I had better go.

We have the computer back (obviously) so she can begin reading messages again.

Love,
Kim

Thursday, April 18, 2002 at 01:42 PM (CDT)

Good Afternoon!

Bethany & Mom are without computer for at least a week. I do call and read the messages to them almost every day though. Now would be a good time to send Bethany a card since she cannot contact anyone via internet (she hates talking on the phone).

Bethany had a special visit from her favorite little puppy yesterday. We had a friend offer to take Minnie down and the MD allowed them to sneak her into Bethany's room. Bethany & Mom really enjoyed that and we hope to do it again soon. Hopefully they were able to get some pictures and will post them soon.

Bethany is still doing great! She really tolerates the chemo very well. She doesn't even feel sick! Hopefully she will get to come home in a couple of weeks - we have learned to love Atlanta but it is still not Sparkle City!

Take Care!

Love,
Kim

Tuesday, April 16, 2002 at 01:01 PM (CDT)

Hi Everyone!

Mom & Bethany are having some computer problems and they asked me to update today.

Bethany is still doing very well and feeling good. The MD let her and Mom go out today - Mom wanted to go shopping and Bethany wanted to go to the movies. Guess who won? She just has to be back to Emory by 5PM to get her Chemo.

We have a friend that will be taking Bethany's puppy down tomorrow so Bethany can see her. That should make her happy!

Everything seems to be going well. We will continue to update as we get news. So far so good!

Love,
Kim

!!Mon April 15, 2002 9:58 am

Good Morning All,
Sorry no updates all weekend, they have been having a problem with either this computer or our internet connection at the hospital.

Bethany is doing very well. Tolerating the chemotherapy. No nausea so far, actually no symptoms at all. Gets us and dances around, walks a lot, she did get a little restless the other night, but does not feel sick.

She has a new early birthday present, a Nintendo Game Cube, so she will have something to pass the time. We have already seen all the movies that there are out there i think. Blockbuster needs to get some more.

We have moved to room 718..it is bigger and had a patio at one time but now the door is locked and we can't use it. Bummer.

We have settled in and are strangely comforted by all the familiarity here.

I hope you checked out the photos of Little Minnie.

I'll update when I have some news. God is in control !!
Love to All,
Mom & Bethany

Friday, April 12, 2002 at 08:09 PM (CDT)

Hi Everyone,
Sorry to be so late, I couldn't get onto the internet earlier.

We both had a busy day, Bethany doing schoolwork and I was busy settling in and getting together everying we will need for the next few weeks, such as comfort foods, snacks, drinks, snacks, drinks, snacks, (ha ha,) washing detergent and such.Oh and I had to get Kim some Pepsi. She is a Pepsi girl and Bethany is a Coke girl.
How about you all?

Seriously,
Bethany is really doing fine. We've been here before and survived it, so we'll do it again! Everyone is glad but sad to see us and it's like we were never gone.
There are 4 pretty young girls here now. The youngest is only 14, I think the others are 25 or so.

So Bethany has lost her status of being the youngest ever.

She started her chemo today and so far tolerating it well.

Will update tomorrow, until Then, God is in Control!

Oh I put some new photos on, Bethany took the one off of her with Minnie.
Love to all,
Pam & Bethany

Thursday, April 11, 2002 at 02:52 PM (CDT)

Hey!

Bethany has her catheter now and she is in the process of moving into her room.

Mom is unloading the car and making the room "home".

Everything seems to be going well and everyone is in good spirits.

Bethany does miss her puppy (Minnie) very bad. If you haven't seen the photo yet be sure to go check it out! I am taking good care of Minnie though - so not to worry!

I am sure that Mom will update as soon as she has any information to share.

Love,
Kim

Wednesday, April 10, 2002 at 01:38 PM (CDT)

Okay,
We go Thursday AM.
Bright & early.

She will have her catheter at noon and then be admitted in the pm.

If it is like is was before, they will encourage us to leave the hosp. every day for a bit until her counts drops too much.
so maybe we can go out, or to the mall, or, whatever. THe movie maybe.

She will miss her little doggie much, but I think we are ready to go.
love to All,
Pam

Tuesday, April 09, 2002 at 12:17 PM (CDT)

Hi,
Bethany continues to feel just great and we are all having trouble believing that she is really sick.

She is loving her puppy and having fun playing with her.

We are just waiting for them to call us and let us know when we have to report. They will schedule her for a port/catheter placement down there, and as soon as its scheduled, they will let us know when to come. So we are just waiting.
We had hoped to have it place here ,but we don't have the type they wanted.

So anyway, just keep us in your prayers. WE are all doing fine and just waiting.
Love Pam

Monday, April 08, 2002 at 08:27 AM (CDT)

Hi,
sorry we did not update over the weekend.

We were too busy living!!

Bethany is doing fine, getting prepared to go back. She is the proud owner of a new
toy chiuaua (sp?) puppy, and has not stopped smiling since she got her on Saturday.
We will put a photo on in the next few days.

She will get another catheter in today or tomorrow and probably we will go back on Wed or Thursday. They are letting us decide what day to return.

I am ready,( don't want it to get any stronger!!)

The main thing to remember is we are not out of options.
Will update soon. lOVe Pam

Friday, April 05, 2002 at 04:58 PM (CST)

Well here goes..

I got the dreaded call from Atlanta, telling us that yes her leukemia is back.

It is not as bad as before.

She is in really good shape right now, and it is better to hit it now with chemo than wait and see what the immunity does. So next week we will return to Atlanta and are probably looking to be there 3-4 weeks.

They feel there are lots of options right now and are proceeding with different drugs than before.

I guess we will go back to daily updates next weeks, but right now please just cover us, especially her, with prayers.

We know God is in control and I'm glad because I certainly am not. We all are taking it pretty hard, especially Bethany.
Love to all, Pam

Thursday, April 04, 2002 at 08:08 PM (CST)

Hi everyone,

We are finally home after a long and emotional day.
We initially were told in Atlanta that they did not see any blasts in her peripheral blood, but then when the labs came back, they did see several.
So, the plan is, take her off all immunosuppressant drugs, and let her and Jill's immune system do it's job.

WE will know more tomorrow when we get the results of the bone marrow biopsy. They told us that WHATEVER the results are, that this will be the initial plan.

The good news is that without the immunosuppressant drugs, she will not have to go and take the iv magnesium any more.

We know God is in control and prayer works!

We all feel much better than we did last night, but still much in need of prayer.
I cannot express how much it means just to be able to pick up the phone, place a few calls, and have an entire community of people behind us praying. We are held by this and I know it's what gets us through.
We will be updating tomorrow afternoon late after we get the call from ATlanta.
Love to All,
Mom & Bethany

Wednesday, April 03, 2002 at 02:42 PM (CST)

Hello from Florida!

Mom just called me and asked me to update everyone on Bethany's current situation.

Dr. Bearden has found some abnormal cells in Bethany's blood. Her counts have dropped a little too. Bethany and Mom will travel back to Emory ASAP for a bone marrow biopsy. Dr. Bearden said that the biopsy would tell us what we need to know. He doesn't want to speculate anything else at this point.

Please start those prayer chains for us - looks like we are not quite done yet!

I will update as soon as I have any information.

Love,
Kim

Friday, March 15, 2002 at 08:56 AM (CST)

Hello All,

Bethany is doing soo good, it is such a miracle.

She is continuing to receive Iv magnesium, but not quite every day now.

She has her new car, a Honda Accord, courtesy of her Aunt Patti (thanks, Patti),
is loving it, and going all over town.

Mom says she is ready to return to school!

She has to go back to Atlanta next Wed, and they will make that decision.

Thanks for continued prayers and support,
pray for her to catch up with her schoolwork too.

Love In Christ,
Mom & Bethany

Thursday February 21, 2002 3:28 PM CST

Hey Everyone,
Well Mom is going on a short trip and Kim is coming home for the weekend.

I am so glad she is coming home!!

I still have to go to the doctor EVERYDAY! But it is just to check on my magnesium level and get i.v. fluids. NO fun getting stuck all the time. But everything is looking good!

With Love,
Bethany

Tuesday February 12, 2002 8:56 AM CST

Good Morning All!

Bethany is at home, recuperating, and doing very well.

She feels good most days, and is getting her appetite back.

She does not like having to get IV magnesium, but her anti rejection medication causes a lack of it, so now that her catheter (port) is out, she has to have it IV and get stuck.

Have a great day, and I'll update in about a week!
Love,
Mom & Bethany

Friday February 1, 2002 5:04 AM CST

Good Morning All,
Bethany was released from the Emory Drs. for one monh!!
We are home and she is loving it.

She cannot return to school yet, and needs to be careful during this flu season, but all of her 100 day reports were good.
Praise God!
Thank so much for all the prayers and thoughts, and keep them up, she is still much in need of them!

Love to All,
Mom & Bethany

Friday January 25, 2002 10:22 AM CST

DAY 100 **!!**

Praise God from whom all blessings flow!

Bethany's bone marrow biopsy report was good, and so we are heading HOME!

We are so happy and thankful, you cannot imagine, but we give God the Glory!!

Thanks so much for all the support and prayers!!

Love to All!
Bethany & Mom

Tuesday January 22, 2002 9:32 AM CST

Good Morning!
Its back to Atlanta this am for the 100 day testing!!

Bethany enjoyed her weekend very much and hopes to be back in Sptg. this coming weekend also!!

Please pray that the bone marrow biopsy done Wed will be clear from all leukemia, and that all the tests will be negative.

Thank you so much for all the prayers and thoughts as we near the end of this 100 day trek, we know we have so many people to thank.

We have some news!
Jill, Bethany's sister & donor, is PREGNANT!
Bethany and Kim will be aunts and I will be GRANDMA!!

Also, Kim has moved to Florida to work for my sister, so we have a lot of changes going on as we prepare to move back to Sparkle City.

I'll update after the tests on Wed, but will not have results until end of week!!
love to all!
Pam & Bethany

Thursday January 17, 2002 7:22 EST

Good Morning,
This is day 91!!

Yesterday in the clinic they started talking home!!

Bethany's counts are all good and they are starting to wean her off home iv magnesium.

Next week they will do the big 100 day testing, such as bone marrow biopsy, skin biopsy, eye test, and lots of others. After this we should move back home, only to return here once a week.

She is very excited to have reached this milestone in her transplant and getting to be in Spartanburg. She will not be able to return to school yet, but can keep up with her work better there and have contact with her teachers and her home bound instructor.

Please pray the the tests next week and remember to keep the Coker family in your prayers.

We have met so many wonderful people here in Atlanta, and also other towns that have come to know us by this website and have prayed for Bethany along the way. Our hometown folks have been an immeasurable support, We are so thankful, and have experienced so many blessings along this journey that I cannot even begin to count them.

Thank you to everyone, and please know that this 100 days is not the end of the journey, but a big milestone. We still need prayers. Especially for the big testing next week!!

Love to All In Christ,
Bethany & Mom

Tuesday Jan 15 2002 9:46 AM

Good Morning!

Bethany is feeling much better after the little virus, and eating a little bit.

We are very saddened by the news on Brandon Coker's web site, it has hit us pretty hard.
Please read and pray for this family.

Most of you also know that our friend at the hospital from Woodruff, Shon Johnson, passed away right after Christmas.

We take this in stride and know that God is in control.

These patients are winners no matter what - because they are all believers.

WE will visit the clinic again tomorrow for regular check up. Bethany is anxious for them to start talking HOME!
Love to All,
Bethany & Mom

Saturday, January 12, 2002 at 08:00 AM (CST)

Day 86!!

Bethany is doing pretty good, but had a little 24 hour stomach virus I think. Anyway, I am taking her to the clinic today for a bag of fluids to see if that will make her feel better.

She was able to eat last night and I think she will be ok today.

We are still waiting on all the test results to see why the hemoglobin was dropping, everything so far is normal.

Have a great weekend everyone and I'll update around Tuesday.
Love Pam & Bethany

Wednesday, January 09, 2002 at 06:46 AM (CST)

Day ??83 I think,
We arrived safely back in Atlanta, and spent the day in the clinic.

Today will be spent there also, as Bethany has to get some blood. Her hemoglobin has dropped a little. We don't know why, we will see the Dr. today.

Thanks for all the prayers, gifts, during the holiday season. Bethany said it was her best Christmas ever!!

Sorry that we have not kept up the updates, but we will try and update at least twice a week now that we are back here.

His, BEthany & Mom

Wednesday, January 09, 2002 at 06:46 AM (CST)

Saturday, January 05, 2002 at 04:36 PM (CST)

Hi Everyone!

Just wanted to let everyone know that things are still going great. Bethany seems to feel better with each day.

Bethany & Mom are both happy that they were able to stay in Spartanburg for a little while longer. After they go back to Atlanta they will only have to stay about 3 weeks. A permanent homecoming is just around the corner.

Have a great weekend!

Love,
Kim

Wednesday, January 02, 2002 at 02:49 PM (CST)

Happy New Year!

Thanks to the snow Bethany & Mom are home for a few more days. Mom is especially happy that she can attend Dorothy's wedding!

Bethany continues to improve. And is FINALLY starting to see signs of hair! This makes all of us very happy!

Bethany has requested BEACON food for tonight. She has gone to pick out some movies for us.

Take Care.
Have fun in the snow!

Love, KIM

Wednesday, December 26, 2001 at 10:10 AM (CST)

Hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas! Bethany said that this Christmas has been her best ever!

Thanks everyone who helped with the big SURPRISE party for Bethany on Sunday. She really enjoyed seeing everyone. We are still munching on all the wonderful food!

Bethany has gone to Dr. Bearden's office this morning to have some levels checked. She has been sneezing like crazy! We are hoping that it is some sort of allergy (maybe the tree) instead of a cold coming on. Everything should still be fine though.

As it stands right now Bethany will be home until January 3!

Again - thanks for everything! Have a great New Year!

Love,
Kim

Wednesday, December 19, 2001 at 02:56 PM (CST)

Day 62 Wow! Getting closer and closer to 100 all the time!!!

We saw the Dr. this week, and have some really good news!!

We can come home for Christmas for a week!!!
Maybe a few days longer if we can get the lab tests that she needs at home or in Greenville. She is so excited!!

We will be coming home Sunday after our clinic visit.

Bethany is doing very good and feels good most of the time. She has very little nausea now and is starting to eat better.

We both look forward to seeing everyone at home!

Love to All,
Bethany & Mom

Sunday, December 16, 2001 at 09:11 PM (CST)

Hi Guys,
Sorry i have not updated in so long, but it has been a pretty busy and eventful week.

Bethany is doing really good. She is feeling better and eating more every week.
She has about 2 clinic visits per week right now, so we have been able to do a little shopping. We are enjoying the Christmas in Atlanta shopping experience,
but my accident did set us back a little.

Tomorrow she sees a new Dr in the clinic, and maybe he will tell us when and how long we can come home for Christmas.

We look forward to seeing everyone and thanks so much for the notes.
Love to All,
Bethany & family

Tuesday, December 11, 2001 at 09:43 AM (CST)

Good Morning!

I thought I would just go ahead and update everyone on what has been going on...

Mom's shigles are getting better. BUT - she had a car accident yesterday. There is a possibility that she has a fractured Sternum. I just spoke with her and she is quite sore. She also has a bad headache. Unfortunately it seems that Mother's favorite car is history.

Thank goodness Julie & Terry are in Atlanta. Terry went to the Emergency Room with Mom and Julie went and got Bethany. Mom & Bethany are staying with them. Julie has taken Bethany to the Clinic this morning.

Bethany is making wonderful progress. The difference in her in the past two weeks has been awesome. She feels really good. She has a great appetite too. It looks like she will be able to spend Christmas in Pauline! YEAH!

Well, just wanted to let everyone know what was happening. I feel like we are living a Country song! I just hope nothing bad happens to my dog! HA! HA!

Love,
Kim

Friday, December 07, 2001 at 01:01 PM (CST)

Hello!

Bethany went to the Clinic today. Everything seems fine again. The Nurse Practitioner was to call with her next appointment.

It seems that Mom has developed stress-induced Shingles. Diane, Bethany's NP, looked at Mom's back and prescribed something for her. Right now they don't appear to be contagious and hopefully won't get that bad!

Dad went down today and they are shopping - hopefully for me! No, just kidding!

Thanks for the continued support. Have a great weekend.

Someone will update as we have news!

Love,
Kim

Tuesday, December 04, 2001 at 09:27 PM (CST)

Day 47:
Bethany had a good visit to the clinic today, with all her counts good and levels all okay.

She is still feeling fatigued, but they said it is normal, it is just as if she is recovering from major surgery. They are pretty strict here about the 100 days, because of the anti rejection medicine, but I hope they will let her come home for a Christmas visit.

I will probably only update about twice a week now, unless we have some news, because she is just doing so good and recovering slowly, but as expected.

Love to All,
Bethany & family

Saturday, December 01, 2001 at 01:12 PM (CST)

Hello All! Sorry that we have been so long in giving a report. I have been here for most of the week and I am keeping Bethany busy!
We went to the Clinic yesterday and the Nurse Practioner was very pleased with her counts. Bethany doesn't have to go back to the Clinic until Tuesday! That is great news as the Clinic gets pretty boring!
We have been going shopping & to the movies a lot. Daddy came down on Thursday and we went to Discover Mills (the new outlet mall) - Bethany walked around the entire thing!
Well, we are off to the movies. Mom will update on Tuesday after they go back to the Clinic!
Take care!

Love,
Kim & Bethany

Wednesday, November 28, 2001 at 08:56 AM (CST)

Day 41 -

Bethany spent all day yesterday in the clinic. She had to have fluids because of a high creatinine level, another side effect of the Prograf.
Her counts are very good and climbing.

She doesn't have much energy, which is normal.

She has to go back today to clinic to check again.
Love,
Bethany & Family

Monday, November 26, 2001 at 10:10 AM (CST)

Hello Everyone, - Day 39**
soon will be halfway!!

Bethany has not felt good since we came back, has been nauseated and cannot keep anything down, so I'll probably take her to the clinic today. Her regular appt is tomorrow, but, these symptoms are all side effects of the treatment, not the leukemia.
Which is good!!

The weather here is beautiful, we have turned on the air conditioning again, and are looking forward to seeing Atlanta decorated for Christmas!!

I'll update tomorrow after Clinic visit!

Love,
Bethany & Mom

Saturday, November 24, 2001 at 08:30 PM (CST)

Day 37 - Happy Thanksgiving Holiday to all!

Bethany enjoyed a short trip to Spartanburg, but the trip really tired her out as the Doctor said it would.

She did not feel up to many visitors but we're looking forward to Christmas when maybe we will get to stay home a little longer and visit more friends and family.

We visited the clinic today upon our return to Atlanta, and her counts were all very good. She is doing fine and just a little tired from the trip.

We will probably update now every other day unless something changes.

Thanks so much to our faithful followers, and to the One who makes it all possible.

Hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season;we sure have a lot for which to be thankful!

His,
Bethany & Mom

Monday, November 19, 2001 at 12:50 PM (CST)

Day 32 -
We spent the morning in the clinic. Everything was good except her blood pressure, it was high enough that they started her on some medication. It is an expected complication from the Prograf, anti rejection medication.
Also, her feet hurt.
This is just another weird complication of all this transplant/chemo/meds.etc.

She is really tired today because she did not sleep very well last night with her feet hurting, so she is resting this afternoon.

They say she is doing really good and progressing as expected.

She really enjoyed a couple of friends that came down over the weekend. (That's probably why she is tired today).
Love to All,
Bethany & Mom

Friday, November 16, 2001 at 12:43 PM (CST)

Day 29 - What a GREAT DAY IT IS!!

The bone marrow biopsy report....
NO LEUKEMIA PRESENT!!!!!!!!!

Praise God for this good news. We are so thankful and excited...and relieved. That is the best news we could have hoped to get.

Bethany is feeling pretty good today and we went to lunch to celebrate. Looking forward to seeing some friends this weekend that are coming for a visit!

Love to all,
Bethany & Mom

Wednesday, November 14, 2001 at 08:15 PM (CST)

Day 27 -
Spent most of the day again at the clinic, getting the bone marrow biopsy and then some more platelets.

We will get tomorrow off from the clinic and maybe we can take in a movie or something.

They also did a dna test today, so it will be interesting to see if Bethany has turned into Jill..ha ha!

I will probably not update until Friday unless we get some news.

Bethany is feeling pretty good and wanted pot roast for supper, so we ate good tonight!
His,
Bethany & Mom

Tuesday, November 13, 2001 at 05:49 PM (CST)

Hi, Day 26 & counting:

We spent all day in the clinic today. Bethany had to get platelets, so it always takes a while for the blood bank to get them ready and sent to the clinic, therefore, it takes the entire day.

Tommorrow at 8:30 they will do her bone marrow biopsy, but it will be several days before we get the results, so pray
for those results.

She felt good today and ate really well.
Love to All, In His Grip,
Bethany & Mom

Monday, November 12, 2001 at 06:52 PM (CST)

Day 25! 1/4 of the way there!
Bethany did not feel very good today. She woke up nauseated, so after taking some medication, she went back to sleep and slept most of the day.

I guess Kim really wore her out!

She is doing okay now and getting her iv meds.

I'll update again tomorrow after our clinic visit. Sometime this week or next she will have a bone marrow biopsy that will tell us a lot about the graft.

His,
Mom & Bethany

Saturday, November 10, 2001 at 06:20 PM (CST)

Hey Everyone!

Bethany and I have had a great weekend. We have been shopping - we have 2 different malls within 3 miles of the condo! YEAH! We saw Shallow Hal yesterday and Riding In Cars With Boys today. I took Bethany downtown today and we had French Fries & Gravy at this great restaurant -Vickery's.

Bethany has not had to go to the clinic for 2 days now. She does have to go in the morning at 10. We expect it to be a quick trip.

Thanks for all the messages & prayers.

Please say a special prayer for a friend of mine- Joey Birch. He was involved in a very bad motorcycle accident on Friday. He is at SRMC on 6 Tower. Joey's wife Paige and his brother Jerry and his sister-in-law Brandy all helped with the yard sale last Saturday. Please keep Joey and his family in your prayers.

By the way, there is some good news on Brandon Coker's website - go check him out.

Have a great night!

Love,
Bethany & Kim

Wednesday, November 07, 2001 at 12:33 EST

Day 20 & counting,
Bethany is having a great day, she is getting to take a break from the clinic and we are starting home iv meds today, magnesium and possibly potassium.

She is eating better and better and this afternoon we will try and take a walk.

Tomorrow we'll go to the clinic again, but maybe we won't have to stay as long since we can give the good stuff here.

It is beautiful here and we're making the best of it.
Love to All,
Bethany & Mom

Tuesday, November 06, 2001 at 07:11 PM (CST)

Day 19
Another exhausting day spent in the clinic.

They are going to try and change to home IV meds tomorrow, so maybe we won't have to do that again.

Bethany is feeling better each day, and eating a lot better. She has some fever blisters on her lips that are painful.

She is in good spirits and can't wait to see everyone!
His,
Bethany & Mom

Monday, November 05, 2001 at 5:33 pm est

Day 18 -
We have just spent ALL day in the clinic.
Bethany had to get magnesium and potassium and by the time they figured all that out it was 12:45, so it took 4 hours or more to infuse, then with traffic, just now getting home.

She is feeling okay, eating a little better, and they are telling me to cook high fat meals and encourage her to eat fatty snacks, hageen daaz ice cream, real butter, heavy cream, creamy soups, etc.
Can you imagine what that will do to my diet?

She has lost some weight and still can't eat enough to keep from losing more, so...
I'll have to get some new recipes.

We're settled in and enjoying this big screen tv here in the condo. Maybe tomorrow I will have time to take some photos and add on of our new home.

His,
Bethany & family

Sunday, November 04, 2001 at 08:53 PM (CST)

day 17 -
Sunday Night:

We had a nice weekend, even though most of it was spent at the out patient clinic.

Bethany is feeling better every day. She ate a little for each meal today, she has not had much nausea, and is just a lot better.

We have settled in at the condo tonight and will have to go to the clinic again in the morning. Her magnesium levels keeps going down because of the medication she is taking, so they usually have to give her some iv.

We're looking forward to a great week with her getting better each day.
Love to All,
Bethany & Mom

Friday, November 02, 2001 at 06:25 PM (CST)

Day 15 Evening:

We did get out! We spent the afternoon at the condo, then came over to the Carnes Home to spend the night. Terry is out of town, and Julie needed company, and Bethany and I were glad to accomodate her!!

She has absolutely NO energy yet, cannot eat but about two bites, and just sits around all the time, or lays around, can you imagine? No really she feels good, but weak, and it will take time to build her strength back.

We have to go to the clinic both Sat & Sun am, so that will take most of the day, but we are happy to be in real beds!!

Don't forget about the yard sale, Pauline Glenn Springs Elementary, I hear they have LOTS of good stuff!!
His,
Bethany, Mom & Julie

Friday, November 02, 2001 at 06:29 AM (CST)

Day 15 - Good Morning!

Bethany and I both woke up very early this morning in anticipation of getting out!!

Then, the nurse announced that Bethany would need potassium and magnesium, both IV fluids, that they monitor daily because the meds she takes for anti rejection deplete her body stores of these minerals. The potassium takes 4 hours to run in, so it will be a while.

She has some nausea still and I think she needs some fluids too, because she doesn't have enough intake. They will probably still let her go home, but maybe send her home on IV fluids and those minerals.

She has NO appetite, which I cannot imagine, but she said she just doesn't want anything. She always drinks about 4 oz of apple juice in the mornings, which she always keeps down, so I will have to stock up on it.

She is excited and I am too, we are not scared this time, last time it was scary to be out of the hospital for the first time with this diagnosis. Now we are used to it.

She will have to come to Emory almost every day at first in the out patient clinic to monitor her counts and electrolytes, but the condo is only 3 miles away and we can handle it.

Check out the new photos, and I'll post some of the condo next week.

WE continue to give God the glory, we have so many little blessings every day that can onlyn be from Him.
His,
Bethany & Mom

Thursday, November 01, 2001 at 07:12 AM (CST)

Day 14 - Good Morning!

Bethany is still improving, no new complaints and she ate just a little bit yesterday.

She is looking forward to going to the condo today. (The condo is where we will be staying for the 100 days that we have to be in Atlanta) I will post the number and address after we move in.

We went outside yesterday, and it wore her out so much, she slept for 4 hours when we came inside.

She is doing GREAT, and everyone on the floor is happy for her, she is setting records, and they will all miss us (they say).

We have met so many nice families and staff here and we are so grateful to everyone here, and at home for the continued prayers, thoughts, messages, gifts, that we can never really thank you enough.

Love to All, In His Grip,
Bethany & Mom

Wednesday, October 31, 2001 at 09:41 AM (CST)

DAY 13, and GUESS WHAT??

BETHANY is being unhooked from all iv meds and being changed to oral.

Do you know what that means??
SHE CAN GET OUT OF HERE!

Dr Langston is targeting FRIday as the big day.
She wants her to go outside today, and tomorrow go to the condo for a while, and then, FRIDAY, GET OUT!!!

BETHANY has not stopped smiling since she came in.

God is so good, we are so thankful for everything.

We are enjoying the staff all dressed up as each other, and guessing who is who.

OUR GOD IS AN AWESOME GOD!!
HIS,
Bethany & Mom

Tuesday, October 30, 2001 at 07:49 AM (CST)

Day 12 -
Bethany has turned the corner!!According to her Dr. Her counts are coming up and they think she is engrafting with Jill's cells!!

She still feels puny, sore throat and nausea, congestion; but We are targeting the end of the week to get out of here.
I think she can see the light at the end of this hallway now!

She has to be able to eat, drink, and walk. So she did 10 laps yesterday, in spite of being all drugged up.

They say, once they start improving, it goes very fast!!

So, thanks for the prayers and keep them coming.

Don't forget about the big yard sale that my neighbors have gotten together for Saturday at Pauline Glenn Springs Elementary.

We are still In His Grip!!
Love
Bethany & Mom

Monday, October 29, 2001 at 08:17 AM (CST)

Day 11 - Good Morning!

Bethany...well I really don't know what to say. She seems to feel a little better, but she has a rash, soreness in her limbs and bone pain, fever, and sore throat. Her mouth sores are better.

She is getting breathing treatments, and she is not using the suction as much, but she still has the pain pump. They increased the dosage a little, so that may be why the rash, because she sometimes does that with the Dilaudid.

She is getting blood today as her hemoglobin fell, but the white count is 0.3 today, instead of 0.2.

I'ts cold down here but she is hot. She is sitting up now and will soon get up and take a shower, maybe she will feel better after that.

She is scheduled for the last chemo today, and they say that it shouldn't hit her quite as hard, because the donated cells from Jill may be starting to grow.

Keep praying, that has kept her going.

In His Grip,
Bethany & Mom

Sunday, October 28, 2001 at 02:04 PM (CST)

Good Afternoon!

Bethany just received her PCA pump. Hopefully this will take care of the pain from mouth sores.

Dr. Langston sent Bethany for a chest x-ray this morning. Everything from that looks good. The MD also ordered breathing treatments every six hours. The first one seemed to help. (Bethany is very congested from the sores)

Right now she is sitting up in bed and drinking some good 'ole BEACON tea. Jimmie has gone to get her a Frosty from Wendy's. We aren't sure she can eat it but we are gonna try!

Jimmie and I didn't do the costume thing - YET. Bethany is just not up for that much excitement right now. We will do it when she's feeling a little better and can really appreciate how STUPID we are!

Hope everyone has a good week. Don't forget about the Yard Sale next week at PGS Elementary. I hear lots of good items have been donated for the sale! Take care!

Love,
Bethany & Kim & Jimmie

Sunday, October 28, 2001 at 07:47 AM (CST)

Good Morning!

Bethany seemed to sleep pretty well last night.

She is still quite miserable with mouth sores. The Nurses are talking about possibly putting her on a pain pump for those.

Bethany was running a slight fever last night but that was gone this morning!

We walked 2 laps yesterday - which was pretty good considering how yucky she feels! I will try to get her up again today.

The MD has not been here yet this morning but if she has any new information - I will update again!

Hope everyone has a great day! Stay warm!

Love,
Kim

Saturday, October 27, 2001 at 09:36 AM (CDT)

Good Morning Everyone,
Day 9, and Bethany is still miserable with sore mouth and throat.
She can't eat, swallow or talk still, and is having pain meds every 4 hours, but they make her itch and nauseated, so it relieves the pain but adds to her misery.
She is still right on target and she knows that there will soon be a better day.
"this too will pass".

She hasn't felt much like walking, but has managed about two laps per day, usually in the morning.

The view from our room is changing with the leaves, and the weather has turned cold here.

They tell her that this is the worst it will get, so thank God for that, and we are looking forward to next week when she should feel better.

Love to all,
His,
Bethany & family

Friday, October 26, 2001 at 07:24 AM (CDT)

Day 8 - Bethany continues to feel pretty bad with her mucositis getting worse. She would LOVE to be able to eat or drink or swallow or talk, but she knows it will be a few more days.

Everything is still expected and a normal side effect, so she will endure.

Maybe Kim and Jimmy can cheer her up this weekend when they come.

We're hoping for a better day soon!
In His Grip!
Bethany & Mom

Thursday, October 25, 2001 at 10:53 AM (CDT)

Day 7 - Bethany continues to feel pretty lousy as a result of that chemotherapy. Her counts have all bottommed out which is what they want.
She now has some mucositis which is painful, hurts to talk, eat, swallow, etc.
She is getting most of her meds iv now because of that, which helps.
She hasn't really been able to eat since Sunday, so they are now giving her some fluids. Again, the Doctor says this is totally normal, and she has done well to wait until day 7 for these symptoms to worsen. She will get one more dose of the Methotrexate on Monday, and then, it's uphill from there. Her counts should come back very quickly from that, and as soon as that happens, she can get out of the hospital. (if I say go home, I mean to our Atlanta home).

We really appreciate all the prayers going out, I understand Alexia Newman was going to get a 24 hour vigil for transplant day, and had so much response that it is still going on, we definitely have seen the results! THANKS Alexia and fellow prayer warriors.

Neither of us slept at all last night, I think I heard the 1st shift coming on before we got down. Fist it was the Tv, then midnight checks, then mouth pain, nausea, then abdominal pain, all pretty mild but aggravating.
We're hanging on!
In His GriP!
Bethany & Mom

Wednesday, October 24, 2001 at 10:59 AM (CDT)

Day 6,
Bethany continues to feel pretty lousy and cannot really eat, but that is normal and just a side effect of the Methotrexate, not anything else. She will get another dose today, and then again Monday. So it will be after that before she really starts to feel good.

She is just resting and waiting. She has a great attitude still and is happy today that one of her favorite nurses, Kim, is back today after surgery.'

We're looking forward to messages,
In His Grip,
Bethany & Mom

Tuesday, October 23, 2001 at 10:08 /Am /ESt!

Day 5 & Counting..
Bethany is doing pretty good. The chemo that they gave her on Sunday started to make her feel lousy yesterday as the day went on. She had some nausea and felt washed out, but that is normal. We are hoping today will be better, and then just as she starts feeling better, guess what, they will hit her with it again tomorrow, but that is part of the recovery process, and we will get through it!

Bethany has great spirits and continues to be the wellest person on this floor, they always assign the nurse to her that also has the sickest patient, because Bethany doesn't require too much.

She is going to try and walk again today and maybe we can watch a movie or two.

We are resting in His care,
Love to All,
Bethany & Mom

Monday, October 22, 2001 at 08:45 AM (CDT)

Good Morning to all!

Bethany is awake, slept well, and feels great! What more can I say?

She had the Methotrexate yesterday, and so far no side effects. Her mouth still feels good. I found that Kroger grocery store makes fresh casseroles, etc, so that's what she had last night, green bean casserole and chicken casserole, it was pretty tasty. So her appetite is coming back a little.

Shon's Dad brought her McDonald pancakes for breakfast today, which she enjoyed. Shon had her transplant yesterday and is doing good too.

You all need to remember Shon Johnson, Brandon Coker, and Tara Foster as you pray for us, they are all leukemia patients, and we could add so many more that we have met here on the floor.

I'll add some more photos today. We are going to get started on our mile soon, she did a mile yesterday. Each step is one step closer to getting out of hospital.

His,
Bethany & family

Sunday, October 21, 2001 2:50 pm EST

Hi Everyone,
We are having a great day here in Atlanta. We have been busy finishing up our bulletin board.

Bethany feels very good, and she has walked 15 laps already today.

She will get her chemo today and we pray that it will not make her feel bad, because she feels so good now.

Have a great day everyone!
His
Bethany & family

Saturday, October 20, 2001 at 10:34 Am EST

Good Morning to All,

It is a beautiful day here in Atlanta, and Bethany is feeling fine. She did not sleep real good, but anyway no complaints or problems. She keeps talking about getting out of here. She is ready already!

She had a little nausea we think from the Methotrexate yesterday, and she will get more Methotrexate tomorrow. But it was very mild and she has no other complaints.

Her Dr. just came in and said she was doing great. Her counts dropped a little which is just what they want. They will continue to drop for 4-5 days, then slowly come up. Then she can go home!!

This is day 2 & counting!
His,
Bethany & family

Friday, October 19, 2001 at 12:18 PM (CDT)

We just had some good news from the Dr. so I wanted to share it.

I don't know if I told you or not, but they wanted to collect at least 3 million stem cells from Jill for each pound of Bethany's body weight, and they got 5 million!
So, the Dr. said that that could mean a very good response for Bethany, could increase her chances for survival, could shorten her hospital stay, and just overall it's good news. Way to go Jill! I am reminded of the scripture in Ephesians 3:20,"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 the glory!"

So, we feel pretty good about everything and she is still feeling good. She had some grapes for lunch.
I'll update with more news as it comes in.
Love to All,
Bethany & family

Friday, October 19, 2001 at 10:09 EST

Hello Everyone on Day 1!

We both slept very good last night, and Bethany woke up laughing this morning.

I asked her if she felt like Jill, and she just laughed more. She has taken a shower but is not hungry at all. I think she's a little anxious about the chemo today because they said it would make her pretty sick, and cause mouth sore or mucositis.

She feels pretty good overall, and we give God the Glory.

And Jill, I'm not sure if I told you, but
THANK YOU for what you have done for your sister. I'm sure everyone joins me in this., and I'm equally sure you would say you don't have to thank me because it was a privilege, as I heard you say yesterday. But anyway, Thanks!

Day one and counting!~
I'll add some new photos later today.
We also have a new Doctor making rounds, Dr. Langston, we have not yet met her, but I'm sure she's good.

His,
Bethany & Family

Thursday, October 18, 2001 at 04:23 pm EST

The transplant is complete. Bethany did fine thoughout the prodecure and slept mostly. They gave her a lot of pre meds like Ativan and Benadryl so she is still pretty sleepy.

Today will be considered day 0, and we will be counting up to day 100 and feeling better.

I don't have any new photos, but I think the ones on there tell it all.

Thanks so much for the prayers and messages, keep them coming!
Love to All.,
Bethany & family

Thursday, October 18, 2001 at 1:40 EST

Hi Everyone!
We are so excited!! The transplant has begun.

It is really like an iv transfusion, but it sure has a lot more packed in it than that.

I am uploading some more photos for you to view, so that everyone can share with us in this!

We love you all and thanks so much for the continued prayers!
Love,
Bethany & family

Thursday, October 18, 2001 at 09:40 EST

Good Morning!
Well, the big day has arrived!!!

Jill is hooked up right now giving the gift of life, and be sure and view the photos that show her giving.

Bethany is still sleeping, because they kept her awake last night in preparation!

WE know so much God is in Control, we feel his presence.

We'll update several times today with new photos each time I hope.
Love everyone and keep praying!!

Bethany & Family

Wednesday, October 17, 2001 at 09:56 am EST

Good Morning Everybody!

Well the big day is almost here!

Bethany and I both slept good last night and we are anxiously awaiting the big T.

Jill and Jeremy arrived last night late, and Jill is now in the clinic getting her blood checked. She is feeling very much like she has the flu, which is how they told her she would feel. So pray for her too.

I think Bethany will have a pretty good day today. She actually feels better than I thought she would by this time.

We are just resting and waiting in God's care.
He is in control!!
In His Grip!
Bethany & Mom

Tuesday, October 16, 2001 at 09:40 AM (CDT)

Good Morning Everyone!

Guess What? We moved into our old room 716. I feel so much better, it's just like home!

Bethany doesn't feel very good today, they started another chemotherapy yesterday, and she gets another dose today. Then, tomorrow rest, then, Thursday is the big day! Today is countdown T-3.

We know God is in control.

His,
Bethany & Mom

Monday, October 15, 2001 at 01:45 PM (CDT)

Hi Everyone,
Sorry I'm so late again. We are sleeping really late because we stay up very late.
Bethany has been sleeping mostly today.
They started her on the second chemo and some more medication in preparation the the big day!
Today is Transplant -4. We're counting.

I would have really like to see Jill & Jeremy give Jill her first injection Sunday morning. She said they tried about 10 times before they got the needle in. She has pin pricks all in her leg. She said they told her she had to do it to save her sister's life (boy what motivation), so they kept trying until they go it. She is having headaches as a result, but not too bad.
Check out the photos. I am putting some on of the hospital floor and her doctor. I'll try and do better this time with photos.

I'm sure everyone knows about the yard/bake sale and car wash at Pauline Glenn springs, on Sat, Nov 4 for Bethany. Our neighbor Gail Bailey is organizing it. Her phone number is 583-2308 if you can help.

We are excited to see what this week will bring. Please keep us in your prayers.

Oh, and we moved to 717! It's a little bigger.

His,
Bethany & Mom

Sunday, October 14, 2001 at 10:52 Am EST

Good Morning Everyone!

Bethany had a pretty good night, although she did throw up her 32 pills once. Then she had to take 16 more.

I think it was because they didn't give her the same anti nausea medication,so they restarted it.

So today is transplant -5, the day Jill starts her shots to increase her stem cells.
so we start counting down till Thursday, which will be day 0 I think. THe big transplant day.
All the nurses tell us that everyone usually has a big party and celebrates a new "birth" day. We haven't planned one, but maybe we should.
I did hear that some friends are planning a 24 hour prayer vigil for that day, which will be great. Anyway, please pray for the transplant to be a success and for her recovery to be swift and uneventful.

By the way, Bethany says she can feel her hair growing. ?chemo brain you think?

We are so thankful for everyone's prayers, gifts, thoughts, messages, and on and on, we could never properly thank everyone or repay anyone, so please accept this as a sincere appreciation for all that has been done for us, which is how we are getting through this.
Love to All,
His,
Bethany & Mom

Saturday, October 13, 2001 at 08:02 PM (CDT)

Hello Everybody!
Sorry I haven't updated earlier. We had a good day today, no problems.
They actually let her go off the floor for lunch.
She is still feeling good and no nausea from the chemo.

Boy go Cav's! We listened to the game last night on the internet, at goupstate.com, boy that was so exciting. We both wished we could have been there!

I'll update earlier tomorrow, until then,
In His Grip,
Mom & Bethany

Friday, October 12, 2001 at 06:21 PM (CDT)

Okay, now she is better. No more nausea, and the doctor said her levels of the medicine are right where they want them.
He said between 9 & 1500, and hers is 1100, so that's great news!

We are going to watch/listen to the Dorman-Spartan High Game on the internet, goupstate.com, isn't that neat?
So she won't miss anything.....

We're settling in and just waiting for a better room to come available. Maybe tomorrow.
So, we'll update in the morning,
We're In His Grip,
Mom & Bethany

Friday, October 12, 2001 at 08:39 AM (CDT)

Good Morning.
They didn't waste any time in starting her on the alternate to radiation. It's a pill, but she has to take 32 of them every 6 hours round the clock. They put them in empty capsules, 7 pills in each. She has thrown up all of them, so they are having to give her a lot of nausea medication, which makes her sleepy. They also take blood levels of that same drug every 30 minutes, so she had a busy night, but slept through a lot of it!

We're hanging in there, I guess Jill has to start her injections today maybe.

We'll update again later.
His,
Bethany & Mom

Thursday, October 11, 2001 at 06:22 pm EST

Hi there,
Well, we are finally here. We got into our room about 5:30 pm, after about a 2 hour wait in admitting.

They started lab work immediately and are starting the chemotherapy tonight.

They have cautioned here about mouth sores and all kinds of complications.

Luckily, she ate her Beacon cheeseburger BEFORE they told her that she couldn't eat supper tonight, so.... they said it was ok.

We are in I think, the smallest room on this floor, in the corner. There is a big pipe to view outside the window. We're not going to settle in too much because we're going to try and move this weekend. (i hope).

Our spirits are as good as can be expected.

The doctor came in and everyone here is excited about her transplant and fast recovery!

Please start with the messages again as they keep our spirits up!

In His Grip,

Mom & Bethany

Tuesday, October 09, 2001 9:18 Am EST

Hi,
We are getting ready to go back for the transplant. We had to visit the Emory Clinic yesterday to sign consents, etc.
That was a long trip just for that!

They gave us the schedule.

Thursday, Oct 11, be admitted, begin Busulfan for 4 days, every 6 hours around the clock.
Then two days of Cytoxan therapy (chemo)
Then ond day of rest before the transplant on 10-18 (changed from 10-17_

The doctor told her she would probably feel pretty good until about Monday or Tuesday, then yuck for a few weeks.
I'll update again when we get there Thursday.
Pray!
Love Mom & Bethany

Monday, October 01, 2001 at 09:31 PM (CDT)

Hello Everyone,
Sorry we have not updated this site everyday since we have been at home. We'll probably do only every few days until we go back to be admitted on October 17.

Bethany is doing very good. She had her counts done at Dr. Bearden's office today and everything was good.

She is enjoying being at home and seeing everyone.

We'll be going back to Emory Monday.

Love to all,
Bethany & Family

Wednesday, September 26, 2001 at 09:34 AM EST

Good Morning!

WE have GREAT news!!

They are going to do the transplant on October 17!
And, they are not going to do Total Body Radiation!! They are going to use a drug instead. That will not have the long term side effects that radiation has, it has its own, but they feel that with her age it is a much better choice.
She check out okay with all her counts and got some of the pre testing done yesterday. We have to go back Oct 8, be admitted on the 11th, and then transplant on 17th of October.
We felt really good about all the Doctor had to say. She is in very good condition going into transplant and we all are confident of a cure.

Love to All, In His grip,
Bethany & Mom

Monday, September 24, 2001 at 08:35 Am ESt

Good Morning All!
It sure has been good to see some of you and just to be at home.
Bethany has had a great weekend and has really felt good!

Her test results are in, and the Doctor said that her bone marrow was clean, probably too clean, and that means not enough good cells have recovered, but it also means that she is in clinical remission!
Because of the lack of good cells, and the appearance of some other abnormal cells, they have decided to forego the consolidation round of chemo that was to be done here at home. They want to proceed with transplant, so,
we have an appointment tomorrow at Emory at 1pm, and they will let us know the details, but they hope to do it in about two weeks.
From the day of the transplant, we will have to be in Atlanta 100 days, so we are REALLY enjoying being in Spartanburg right now!
Jill is at Emory this morning getting checked out and getting ready to donate.

Thank you all so much for all the prayers, gifts, love and caring you have shown to us.
We cannot thank you enough, that's what has gotten us through it, God working through friends and family.
Love you all,
Bethany & family

Friday, September 21, 2001 at 09:39 EST

Good Morning Everybody~!

I guess by now you know we are home. We are sooo happy to be here and get a chance to see everyone.

Here's the scoop.

Right now, Bethany has recovered from her last chemotherapy, and she has SOME immunity, but it is still low. So, the Dr. told her she could not go to school, but she could be very selective about her activities, and her greatest wish is to go the the ballgame tonight, so he reluctantly agreed to let her go for awhile. She will have to be careful, and stay away from anyone who is obviously sick, but she can go.
She can have visitors too.
We are awaiting the results of her bone marrow biopsy which was done Wednesday. We should hear today.
If she is declared in remission, we can stay home for 5-6 weeks while she gets another round of chemotherapy, then go back after her recovery period to Emory, for the transplant. That would probably be around first of Nov.
If she is not in remission, we have to go back next week, so we are making the most of this weekend! Also, she will not feel as good if she gets more chemo even at home.
Her counts and immunity will drop again, so we are letting her do exactly what she wants to (within reason) this weekend.

We are so thankful for all our friends, family, church family for all the prayers, gifts, and love that has been shown to us during this difficult time. Please continue to keep us in your prayers.

In His Grip,
Bethany & Mom

Wednesday, September 19, 2001 at 05:56 PM (CDT)

Guess what?

Bethany and Mom are home!!!!

They arrived late this afternoon safely. Bethany is resting very comfortably in her own bed. Mom is gone to the grocery store and I'm holding the fort down for now.

I'll let you know about visitors soon.

Thanks, have a good night.

Kim

Wednesday, September 19, 2001 at 08:56 AM (CDT)

Good Morning!

Bethany and Mom are at the Emory Clinic right now. The Nurse Practitioner just finished with Bethany's bone marrow test. Mom said that it only took her about 5 minutes. Bethany said that it was one of the least painful that she has had.

The results of this test will not be back until at least Friday. Please continue to pray that this test comes back showing no leukemic cells.

Dr. Lonial has not told them when they can come home yet. We are still expecting it to be sometime this weekend.

I will let everyone know if any new news come out.

Thanks for the support!

Have a good day!

Love,
Kim

Tuesday, September 18, 2001 at 11:02 AM (CDT)

Hey Guys!!

I am feeling good today. I got two units of blood yesterday...that only took six hours in the clinic. No joke. But today Mrs. Carnes, mom, and myself are going to go shopping. I am so excited to be out of the hospital and anxious to be home. I should be there by this weekend. Hopefully. So pray that I am. I will get my bone marrow taken Wednesday morning, so you can pray that it is clear and I will be able to stay at home for awhile before the transplant. Thanks for all the thoughts and prayers.

Love ya,

Bethany

Monday, September 17, 2001 at 02:23 PM (CDT)

Good Afternoon!

I just spoke with Mom on the phone and she asked me to update everyone...

Bethany and Mom are currently at the Emory Clinic. They have been there since 10 AM and are more than ready to leave. Bethany needed 2 units of blood today so that is why they are there. The MD says that she is still right on track.

Bethany will have to go back to the Clinic on Wednesday for a bone marrow screen. Hopefully this test will show that Bethany is in pre-remission.

If everything continues as expected, Bethany will be home within the next week or so. She is so excited. She is so looking forward to seeing everyone - especially her friends. I am sure that Dr. Lonial will be putting some visit limitations on her and we will continue to update this site with those type requests.

Please keep Bethany in your prayers. Especially on Wednesday with the bone marrow test. Thanks!

Have a great day!

Love,
Kim

Sunday, September 16, 2001 at 09:33 ESTAM

Good Morning Everybody!

We are happy and safe in the home of our friends. We have had several offers of places to stay here, and we appreciate it so much, but the Carnes live about five miles from Emory, so it is just more convenient.

Bethany is getting her IV right now, and we have an appointment at the Emory Clinic at 11:00 Am, for blood test.

Bethany's friends came down last night and she wanted to go to Nikato's, so we did!
That was so much fun.

We did go to Target, but she lasted all of 10 minutes.
I am having to get used to seeing her with hair (wig) again, I kinda like the other look now.

She feel's pretty good and looking forward to being really at home next weekend.
Hope to see you all then!

We thank and praise God for the progess she has made.
His,
Bethany & Mom

Saturday, September 15, 2001 at 11:43 AmEST

Good Morning Everybody!!

We arrived safely at the home of Terry and Julie Carnes!!

We are so excited to be home! Real Beds, Yeah, real food, yeah!!

The nurse came out last night and taught me how to administer the Iv antibiotics, and I have already done it again this morning. She gets them every 12 hours. (scary, isn't it)

Bethany is feeling good, has had a shower and wants to go to Target. (I hope I can find it). ha ha

Everything is looking good, her white count was almost up to normal, and they will do another bone marrow biopsy next week, and let us come to Spartanburg!! We will have to come back to Atlanta the following Monday, but if the bone marrow is clean, and she is in remission, we will return to Spartanburg for consolidation chemotherapy.
So, we should be at home about six weeks!
If she is not declared in remission, we will stay at Emory.

So, pray for all that, as well as our country.

Love to All,
Read Jeramiah 29:11
Bethany & Mom

Friday, September 14, 2001 at 07:55 AM (CDT)

Good Morning Everyone!

I am not in Atlanta with Bethany but did want to get this information out to everyone as quickly as possible...

The blood / bone marrow drive that was scheduled for today at Longhorn Steaks in Spartanburg has been cancelled.

The drive will be rescheduled for sometime later this fall.

Please pass this news along!

Thanks! Have a great weekend!

Love,
Kim

Thursday, September 13, 2001 at 11:26 EST

Good Morning Everyone!!

WHOPPEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!WE ARE GETTING OUT TOMORROW!!!!

She will have to go home with an IV,but we will at least be real beds.

We are going to stay with our friends, Terry & Julie Carnes at first, so we won't be alone. We have to come into the clinic on Sunday, and again on Tuesday. She will have a bone marrow at the end of next week, and if it's clear, we'll be able to come to Spartanburg by next weekend!! If that all works out we will probably get to stay home about five weeks, for consolidation chemotherapy, then come back for the transplant.

So we are estatic!!

We also heard good news about Brandon, and Shon's Mom is going to be her donor. God is so good!!

We are packing up and getting ready to make our break. She is feeling good today and is anxious to go.

Scripture today is 2 Timothy 4:7

His, Bethany & Mom

Wednesday, September 12, 2001 at 12:03 EST

Good Morning Everyone!

We are so looking forward to getting out of the hospital for a few days!! I think TOMORROW will be the day. We will have to stay in Atlanta for about another week, but at least we will be in real beds.,,etc.

Praise the Lord!!

Bethany feels great today and her white count is 1.2, ANC over 300, so tomorrow should reach 500, by Friday at the latest!

We are still in prayer and mourning for all the events of the week, and we continue to remember the victims, families and all those involved. Emory is having a special service today.

WE just read Isiaih 12:2l, so please read it too.
Love to All,
His,
Bethany & Mom

Tuesday, September 11, 2001 at 02:48 EST

Good Afternoon Everyone,

I'm sure you are all as shocked and dismayed as we are by the events that have rocked our nation today.

We are just glued to the television as I'm sure many of you are.

Bethany is doing fine today and still on go as yesterday. Her counts continue to improve, and we are ready to go whenever they say go!

I'm sure most of you know, but the Longhorn Steakhouse is having a blood and bone marrow drive on friday, and it is partially for Bethany. So if you are able to go, I'm sure there will be a need for lots of blood.

Phil 4:13, Love Mom & Bethany

Love to all,

Monday, September 10, 2001 at 12:07 EST

Good Morning Everyone,
Sorry I'm so late with the update, we had a busy morning!

The Doctor just came in and he thinks we will be out of here by the end of the week!!!
But...we will have to stay in Atlanta for at least another week before home. But that sounds like GREAT news to us!!!
She has 111 segs/bands, and needs 500- to escape from here. Yesterday she had only 40, so they multiply quickly.
They will not test the bone marrow until next week, apparently as an outpatient.

So ..we are ready to pack!

Now we need prayer for patience!
Read Romans 12:12
Love
Mom & Bethany

Sunday, September 09, 2001 at 11:05 EST

Good Morning Everyone!!

This is a beautiful day here in Atlanta. There are beautiful clouds in the brilliant blue sky. How is Spartanburg?

Bethany continues to feel GREAT, her white count is the same but some other stuff is better in her CBC, differential. She has 26,000 platelets and is definitely on the way to recovery from the chemo.

He said yesterday that with the best case scenario; she would have a clean marrow next week, and he will send her home to Spartanburg for another round of chemotherapy, (we're not sure if that means outpatient or inpatient )then the recovery from that would be about 4 weeks, then come back to Atlanta for the transplant. It all depends on the marrow.

So we might could get home for maybe about SIX weeks!! Wow! that would be great!!

We are trying to find a church on TV right now. That shouldn't be hard in Atlanta.

Jill and Jeremy have left, so pray for a safe trip for them.

We are doing fine, really, and we love to read the messages every day, so keep them coming.

Bethany really would like more than anything to go to a Dorman football game.
Who know? Maybe?

Love to All,
Read Jeremiah 43:10.
His,
Bethany & Mom

Saturday, September 08, 2001 at 10:42 Est

Good Morning Everyone,

Bethany is having another good day. She is up and waiting on Jill and Jeremy to arrive.

Her white count came up another point to .5 so we are hoping that by end of next week we'll have some good news to report. She is definitely starting to recover from the chemotherapy.

She stayed up in the chair last night for several hours, so that is a good sign.
Kim is reading her the Dorman game report out of the paper right now on the phone.

She does miss the ball games!

Hope everyone has a great weekend and if you are in Atlanta...

Love to All, Read Psalm 51:10
Bethany & Mom

Friday, September 07, 2001 at 09;40 EST

Good Morning Everyone!

We slept good and Bethany woke up hungry which is always a good sign.

She is doing great and I have nothing to report but the same ol' thing (we're thankful for that)

We look forward to some visitors this weekend and can't wait to get home and see everyone!!

Sorry there is no news, but as they say , no news is good news!!

Love you all and hope to see you soon!
Scripture today is Phil 4:13;

His, Bethany & Mom

Thursday, September 06, 2001 at 11:10 EST

Hi Everybody!

Bethany is going to have another good day.
We are just in this recovery time and she feels and looks great!!
She is eating now and is a little bored!

Her Doctor just came and says she is starting to show just little sign of recovery. Her white count is up to .4 and she has some immature white blood cell that are not blasts, so he says that is very good.
He is thinking that maybe one day next week he will do another bone marrow. We are so thankful fo this restful time.

Please continue to remember all of our friends that are also in this situation, Tara Foster, Shon Johnson, Brandon Coker.

WE are looking forward to seeing Jill and Jeremy this weekend.
Scripture today is Isaiah 40: 28-31,
His, Bethany & Mom

Wednesday, September 05, 2001 at 09:35 EST

Good Morning Everyone!

Bethany is awake and had breakfast. She is feeling pretty good today.
I'm sorry we don't have more to report, but we are just in a coasting time right now. The Doctor did say that in her blood, not her bone marrow, that there were no blasts, and only normal lymphocytes, and that she is right where she needs to be, so that is good news.

She is getting restless, ready to come home.
Her white count is still low, so he's not even talking about it right now.

She has about 10 new movies to watch and we're going to start our Discipleship work this week.

Love to All,
Scripture today is : Romans 5: 1-5
His, Bethany & Mom

Tuesday, September 04, 2001 at 07:28 AM (CDT)

Good Morning Everyone,
Bethany slept good and I think she will have another good day

Her appetite has been better and she feels pretty good.

I will update after the Doctor comes in.

Scripture today is Joshua 1:9
Love
Mom & Bethany

Monday, September 03, 2001 at 08:13 AM (CDT)

Good Morning.

We didn't sleep too much last night. I woke up at 1:00 AM and Bethany was still awake. We talked until 2:00 AM and then got up at 8:00 AM. So, I have a feeling both of us will be napping today.

Bethany will get blood today.

I have a feeling we will not have any news to report again today. She feels good. Just sleepy.

Aunt Patti & Sherry have arrived. They will keep Bethany entertained today - I'm sure.

Have a safe & happy Labor Day!

Psalm 91; 1 & 2 is the verse for today.

Love,
Kim & Bethany

Sunday, September 02, 2001 at 01:46 PM (CDT)

Hey!

We are watching movies again! I went to blockbuster earlier and got us 5 new ones.

Brandy cut Bethany's wig while I was gone. It looks really good.

Dr. Lonial said that there is still nothing new to report.

We have had several visitors today. I think Bethany is getting a little tired now.

Lots of Love!

Kim & Bethany

Sunday, September 02, 2001 at 08:59 AM (CDT)

Good Morning!

Bethany slept good last night. She says that she is feeling good again today.

Our Grandmother & Great Aunt are here visiting. They just arrived.

Brandy & Jerry are also coming back this morning. We never did cut Bethany's wig yesterday so we'll do that today.

We hope everyone has a good day. We will update after Dr. Lonial comes in.

Love,
Kim & Bethany

Saturday, September 01, 2001 at 07:11 PM (CDT)

Good Evening!

We just got finished walking. We only made 8 laps today but the night is still young.

Brandy & Jerry made it down. We are gonna cut the hair tomorrow. That will be fun.

Nothing new to report.

Bethany wanted to send a special Happy Birthday to Whitney. She says she loves you. She has tried to call you a few times today but has not been able to catch you.

Hope everyone has a good night.

Love,
Bethany & Kim & Brandy & Jerry

PS
Jill - Bethany says she can hear you too.

Saturday, September 01, 2001 at 11:04 AM (CDT)

Hey Everyone! Sorry we are so late with the entry. Me & Bethany have been busy watching movies and ordering pizza!

She is feeling great today. Shon from next door is over here visiting right now. She got good news today - go to her website and check it out.

Dr. Lonial came in already - he said that we are doing very well. Right now it is just a waiting game. He said that Bethany is an "easy" patient. YEAH!

Well, I will update later if there are any changes.

Have a good day!

Love,
Kim & Bethany

Friday, August 31, 2001 at 06:55 PM (CDT)

Hello!

I just got here and Bethany is all smiles! She has already talked to me more in the past 10 minutes than she did the entire time last weekend. Her and Daddy are watching a movie. I have a feeling this weekend is going to be a good one.

Brandy T. Birch is coming to style her wig tomorrow. That should be fun. We'll let everyone know how that goes.

Have a good night! Looks like we will!

Love ya - Mean it!

Bethany & Kim & Daddy

Friday, August 31, 2001 at 09:52 EST

Good Morning!

Bethany slept good last night. So good the nurse could not awaken her, and she woke me up and asked, "does she always sleep this good".

She had cereal for breakfast and is watching a movie now.

We feel pretty good about the bone marrow, just hoping it is totally clean the next time, which will be in about 10 days.

I think she will have a good weekend, her counts are coming up.

She is going to start some schoolwork next week, I'm sure she is looking forward to that!!

Love to all, have a nice weekend!!

Scripture today is Psalm 18, just like Shon's.

Please remember all these patient's here on e wing at Emory, especially Bethany, Shon,
her friend Brandon at Children's hospital in Greenville, and Tara Foster at home in Spartanburg = all leukemia patients.

In His Grip,
Mom & Bethany

Hi Everyone!!

We have good news!The bone marrow was almost clean., now is the waiting game for the next ten days to see what grows back,good or bad cells.

The doctor said it was not COmpletely clear, but almost, and certainly a lot better than before.

He said he felt pretty good about it, but he would have liked to see NO abnormal cells, but it was still early and we just have to wait and see.

She has had a pretty good day, still cannot eat or smell food very much, but anyway we're hanging in there!
Thanks to everyone who left messages for our friend and neighbor shon johnson. She is Kim's age herself!
Love to All,
Bethany & Mom

Thursday, August 30, 2001 at 10:23 am est

Good Morning Everyone,
We are anxiously awaiting the results of the bone marrow, but I have a very good feeling that it will be good. She has had more complications from the chemo this time than last, and her counts have taken longer to recover, so I'm hoping that means that it worked !!

Bethany seems to feel pretty good today. A little nauseated when she first woke up, but they give her antibiotics first thing, and she didn't eat first, so maybe that's the reason.

We set up a website for our neighbor here at the hospital, a girl from Woodruff, her name is Shon Johnson. If any of you would like to leave her a note, and we have also started a challenge for her friends and family to get her a laptop, and we made the first donation to her fund, so maybe you could pass that on too. Any patient needs one! We are sharing, but we may not always be here with her.

So our Scripture today is Matthew 6:8.
His,
Bethany & Mom

Wednesday, August 29, 2001 at 03:30 EST

Hi Everyone, 2nd entry for Wed,

They just came in and have decided to do the bone marrow biopsy today instead of tomorrow.

So pray for the marrow to be clear, and that Bethany tolerates the procedure okay, which I am sure she will.

She has had a great day and felt pretty good, but will sleep the rest of the day.

I'll update later,
Love to all
Bethany & Mom

Wednesday, August 29, 2001 at 08:50 EST

Good Morning All,

Guess What? Bethany woke up HUNGRY today. That's the first time in about a week!! She had Special K. & apple juice.
She actually slept last night even after sleeping all day yesterday! I think she is going to have a GREAT day today!! She wants to come home!! me too..but I bet the Doctor will not let us, we can ask though.

Her catheter site looks very good, almost normal, so I guess that battle is won.
Pray for her bone marrow to be clean, they may check it tomorrow.
Scripture today is:
1 Corinthians 2:9
His,
Bethany & Mom

Tuesday, August 28, 2001 at 05:54 EST

Hi Guys,
Absolutely nothing at all to report, Bethany has been ASLEEP all day.
I think she has her days and nights mixed up.
Well I guess we won't sleep tonight either!
I guess that's just what she needs.
She got the sweetest card today from a group of her girlfriends. On the front, a photo of all of them, and on the inside, all of them with bald heads.
I tried to tell her that they all shaved their heads but she didn't buy it. We know how to maniuplate photos also..but its was sooo sweet and really cool way to say "it's okay" we love you..

We are riding on the crest of all the prayers and support we have. WE love you all!
His,
Bethany & Mom

Tuesday, August 28, 2001 at 11:55 AM EST

Sorry we're so late today everyone, but we were up most of the night, Bethany had a tummy ache.
When she finally went to sleep, she stayed that way for a looonnngg time!

She is feeling better this morning, just a little nausea.

The Doctor still has not come in, but we are waiting on him.

She felt pretty good yesterday, so I hope today will be even better. Her counts are still down very low, which is good, because it means the chemotherapy is working!!
I know some of you talked to her on line last night, that is always a good sign that she feels good.

We are wishing and hoping and thinkin' and prayin' that we'll get to come home for a couple of weeks soon!!

Scripture today is 2 Timothy 1:7
Love you all, His
Bethany & Mom

Monday, August 27, 2001 at 3.25 pm est

Hello everybody, 2nd entry Monday,

The Doctor came in and thinks Bethany is better, and they are not going to take out her Catheter.

He said the timeline is, a bone marrow biopsy possibly later this week, if that's clear, wait for her to rebuild cells, check again in about 3 more weeks, then if that's clear, she will be in remission.
He thinks he will then do another round of consolidation chemotherapy, and guess what??
He said we could do it maybe at SRMC at home!!!!!We are smiling!!!
Then come back here for the transplant.
A Break at home would be GREAT!!!

Yeah!!

That is the best case scenario, not a definite plan, but it sure sounds good to us!!

Bethany is getting blood today,and is very tired, but the blood should perk her up!!
Has not walked any more yet today, but we are going to.
His,
Bethany & Mom

Monday, August 27, 2001 at 09:55 EST

Hi Everyone,
I guess you think we're still asleep or something?
No way, these hospital people get us up early!!. Bethany woke up early and thinks she feels a little better, and her fever is gone. She has fallen back to sleep right now but maybe later she can eat something.
I could put on my plate all she has eaten this last week. She will get her appetite back, probably this week, if its like it was last time she had the chemo.
We're learning....

The Doctor has not come in today, but I think they will leave this Hickman in because it seems better.

I'll update after the Doctor comes in.

I guess they will check her bone marrow on about Thursday (day 14), so the prayer request will be that it will be clean, then they will start to prepare her for the transplant.

Thanks again for all the prayers and thoughts.
Our scripture for today is Luke 21:19.
Love to All,
In His Grip, Bethany & Mom

Sunday, August 26, 2001 at 03:41 PM (CDT)

Hi Everyone,
Mom is back in control!!
Kim came down to give me a break from the hospital, and boy did she take good care of Bethany.
She is feeling better this afternoon, she is sitting in bed filing her nails, and we just walked 4 laps around the unit.
21 laps is a mile!

I am soo sorry that Bethany did not feel up to visitors this weekend. Her Dr said she really shouldn't have any because of her immunity being low anyway. All those who came and didn't really get to visit, We do apologize, and please come when she is better! It really cheers us up to have someone call or come in (as long as Bethany is awake) she has been mostly sleeping and out of it all since about Friday am.

Thanks again for all the prayers and support, we continue to feel blessed and loved, and that's how we're getting through this.
Our scripture for today is:
Proverbs 3: 5
Love to All,
His,
Bethany & Mom

Sunday, August 26, 2001 at 07:37 AM (CDT)

Good Morning Everyone!

I do think this is a good morning! Bethany has actually been awake and alert for about half and hour now. YEAH! She is still not very talkative so I know she is not feeling great yet - but better.

Unfortunately - no visitors again today. I know it won't be long though.

The RN just told me that Bethany will be getting platelets today. She had 2 units of blood yesterday. Bethany still has a minimal fever. We didn't walk at all yesterday so I am really gonna try to get her up today.

Hope everyone has a good day!

I will update after the MD comes.

Love,
Kim & Bethany

Saturday, August 25, 2001 at 01:43 PM (CDT)

Good Afternoon!

The Dr. just left. He really didn't have any new news. He did say that if the catheter site didn't show improvement by tomorrow - they may have to remove it. Pray that the antibotics will work and clear up this infection. We don't want to have to go for another catheter!

Bethany still feels pretty bad. She is still getting lots of rest. She continues to have a slight fever.

I am so sorry that she doesn't feel like visitors. Maybe next weekend will be better. I promise we will let everyone know when visitors are allowed.

Have a good evening!

Love,
Kim

Saturday, August 25, 2001 at 07:23 AM (CDT)

Good Morning Everyone!
Bethany is still not feeling too well. She is getting LOTS of rest. Actually she has been sleeping since I arrived here! This is exactly what she did after the last chemo in Spartanburg. She should be feeling better in a few days.

Unfortunately, Bethany still does not feel like having visitors. I know how anxious everyone is to see her - I'm sorry! I promise to have Mom post a note as soon as Bethany feels better.

We only got in 3 laps yesterday. I am going to try to get her to at least get 5 in today.

We haven't seen the MD yet. We'll send you an update as soon as we do!

Thanks for all of the support! Have a great day!

Love,
Kim

PS TO WESTINA-
Sorry about removing the entry. I started getting lots of questions! It was fun while it lasted.

Friday, August 24, 2001 at 07:27 PM (CDT)

(3rd for Friday)

We are sitting here in the room with Bethany. We have been telling jokes and naming new animals.

So far, we have Jewel the Butterfly, Stool the Ladybug, and Hismercy the Dolphin (who is running out of helium).
Hismercy is falling. hehe.

Bethany isn't feeling great, but she is smiling some. She is tolerating us.

Our Bible passage this evening is Numbers 22:21-35. In honor of this we named the bumblebee balloon Balaam. :)

Beth has done two laps around the hospital, but her energy is drained. She is getting plenty of rest, though, and we are SOOOOO excited to see her.

Keep up the hard praying!!

Love to all --

Westina

(Wes and Christina)

Friday, August 24, 2001 at 12:40 EST

2nd Entry for Friday,

Dr. Lonial came in today, and he is estatic over the match with Jill!

Bethany still does not feel well, her fever is climbing and she is achy. I'm almost sure she is developing the same thing as at SRMC< the Sweet's syndrome. The Dr's here are not convinced, but we'll see. She has ulcers in her mouth too, so she's pretty miserable.

This is just a down day, we'll have lots of them, but we know they will pass.

Scripture today John 11:4 again
love,
Bethany & Mom

Friday, August 24, 2001 at 10:29 est

Good Morning Everyone!!

We are still rejoicing in the fact that we have a perfect match in one of the sisters!!!

Bethany does not feel good today. She has fever and is on pain medication for the soreness at the catheter site. She is pretty much out of it because of that.

I'll give you another update when the Doctor comes in.

I have loved reading all the notes/rejoicing over the match!!

Praise God indeed!~!

His,
Bethany & Mom

Friday, August 24, 2001 at 10:29 est

Thursday, August 23, 2001 at 04:10 PM (CDT)

DRUM ROLL......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................AND THE WINNER IS,

PAMELA JILL GROCE ROSE, A PERFECT MATCH, 6 OUT OF 6 WOW WAY TO GO GOD.

WE LOVE EVERYBODY SO MUCH THANKS SO MUCH FOR ALL THE PRAYERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
KIM BY THE WAY YOU ARE A HALF MATCH BUT WE LOVE YOU ANYWAY.
IN HIS GRIP,
BETHANY & MOM

Thursday, August 23, 2001 at 12:31 PM (CDT)

Okay Nurses: Janice and Jo Ellen & everyone else....
This is for you!!!

Bethany does not feel quite as good today, but she did breeze through them chemo.
This is day 7. THey repeated the same protocol, even down to eyedrops.
She is a little nauseous but she ate a baked potato for lunch. The Hickman site is a little tender. No fever.
Today her white count is 0.2. Hct 26.9,
platelets 14, so she is getting some today.

No fever, output good. She is getting a little Lasix, and they are adding Vancomycin today. Think they can save the line.
They make her walk a mile every day here, around the unit 21 times. They have a board and you have to mark it everytime you go around. They also weigh her in grams every day.
Our media ministry team came today and brought her a video of taped messages from church, and the youth meeting last night. They will do this throughout our stay here.
We are watching it for the second time now.
She did not feel like taping a message today, but maybe next time.

The Doctor said he will know something by this afternoon re the Bone marrow match.

If you need further information, please feel free to contact this office. Ha. ha.

We love you and miss you terribly..
Mom & Bethany

Thursday, August 23, 2001 at 08:54 AM (CDT)

Good Morning Everyone,
Bethany had a very restful night, but these people just don't understand that you don't wake up a 16 year old at 7:30 AM!!

The keep pestering her for vital signs, drawing blood, etc. I guess we'll have to call the CEO and complain..

Bethany actually doesn't feel quite as well today as she has been feeling, a little nausea and some tenderness at her iv site (catheter). They will probably start her on antibiotics to try and save the iv and prevent a raging infection.

We are still anxious for the results of the typing. Maybe they will both be a match!! Then we could use half and half.

I will add another entry as soon as the Doctor comes in.
Scripture for today: Isaiah 55:89
His, Mom & Bethany

Wednesday, August 22, 2001 at 1:00 pm EST

Hi,
Entry # 2 for Wednesday.

The Doctor came in and said he thinks Bethany is just doing fantastic!!
No side effects from the chemo at all!
I asked him if he thought it was working, because she is doing so well, and he said,
of course, it is just because she is so young.
She will do very well through all of this, he said.
I asked him about a new drug I had read about on the internet, and I said "have you heard of Myolotarg?" He said, of course, I do leukemia...". guess you had to be here, but he is Hungarian and his accent made it funny.
Also, he said the typing lab had called him and they will probably have a prelimary result TOMORROW.
So, will Bethany still act like Bethany even if she gets marrow from Kim or Jill?
Wow, I sure hope so. One of each of them is enough....just kidding.

We have had a visit from the Atlanta First Baptist people, and some other churches here.

Love to All, Read your scriptures!!
His, Bethany & Mom

Wednesday, August 22, 2001 at 08:05 AM (CDT)

Good Morning Everyone,

We had a GREAT day yesterday. Obviously it does not take much to entertain us!

Bethany laughed and talked all day, she is slowly getting control of this entire floor.
The hospital CEO came to visit her, also the VP.

There is another girl from Woodruff here now, that we met at Gibbs Cancer Ctr, Shangria Johnson. She is 26 and has a relapsed leukemia. We'll share this website idea with her too.

None of you know how much this line of communication means to all of us. We check it several times daily, and never fail to get a laugh.
Keep the messages coming!!!

Seriously, this is the last day of chemo, and Bethany has again breezed through with very little nausea or side effects.
I think the media team from First Baptist is coming tomorrow, to bring her some taped messages from friends at church. We are looking forward to that!!!

We have had several visits from local churches, and friends and relatives of friends from Spartanburg. Everyone has been very gracious to welcome us to Atlanta.
That helps a lot too!!!

So our prayer list grows.. Remember Brandon Coker, Tara Foster, and now Shangria Johnson.
I know there are so many others, we need a master list, but I guess God knows who they are better than we do.

The Longhorn Steakhouse has announced that they will have a bone marrow drive along with their blood drive in September. All those wishing to be tested should go there that day. It should be in the paper soon.

God continues to bless us through this illness, we have met so many brothers and sisters in Christ, and when you are away from home, that connection REALLY makes a difference.
We are totally dependent on Him through this, and He is directing our path.
Our Scripture today is 2 Thess 3:16.
His,
Bethany & Mom

Tuesday, August 21, 2001 at 07:20 AM (CDT)

Good Morning Everyone!!

It looks like we are going to have another good day today. Bethany is awake and feeling pretty good. No nausea or anything.
I guess we'll have to walk another mile today.

Only two more days of chemo left! Boy time flies when you're having fun...

We are very anxious to find out whether we have a preliminary match, we may have some idea today or tomorrow. We'll post the info immediately!!!

My sister is here and she has this great idea for us to learn foreign languages while here. Boy that sure sounds like fun. Bethany said "I can't wait"...

We have been surrounded by Christian nurses, most of whom have teenage children. Bethany got a very sweet card and angel from her night nurse last night.
We get great encouragement from that.
In her card she said she had been touched by Bethany already.

Our verse today is for friends:Romans 1:11 & 12.
In His Grip,
Bethany, Mom, Patti

Monday, August 20, 2001 at 01:07 PM (CDT)

Monday #2 entry
Hi,
We just finished walking 1/3 of a mile, will finish more later.
Bethany actually has on make up today and feels pretty good.

I did not put a scripture reading on the first note this morning, how about John 11:4. I think it is very appropriate!

Keep up the messages, we love them!

His,
Bethany & Mom

Monday, August 20, 2001 at 10:08 AM (CDT)

Good Morning Everyone,
Sorry to be so late with a note, we slept late today and then just as I started to write a note, Bethany wanted to check her private emails.
So she has been sitting here laughing and smiling and replying.
She feels better today, no nausea, but just a little tired!

We are gettin used to the staff and they seem to be excellent.(not like Gibbs, but pretty good)

We had family here over the weekend, but now it's just us. My sister Patti is coming this afternoon, so we look forward to that.

Bethany has to walk a mile each day around and around the hall, so we are going to get started soon. That is 21 laps.

We enjoy so much all the messages you all send and look forward to checking them several times a day.

Educational update, We are in a repeat of the induction chemotherapy. This is day 4, again on day 14 they will check her bone marrow. Hopefully it will be clean, and then they will begin to prepare her for the transplant.
If we get a match, they say it is a no=brainer that is exactly what we need to do. She is in a high risk group for relapse if she doesn't get the transplant.

If we don't get a sibling match, that's when the decisions will get tough. Her Dr. has said that there will be lot's of way's we could go,so we hope that we won't have to go there. love, Mom & Bethany

Sunday, August 19, 2001 at 08:56 AM (CDT)

Good Morning! Bethany is not feeling great this morning. Her stomach is a little upset. The Doctor is on his way in shortly.
This will be considered day 3.

Kim and Jill have both been typed now and we are anxiously awaiting the results.
Please continue to pray that one of them will be a match!

Pray also that Bethany will respond to this round of chemo and will be declared in remission. If that occurs, we will proceed with the bone marrow transplant immediately, ideally with a matched sibling.

We are adjusting to our new home and have met lots of nice people.

His,
Bethany & Mom

Saturday, August 18, 2001 at 09:55 AM (CDT)

Hey Everybody this is Bethany! I am feeling good today. I started chemo last night and they kept me up all night almost. We found a wig today that is the same color as my real hair was. I can't wait to be home. I miss you all soooooooooooooooooooooooo much! I have a new room now and it is much nicer than the other one. My surgery went fine yesterday and I remember everything about it, weird, huh? My nurse last night was a big man. He was intimidating at first, but then as he was washing his hands, he turned around and said that we have a mutual friend. I had no idea what he was talking about then he said, "It's Jesus!" I thought that was pretty neat. We always pray before they start the chemo each day and he did the prayer for the day. Jill is getting typed today and she thinks she is going to be a match. Continue to pray that either Jill or Kim is a match. Today's scripture reading John 11.
His,
Bethany

Friday, August 17, 2001 at 03:34 PM (CDT)

Hi 2nd entry for Friday

Guess what? We have a new room!
We are now in E716, on the other side of the hall, and we do have a great view of the city skyline!
Our new phone number is 404 712-3716.
It will be available down below on this site also.

Bethany is still in radiology getting her Hickman Catheter, then they still plan to start chemo today I think.
She is feeling pretty good.

She took the plunge and got her head shaved today, because the hair was really getting thin falling out everywhere.
I think she actually looks pretty cute!!

Love to all and keep the prayer coming!
Bethany & Mom

Friday, August 17, 2001 at 07:39 AM (CDT)

Good Morning Everyone!!

Doesn't everything look brighter in the mornings? Even this room looks better!!
The staff here is pretty good, they have been really nice and attentive to us.

Bethany will go down to radiology to get a permanemt catheter (Hickman) for iv and chemo this morning.
Then we'll start the assault on the leukemia!

They have lots of pictures on the walls in the hall's here from former transplant patients, and lots of testimonials from family and patients too, so they must be pretty good.

We do miss home, however,I do have a friend here, I called her yesterday and she and her husband came right over last night, even though I haven't seen or talked with them in about four years. I was present at one of her home births, so we were pretty close at one time.

Anyway, they live really close to Emory, and have offered to let any of us crash with them, also have a cousin here who offered the same thing. We are having lots of opportunities opening up to help us through this stay in Atlanta.

I think God speaks to us through friends and family and during this time we couldn't make it without all of you. We check and read our messages frequently and that always makes Bethany smile.

Our Bible reading today is Psalm 27.

Love to All, In His Grip,
Bethany & Mom

Thursday, August 16, 2001 at 09:58 PM (CDT)

Hi everyone,

We are really missing all the friends we have at home, but I do have a friend here. I called her, and what do you know, they came and visited with us tonight.

That really cheered Bethany up, we were both feeling a little homesick. Bethany actually called the Gibbs Ca Center and asked her nurse to come and get her.

I'm sure they got a laugh out of that, but she wasn't kidding. !!
Seriously, I think the staff and care is really going to be good here, a lady across the hall is from Portland, Oregon, so she came a long way for treatment here.

They will start chemo in the morning, and also insert a more permanent type of IV.

I'm sure we are where God wants us to be for Bethany's healing.

Love to all, In His Grip,
Mom & Bethany

Thursday, August 16, 2001 at 02:11 PM (CDT)

Arrived safely in Atlanta/Emory.

We have definitely been spoiled in the Gibbs Cancer Center!
Real Estate people would probably describe this room as cozy, fixer upper. Redecorating allowance.
But Location location location!!!

One Dr. has been in and said they would probably start the chemo tomorrow.

Kim has already been taken down to the clinic for her HLA typing. They said we have a 50 50 chance with two sisters.
Pray for a match.

They get things moving fast. Social worker coming in shortly.

Bethany is feeling great and no we did not stop in Commerce for shopping.

Love to All,
Bethany & Family

Wednesday, August 15, 2001 at 04:56 PM (CDT)

Whoops, sorry, change of plans, We will not leave until early in the morning. Sorry.

We had a great prayer service in Bethany's room with Dr. Wilton. We actually had several different groups in here praying during the day.

Thanks also to all those who stopped and said a prayer at 3:30.
We felt them!!

Love to All, update in the morning after Getting to Emory.
In His Grip<
Mom & Bethany

Wednesday, August 15, 2001 at 12:41 PM (CDT)

Hi

Everyone,

Looks like we are going to be transferred to Emory this afternoon late.

Before we go, Dr. Wilton is coming to do a special prayer service at 3:30, so everyone who can, please stop and pray for Bethany at 3:30. Love to all.
Mom& Bethany

Wednesday, August 15, 2001 at 12:37 PM (CDT)

Hi everyone,
It looks like we will be transferring to Emory late this afternoon.

Please urgent prayer request, for our move, and also, Dr. Wilton is coming to do a laying on of hands this pm at 3:30, so will you please tell everyone to stop and pray a special prayer at 3:30? Thanks so much love Mom & Bethany

Wednesday, August 15, 2001 at 12:33 PM (CDT)

Hi Everyone,
It looks like we are moving to Emory today. Probably late this afternoon.

Please everyone, at 3:30 today Dr. Wilton will come and do a laying on of hands prayer service, so will you ask everyone you know to stop and pray at 3:30?

Thanks,
Love Bethany & Mom

Wednesday, August 15, 2001 at 08:28 AM (CDT)

Good Morning Everyone!

Bethany had a great day yesterday, and is feeling great today.

She continues to pick hair off her pillow in the hopes that it is just going to get very thin!

Her doctor just came in and told us that they wanted to move her to Emory University hospital in Atlanta probably in the next day or so.

We are certain that God is leading us in this direction and to Doctor's there that can participiate in healing her.
He is in Control!!!

Also, everyone, there is another 16 year old boy that goes to Byrnes, i think, that has leukemia. He has a website like this but it is sc/brandoncoker. He is asking everyone to pray for Bethany also, and she has gotten a few messages from some of his friends, so lets pray for him also. He is probably going to Duke soon.

Love to everyone, and we are hanging onto the verse Psalm 32:8
Bethany & Mom

Tuesday, August 14, 2001 at 02:20 PM (CDT)

Update for Tuesday-
To clarify Bethany's 2nd bone marrow results, 45% to 55% of the leukemic cells were wiped out with the first round of chemotherapy. Her Doctor's are reviewing her protocol. Most likely Bethany will begin another round of chemotherapy soon to wipe out the remaining leukemic cells. Please pray for the appropriate protocols / treatments to be selected and effective.

As soon as Bethany's bone marrow is clean and she is in remission, she will be moved to a transplant facility for a marrow transplant. We are still in the process of searching for the perfect facility for this procedure.
Please continue to pray for us and her Doctor's to make the right choices.

Bethany is feeling great today! She has spent a majority of today on her computer. Keep the emails coming - they are a huge source of encouragement to Bethany!

Thanks for all of your support!

Tuesday, August 14, 2001 at 10:05 AM (CDT)

Good Morning Everyone,
I'm sorry to be so late with the update, but I was waiting on Dr. Bearden's report.

Unfortunately, we don't have the best news.
They did not achieve the results they had hoped for on the induction chemotherapy. That means they will hit her again with another induction chemotherapy.

Dr. Bearden is going to make some calls to associates at other institutes to confer with them on the best course of action to take in view of these results.

We know we are called upon to Thank God for everything, and we are trying. Maybe there is someone out there we could have missed that has something new, and we will have to dig deeper for it.

Bethany is trying to find reason's to thank God for losing her hair. So far she can't think of any, but I think maybe the risk of infection would be less. We are trying.
We are trusting God that he is in control and will lead us to the right decisions.

On the up side, Bethany is feeling really good and sleeping and eating good. They cut down on the iv fluids too.

Please keep us in your prayers and the prayer requests are basically the same.

Love to all, Bethany & Mom

Monday, August 13, 2001 at 10:00 AM (CDT)

Hello Everyone,( 2nd entry for Mon AM)

Well they did the bone marrow biopsy. I pray that it will be clear of all leukemic cells and blasts.

She did fine throught the biopsy, it was done right here in the room, but they gave her something to relax her and she will probably sleep all day.

Dr Bearden says we will probably not get the results until tomorrow.

He is talking about sending her to Duke for the transplant, I'm not sure about the timing, they may want her right away, even before another consolidation chemotherapy.
(The initial chemo was called the induction chemotherapy, the next will be the consolidation.)

It is scary because important decisions
have to be made quickly. Please pray for discernment, wisdom, and guidance for the famiy and the Doctors.

We are still praying for one of the sisters to be a match.

They will do the testing as soon as Bethany is declared in remission.

Our verse today is Psalm 139:3
We are leaning heavily on that.
Love to All, Bethany & Mom

Monday, August 13, 2001 at 08:33 AM (CDT)

Good Morning Everyone,
Please pray hard this morning, they are getting ready to do a bone marrow biopsy. Pray that the marrow will be clear of all leukemic cells!!
I will send another follow up this am, but we will not have the results today.
Love in Christ,
Bethany & Mom

Sunday, August 12, 2001 at 08:10 AM (CDT)

Good Morning Everyone!

Bethany slept very well last night. She did not even feel them come and draw blood this morning!

Great news!! Her white count and hemoglobin are starting to come up on their own.
That means she has passed the lowest point after chemotherapy, and the good cells are starting to regrow. They will check her bone marrow again, probably tomorrow. They hope there are no leukemic cells left.
If not, she will be declared in pre remission. She will still have to have more chemo, but that would indicate a great response to the initial treatment.

She will have to be in complete remission before she will go for the bone marrow transplant.

Please continue to pray for the sister's to match, and for the bone marrow to be clean.

We are looking forward those counts coming up daily. Praise God for this report today!

Her verse to day is John 14:27.
Love to everyone,
Bethany & Mom

Saturday, August 11, 2001 at 08:58 AM (CDT)

Good Morning Everyone!

The patient slept late today, probably because I couldn't get her to settle down last night. She was still on emails at 1am. I think she has her nights and days mixed up again. (from newborn)

She is going to have another good day today I think.

The doctors say she is still on target this is day 12.
Continue to pray for the bone marrow biopsy and the bone marrow tissue match with her sisters.
Last night her bible reading was from 2Kings 20: Hezekiah's illness.
She is in very good spirits and is not complaining about anything.
She loves reading these messages, they make her smile! We'll make another entry later today.
Love, Bethany & Mom

Friday, August 10, 2001 at 07:30 AM (CDT)

Good Morning Everyone!
Bethany had a good night, but they kept waking us up because she was getting a blood transfusion. So, she is feeling pretty good this morning.
She has a little backache, I think it's because she does nothing but lay around!!

Please everyone, urgent prayer request, that one of her sister's will be a perfect match for bone marrow transplant.
This will be the best choice. The doctor's say there is a one in four chance, but since she has two sisters that makes the odds a little better! Maybe they will both be matches and will have to draw straws!
The transplant will probably take place in the next six months, when she is in her first remission.
We are definitely not going to Seattle, but if we get a match, more than likely Emory, if we have to use an unrelated matched donor, Duke will probably be the choice.
Neither of these if definite, but that's where Dr. Bearden is leaning. He is so good and she likes all her Doctor's.
She has no fever today!!
Bethany had her hair cut yesterday, about chin length.
She is not looking forward to losing it, so the shorter the better. The Doctor says that may happen next week, or about two weeks after chemo started.
Another prayer request is for her bone marrow to be clean after first round of chemo, that will be tested at day 14, this is day 11!
Bethany's verse today: Isaiah 26:3
All you who are checking on her and leaving messages here and on private email, keep them coming. It is really encouraging for her and she is awed by the number of people that care. Please don't get discouraged if you can't visit, she will soon be able to have visitor's again and we all look forward to that time!
While her white count is so low it is just too risky for her to catch something. But you can visit in this way!
Love to everyone, Bethany & Mom

Thursday, August 09, 2001 at 03:44 PM (CDT)

Bethany is feeling pretty tired this afternoon. She is getting ready to get more blood & platelets this afternoon, so that might perk her up some. She is anxious to her about how school went today.

Love, Mom & Bethany

Thursday, August 09, 2001 at 08.14AM (CDT)

Bethany had a good night, and she feels pretty good today. She has a little fever, but not much.
She is lying here thinking about all ya'll going back to school, and thinks it's a little weird that neither she nor Lindsay will be at Dorman today.
We'll try and get her schedule today and see who she will be in class with when she can come.
The Doctor's still say she is on target and responding to treatment.
Unfortunately, still no visitors. She has no resistance to infections so they are being very careful.
Beth sends her love to everyone, and have a great day at school. She says to keep her up on gossip, and remember you can send a message or private email! ha ha.
Love Bethany & Mom

Wednesday, August 08, 2001 at 02:03 PM (CDT)

This is the third entry today, the very first one from Bethany!!! i am feeling better, enough to see what all you have been saying about me and to give you an update. Today has been a much better day, i ate most of my lunch and i'm feeling better than the last two days. Thank you for all the support i have recieved from y'all and all the encouragement. love ya guys!!! keep in touch with me!

bethany

Wednesday, August 08, 2001 at 11:51 AM (CDT)

Second entry for Wednesday, Aug 8.
Bethany did have a good night, however, she still does not feel very good. Has no energy at all, just feels like sleeping.
Her Doctors says this is expected, and she is still on target. The next one to two weeks she will be very susceptible to outside infections, and have no resistance at all. Because of that, visitors will most probably be restricted.
Keep praying, Love Mom & Beth

Wednesday, August 08, 2001 at 07:43 AM (CDT)

Good Morning Everyone,
Bethany had a very restfull night last night. She is still sleeping!
I hope she will feel better today, she received two more units of blood yesterday and that should perk her up some.
Her Doctor has not yet been in today, so I'll write another note when she awakens and after he comes to see her.
I know you kids are looking forward to tomorrow!

Tuesday, August 07, 2001 at 07:11 PM (CDT)

Tuesday Evening message: Bethany's fever is down, and I hope she will rest better tonight. They are still trying to pinpoint the specific bacteria making her sick, but have her covered with broad antibiotics.
She is getting ready to get some more blood and that usually makes her feel better.
We'll update first thing in the morning.
Love , Mom & Bethany

Tuesday, August 07, 2001 at 06:45 AM (CDT)

Good Morning Everyone,
Bethany had a rought night, but I think she is a little better. The high powered antibiotics seem to be getting the infection she had developed.
Her fever is down a little.

Please pass the web site address around to her friends, because I don't have all her addresses.

As most of you know, she was diagnosed with acute myelogenous leukemia. She started on Chemo one week ago today, and the doctors think she is right on track. She is responding. Bacterial infections are common, because the chemo kills good and bad stuff. Today is considered day eight, counting from the time she started on the chemo. She will get another bone marrow biopsy at day 14, and we are praying that the leukemia cells will be gone.
She had six days of treatment, but you still count forward. At day 28 she will start another round of chemo for about 6 more days.
The Doctor tells us that days 11-14 will be her lowest days as far as blood counts going down, then hopefully the good stuff will start to rebuild.
We really appreciate all the cards, visits, prayers, and keep them coming.
I'm not sure about visits today, until the Dr comes in, but I'll let you all know.
She did not feel like looking up a verse herself yesterday, but we're using the ones you are supplying. Thanks & much love,
Mom & Beth

Monday, August 06, 2001 at 09:29 AM (CDT)

Today, Monday, is the first day we are using this page.
Bethany is not feeling well today, has fever and body aches.
This is an expected complication from the chemotherapy.
Her doctor says no visitors today please.
She does love visits and cards, and we hope you will continue to keep her in your thoughts and prayers.
She sends her love to everyone.
Her verse last night was Psalm 44:7 She said she opened her Bible and it fell to that.
Love to everyone, Mom & Beth

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