about CaringBridge  |  home page  |  view guestbook  |  view photos  |  journal history  |  make a tribute donation

Click here to go back to the main page.

Thursday, March 25, 2010 9:56 PM CDT

HEY EVERYBODY!

JUST THOUGHT I POST SOMETHING TODAY.

JOHN IS DOING WELL, BUT STILL HAS BEEN COUGHING HERE AND THERE. I THINK THAT THIS TIME IT COULD BE HIS ALLERGIES ACTING UP AGAIN. THINKING IT'S TIME FOR JOHN TO START TAKING CLARITIN AGAIN.

JOHN IS DOING WELL IN HIS COLLEGE CLASSES AND HE STILL WORKING HARD AT MENARD'S. HE EVEN GOT A PROMOTION AT HIS WORK. HE STARTS HIS NEW POSITION NEXT WEEK. WE ARE SO PROUD OF HIM!

HEALTH-WISE JOHN IS DOING WELL. GOD IS GOOD!

WE ARE ALL DOING WELL.

THANK YOU AGAIN FOR ALL YOUR PRAYERS FOR JOHN!

LOVE JOHN'S MOM,
ANN

Sunday, January 31, 2010 9:56 AM CST

HELLO TO ALL!

IT HAS BEEN AWHILE SINCE I HAVE UPDATED. IT HAS BEEN VERY COLD HERE IN WISCONSIN THESE DAYS. GETTING TIRED OF SINGLE DIGITS! I AM SO READY FOR SPRING!

JOHN HAS BEEN DOING GOOD. HE IS STILL WORKING HARD AT MENARD'S AND IS DOING WELL IN COLLEGE. WE COULDN'T BE MORE PROUD OF HIM! HE IS A TROOPER AND A HALF!


JOHN WAS OUT WITH HIS FRIENDS AT A BASKETBALL GAME LAST FRIDAY NIGHT AND HE CAME BACK TO HIS CAR AND NOTICED THAT SOMEONE HAD HIT HIS CAR. THEY MUST HAVE BACKED-UP AND ACCIDENTALLY HIT HIS BUMPER. HIS BUMPER IS CRACKED IN THREE PLACES. FELT REALLY BAD FOR HIM. NATE (HIS DAD)IS GONNA TRY TO HELP HIM GET IT FIXED. HE IS VERY BUMMED OUT ABOUT IT BECAUSE THAT WAS HIS FIRST CAR THAT HE BOUGHT WITH HIS OWN MONEY.


HEALTH WISE, JOHN HAS BEEN BATTLING WITH A NASTY COUGH. I THINK HE IS GONNA HAVE TO SEE THE DOCTOR TO GET IS CHECKED OUT. IT'S BEEN GOING ON TO LONG. HE GOT REALLY SICK AROUND NEW YEAR'S EVE AND LOST HIS VOICE AND HAD A REALLY BAD COUGH. THE COUGH SEEMS TO BE HANGING AROUND. NOT GOOD.
WILL KEEP YOU POSTED ON WHAT THE DOCTOR SAID.

THANKS AGAIN FOR ALL YOUR PRAYERS.

GOD BLESS!
LOVE,
ANN

Wednesday, December 16, 2009 7:24 AM CST

Christmas Prayer

by Robert Louis Stevenson
"Loving Father, Help us remember the birth of Jesus, that we may share in the song of angels, the gladness of the shepherds, and the worship of the wise men. Close the door of hate and open the door of love all over the world. Let kindness come with every gift and good desires with every greeting.

Deliver us from evil by the blessing which Christ brings, and teach us to be merry with clean hearts. May the Christmas morning make us happy to be Thy children, and the Christmas evening bring us to our beds with grateful thoughts, forgiving and forgiven, for Jesus' sake, Amen!"


Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

The Eckstadt Family,
Love,
Nate,Ann,John&cody

Wednesday, December 9, 2009 10:21 PM CST

Christmas greetings to all,

Another year has almost come to an end. Giving thanks to God for another year that God has kept my family safe. Thanking God for keeping John healthy so far. John has been doing great and it is doing very well in college. He is a hard worker and keeps up with the best of them. We are so very proud of him! Each day he is here is a blessing from God.

Our youngest son Cody is also doing well in school. He is still in the computer club and it very good in math. He has been taking accelerated classes again this year. He is at the top of his Math class so far! We are really proud of him as well.

Nate is working hard and has been able to sell some big deals this year which has been hard to do in this economy. God has blessed Nate with the ability to sell and connect with his customers in a personal way. They always want to buy from Nate because he treats his customers with respect and in return they respect him. I am very proud of him for all the hard work that he has done and is doing to support our family!


I got a job about six months ago. I have been out of the working world for about 10 years taking care of my kids and being there for John through all his treatments. I work at a grocery store. It is very different to what I used to do. I am used to working in an office atmosphere. I like it because I get to meet allot of people every day and I like the people I work with. It's always busy and the day goes by really fast! I am just thankful I found a job in this economy. It's super close to my house as well. Glad to be getting back in the working world and gaining back some working experience again.

Looking forward to a very healthy and prosperous year in 2010!


Wishing all of you a very Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year!

Love,
Ann

Tuesday, November 10, 2009 9:56 PM CST

Hey everyone,

The H1N1 virus has spread through our home! Our youngest son Cody brought it home from school last week! Then my husband got it and then I got it. Johnathan is the only one that has not gotten yet. We have been praying that he will be spared. So far he is flu-free. Ordered Tami-flu from the doctor for Johnathan so if he does get the virus he can start taking it right away.

Keeps us all in your prayers! This is a very nasty virus! It just hangs on and on and on.......

God bless!
Ann

Sunday, October 18, 2009 5:26 PM CDT

I know it has been a long time since I updated John's site. I have been working allot lately. I got a new job and I will have been there for six months now. I work at a huge grocery store by my house called, Woodman's. I like it because it is close by my house.I am happy to have a job right now because they are hard to come by these days!

John is doing very good health-wise. He has not had any set-backs in a very long time! God is good!

John is now in college and working at Menard's part time. He is doing really well in school and has been working at Menard's for over a year now. He is all grown up and has become a very responsible young man. We are so proud of him!

John was in a bad car accident a few weeks back. He totaled his car, but he did not get hurt nor did the driver of the other car. I am so thankful for that because it could have been worse! We had to go car shopping for another car for John. He found a used 2003 Nissan Malibo sp? Glad we found a car for him so that he could get to school and work. I will try to put up some recent pictures of John and his new car.

Like I said, John is doing great so far and is living his life to the fullest!

Again, sorry it took so long to update John's site.

Still want to thank everyone for your continued prayers for John.

God bless!
Ann

Tuesday, July 7, 2009 10:56 AM CDT

Happy Birthday John!

It's John's second Birthday today since his bone marrow transplant that he had five years ago! We are so proud of John for making it this far. He has come a long ways! He is driving, has a steady job working for Menard's and he just got a big raise! He just graduated from high school and it looking forward to attending college in the fall!

His health is great and he is getting stronger with each passing day!

All I can say is, God is good all the time and all the time God is good!

Happy 5th post transplant Birthday!

Love,
Mom

Sunday, June 14, 2009 11:21 AM CDT

Hello!

Well, John did it! He graduated from high school yesterday June 13th, 2009!

Yesterday was a very exciting and emotional day for me When I watched John walk across the platform to receive his diploma! I was so proud of him and my heart felt like it was about to burst! With all the hurdles, rough patches, and many bumps in the road, John fought hard to over come every one of them and was determined to graduate! Can't help saying this again, but John is my hero! He keeps me going when I feel like I can't go on! He encourages me when I am down. I will always draw from his strength, determination, and fighting spirit!

I thank God every day for hearing my prayers. I thank God every day that John is here with us. It is a blessing and gift from God!

Thank you again for all your prayers and support along the way! Praying every day that John will live a long and healthy life!

God bless you all!
Love,
Ann

Thursday, June 4, 2009 8:41 AM CDT

Hello to all,

John is coming up to a milestone in his life! His is graduating from High School next weekend June 13, 2009!

I have dreamed of this day for a long time! With God's mercy and grace, allot of prayers from family and friends.....I am convinced that is why John has made it this far. I also know that John's strong determination and faith has gotten him to where he is today!

John is my biggest inspiration! Through his whole illness and all through his bone marrow transplant, John has been an encouragement to me. He has made me a stronger person and he has made my faith much stronger! He is my "HERO"!

John has been through so much in his life thus far! The next phase of his disease is cancer and it could strike at any time! John will not accept this next phase! He is holding on to his faith in God that he will live a long and healthy life! "God is bigger than my disease!" He said to me once. I just have to hold on to that! I know God is in control and I have to take one day at a time and trust in God!

I also remember when John was suffering and was in allot of pain during his bone marrow transplant. He said, "The pain that I am going through is nothing compared to the pain that God went through when He was dying on the cross!" That statement was so true and powerful to me then and is still true and powerful to me today.

I just thank God for hearing my prayers and letting John live and to be able to live like a normal teenager, drive, play tennis, hold down a job, and then soon to be a proud graduate of Oak Creek High school! Home of the Knights!

God is good all the time and all the time God is good!

I love you John with all my heart! Thank you for teaching me to keep the faith, to stay strong, and to never give up!

Love,
Mom

Dear Johnathan;

I am very proud of you! I know all the long days and times; spent sitting in doctor's offices. I closed my eyes so many times as they drew your blood. I remember the many times you left for the day with your mom and brother Cody, off to the hospital for a Bone Marrow Biopsy. I remember the days where you could barely hold your head up, when your counts were so low. I remember packing the car for our journey to Fairview Univ Hospital in Minnesota. I remember working back in Milwaukee as you, your mom, your brother Cody and Grandmother were at Fairview. I remember you praying in your bed, I remember when you chose to have your head shaved, so you would not have to watch your hair fall out. I remember the tough days and the soars in your mouth. I remember the pain in your legs, arms, hands and feet. I remember you getting on the stationary bike the morning after your BMT. I remember all the Boston Market Chicken you ate over the next couple of months. I remember you doing schoolwork while you were in bed. Over the past 15 years, you may not know it, but I have been amazed at your strength, faith and attitude through all the pain, suffering, fear and hard work. May the Lord continue your journey after graduating and take you to places that 15 years ago many thought out of reach. I am very proud of you and love you very much! Continued blessings!

Love,Dad

Monday, April 20, 2009 9:17 AM CDT

Hello!

John is working hard and playing hard. He picked up some more hours at Menard's and going to Tennis practice after school on the days he doesn't have to work. John is doing great all the way around! Has been having alot more energy these days! God is good!

Thanks for all your continued prayers!

God bless!
Ann

Wednesday, April 8, 2009 11:58 AM CDT

Hello to all!

Just wanted you to know that Johnathan turned 19 today!

I can't believe that he has made it this far! I can remember when he was three and a half and the doctor told us that John would be lucky to live to the age of twelve. With much prayer and sheer determination, Johnathan has beaten all the odds thus far!

John now drives a car, is graduating from high school, and is going to college in the fall. If that isn't a miracle, I don't know what is!

Nate and I are so blessed to have friends and family praying for us and for Johnathan over the years. Thank you all for your many prayers and support. We still feel your prayers to this day!

God is Good!


HAPPY BIRTHDAY JOHNATHAN! WE LOVE YOU AND WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOU!

God bless!
Love,
Nate and Ann

Monday, March 23, 2009 1:32 PM CDT

All is good and fine in the Eckstadt household today:o)

Everyone including John is doing well!

Smooooooth sailing! So far sooooooooooo good!

God bless!
Ann

DON'T FEAR THE FUTURE! GOD IS ALREADY THERE!

Monday, March 16, 2009 7:51 AM CDT

Hello!

Good report! Johnathan is feeling much better and he went to school today! God is good!

It's gonna be a beatiful day outside today. It's suppose to be in the 60's today!

Lovin that!

God bless!
Ann

Thursday, March 12, 2009 4:39 PM CDT

HELLO!

JOHNATHAN HAS BEEN SICK WITH A VIRAL INFECTION SINCE LAST FRIDY. HE MISSED THREE DAYS OF SCHOOL THIS WEEK. HE STILL HAS A MAJOR COUGH, BUT WENT TO SCHOOL TODAY ANYWAYS. HE DOES NOT WANT TO GET TOO FAR BEHIND IN HIS CLASSES. HE REALLY PUSHED HIMSELF TO GO TODAY. HOPING AND PRAYING THAT HE WILL GET TO FEELING BETTER SOON!

THANKS FOR ALL YOUR CONTINUED PRAYERS!

GOD BLESS!
ANN


"WHEREVER YOU GO TODAY, GOD WILL BE THERE!"

Sunday, March 1, 2009 4:08 PM CST

Hello,

Not much going on these days. John is doing great! He has been working hard and saving his money.

Oh, we did talk to a counselor last Friday about what he wanted to do for college in the fall and to sign up for his placements tests. I think he is going to take Liberal Arts for now. That could change though.

I can't believe John will be going to college soon. He is growing up so fast! That means I am getting older (I feel it too!). John has come a long way! We are very proud of him!

God bless!
Ann

Thursday, February 26, 2009 2:35 PM CST

HOLD ON!

HOLD ON WHEN YOU FEEL YOU CAN'T TAKE IT.
WITH GOD ON YOUR SIDE I KNOW YOU CAN MAKE IT.
WHEN IT SEEMS LIKE THOSE DARK CLOUDS
WON'T GO AWAY. HAVE FAITH MY FRIEND, THOSE CLOUDS
ARE NOT HERE TO STAY.


HOLD ON I KNOW YOUR HURTING AND YOUR HEART IS
HEAVY AND FILLED WITH MUCH PAIN. A BRIGHT COLORED
RAINBOW ALWAYS SHINES AFTER A WARM SUMMER'S RAIN.
GOD WILL NEVER LEAVE YOU AND HE WILL ALWAYS BE NEAR.
HE WILL CALM YOUR EVERY WORRY AND CALM YOUR EVERY FEAR.
HE CARES SO MUCH FOR YOU AND HE SEES YOUR EVERY TEAR.

HOLD ON WHEN YOU ARE WEAK THAT'S WHEN HE IS ALWAYS
STRONG! PEACE IS COMING SOON AND I KNOW IT WON'T BE LONG! LIFE CAN BE HARD AT TIMES AND WE WANT THE STRIFE TO END.
JUST REMEMBER PRAYER CAN MOVE A MOUTAIN AND GOD HEARS YOUR EVERY PLEA! ONE DAY IT WILL ALL BE BEHIND US AND ONE DAY WE WILL ALL BE FREE!

POEM BY ANN ECKSTADT

Tuesday, February 24, 2009 8:32 AM CST

Hello,

Johnathan survived working in the snow and cold this past weekend. It's getting a little warmer today. I think in the high twenty's (Heat wave!).

John is getting ready for Tennis season at his school. We bought him a new tennis racket for Christams. He can't wait to use it! He just has to buy himself some cool tennis shoes and he is all set!

John is having more good days than bad days. Health-wise he is doing whole lot better!

God bless!
Ann

Friday, February 20, 2009 5:41 PM CST

Hello,

John is feeling better! But he is not looking forward to working in the cold and snow tomorrow. Winter seems to be hanging on for dear life! It's time to get the snow shovel out again! We are suppose to get up to eight inches of snow over night! NOT FUN!

God bless and have a great weekend!

Ann

Wednesday, February 18, 2009 9:45 AM CST

Hi,


Had to pick John up from school today. He is having stomach issues again. I think he is having another flar-up. Needs to rest and double up on the Acidophilus.

Please keep John in your prayers today:o)

God bless!
Ann

Monday, February 16, 2009 8:58 AM CST

Hello,

John actually worked all weekend and has to work again today. I guess someone quit where he works, so he was given more hours. That is a blessing in disguise though because he has been trying to save up some of his money to help with college. We are so proud of him. He is turning into a very responsible young man.



God bless!
Ann

Psalm 92:1-2

1) It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord and to sing praises unto thy name, O most high.

2) To show fourth thy loving kindness in the morning and thy faithfulness every night

Saturday, February 14, 2009 8:12 PM CST

Hello,


John is tired from just working three days in a row. Thank goodness their is no school on Monday. He can catch his breath. He is happy that he was able to work this weekend though because you get paid time and a half.

I can't believe in four months Johnathan will be graduating from high school. It just blows my mind every time that I think about it! I never thought that John would make it this far, but by some kind of miracle and God's grace he did. God is good!

John is looking forward to being on the tennis team this year again. In a couple of months tennis season starts. He is very excited!

Thanks again for all you continued prayers.

God bless!
Ann

Tuesday, February 10, 2009 2:03 PM CST

Hello,

John has been on the tired side these days. His stamina is kind of at a low point for some reason. I am thinking I should maybe take him to the Endocrine doctor again. He has been taking thyroid medicine to keep his thyroid levels stable. I think I am going to have the doctor give him another blood test just in case anything has changed.

John also gets very fatigue at times. I guess it's just part of healing process after a bone marrow transplant. I remember the bone marrow doctor saying that is can take up to five or even seven years before a post transplant patient can start to feel like an average person with normal energy levels.

Johnathan still has to see specialists from time to time, but it is only a few times a year just for check-ups. He has come a long ways since 2004! In the beginning, we practically lived at the doctor's office. Don't know why he is feeling weak and tired as he has been feeling the past week or so. I am going to keep an eye on it and if he continues to feel tired like that, I will have to take him to the doctor and get it checked out.

Thanks for your continued prayers for Johnathan.

God bless!
Ann



"CAST YOUR BURDEN ON THE LORD (RELEASING THE WEIGHT OF IT) AND HE WILL SUSTAIN YOU; HE WILL NEVER ALLOW THE RIGHTEOUS TO BE MOVED (MADE TO SLIP, FALL, OR FAIL)"---- PSALM 55:22

Tuesday, February 3, 2009 6:40 PM CST

Hello!

John had a little stomach flare-up today and had to stay home from school. He rested most of the day and feels better!

We are getting another cold snap! Poor John! He has to work outside in this nasty freezing weather again tomorrow. I just want winter to end! Please somebody make it stop!

I would love to live some place warm some day! That would be soooooooo nice!

Glad John is doing better, so he won’t have to miss school again tomorrow.

Thanks again for everyone's prayers.

God bless!
Ann

Wednesday, January 28, 2009 2:14 PM CST

Hello!

We just came back from the ENT doctor. John had to have a scope down his throat and an evaluation of the mouth. He has this done once a year. The purpose of this exam is to look for leukoplakia (cancer of the mouth). The doctor could not find any abnormalities whatsoever. God is good!

Cancer is the second phase of John's disease. He is susceptible to cancer of the head, throat, mouth, esophagus, The GI track, and the stomach. Since John’s bone marrow transplant almost five years ago. He has had no signs of cancer. I am praying that the trend will continue and he will never have to deal with the "C" word!

Thank you so much for all your continued prayers and for checking in on John's site.

God bless!
Ann

Friday, January 23, 2009 5:20 PM CST

HELLO!

EXAMS ARE OVER! JOHN IS A VERY HAPPY CAMPER! HE HAS TO WORK TOMORROW THOUGH AND ANOTHER COLD SNAP IS COMING IN LATER TONIGHT. MY HEART GOES OUT TO HIM! I HOPE THIS IS THE LAST COLD SNAP FOR THE YEAR. I CAN'T TAKE IT ANYMORE! IT MAKES IT HARD TO GO OUT AND DO EVERY DAY NORMAL THINGS. MAKES YOU JUST WANT TO STAY INSIDE THE HOUSE AND HIBERNATE UNTIL SPRING.

JOHN IS DOING GREAT! HE HAS JUST BEEN ENJOYING LIFE! JUST HANGING OUT WITH HIS FRIENDS PLAYING BASKETBALL, PING PONG, X-BOX ECT.... LIFE IS GOOD AND GOD IS GOOD!

THANKS FOR CHECKING IN ON JOHN'S SITE AND THANKS FOR YOUR PRAYERS.

GOD BLESS!
ANN

Tuesday, January 20, 2009 6:30 PM CST

Hello,


John has exam's this week. He is glad that he does not have to work until Saturday, so he can concentrate on his studies.

He is also pumped that they do not have school this Friday and Monday due to Teacher inservice.

Things are going well at this point. God is good!

God's understanding:

God looks past our faults
He looks past our fears.
He comforts us and he holds
us. He catches every tear.

We may not see the future.
We may think about the past.
There is nothing like the
present knowing God's love
will always last.

He created all things
the stars the moon the sun.
He made us in His image each
and every one.

We are not here to prove
who is wrong or right.
We need to look up to the one with
power and might.
For He is the one who overcomes
darkness and turns it into
light.

We need to share his love
towards everyone.
For what a better world if actually done.

Will you stay with the old or go with
what's new?
For all that matters is what you "will" do.

Choose to love and he will remove the hate.
For what is in your heart will show on your
face.

To Please God is what we should do.
For God's love will always stand true.

His love will cause us to love one another.
For in God's eye's we are all brothers.

Poem by Ann Eckstadt

Friday, January 16, 2009 2:56 PM CST

HELLO!

THE KIDS ARE OFF SCHOOL AGAIN TODAY BECAUSE OF THE FREEZING COLD. THEY WERE OFF YESTERDAY AS WELL. WE HAVE BEEN HAVING SUB-ZERO TEMPS HERE IN WISCONSIN. IT GOT DOWN TO -12 TODAY AND THE WINDSHIELD WAS -28. IT IS SO COLD THAT MY POOR DOGGY JUST DOES HIS BUSINESS AND RUNS RIGHT BACK IN THE HOUSE! I FEEL SORRY FOR DOGS IN COLD WEATHER OR IF ITS RAINING OUTSIDE.

JOHN HAS BEEN DOING GREAT AND HE IS EATING LIKE A HORSE! THAT IS A GOOD THING!

JOHN HAS FINAL EXAMS NEXT WEEK. HE IS LUCKY TO HAVE THE TWO DAYS OFF, SO HE HAS MORE TIME TO STUDY.

I HOPE THIS COLD SNAP GOES AWAY. I DON'T KNOW HOW MUCH MORE I CAN TAKE!

THANKS FOR ALL YOUR CONTINUED PRAYERS.

GOD BLESS!
ANN

Tuesday, January 13, 2009 11:49 AM CST

HELLO,

I JUST GOT A CALL FROM JOHN'S BMT DOCTOR. THE LAST TEST, WHICH WAS THE CULTURE TEST, CAME BACK NEGATIVE. THE DOCTOR FEELS THAT JOHN MUST HAVE HAD A BAD CASE OF THE STOMACH VIRUS. THAT IS WHAT I THOUGHT AS WELL.

JOHN IS DOING WELL THESE DAYS. KEEP HIM IN YOUR PRAYERS BECAUSE HE HAS TO WORK THE NEXT COUPLE OF DAY OUT IN THIS COLD WEATHER. HE WORKS AT MENARDS AND HELPS PEOPLE CARRY OUT STUFF TO THEIR CAR'S ECT...

MAYBE DUE TO THE FREEZING WEATHER THEIR WON'T BE THAT MANY PEOPLE GOING OUT TO THE STORES. I HOPE THAT IS THE CASE FOR JOHN'S SAKE.

THANKS AGAIN FOR ALL YOUR PRAYERS.

GOD BLESS!
ANN

Saturday, January 10, 2009 1:01 PM CST

HELLO,

I STILL HAVE NOT HEARD ANYTHING BACK FROM THE DOCTOR ON JOHN'S LAST TEST RESULTS. WE ARE WAITING FOR THE CULTURE TEST. THE DOCTOR SAID THAT ONE TAKES AWHILE BECAUSE THEY HAVE TO GROW THE CULTURE FROM THE SAMPLE. I WILL HAVE TO MAKE ANOTHER CALL TO THE CLINIC ON MONDAY. I WILL KEEP YOU ALL POSTED.

IN THE MEAN TIME, JOHN IS DOING WELL. HE IS EATING BETTER AND LOOKS AS IF HE IS GETTING HIS COLOR BACK. WE CALL HIM THE BOUNCE BACK KID BECAUSE HE ALWAYS SEEMS TO BOUNCE BACK. HE HAS ALWAYS BEEN A FIGHTER. NOTHING KEEPS HIM DOWN FOR LONG. HE GETS RIGHT BACK ON HIS FEET EVERY TIME!

GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME AND ALL THE TIME GOD IS GOOD!

GOD BLESS!
LOVE,
ANN

Monday, January 5, 2009 7:18 PM CST

HELLO!

I CALLED THE BMT CLINIC TODAY. MOSTLY ALL OF JOHN'S RESULTS CAME BACK NEGATIVE. JUST WAITING ON ONE MORE TEST. I WILL KEEP YOU POSTED AS SOON AS I HEAR ANYTHING. I HOPE THAT THE LAST OF THE TEST RESULTS WILL BE NEGATIVE AS WELL.

JOHN IS EATING BETTER AND IS STILL MAKING PROGRESS. I AM BEGINNING TO THINK HE JUST HAD A BAD STOMACH VIRUS.

THANKS AGAIN FOR ALL YOUR PRAYERS.

GOD BLESS!
ANN

Saturday, January 3, 2009 9:03 AM CST

HELLO!

WE ARE STILL WAITING ON THE REST OF JOHNATHAN'S RESULTS. WITH THE HOLIDAYS AND STUFF, I AM SURE THAT IS WHY WE HAVE NOT HEARD ANYTHING. I AM GOING TO TRY TO CALL THE BMT CLINIC ON MONDAY.

JOHNATHAN'S STOMACH IS STILL GIVING HIM PROBLEMS, BUT IT IS NOT AS BAD AS IT WAS TWO WEEKS AGO.

HE STILL HAS TO WATCH WHAT HE EATS BECAUSE HIS STOMACH IS STILL A LITTLE SENSITIVE.

THANKS FOR CHECKING UP ON JOHN AND THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR CONTINUED PRAYERS.

WITH GOD, ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE!

GOD BLESS!
ANN

Wednesday, December 31, 2008 10:56 PM CST

HELLO!

I KNOW THAT IT HAS BEEN AWHILE SINCE I LAST UPDATED.

JOHNATHAN HAS HAD SOME STOMACH ISSUES GOING ON AGAIN. I HAD TO TAKE HIM TO THE HOSPITAL THE TUESDAY BEFORE CHRISTMAS. JOHN HAD ALOT OF PAIN IN HIS STOMACH. EVERYTHING HE ATE JUST WENT RIGHT THROUGH HIM LIKE WATER.
TO ME IT LOOKED LIKE HE HAD C-DIFF AGAIN.

I AM STILL WAITING ON THE RESULTS OF HIS STOOL SAMPLE THAT THEY TOOK. I AM GOING TO CALL THEM FRIDAY.ALL HIS BLOOD COUNTS LOOKED GREAT!

JOHN SEEMS TO BE FEELING BETTER, BUT STILL HAS TO WATCH WHAT HE EATS. I AM CONSIDERING TAKING JOHN TO A SPECIALIST JUST TO SEE IF THEY CAN SO FURTHER TESTING. HE HAS BEEN HAVING ALOT OF FLARE-UPS LATELY.

I STARTED JOHN ON PROBIOTIC AGAIN AND SOME ACIDULPHILUS. THAT IS THE ONLY THING THAT SEEMS TO BE KEEPING IT UNDER CONTROL.

IN SPITE OF JOHN NOT FEELING ALL THAT WELL, WE DID MANAGED TO HAVE A NICE CHRISTMAS. IT WAS WEIRD AND SAD NOT HAVING MY PARENTS AT MY HOUSE FOR CHRISTMAS THIS YEAR. THEY MOVED TO TEXAS LAST SUMMER. THEY WILL BE HERE FOR JOHN'S GRADUATION IN JUNE. WE ARE LOOKING FORWARD TO SEEING THEM AROUND THAT TIME.

HOPE EVERYONE HAD A WONDERFUL CHRISTMAS.

HAVE A VERY HAPPY AND WONDERFUL NEW YEAR!

LOVE,
ANN

Saturday, December 6, 2008 6:38 PM CST

Happy Holidays!!!

Have a blessed New Year!!!

Friday, November 14, 2008 7:55 PM CST

Johnathan is doing better:o)

Ann

Wednesday, November 12, 2008 1:31 PM CST

HELLO,

JOHNATHAN HAS BEEN SICK WITH A VIRAL INFECTION SINCE THIS PAST WEEKEND. HE ENDED UP IN THE ER ON MONDAY. HE COULD NOT KEEP ANYTHING DOWN OR DRINK ANYTHING FOR TWO DAYS. I AM GLAD THAT I LISTENED TO MY GUT AND GOT HIM TO THE ER IN TIME. HE WAS VERY DEHYDRATED AND HIS WHOLE BODY WAS IN PAIN. HIS PAIN LEVEL WAS UP TO A 10!

THEY HAD TO GIVE HIM MEDICATION AND FLUIDS THROUGH AN IV. HE STARTED TO FEEL A LITTLE BETTER ONCE THE FLUIDS AND MEDICATION STARTED TO TAKE AFFECT.

YESTERDAY JOHNATHAN'S HEADACHE CAME BACK, BUT IT WAS NOT AS INTENSE AS IT WAS ON MONDAY. TODAY HIS STOMACH HURTS AND ALL HE CAN EAT IS RICE AT THIS POINT. HE HAS BEEN HOME FROM SCHOOL SINCE MONDAY. HE IS GOING TO TRY TO GO BACK TO SCHOOL TOMORROW. HE IS ALSO COMPLAINING OF BEING VERY TIRED AND WEAK. I TOLD HIM THAT IT WILL TAKE A FEW DAYS OR MORE TO START TO FEEL BETTER. THIS VIRAL INFECTION THAT HE PICKED UP REALLY KNOCKED HIM FOR A LOOP!

PLEASE KEEP HIM IN YOUR PRAYERS THAT GOD WILL GIVE HIM STRENGTH TO GET OVER THIS BUG, SO HE CAN GO BACK TO SCHOOL AND BACK TO WORK.

GOD BLESS!
LOVE,
ANN


WHEN THE WAVES FROM THE SEA SEEM HIGHER THAN WE ARE. REACH FOR THE FATHER'S HAND.

WHEN IT SEEMS THAT THERE IS NO HOPE. REMEMBER GOD IS OUR HOPE.

WHEN YOU FEEL OUT OF PLACE AND THERE IS NOWHERE GO. RUN TO GOD. HIS ARMS ARE ALWAYS OUTSTRECHED TOWARDS YOU.

WHEN THE FUTURE SEEMS BLEEK AND YOU FEEL INSECURE. PUT YOUR WHOLE TRUST IN HIM. HE KNOWS WHAT IS BEST FOR YOU.HE WILL PROTECT YOU FROM ALL HARM.

OUR FAITH IS ALL WE HAVE IN THESE TROUBLED TIMES. WE MUST REMEMBER THAT GOD IS IN CONTROL AND HE KNOWS ALL ABOUT IT.

BY ANN ECKSTADT

REMEMBER TO PRAY FOR OUR COUNTRY!

Sunday, October 19, 2008 7:04 PM CDT

PSALMS 91

1)HE THAT DWELLETH IN THE SECRET PLACE OF THE MOST HIGH SHALL ABIDE UNDER THE SHADOW OF THE ALMIGHTY.

2)I WILL SAY OF THE LORD, HE IS MY REFUGE AND MY FORTRESS: MY GOD; IN HIM WILL I TRUST.

3)SURELY HE SHALL DELIVER THEE FROM THE SNARE OF THE FOWLER, AND FROM THE NOISOME PESTILENCE.

4)HE SHALL COVER THEE WITH HIS FEATHERS, AND UNDER HIS WINGS SHALT THOU TRUST: HIS TRUTH SHALL BE THY SHIELD AND BUCKLER.

5)THOU SHALT NOT BE AFRAID FOR THE TERROR BY NIGHT; NOR FOR THE ARROW THAT FLIETH BY DAY;

6)NOR FOR THE PESTILENCE THAT WALKETH IN DARKNESS; NOR FOR THE DESTRUCTION THAT WASTETH AT NOONDAY.

7)A THOUSAND SHALL FALL AT THY SIDE, AND TEN THOUSAND AT THEY RIGHT HAND; BUT IT SHALL NOT COME NIGH THEE.

8)ONLY WITH THINE EYES SHALT THOU BEHOLD AND SEE THE REWARD OF THE WICKED.

9)BECAUSE THOU HAS MADE THE LORD, WHICH IS MY REFUGE, EVEN THE MOST HIGH, THY HABITATION;

10)THERE SHALL NO EVIL BEFALL THEE, NEITHER SHALL ANY PLAGUE COME NIGH THY DWELLING

11)FOR HE SHALL GIVE HIS ANGLES CHARGE OVER THEE, TO KEEP THEE IN ALL THY WAYS.

12)THEY SHALL BEAR THEE UP IN THIER HANDS, LEST THOU DASH THY FOOT AGAINST A STONE.

13)THOU SHALT TREAD UPON THE LION AND ADDER: THE YOUNG LION AND THE DRAGON SHALT THOU TRAMPLE UNDER FEET.

14)BECAUSE HE HATH SET HIS LOVE UPON ME, THERFORE WILL I DELIVER HIM: I WILL SET HIM ON HIGH BECAUSE HE HATH KNOWN MY NAME.

15)HE SHALL CALL UPON ME, AND I WILL ANSWER HIM: I WILL BE WITH HIM IN TROUBLE; I WILL DELIVER HIM, AND HONOUR HIM.

16)WITH LONG LIFE WILL I SATIFY HIM, AND SHEW HIM MY SALVATION.

Saturday, October 18, 2008 8:36 PM CDT

HI,

WE WENT TO A SPECIAL CHURCH SERVICE AT MY CHURCH THIS EVENING. IT WAS AN AWESOME SERVICE! THE SPECIAL SPEAKER HAD US READ AND MEDITATE ON PSALMS 46.

I STARTED TO READ IT AND I FELT LIKE GOD WAS SPEAKING DIRECTLY TO ME THROUGH THIS VERSE OF SCRIPTURE. YOU SEE, I LOST MY JOB THIS WEEK. IT WAS UNFAIR AND I'LL NEVER UNDERSTAND THE WHOLE REASON BEHIND IT.

I DID LEAVE AN IMPRESSION ON SOME OF THE PEOPLE THAT I MET THERE. THEY SAID THAT I WAS TO NICE OF A PERSON TO WORK IN A PLACE LIKE THAT AND THAT THEY WERE SORRY TO SEE ME GO.

YOU KNOW WHAT THEY SAY,WHEN ONE DOOR CLOSES ANOTHER DOOR OPENS. WITH THE ECONOMY THE WAY IT IS, IT WAS SURE NICE TO HAVE SOME EXTRA INCOME COMING IN. ALL I CAN DO IS KEEP LOOKING FORWARD AND NOT LOOK BACK.


HERE IS THE VERSE OF SCRIPTURE THAT SEEMED TO GIVE ME SO MUCH STRENGTH THROUGH THIS STRESSFUL SITUATION.

PSALMS 46

1)GOD IS OUR REFUGE AND STRENGTH, A VERY PRESENT HELP IN TROUBLE.
2)THEREFORE WILL NOT WE FEAR, THOUGH THE EARTH BE REMOVED, AND THOUGH THE MOUTAINS BE CARRIED INTO THE MIDST OF THE SEA;
3)THOUGH THE WATERS THEROF ROAR AND BE TROUBLED, THOUGH THE MOUNTAINS SHAKE WITH THE SWELLING, THEREOF.
4)THERE IS A RIVER, THE STREAMS WHEREOF SHALL MAKE GLAD THE CITY OF GOD, THE HOLY PLACE FOR THE TABERNACLES OF THE MOST HIGH.
5)GOD IS IN THE MIDST OF HER, SHE SHALL NOT BE MOVED:GOD SHALL HELP HER, AND THAT RIGHT EARLY.
6)THE HEATHEN RAGED, THE KINGDOMS WERE MOVED: HE UTTERED HIS VOICE, THE EARTH MELTED.
7)THE LORD OF HOSTS IS WITH US;THE GOD OF JACOB IS OUR REFUGE.
8)COME, BEHOLD THE WORKS OF THE LORD, WHAT DESOLATIONS HE HAD MADE IN THE EARTH.
9)HE MAKETH WARS TO CEASE UNTO THE END OF THE EARTH; HE BREAKETH THE BOW AND CUTTETH THE SPEAR IN THE SUNDER; HE BURNETH THE CHARIOT IN THE FIRE.
10)BE STILL, AND KNOW THAT I AM GOD: I WILL BE EXALTED AMONG THE HEATHAN, I WILL BE EXALTED IN THE EARTH.
11)THE LORD OF HOSTS IS WITH US; THE GOD OF JACOB IS WITH US, THE GOD OF JACOB IS OUR REFUGE.

THROUGH THIS WHOLE SITUATION, I LEARNED TO BE STILL AND KNOW THAT HE IS GOD AND THAT HE WILL BE THERE IN THE TIME OF TROUBLE.

THE PAIN IS STILL FRESH. IT ONLY HAS BEEN THREE DAYS. ALL I CAN SAY IS, I DID MY BEST AND GAVE IT MY BEST SHOT. IT'S TIME TO MOVE ON TO BIGGER AND BETTER THINGS.

JOHNATHAN FELT REALLY BAD FOR ME AND TOLD ME THAT HE WAS VERY SORRY THAT I LOST MY JOB. I TOLD HIM THAT IT WAS HARD THING TO GO THROUGH AND THAT GOD HAS SOMETHING BETTER FOR ME. I REALLY BELIEVE THAT ALL THINGS HAPPEN FOR A REASON. THIS WHOLE THING HAS MADE ME BETTER PERSON AND IT HAS MADE ME STRONGER AS WELL.

JOHNATHAN IS DOING GREAT AND IS STILL ENJOYING LIFE! GOD IS GOOD!

THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR CONTINUED PRAYERS.
GOD BLESS!
LOVE,
ANN

Saturday, October 18, 2008 8:36 PM CDT

HI,

WE WENT TO A SPECIAL CHURCH SERVICE AT MY CHURCH THIS EVENING. IT WAS AN AWESOME SERVICE! THE SPECIAL SPEAKER HAD US READ AND MEDITATE ON PSALMS 46.

I STARTED TO READ IT AND I FELT LIKE GOD WAS SPEAKING DIRECTLY TO ME THROUGH THIS VERSE OF SCRIPTURE. YOU SEE, I LOST MY JOB LAST WEEK. IT WAS UNFAIR AND I'LL NEVER UNDERSTAND THE WHOLE REASON BEHIND IT.

I DID LEAVE AN IMPRESSION ON SOME OF THE PEOPLE THAT I MET THERE. THEY SAID THAT I WAS TO NICE OF A PERSON TO WORK IN A PLACE LIKE THAT AND THAT THEY WERE SORRY TO SEE ME GO.

THEY SAY WHEN ONE DOOR CLOSES ANOTHER DOOR OPENS. WITH THE ECONOMY THE WAY IT IS, IT WAS NICE TO HAVE SOME EXTRA INCOME COMING IN. ALL I CAN DO IS KEEP LOOKING FORWARD AND NOT LOOK BACK.


HERE IS THE VERSE OF SCRIPTURE THAT SEEMED TO GIVE ME SO MUCH STRENGTH THROUGH THIS STRESSFUL SITUATION.

PSALMS 46

1)GOD IS OUR REFUGE AND STRENGTH, A VERY PRESENT HELP IN TROUBLE.
2)THEREFORE WILL NOT WE FEAR, THOUGH THE EARTH BE REMOVED, AND THOUGH THE MOUTAINS BE CARRIED INTO THE MIDST OF THE SEA;
3)THOUGH THE WATERS THEROF ROAR AND BE TROUBLED, THOUGH THE MOUNTAINS SHAKE WITH THE SWELLING, THEREOF.
4)THERE IS A RIVER, THE STREAMS WHEREOF SHALL MAKE GLAD THE CITY OF GOD, THE HOLY PLACE FOR THE TABERNACLES OF THE MOST HIGH.
5)GOD IS IN THE MIDST OF HER, SHE SHALL NOT BE MOVED:GOD SHALL HELP HER, AND THAT RIGHT EARLY.
6)THE HEATHEN RAGED, THE KINGDOMS WERE MOVED: HE UTTERED HIS VOICE, THE EARTH MELTED.
7)THE LORD OF HOSTS IS WITH US;THE GOD OF JACOB IS OUR REFUGE.
8)COME, BEHOLD THE WORKS OF THE LORD, WHAT DESOLATIONS HE HAD MADE IN THE EARTH.
9)HE MAKETH WARS TO CEASE UNTO THE END OF THE EARTH; HE BREAKETH THE BOW AND CUTTETH THE SPEAR IN THE SUNDER; HE BURNETH THE CHARIOT IN THE FIRE.
10)BE STILL, AND KNOW THAT I AM GOD: I WILL BE EXALTED AMONG THE HEATHAN, I WILL BE EXALTED IN THE EARTH.
11)THE LORD OF HOSTS IS WITH US; THE GOD OF JACOB IS WITH US, THE GOD OF JACOB IS OUR REFUGE.

THROUGH THIS WHOLE SITUATION, I NEED TO LEARN TO BE STILL AND KNOW THAT GOD WILL BE THERE IN THE TIME OF TROUBLE. THAT GIVES ME PEACE AND COMFORT.-------------

THE PAIN IS STILL FRESH. IT ONLY HAS BEEN THREE DAYS. ALL I CAN SAY IS I DID MY BEST AND GAVE IT MY BEST SHOT. IT'S TIME TO MOVE ON BIGGER AND BETTER THINGS.

JOHNATHAN FELT REALLY BAD FOR ME AND TOLD ME THAT HE WAS VERY SORRY THAT I LOST MY JOB. I TOLD HIM THAT IT WAS HARD THING TO GO THROUGH , BUT THAT GOD HAS SOMETHING BETTER FOR ME. I REALLY BELEIVE THAT ALL THINGS HAPPEN FOR A REASON. THIS WHOLE THING HAS MADE ME BETTER AND STRONGER PERSON.

JOHNATHAN IS DOING WELL AND IS STILL ENJOYING LIFE! GOD IS GOOD!

THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR CONTINUED PRAYERS.
GOD BLESS!
LOVE,
ANN

Saturday, October 18, 2008 8:36 PM CDT

HI,

WE WENT TO A SPECIAL CHURCH SERVICE AT MY CHURCH THIS EVENING. IT WAS AN AWESOME SERVICE! THE SPECIAL SPEAKER HAD US READ AND MEDITATE ON PSALMS 46.

I STARTED TO READ IT AND I FELT LIKE GOD WAS SPEAKING DIRECTLY TO ME THROUGH THIS VERSE OF SCRIPTURE. YOU SEE, I LOST MY JOB LAST WEEK. IT WAS UNFAIR AND I'LL NEVER UNDERSTAND THE WHOLE REASON BEHIND IT.

I DID LEAVE AN IMPRESSION ON SOME OF THE PEOPLE THAT I MET THERE. THEY SAID THAT I WAS TO NICE OF A PERSON TO WORK IN A PLACE LIKE THAT AND THAT THEY WERE SORRY TO SEE ME GO.

THEY SAY WHEN ONE DOOR CLOSES ANOTHER DOOR OPENS. WITH THE ECONOMY THE WAY IT IS, IT WAS NICE TO HAVE SOME EXTRA INCOME COMING IN. ALL I CAN DO IS KEEP LOOKING FORWARD AND NOT LOOK BACK.


HERE IS THE VERSE OF SCRIPTURE THAT SEEMED TO GIVE ME SO MUCH STRENGTH THROUGH THIS STRESSFUL SITUATION.

PSALMS 46

1)GOD IS OUR REFUGE AND STRENGTH, A VERY PRESENT HELP IN TROUBLE.
2)THEREFORE WILL NOT WE FEAR, THOUGH THE EARTH BE REMOVED, AND THOUGH THE MOUTAINS BE CARRIED INTO THE MIDST OF THE SEA;
3)THOUGH THE WATERS THEROF ROAR AND BE TROUBLED, THOUGH THE MOUNTAINS SHAKE WITH THE SWELLING, THEREOF.
4)THERE IS A RIVER, THE STREAMS WHEREOF SHALL MAKE GLAD THE CITY OF GOD, THE HOLY PLACE FOR THE TABERNACLES OF THE MOST HIGH.
5)GOD IS IN THE MIDST OF HER, SHE SHALL NOT BE MOVED:GOD SHALL HELP HER, AND THAT RIGHT EARLY.
6)THE HEATHEN RAGED, THE KINGDOMS WERE MOVED: HE UTTERED HIS VOICE, THE EARTH MELTED.
7)THE LORD OF HOSTS IS WITH US;THE GOD OF JACOB IS OUR REFUGE.
8)COME, BEHOLD THE WORKS OF THE LORD, WHAT DESOLATIONS HE HAD MADE IN THE EARTH.
9)HE MAKETH WARS TO CEASE UNTO THE END OF THE EARTH; HE BREAKETH THE BOW AND CUTTETH THE SPEAR IN THE SUNDER; HE BURNETH THE CHARIOT IN THE FIRE.
10)BE STILL, AND KNOW THAT I AM GOD: I WILL BE EXALTED AMONG THE HEATHAN, I WILL BE EXALTED IN THE EARTH.
11)THE LORD OF HOSTS IS WITH US; THE GOD OF JACOB IS WITH US, THE GOD OF JACOB IS OUR REFUGE.

THROUGH THIS WHOLE SITUATION, I NEED TO LEARN TO BE STILL AND KNOW THAT GOD WILL BE THERE IN THE TIME OF TROUBLE. THAT GIVES ME PEACE AND COMFORT.-------------

THE PAIN IS STILL FRESH. IT ONLY HAS BEEN THREE DAYS. ALL I CAN SAY IS I DID MY BEST AND GAVE IT MY BEST SHOT. IT'S TIME TO MOVE ON BIGGER AND BETTER THINGS.

JOHNATHAN FELT REALLY BAD FOR ME AND TOLD ME THAT HE WAS VERY SORRY THAT I LOST MY JOB. I TOLD HIM THAT IT WAS HARD THING TO GO THROUGH , BUT THAT GOD HAS SOMETHING BETTER FOR ME. I REALLY BELEIVE THAT ALL THINGS HAPPEN FOR A REASON. THIS WHOLE THING HAS MADE ME BETTER AND STRONGER PERSON.

JOHNATHAN IS DOING WELL AND IS STILL ENJOYING LIFE! GOD IS GOOD!

THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR CONTINUED PRAYERS.
GOD BLESS!
LOVE,
ANN

Friday, October 10, 2008 7:13 PM CDT

HI,

JOHNATHAN HAS HOMECOMING THIS WEEKEND. HE IS AT THE FOOTBALL GAME AS WE SPEAK. JOHNATHAN AND ALL HIS FRIENDS ARE ALL DRESSED CRAZY IN BLUE, BLACK AND WHITE COLORS (SCHOOL COLORS). HIS SCHOOL TEAM IS CALLED THE KNIGHTS. I WISH I COULD HAVE TAKEN A PICTURE OF HIM, BUT I JUST GOT HOME FROM WORK AND JOHNATHAN AND HIS FRIENDS WERE HEADING OUT THE DOOR.

JOHNATHAN'S STOMACH SEEMS TO BE DOING BETTER SINCE I STARTED HIM BACK ON A PROBIOTIC.

HE IS STILL ENJOYING LIFE TO THE FULLEST. EVER SINCE HE STARTED DRIVING, HE IS NEVER HOME ANYMORE. I MISS MY LITTLE JOHNATHAN. HE IS ALL GROWN UP NOW! I NEVER THOUGHT I WOULD GET TO SEE JOHNATHAN TURN 18, DRIVING AND ABOUT TO GRADUATE FROM HIGH SCHOOL.
GOD IS GOOD!

THANKS FOR ALL YOUR CONTINUED PRAYERS. WE FEEL THEM!

GOD BLESS!
ANN


LIFE IS GOOD!

Sunday, October 5, 2008 4:22 PM CDT

HELLO,

I KNOW IT HAS BEEN A LONG TIME SINCE I UPDATED JOHNATHAN'S SITE.

MY NEW JOB IS VERY HECTIC AND BY THE END OF THE DAY, I'M ZAPPED! THAT IS WHY I HAVE NOT BEEN ABLE TO UPDATE ALL THIS TIME. I HAVE BEEN THERE FOR A MONTH AND TWO WEEKS AND I HAVE LEARNED ALOT, BUT THERE IS STILL ALOT TO LEARN. THIS JOB HAS BEEN A REAL CHALLENGE, WHICH IS A GOOD THING. THE DAY GOES BY REAL FAST BECAUSE THERE IS ALWAYS SOMETHING TO DO. THE PHONE IS CONSTANTLY RINGING, THE FAX MACHINE IS ALWAYS GOING, AND THE PATIENTS JUST KEEP COMING. THERE IS NEVER A DULL MOMENT. IT'S A VERY ACTIVE DOCTOR'S OFFICE.

JOHNATHAN'S STOMACH IS ACTING UP AGAIN, SO I STARTED HIM BACK ON A PROBIOTIC CALLED FLORA-JEN. JOHNATHAN WAS DOING GOOD THERE FOR AWHILE, BUT NOW IT'S RASIED IT'S UGLY HEAD AGAIN. HE HAS LOST SOME WIEGHT BECAUSE OF IT. HE REALLY NEEDS TO GAIN WIEGHT AND HAS HAD A HARD TIME DOING SO BECAUSE OF HIS STOMACH ISSUES. THE FLORA-JEN SEEMED TO HELP HIM LAST TIME, SO I HOPE IT WILL DO THE SAME AGAIN THIS TIME.

JOHNATHAN IS STILL WORKING AT MENARD'S, BUT NOT AS MUCH SINCE SCHOOL STARTED. WHEN SUMMER ROLLS AROUND AGAIN, HE WILL BE ABLE TO PICK UP SOME MORE HOURS.

JOHNATHAN WILL BE PLAYING ON THE TENNIS TEAM AGAIN THIS YEAR. TENNIS STARTS NEXT SEMESTER. JOHNATHAN IS EXCITED TO PLAY WITH HIS TEAM MATES AGAIN. HE IS KIND OF SAD AS WELL BECAUSE IT'S HIS SENIOR YEAR. HE DOES NOT WANT IT TO END. HE KNOWS THAT ALOT OF HIS FRIENDS WILL BE GOING OFF TO COLLEGE. JOHNATHAN WILL BE GOING OFF TO COLLEGE TOO, BUT HE TOLD ME THAT HE WANTS TO HANG ON TO HIS SENIOR YEAR AS LONG AS HE CAN.

THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR PRAYERS AND CHECKING JOHNATHAN'S SITE.

GOD BLESS!
LOVE,
ANN


GOD WILL NEVER SEND
SOMEONE TO YOU WHOM
YOU CANNOT HELP.

Friday, August 29, 2008 10:48 PM CDT

HELLO,

UPDATE: 8-30-08

HERE ARE JOHNATHAN'S RECENT BLOOD TEST RESULTS FROM HIS FOUR YEAR CHECK-UP.

WBC-7,700

RBC-5,170

HEMOGLOBIN-15.4

PLATELET COUNT-240,000

ANC-4,700

WOW! HE COUNTS ARE STILL LOOKING GREAT!!!



I KNOW THAT IT HAS BEEN AWHILE. I HAVE BEEN WORKING A NEW JOB AT AN ORTHOPEDIC OFFICE, SO I HAVE NOT BEEN ABLE TO UPDATE AS MUCH AS I WOULD LIKE TO.

MY HUSBAND TOOK JOHNATHAN TO THE BMT CLINIC HERE IN MILWAUKEE FOR HIS FOUR YEAR POST TRANSPLANT CHECK-UP LAST TUESDAY. ALL HIS TESTS CAME BACK GREAT. THE DOCTOR SAID THAT SHE CAN'T BELIEVE HOW WELL JOHNATHAN IS DOING AT THIS POINT. ALL I CAN SAY IS GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME AND ALL THE TIME GOD IS GOOD!

JOHNATHAN AND CODY START SCHOOL NEXT TUESDAY. I CAN'T BELIEVE THAT SCHOOL IS HERE ALREADY! WHERE DID THE SUMMER GO??? JOHNATHAN IS EXCITED ABOUT BEING A SENIOR THIS YEAR AND CODY IS NERVOUS ABOUT BEING A FRESHMEN. ONE GOOD THING IS, JOHNATHAN WILL BE THERE FOR CODY'S FIRST YEAR OF HIGH SCHOOL. JOHN WILL ALSO BE THERE TO SHOW HIM THE ROPES AND WATCH HIS BACK.

THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR CONTINUED PRAYERS. WE FEEL THEM.



GOD BLESS!
LOVE,
ANN


I JUST WANT TO SAY THANK YOU LORD.

I JUST WANT TO SAY THANK YOU LORD FOR
HELPING ME THROUGH ANOTHER DAY.THANK
YOU FOR HEARING ME EVERYTIME
I PRAY.

I JUST WANT TO SAY THANK YOU LORD
FOR BEING THERE WHEN I FEEL ALONE
AND WHEN THINGS DON'T ALWAYS GO MY
WAY. YOU SAID ALL THINGS
ARE POSSIBLE IF I ONLY JUST BELIEVE
AND PRAY.

I JUST WANT TO SAY THANK YOU LORD
FOR SHOWING ME THAT I CAN ALWAYS
CALL ON YOUR NAME. YOUR FAITHFULLNESS
NEVER CHANGES LORD, YOU
ALWAYS REMAIN THE SAME.

I JUST WANT TO SAY THANK YOU LORD FOR
BEING A FATHER TO ME. YOU ARE THE
ONE I CAN ALWAYS CALL ON MORNING,
NOON AND NIGHT. I WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU
LORD WITH ALL MY HEART, SOUL,
AND MIGHT.

POEM BY ANN ECKSTADT (2008)

Sunday, August 10, 2008 9:43 PM CDT

Hello,

We have been having a nice summer so far. I registered John and his younger brother Cody for School this past Friday. I can't believe that both of my kids are in high school now. For some reason I am starting to feel old. Time sure does fly!

We have been having fall like weather the past two days. That is very strange for the month of August. I am hoping it will warm up soon, so that we can take advantage of swimming in our pool. I don't want summer to end!

Cody's birthday is next Sunday the 17th. He will be 14 years old. I can't believe it! In a couple of years, he will want to drive. I am trying not to think about it at this point.

Johnathan worked 10 hours today at Menard's where he works. When he got home, he changed and went straight over to the tennis courts to play some tennis with his friends. That is a very good sign that Johnathan is getting stronger and he is able to handle more. Some times, it catches up with him and he has to take it easy, but for the most part, he has made tremendous progress since his BMT four years ago.


I am very proud of Johnathan that he is driving and is working his very first job. Soon, he will be graduating and going to college. He has been such a fighter and a survivor over the years. I will say it again and I know I have said this a hundred times before. Johnathan is my HERO and will always be my HERO!

God bless!
Love,
Ann

IT'S ONLY WHAT YOU BELIEVE WILL
HAPPEN AND THERFORE DO NEXT, THAT
WILL BRING ABOUT A LIFE CHANGE.

BRUCE WILINSON

Wednesday, July 30, 2008 11:00 AM CDT

Hello,


It's all about good reports!

Johnathan is doing well health-wise. He is also doing well on his job at Menard's.

He is looking forward to being a senior this year. I can't believe that he will be graduating from high school. All I can say is that it is a total miracle that he has made it this far!

August 19th Johnathan will be going for his yearly post transplant check-up. He will be having an ECHOGRAM, BONE DENSITY TEST, and LAB WORK done. Hoping and praying for good results!

We are having a great summer so far!

Thank you for all your prayers and your continuing prayers for Johnathan.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

YOU COULD CALL GOD'S
HAND ON YOU "THE TOUCH
OF GREATNESS."
YOU DO NOT BECOME GREAT;
HE BECOMES GREAT
THROUGH YOU.

BRUCE WILKINSON

Saturday, July 19, 2008 11:28 AM CDT

Hello,

Johnathan is doing well. He is still working his summer job at the hardware store. He has been working there for about a month now. He is starting to get use to the working world. One thing that he likes about his job is that he is paid every week, instead of every two weeks.

It's Nate's birthday this weekend. We are celebrating his birthday today when Johnathan get's home from work. We will be grilling out and for desert, chocolate cake, (Nate's favorite).

Johnathan is also doing well health-wise. He goes for his yearly post transplant check-up In August. He will have all his tests done here at Children's Hospital again this year.

Our new health Insurance does not cover Fairview University in Minnesota where Johnathan had his bone marrow transplant.

Johnathan and I miss going up to Minnesota for his yearly check-ups. We miss seeing all of the doctors and nurses that took care of him during his transplant in 2004.

I hope that we can take a trip up there for fun one of these days and visit the Ronald McDonald House where we stayed for almost 5 months and then go see all his doctors and the nurses while again. That would be awesome!

Thanks again for all your prayers.

God bless!
Love,
Ann

GIVE YOUR BURDENS TO THE LORD,
AND HE WILL TAKE CARE OF YOU.

PSALM 55:22 (NLT)

Monday, July 7, 2008 5:29 PM CDT

CHECK OUT THE NEW PICTURES!!!



Hello to all!

Today is Johnathan's 4th post transplant birthday!!!

I can't believe that four years have all ready gone by. I am so proud and so happy that Johnathan is doing so well and has made it this far. God is Good!!!

I will post some new pictures soon!

HAPPY 4th POST TRANSPLANT BIRTHDAY JOHNATHAN!!!

WE LOVE YOU AND ARE SO HAPPY THAT YOU HAVE MADE SO MUCH PROGRESS AND THAT YOU ARE ABLE TO ENJOY LIFE TO THE FULLEST!!!

Love,
Dad&Mom&Cody


2 Corinthians 13:13

May the grace of our Lord Christ, the love God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.

Saturday, July 5, 2008 7:31 PM CDT

Hello,

I just wanted to give you an update on Johanthan. He is feeling much better and his sores are going away. Johnathan can finally sleep without itching at night.

We had great 4th of July. We had some friends over for a cook out and sat around the fire and roasted some marshmellows. The whole day was beautiful. The kids even got to go swimming in our pool during the day.

Later we watched the fire works. It was a perfect day!

It was weird that it was not raining because it seems like every 4th it rains. It was in the high 70's and not a cloud in the sky.

Thanks for your continued prayers.

Love,
Ann

YOU COULD CALL GOD'S HAND ON YOU "THE TOUCH OF GREATNESS.
YOU DO NOT BECOME GREAT; HE BECOMES GREAT THROUGH YOU.

BRUCE WILKINSON

Monday, June 30, 2008 1:16 PM CDT

Hello,


Johnathan is doing well. He really likes his new job at the hardware store and the hours are good.

His friend from Germany is leaving to go back home today. He was a foreign exchange student at Johnathan's high school this year. They became best friends. Johnathan is really bummed about having to say goodbye. His friend said that he would try to come back in visit in a couple of years. That would be nice.

We are having a great summer so far. The weather is starting to get better. It's not raining as much. It is sunny and in the high 70's today. Great Swimming weather!

Other than Johnathan's viral infection and new job, there isn't much going on. On the other hand, his brother Cody is going to be going to Freshman Academy this month. It prepares you for high school and you get credit for it. Cody will be going into 9th grade this fall and Johnathan will be a senior. Time sure does fly. I am starting to feel so old!

Thank you for your continued prayers.

God bless!
Love,
Ann





Matthew 7:7-8

7)Ask, and it shall be given unto you;
seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it
shall be opened unto you.

8)For every one that asketh receiveth;
and he that seeketh findeth; and to him
that knocketh it shall be opened.

Tuesday, June 24, 2008 10:12 AM CDT

Hello,

I took Johnathan to his primary doctor yesterday. It was a follow-up from the when he went to the ER the weekend before.

His Pityriasis Rosea is not getting better. In fact, it seems to have gotten worse. The doctor said that he has had a handful of patient's that have had the same thing. He said that it could take weeks before it starts to get better.

Johnathan has more sores on his back and chest than anywhere else on his body. He is somewhat glad about that because he is starting a new job soon, so he can pretty much hide the sores under his clothes. He has some sores on his underarms and some on his legs, but it is not that noticeable.

Johnathan just has to keep taking Benadryl, hydrocortisone, and Triamcinolon for the irritation and itching. In the mean time, it is not contagious or anything like that. He just has to wait for it to run its course.


Thank you for all your continue prayers and words of encouragement.

God bless!
Love,
Ann

LET THE HEARTS OF THE THOSE WHO SEEK THE LORD REJOICE.
PSALM 105:3

Monday, June 16, 2008 11:05 AM CDT

Hello,

I spoke to soon about Johnathan not going to the doctor in a while.

We ended up in the emergency room on Sunday afternoon because Johnathan was throwing up and having bad headaches.

He also had weird sores all over his body. I Thought they were chicken pox so did one of the ER doctor's.

They then brought in a book and showed us pictures of Chicken Pox and Pityriasis Rosea. The Pityriasis picture matched the sores on Johnathan's body to the T.

They ran some blood test to confirm.

Pityriasis Rosea is a viral infection. It can last up to four to six weeks, but it is not contagious. According to the doctor it is a very common virus. You can get this type of virus from an old razor or getting a haircut. It occur's more often in infants, the elderly and people with low immune systems. There is not a vacine for this type of virus.

The symptoms of Pityriasis Rosea are bad headaches, and upset stomach, and pains in the back of the neck. The sores normally itch as well, so the doctor prescribed Johnathan with the same steroid cream that he used when he has GVHD on his skin shorlty after his BMT. They also told him to take some Benadryl to help with the itching.

I am glad that Johnathan is going to be okay. What a scare that was!

Thank you for keeping Johnathan in your prayers.


God bless!
Love,
Ann

There is alot of things to think about, but nothing to worry about.

Matt Koepky

Saturday, June 14, 2008 9:37 PM CDT

Hello,


Johnathan is doing great. School is out now and he is looking for a Summer job. He had an interview this past week and it went pretty well. He is hoping that he gets the job. He will probably here something on Monday.

He has not gone to the doctor for awhile (that is a very good thing). He seems to be doing well health-wise and is staying very active in sports.

Sorry for taking so long to update Johnathan's journal. There have been alot of things going on lately. One of them is that my mom and dad have retired to Texas (They finally sold their house). They arrived in Texas last Sunday and they are trying to get their new house in order. It's has been in the 90's there and my mom is having a hard time adjusting to the heat. My dad does not seem to mind because he can move his joints better now.

I really miss them, but I am happy for them as well. They always wanted to retire some place warm. They have come to the point where they could not take another winter in Wisconsin. I am looking forward to visiting them in Texas.

Thank you again for your continued prayers.

God bless!
Love,
Ann

Here is a little something my brother wrote me and I would like to share it with you.

FEAR

I think that attracking what you fear is just proof that faith works. Even if faith is fear.

The idea is not to "block out" your thoughts about fear or try not to "think" about fear.

The very act of trying not to "think" about something that you fear only keeps you "thinking" about it.

Dealing with fear is like everything else that a person struggles with or tries to change.

You have to acccept that you fear something.

Acknowledging fear is not a sign of weakness.

Admitting and accepting fear takes it's teeth away.

Admitting to fear and accepting that a certain fear is (at the moment) part of your makeup, takes strength and courage.

Trying to block it out or not think about it only gives it more power.

Think of fear as a blemish. You look in the mirror and there it is.

Trying not think about it or blocking it out only causes more fear. "Oh no" Everyone will see it!"

Your confidence takes a dive and you don't want to go anywhere or do anything because someone might see it.

If you accept the fact that it's there, and in time, it will go away, then you can function properly in life.
Worrying about it only causes more blemishes.

Fear is the same way. It's a natural, normal part of life.
How much power and control that you give it over your life is your choice.

Accept that your fear is there. Don't give it power by trying to "make" it go away.

Then it will get smaller and smaller because it no longer has power.

Your faith in God will then have a soothing effect on your mind and emotions. Fear will not have power. It's only a tool to be use to help you.

Remember, fear is not bad when it's in it's place.
You learn early on that a hot stove can hurt you. (fear as a tool).

Giving fear too much power and control in your life makes your fear's a tool.

So accept it, put in it's place. (in you life's tool box)
Don't fear fear.

By Michael Taylor

Wednesday, May 21, 2008 8:48 AM CDT

Hello,

I just wanted you to know that Johnathan past his driver's test!

I just wanted to share the exciting news!

He is so relieved! He could not sleep the night before his test because he was so nervous. He is so happy that he can finally drive himself to school now.

I am so proud of him!!!!!!!!

As a mother I am a little worried about him driving, but that is normal. I just say a little prayer every time he gets behind the wheel.

Thanks for your prayers!

God bless!
Love,
Ann

FAITH CHANGES THINGS WHEN NOTHING ELSE CHANGES THINGS!

QUOTE FROM MY PASTOR, Pastor Butler

Wednesday, May 14, 2008 7:18 PM CDT

Hello,


Not much to report. Johnathan seems to be doing just great these days.

He is getting ready for exams that will be coming up soon. Other than that, their has not been much going on.

The weather has just been beautiful here! It has been in the 60's and 70's.

We are going to be getting our pool ready in the next couple of weeks. Can't wait to go swimming again this Summer. My younger son Cody turns into a fish every Summer. We can't get him to come out of the pool. That is how I was when I was his age. We had a pool growing up. I was in the pool early in morning until the sun went down.

Things are going good so far. We are all doing well.


Thanks for all your continued prayers.

God bless!
Love,
Ann


TRUST IN GOD'S TIMING. IT'S ALWAYS RIGHT.

BE STILL BEFORE THE LORD AND WAIT PATIENTLY FOR HIM

PSALM 37:7

Friday, May 9, 2008 11:14 AM CDT

Hello,

Johnathan has a cold, but is doing well otherwise.

This week is the last week of tennis. Johnathan is kind of bummed about that. He really had a blast this year! Johnathan had a couple of his close friends on his team this year as well. He can't wait for next year.

I will probably sign Johnathan up for Tennis Camp this year again. Him and his friends play tennis all Summer long. We have tennis courts at the park right up the street from our house. Johnathan some times goes to the high school and plays on the tennis courts there.

Our family and my parent's are all going out to eat this Sunday for Mother's Day (No one has to cook!). It should be a fun time!


Thank you for your continued prayers.

God bless!
Love,
Ann

A MOTHER'S LOVE

A MOTHER IS AN ANGEL SENT
FROM UP ABOVE. SHE IS KIND
AND CARING, AND FULL OF LOVE.

A MOTHER'S LOVE WILL BE THERE
WHEN YOU ARE SICK UNTIL LATE
IN THE NIGHT. SHE WILL KISS YOUR
CHEEK AND HUG YOU WITH ALL OF
HER MIGHT.

A MOTHER'S PRAYER'S ARE SINCERE
AND COME RIGHT FROM THE HEART.
SHE WILL ALWAYS BE THERE FOR YOU
EVEN WHEN YOU ARE APART.

A MOTHER'S LOVE WILL ALWAYS
CALM YOUR FEARS AND WHEN YOU
ARE HURTING SHE WILL WIPE AWAY
YOUR TEARS.

GOD'S LOVE TOWARD US IS LIKE
A MOTHER'S LOVE FOR HER CHILD.
HER LOVE IS ALWAYS MEEK, WARM
AND, MILD.

THERE IS NO LOVE LIKE A MOTHER'S
LOVE. IT IS SO STRONG AND WILL
GO ON FOREVER. THIS LOVE IS VERY
REAL AND IS TRULY LIKE NO OTHER.

POEM BY ANN ECKSTADT (MAY 9,2008)

Monday, May 5, 2008 1:02 PM CDT

HELLO,

JOHNATHAN IS STILL BUSY PLAYING TENNIS. HE HAS SOME MORE GAMES COMING UP.

HE PRACTICES EVERY DAY AFTER SCHOOL AND ON THE WEEKENDS. HE ALWAYS WANTS TO TRY TO GET BETTER.

CAN'T BELIEVE THAT IT IS MAY ALREADY AND SCHOOL IS COMING TO AN END SOON. SUMMER IS ON IT'S WAY!

IT'S REALLY NICE HERE IN WISCONSIN TODAY. IT'S SUPPOSE TO GET UP INTO THE 70'S.

I JUST GOT DONE WALKING OUR DOG CHECKERS AND IT WAS SO BEAUTIFUL OUTSIDE. I HOPE THE NICE WEATHER IS HERE TO STAY.

JOHNATHAN IS DOING GREAT!

THANKS FOR YOUR CONTINUED PRAYERS.

GOD BLESS!
LOVE,
ANN

GALATIONS 6:9 (NLT)

SO DON'T GET TIRED OF DOING WHAT IS GOOD. DON'T GET DISCOURGED AND GIVE UP, FOR WE WILL REAP A HARVEST OF BLESSING AT THE APPRORIATE TIME.

Sunday, April 27, 2008 2:12 PM CDT

Hello,

Johnathan's tennis team won the championship at their tennis tournament yesterday. Johnathan also took second place in doubles. We were very proud of him.

Johnathan sure has a mean back hand and he can spike it hard over the net. Tennis has become his favorite sport. Every time he plays he puts his whole heart and soul into it.

Johnathan's health seems to be doing good. He gets tired and overwhelmed at times, but he always bounces right back. Ever since he was little, we have always called him the bounce back kid.

Thank you for your continued prayers.

God bless!
Love,
Ann

Let us not be weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

Galatians 6:9 (NIV)

Tuesday, April 15, 2008 2:32 PM CDT

GOD'S PROMISES ARE LIKE THE STARS; THE DARKER THE NIGHT, THE BRIGHTER THEY SHINE.

-DAVID NICHOLAS


HELLO,


JOHNATHAN WON HIS TENNIS MATCH YESTERDAY.

WAY TO GO JOHNATHAN!!!!

HE HAS ANOTHER TOURNMENT AFTER SCHOOL TODAY. JOHNATHAN HAS REALLY COME TO LOVE THE SPORT.

HE IS DOING WELL ENERGY WISE AND HE HAS HAD NO MORE BLOODY NOSES THUS FAR!

THANKS FOR YOUR CONTINUED PRAYERS.

GOD BLESS!
LOVE,
ANN

Sunday, April 13, 2008 4:09 PM CDT

THE TASK AHEAD OF YOU IS NEVER AS GREAT AS THE POWER BEHIND YOU.

"...IF YOU HAVE FAITH AS SMALL AS A MUSTARD SEED...NOTHING WILL BE IMPOSSIBLE FOR YOU."

MATTHEW 17:20





HELLO,


JOHNATHAN HAD A NICE BIRTHDAY. HE GOT TO HANG OUT WITH SOME FRIENDS AND THEN WE CELEBRATED HIS BIRTHDAY WITH JUST THE FAMILY. HE DID NOT WANT A BIG PARTY. ALL HE WANTED WAS A NEW IPOD CALLED THE ZUNE (NOT SURE OF THE SPELLING). IT HOLDS ABOUT 20,000 SONGS SO, THAT IS EXACTLY WHAT WE BOUGHT HIM. HE ALSO GOT SOME NICE BRAND NAME CLOTHES FOR SCHOOL AND SOME BIRTHDAY MONEY. JOHNATHAN WAS VERY HAPPY CAMPER:O)

JOHNATHAN IS REALLY DOING WELL. HE HAS BEEN PRACTICING TENNIS EVERY DAY AFTER SCHOOL WITH HIS TEAM. AS SOON AS THE WEATHER STARTS TO COOPERATE, HE WILL BE PLAYING IN TOURNAMENT'S SOON. IT HAS BEEN VERY RAINY AND COLD ALL LAST WEEK AND THIS WEEKEND. WE EVEN GOT SOME SNOW YESTERDAY AND IT HAS BEEN VERY WINDY! JOHNATHAN IS REALLY BUMMED BECAUSE HE WANTS TO START COMPETING. IT'S SUPPOSE TO WARM UP NEXT WEEK SOME TIME. I SURE HOPE SO BECAUSE TODAY STILL FEELS LIKE WINTER OUTSIDE.

GOD BLESS!
LOVE,
ANN

THANK YOU LORD

THANK YOU LORD FOR BEING
THERE FOR MY SON.

YOU ARE THE GREAT I AM.
YOU ARE THE HOLY ONE.

IT'S BECAUSE OF YOU LORD,
THAT THIS BATTLE HAS BEEN
WON THUS FAR.

LORD, YOU ARE THE LILY OF
THE VALLEY THE BRIGHT
AND MORNING STAR.

THANK YOU LORD FOR YOUR
MERCY AND YOUR NEVER ENDING
GRACE.

THANK YOU LORD FOR THE
HOPE YOU GIVE. IT'S YOUR
LOVE THAT I WILL ALWAYS
EMBRACE.

IT IS YOU OH LORD WHO
GAVE MY SON THE WILL
TO FIGHT.

I COULD NEVER THANK YOU
ENOUGH LORD, FOR GIVING
MY SON A SECOND CHANCE
AT LIFE.

POEM BY ANN ECKSTADT (2008)

Tuesday, April 8, 2008 5:40 PM CDT

WE POSTED NEW PICTURES!



STRENGTH FOR THE JOURNEY

DON'T WORRY THAT YOU'RE NOT STRONG

ENOUGH BEFORE YOU BEGIN. IT'S IN

THE JOURNEY THAT GOD MAKES YOU STRONG.



HAPPY BIRTHDAY JOHNATHAN!!!!


WE CAN'T BELIEVE THAT YOU ARE NOW AN OFFICIAL ADULT!!! YES, YOU ARE NOW 18 YEARS OLD TODAY!!!

WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOU THAT YOU HAVE MADE IT THIS FAR! JOHNATHAN, YOU HAVE BEEN A TROUPER AND A HALF OVER THE YEARS!

KEEP ON BEING STRONG AND KEEP ON KEEPING THE FAITH! YOU CAN DO ANYTHING YOU PUT YOUR MIND TO!!! NEVER GIVE IN AND NEVER GIVE UP!!!

WE LOVE YOU VERY MUCH!!!

LOVE,
DAD AND MOM

Friday, April 4, 2008 1:10 PM CDT

Hello,

Johnathan's nose is bleeding again. It has bled over six times since he got his nose cauterized over spring break. I called the ENT doctor to let him know about it and he wants to see Johnathan next Friday.

When Johnathan's nose bleeds, it really bleeds. It worries me that this is happening to him again. Johnathan always has to have a bunch of kleenex with him at all times because his nose just starts to bleed without warning.

I am hoping that the doctor can figure out how to make it stop for Johnathan's sake.

Thank you for your continue prayers.

God bless!
Love,
Ann

HUM WITH THE SOFT GENTLE BREEZES,
SING WITH THE BIRDS THAT NOW SING.
THIS IS A TIME OF REJOICING,
THIS IS THE TIME FOR SPRING!

LOUISE PINKERTON FRITZ

Wednesday, March 26, 2008 7:32 PM CDT

Hello,

Johnathan's clinic visits were very successful yesterday. His counts are still awesome.

WBC's are 6,900

RBC's are 5,270

Hemoglobin 16.3

Platelet count 253,000

Absolute Neutrophil count 3,200

Johnathan had to see the ENT doctor right after the BMT appointment. He had his yearly scope done in his mouth and down his throat to see if their were any lesions. We got the results right away and all was clear. I was so relieved!!! Johnathan also had to have his nose cauterized in both notrils this time. I am hoping that this does the trick and he won't have anymore bloody noses.

Johnathan also had to have the remainder of his immuzitions shots. He is all caught up now. He had to have a Meningococcal vaccine, a Measles mumps & Rubella vaccine, and a Poloio Vaccine.

Johnathan was a trooper the whole day yesterday. He just took the shots, the scope, and the cauterization with ease. Yes, he was a little uncomfortable, but he breezed right through every test and procedure. We don't have to go back for another six months. That is a good feeling that his doctors appointments are getting spread out now. He is going on five years post transplant now. How time has flies. It is awesome that he has made it this far!!!!!

God bless!
Love,
Ann

Acts 2:25-26

25)I know the Lord is always with me.
I will not be shaken, for he is
right beside me.

26)No wonder my heart is filled with joy,
and my mouth shouts his praises!
My body rests in hope.

Saturday, March 22, 2008 6:38 PM CDT

Hello,

Johnathan has been getting bloody noses again. He has an appointment next week on the 25th with the BMT doctor and the ENT doctor. I will be making sure to let the ENT know that Johnathan's nose has been bleeding again.

Last week at school, Johnathan's nose bled so bad that he had to go to the nurses office. He felt weak and dizzy the rest of the day after that. He did not look good when I picked him up after school that day.

Johnathan's stamina is totally not a 100 percent yet, but he keeps pushing himself and does not let that get in the way of his daily routine. I remember Johnathan's BMT doctor saying when we were up in Minnesota. She said that it some times takes up to five or seven years after a BMT before you start to feel like you have more energy. She said that it can some times take that long to start to feel like the average person should feel.

Johnathan is going on five years post transplant. I am praying that he will start to feel less tired as he gets closer to that five year mark.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

My mom sent me this. It's by Joel Olsteen. Very encouraging.


"God is a god of restoration! You may have had some disappointments or unfair things happen in your life, but instead of dwelling on the past and living defeated, take a stand and focus on God's promise of restoration. Draw a line in the sand and say, "I am a child of the Most High God, and I'm not going to live my life negative and defeated. This is a new day, and I'm taking back what belongs to me!" That's having a restoration mentality. God wants to restore everything that's been stolen. He wants to restore your peace, your joy, your health and your finances. But here's the key; you have to have a vision for it. You have to decide to get your thoughts and words going in the right direction. Focus on the future and release past hurts through forgiveness. Decide today to get up every morning hoping, expecting, believing and staying positive. Thank Him for restoring everything that the enemy has stolen from you. "

Monday, March 10, 2008 12:47 AM CDT

Hello,

Johnathan still has a lingering cough, but is doing pretty well otherwise.

He is enjoying playing tennis again at his school. He can't wait until it starts to warm up and the snow starts to melt, so he can play on the tennis courts. They have to play in the school gym right now due to the weather.

It's March and it's still snowing and very cold outside. This has been one cold and snowy winter. Can't wait for Spring to come!!!

Thanks for all your continued prayers for Johnathan.

God bless!
Love,
Ann



"The Lord watches over all who love Him..."

Psalm 9:1

Thursday, March 6, 2008 3:54 PM CST

Hello,

Johnathan seems to be feeling much better today. I took him to the doctor on Tuesday and he was given an anitbiotic. Johnathan ended up going back to school yesterday. There is no school tomorrow, so he will at least be able to get some more rest.

I have decided to go back to work again. I have been out of work going on eight years now because I wanted to be there for Johnathan and my younger son Cody. Johnathan has not been going to the doctor all that much these days which is a very good thing. Cody is also getting older. He will be 14 this year. I am 42 now and not getting any younger. I feel like it is time for me to get out in the in the working world and contribute. I have been looking and applying many places and now I am just waiting for a call back. I will keep you posted.

I am kind of nervous to go back to work again because it has been so long since I have worked. It will be good to bring in some extra money though. Johnathan will be going to college in a couple of years, so it will be nice to have a job to help out with expenses that way. Please keep me in your prayers that I will find a job soon and that it will be the right job for me.

Our number one quarterback Brett Favre has officially retired from the Green Bay Packers this week. Brett had a two hour press conference today and it was very sad to hear the words retirement come out of his mouth. I can't believe he is actually leaving the Packers. I know it was bound to happen sooner or later. He was a really big icon here in Wisconsin. It is really hard to imagine him not playing for the Packers anymore. I guess all good things must come to an end. I wish him all the best of luck in the next Phase of his life. He will be truly missed! Our next quarterback, Aaron Rodgers has some pretty big shoes to fill. I am sure he is feeling the pressure already.

Thank you for keeping Johnathan in your prayers.

God bless!
Love,
Ann

IF YOU CAN'T SEE HOW TO GET THROUGH, YOU NEED TO BE STILL.

QUOTE BY JOSEPH GARLINGTON

Saturday, March 1, 2008 9:01 PM CST

Hello,

Please say a prayer for Johnathan. He is sick with the same cold/flu virus that he had a couple of months ago. He has a very bad cough, no appetite, and a high fever. He was feeling yucky yesterday,but today he is feeling much worse. Pray that he starts to feel better soon. Johnathan does not like to miss school especially now with tennis season starting. He started tennis practice last week.

God bless!
Love,
Ann

Ephisians 1:2

May grace and peace be yours, sent to you from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord.

Friday, February 15, 2008 1:39 PM CST

Hello,


Johnathan has a couple of things going on,but nothing serious. Last week he got sick one day at school in first hour and had to throw-up. He felt better after that and stayed at school (what a trooper!). He also is fighting the common cold this week, but nothing major (just the sniffles). All in all he has been doing well.

I just wanted to share with you what my mom shared with me today. It really helped me,so I am hoping that it will help you in some way.

Here it is:

Many times when the tide was low and we looked eyeball to eyeball at some little sea creature in his shell, he wasn’t a bit afraid of us. He knew he was safe as long as he stayed retracted in that nice, strong shell.

But what if that little fellow, instead of staying safe in his shell, comes out and suns himself on our hand, totally unconcerned? Now he’s vulnerable to anything and everything.

If you refuse to learn what it means to abide in Christ; if you insist on living out there where you worry and you strive and you’re insecure; if you deliberately choose to live as if you were not in Christ at all ---you’re totally vulnerable and you’re in deep trouble with yourself and with God.

As far as all eternity is concerned, you’re safe in God.

As far as all the hassles in your life are concerned, you’re safe in God.

As far as all your unknowns are concerned, you’re safe in God.

As far as the world, the flesh and the devil are concerned, you’re safe.

He commands you to learn to abide in Him and stay there. He requires that you settle down and shelter yourself in Him and trust Him absolutely. He insists on your living your life in Him with its resulting rest and joy. If you don’t, He loves you too much to neglect you. He’ll “childtrain” you and chastise you until you consciously come into Him.

You need the ‘holy habit” of saying to God under any circumstances, “You are my hiding place”….say it in the midst of any difficult situation…….say it continually and say it in peace and joy.

By Max Lacado

God bless!
Love,
Ann

Thursday, February 7, 2008 5:06 PM CST

Hello,

We just got 12 inches of snow here in Wisconsin. We had a winter storm come through here. It started Tuesday night and ended last night around 9:00pm. All the schools were closed yesterday because of the storm. I woke up and looked outside and it looked like the North Pole without the freezing tempertures. Thank God it has been staying in the 30's so far. Two weeks ago we had below freezing weather.


Johnathan is doing okay. He has been on the tired side again lately. But other than that he seems to be doing good. The cold/flu virus has left the building! We are all back to feeling better and back to health again.

Johnathan is getting ready to join the Tennis team again this year. He is really looking forward to it. He had a blast last year. He really loves the game.

Cody, Johnathan's younger brother wants to also join the Tennis team when he starts high school next year. Cody will also be in band, so I don't know how that is going to work. We'll have to see what happens.

Pray that we don't get anymore snow for awhile. This has been a really snowy winter for us so far.

Thanks for all your continued prayers.

God bless!
Love,
Ann

John 14:27
(NLT)
"I am leaving you with a gift-peace
of mind and heart. And the peace I
give isn't like the peace the world
gives. So don't be troubled or afraid.

Sunday, February 3, 2008 9:28 PM CST

Hello,

Just a quick note to let you all know that Johnathan is feeling much better. It's also a little warmer here in Milwaukee today. We did end up getting more snow a few days ago and it's actually snowing again as we speak. Can't wait for winter to be over with! It's been a rough one so far.

Thanks for all your prayers.

God bless!
Love,
Ann

"CALL UPON ME AND I WILL ANSWER YOU AND SHOW YOU GREAT AND MIGHTY THINGS OF WHICH YOU KNOW NOT"

JERIMIAH (33:3)

Wednesday, January 30, 2008 7:49 AM CST

Hello!

It is 35 below wind shield factor and -4 degrees outside today. Johnathan's school was one of the few schools that stayed open today. Johnathan was really bummed. He has a class today that he could not miss, so he had to be there. Our car barely started this morning. It took forever before the heat kicked in. It is dangerously cold out there right now!

My parents are still here. They are still waiting on some things to come together. I know my parents are anxious to move to a warmer climate. It has been so cold this winter. I think this has been the coldest one yet. I'm glad that they are still here, but I know that Texas is where they want to retire. It really has not hit me yet that they are actually leaving Milwaukee.

Johnathan is not coughing as much and is feeling much better. He told me that he hopes that this semester is better than last Semester health wise. On the other hand, his little brother Cody is now sick with a cold/flu. My husband Nathan has a really bad head cold as well. I am praying real hard that I don't get it now.

Thank you for all your prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."

Psalm 46:1

Thursday, January 24, 2008 12:57 AM CST

Hello,

Johnathan has been sick since last weekend. He had been out of school for the past three days. Today he felt good enough to go to school.

This week is exam week. Johnathan felt well enough to take one of his exams this morning. He is able to make up the rest of his exams next week. Johnathan's school and teachers have been so understanding and supportive over the years. I could never thank them enough.

Johnathan just has a cough going on, and seems to be feeling a little better than he did a few days ago. Praying for better days ahead.

Thank you for your continued prayers for Johnathan.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

2 Corinthians 4:16-18

16) Therefore we do not lose heart. Even through our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day.

17) For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.

18)While we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.

Sunday, January 20, 2008 9:46 PM CST

Hello,


Johnathan has a nasty cold/flu. Now I know why he has been feeling lousy this past week. I could tell something was brewing. He has been laying around all weekend and does not have much of an appetite. There is no school on Monday, so Johnathan can have one more day of rest. Then exams start on Tuesday. I pray that he starts to feel better by then.

It's bitter cold here today and the Packers lost. It is a very sad day in Wisconsin. I guess there is always next year right? We are all wondering if Brett Favre is going to be coming back next year. I guess we will have to wait and see. All I know is that Brett Favre did not seem like he was feeling well. He was not himself at all. My heart goes out to him that he threw an interception at the last minute. I am sure he is not a happy camper after he threw the game the a way. Like I said, there is always next year.


Keep Johnathan in your prayers and pray that the rest of the family does not get whatever he has.

PHILIPPIANS 4:13

FOR I CAN DO EVERYTHING WITH THE HELP OF CHRIST WHO GIVES ME THE STRENTH I NEED.

Tuesday, January 15, 2008 10:47 AM CST

Hello,

Johnathan was not feeling well yesterday. He said that he felt like he was going to pass out. He said that he could hardly eat anything at lunch time. I decided to make him his favorite baked chicken dinner for supper and he ended up eating most of it. He started to feel better as the evening went on. There's nothing like a home cooked meal to brighten your day!

Johnathan looked better this morning as he was getting ready for school. He even felt well enough to drive to school today (He has his temps now). He drove pretty good I must say. He is starting to get the hang of what he needs to do while driving. Like remembering to put his blinker on and stopping at the stop sign. I'm not as nervous sitting in the passenger now.

Thank you for your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

2 Chronicles 20:17

"YE SHALL NOT NEED TO FIGHT IN THIS BATTLE; SET YOURSELVES, STAND YE STILL, AND THE SALVATION OF THE THE LORD, WHO IS WITH YOU."

Thursday, January 10, 2008 5:59 PM CST

Hello,


Not much going on. Johnathan is doing great!

We are getting major snow right now as we speak. The snowflakes are huge! The snow is sticking to everything! Not really looking forward to shoveling the snow in the morning. It is pretty though.

Things are going smooth so far and that is a good thing!

Thanks for checking in on Johnathan and for all your prayers.

God bless!
Love,
Ann


Strength for the Journey

Don't worry that you're not strong
enough before you begin.

It's in the journey that God makes you
strong.

Isaiah 58:11
The Lord shall guide thee continually
and satisfy the soul.

Monday, January 7, 2008 10:50 AM CST

Hello,

We are having a good year so far. Johnathan seems to starting off the New Year feeling great! He is eating more, working out again, and gaining back some of the wieght that he lost. I can say that things are much better these days. God is good all the time and all the time God is good!


Went to church yesterday. We had a special speaker. He talked about putting away the old and try to bring in the new in 2008. I think I am going to put that to practice and start to believe that the year 2008 is going to be great!!!!

The weather is crazy here! It is going to get up to 57 today. That is very bazzar around this time of year. All the snow that we got over the holidays is almost all gone. I am not complaining though. I kind of like it, slush and all!

Thanks for your continued prayers!

God bless!
Ann

Here is a song that my church choir is going to sing. It's from the Psalms. Very powerful words.

THOU OH LORD

MANY ARE THEY INCREASED THAT TROUBLE ME,MANY ARE THEY THAT RISE UP AGAIST ME.MANY THEIR BE WHICH SAY OF MY SOUL,
THERE IS NO HELP FOR HIM GOD.

FOR, THOU OF LORD ARE A SHIELD FOR ME,
MY GLORY AND THE LIFTER OF MY HEAD.
THOU, OH LORD ARE A SHIELD FOR ME,
MY GLORY AND THE LIFTER OF MY HEAD.

I CRIED UNTO THE LORD WITH MY VOICE,
AND HE HEARD ME OUT OF HIS HOLY HILL,
I LAY ME DOWN AND SLEPT AND AWAKE,
FOR THE LORD SUSTAINED FOR HE SUSTAINS ME.

Monday, December 31, 2007 7:12 PM CST

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

BELIEVING THAT THINGS WILL BE GREAT

IN 2008!!!!!


LOVE,

THE ECKSTADT'S

NATE&ANN
JOHNATHAN&CODY

Thursday, December 27, 2007 8:32 AM CST

Hello,


We enjoyed a really nice Christmas. My parents came over Christmas Eve. We had Turkey, Ham, Stuffing ect.... It was very good, and very filling. My dad's birthday is on Christmas Eve, so we celebrated his birthday.

Update on My dad and mom selling their house and moving to Texas.

My mom and dad are still awaiting some paperwork, so they probably won't be leaving for another week. We are supposed to get a big snow storm this Friday. They were saying four to eight inches. We live about a mile and a half from Lake Michigan so we get the lake effect snow. Maybe it's a good thing that my mom and dad are not able to leave for Texas this weekend.

Johnathan is doing great! Things are moving in the right direction. God is good!!!

Check out the new pictures!


God Bless!
Love,
Ann

PS
It's our 21st wedding aniversary today. It's hard to fathom that we have been married that long. Yes their has been ups and downs, but we are still together after all these years. It has been tough on us having a sick child, but looking back it has only made us stronger. I thank God for being there for us in our most difficult moments. I thank God everyday for allowing Johnathan to live. I want to thank everyone again for all your contined prayers and support. For without them our family would have not made it this far. Thank-you from the bottom of our hearts.

Wishing you all a very blessed New Year! I am believing that things will be "great" in 2008!

Here is another poem I wrote.

I would like to dedicate it to all who read this website.

GOD's PEACE

I PRAY THAT GODS PEACE WILL SURROUND
YOU THIS DAY.

MAY GOD'S PEACE HELP YOU STAY STRONG.
MAY HIS PEACE SWEEP OVER YOU LIKE A
SWEET ANGEL'S SONG.

MAY GOD'S PEACE HELP YOU IN YOUR TIME
OF SORROW. HE WILL ALWAYS BE THERE FOR
YOU TODAY AND ALL YOUR TOMORROWS.

MAY GOD'S PEACE COMFORT YOU WITH HIS ARMS
FULL OF LOVE. THIS PRAYER I PRAY TO THE
FATHER ABOVE.

BY ANN ECKSTADT (2007)

Thursday, December 20, 2007 1:41 PM CST

Hello,

Johnathan is feeling better and went to school today. I am so glad that all this happened before Christmas and the not the week of. Johnathan's seems to be bouncing back from whatever it was that came on him so fast. It was very bazzar.

I am looking forward to a wonderful holiday spending it with my family. It will be kind of bitter sweet for me this year because my mom and dad are moving down to Texas after Christmas.They want to retire some place warm. It still has not hit me yet that they are actually leaving. I know when it does, I will be crying my eye's out! I am happy that they are leaving after Christmas, so we can spend one more Christmas here together.

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!!!

Thank you for your continued prayers.

God bless!
Love,
Ann

Tuesday, December 18, 2007 10:27 PM CST

UPDATE:12-19-07

Johnathan woke up this morning feeling very weak and tired from yesterday. He stayed home today from school to rest and get his strength back. Please keep him in your prayers today.

Weeping may last for the night, but a shout of Joy comes in the morning.
Psalm 30:5

God bless!
Love,
Ann







Hello,


I had to take Johnathan to the ER today. I got a call from his school nurse today. She told me that Johnathan was in a lot of pain in his upper back. He was also sweating perfusely and throwing up. His pain was about an eight. We ended up being at the ER for about three hours. They gave Johnathan some Zophran (not sure of the spelling) for his nausea. He started to feel better and shortly after that the pain in his back started to subside.

They took some blood tests and his liver enzymes were a little elevated but the doctor said that it was nothing to worry about at this point. I am just glad that Johnathan is feeling better. The doctor felt that Johnathan may have been having muscle spasms in his back. It was just very bazaar how fast it came on and then about two hours later the pain went away.

I got home just in time to make it to ensemble practice. We have been singing Christmas songs every Sunday this month. It has been a neat experience for me because I love to sing.

Please keep Johnathan in your prayers.

God bless!
Love,
Ann


JESUS IN THE REASON FOR THE SEASON!!!!

Monday, December 17, 2007 9:43 AM CST

Hello,

Well, Johnathan's stomach issues are getting a little better. He said that his stomach problems have subsided some what. I am keeping my fingers crossed that by taking him off of the acne medicine he will start to feel much better in the days and weeks to come. I will keep be praying for brighter and better days ahead.


MAY ALL THE GOODNESS OF CHRISTMAS BE
YOURS TO SHARE WITH THOSE YOU LOVE.

Wednesday, December 12, 2007 8:24 PM CST

Hello,

I think I know what might be causing Johnathan's stomach issues.

Johnathan has been going to the Derm doctor for acne. He was perscribed Doxycycline for his facial acne a while back. At first it caused Johnathan to feel very nauseous and dizzy and he even missed school because of it. The doctor told me to stop the drug for awhile and then try to start it up again at a later date. We took Johnathan off of it for about two weeks and then started it back up again. He has been on it consistantly for about a month now. Like I mentioned in his last Journal, Johnathan has had diarrhea for about three weeks. I thought maybe it was because he had the flu a couple weeks ago and that could have messed his stomach up a little bit. I had to go out and buy some pedialyte to replace his lost electrolytes (advice from the doctor). When you have diarrhea that long you can lose a lot of them.

I talked to the Derm doctor today and explained that Johnathan was having diarrhea, headaches and feeling very tired. Those are also some of the side affects from the Doxycycline. He already has been dealing with stomach issues before and I know that the acne drug was probably contributing to it. The doctor also agreed and told me to stop the drug. He told me that Doxycyline is an antibotic and when you are on an antibiotic that long it can reek havok on your digestive system. I told the doctor that Johnathan has had C-Diff in the past from being on prolonged antibiotics during and after his bone marrow transplant. I feel strongly by the looks of it that Johnathan could have a touch of C-diff again.

I asked the doctor if their was another acne drug that Johnathan could take and he said that they pretty much all have the same side affects. He told me to just have Johnathan keep using the perscribed acne cream on his face for now. Johnathan is kind of bummed because he does not want to break out on his face again. On the other hand, I hope by stopping the acne drug that Johnathan's stomach will start to heal and he will start to feel better. I hope that all this is the reason for his compound stomach issues.

Johnathan has been taking Prilosec OTC for acid reflux for a while now. He as also been taking Flora-Jen which is a Probiotic and dietary supplement with Acidophilus. He is also on another probiotic called Sustenex which is considered a probiotic and helps with digestion. I think by Johnathan taking the Doxycycline was not doing him any justice at all.

I called to try to make an appointment with Johnathan's GI doctor and could not get in until Febuary 18th. That is a long ways off, so I called the GI nurse on her voice mail to let her know. Maybe she can get Johnthan in at an earlier date. Johnathan is already seeing his primary doctor for something else next week. I will be mentioning Johnathan's stomach issues to his primary doctor while we are there.

I hope the the Doxycycline is the reason for the Johnathan's stomach issues. I will know in a week or two. I will keep you posted on how he is doing. If taking Johnathan off of the acne drug does not help, I won't stop until I find out why Johnathan keeps having stomach problems. I will never give up. I just want Johnathan to have some kind of relief, so he can live a normal life.

Praying for healthier and better days ahead.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

MAY YOU AND ALL WHOM YOU HOLD DEAR
AT HOME AND FAR AWAY
BE BLESSED WITH LOVE AND WITH CHRISTMAS PEACE
IN THE NEW YEAR.

Tuesday, December 11, 2007 6:28 AM CST

Hello,

I'm doing and feeling better these days. On the other hand, Johnathan still has stomach issues going on. I know that I keep on saying the same thing, but every time he eats it just goes right through him. This is not good. He is losing weight again. My heart goes out to him.

I called the GI clinic yesterday explaining that his stomach issues are back full force. I am just waiting for them to call me back. Please pray that the doctors figure out how to combat this problem, so that Johnathan can try to live a normal life. This has been going on to long. I know it's taking a big toll on him in a big way. He is afraid to eat anything at this point. Please pray for a miracle, so that he can begn to eat normal and gain back some of the weight that he has lost.

Their is no school today because an ice storm is coming our way (SCARY!).


Thanks for all you prayers.

God bless!
Love,
Ann

DO YOU KNOW? HAVE YOU HEARD? THE LORD
IS THE EVERLASTING GOD,THE CREATOR
OF THE ENDS OF THE EARTH.
HE WILL NOT GROW TIRED OR WEARY, AND
HIS UNDERSTANDING NO ONE CAN FATHOM.

Wednesday, December 5, 2007 8:18 AM CST

Hello,

Well, I could not avoid the flu. I got hit with it on Monday. It really knocked me for a loop. I am feeling better, but still feel a little tired. Johnathan's little brother Cody got it over the Weekend. My husband Nathan is the only one that has not been hit with the flu yet. I hope and pray that he will not get it. It was not fun.

Johnathan has not felt the same since he was hit with the flu last week. His stomach has been really bothering him and he has not had an appetite for about a week now. If this continues, I will have to take him back to the doctor. He was not feeling all that well this morning, but managed to go to school in spite of his stomach pain. I wish so bad that I could make his stomach problems disappear because he has been dealing with stomach issues constantly since his BMT back in 2004. I may have to give the GI doctor a call again if it does not get any better. Getting the stomach flu does not seem to be helping matters.

I keep believing that Johnathan will get over this bump in the road for good. I feel so sorry for him because he can't eat some of the foods he likes or he has to make sure he is close to a bathroom. I can't imagine having to deal with that day in and day out. It' hard to live a normal life when you always have stomach pain. Please keep Johnathan in your prayers that this pain will go a way.

I am praying for the day when I can post a good report that Johnathan is finally free of stomach pain. I am hoping and praying for better days ahead.

We really got hit with a lot of snow last night and this morning. It is still snowing as we speak. We are suppose to get up to 10 inches of snow by the time it's over. That is what they perdicted. It was scary driving my kids to school today. People were fish tailing all over the place. It looks like a winter wonderland outside today.

Thank you for all your prayers!

God bless!
Love,
Ann

PSALM 30:11-12 (NLT)

11)YOU HAVE TURNED MY MOURNING INTO JOYFUL DANCING
YOU HAVE TAKEN AWAY MY CLOTHES OF MOURNING AND CLOTHED ME WITH JOY.

12)THAT I MIGHT SING PRAISES TO YOU AND NOT BE SILENT. O LORD MY GOD, I WILL GIVE YOU THANKS.

Thursday, November 29, 2007 9:44 AM CST

Hello,

I know it's been awhile since I last posted.


We had a really nice Thanksgiving. Johnathan and Cody had a blast with their cousins being here. The day after Thanksgiving we all went to the mall with them. We got a little bit of Christmas shopping done while we were there. Their cousins left on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. It was very sad to see them go.

Their is a flu bug going around Johnathan's school. Their were kids throwing up in the halls and in the bathrooms. Johnathan felt like he wanted to throw up as well.

He came home sick with a real bad stomach ache after school yesterday. Needless to say he did not end up going to school today. The neighbor girl that rides with us to school was also sick with the flu today. I am keeping my fingers crossed that it does not spread my way.

We all got our flu shots this year, but the scary thing is, their can be more than one strain of flu out there.

I hope that you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving.

Please say a prayer for Johnathan today.

God bless!
Love,
Ann

WITH GOD ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE!!!!!!

Saturday, November 17, 2007 8:14 PM CST

Hello,

Johnathan is on a roll. He past his driver's ed class and has only five more driving lessons to go. He is really pumped and can't wait to drive on his own (that's just a few months away).

Johnathan's oral glucose test results came back and they were perfect. That is really good news to hear. That is one less thing to worry about at this point.

No more bloody noses either (Knock on wood).

I am feeling better thanks to the doctor prescribing me some antibiotics. I am starting to feel myself again.

I am glad that I got over this cold when I did because Thankgiving is next week and we are having family coming in from out of town and I have a lot to do before they get here. Johnathan and Cody can't wait to see their cousins again. It should be a fun time.

Things are going pretty smooth so far. I hope the trend continues.

Thanks for keeping Johnathan in your prayers.

God bless!
Love,
Ann

MAY THE ROAD RISE UP
TO MEET YOU.
MAY THE WIND BE ALWAYS
AT YOUR BACK.
MAY THE SUN SHINE WARM
UPON YOUR FACE;
THE RAINS FALL SOFT
UPON YOUR FIELDS,
AND UNTIL WE MEET
AGAIN, MAY GOD HOLD
YOU IN THE PALM OF
HIS HAND.

TRADITIONAL GAELIC BLESSING

Wednesday, November 7, 2007 5:13 PM CST

Hello,

I got a call from the ENT doctor yesterday. She wanted to know if Johnatahn's nose had beld anymore. I told her not since I talked to her. The ENT doctor told me to call her back if Johnathan's nose started to bleed again. So far so good.

Johnathan is still practicing his driving. Nathan took him out on the road last weekend. His last day of drivers's ed is Nov. 12th. He will be able to take his driver's test around spring, so hopefully by the Summer he will be driving on his own. That is a scary thought.

Sorry that it has been awhile since I last updated. I have been sick with a really bad head cold since last Friday. I have not been this sick in a very long time. I can't seem to shake it. I don't think I can blow my nose one more time (It's so sore!). Praying for better days ahead.



God bless!
Love,
Ann


TRUST IN GOD'S TIMING. IT'S ALWAYS RIGHT.

Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him.
Psalm 37:7

Monday, October 29, 2007 9:48 PM CDT

Hello,

Johnathan's nose has bled two times since he had it cauterized in the ER last Tuesday. It started bleeding on the way to church in the car this past weekend. Then tonight it started bleeding again. Johnathan said that he started to feel light headed because it took a long time for it to stop bleeding the second time around. I will be calling the ENT doctor tomorrow.

Johnathan thought his bleeding problems were fixed after the ER doctor cauterized his nose last week. He is very bummed that it is starting to bleed again. Johnthan is afraid to blow his nose now.

I will keep you posted as what the ENT doctor has to say and what the next step will be to make Johnathan's nose stop bleeding.

God bless!
Love,
Ann


DON’T QUIT!

DON’T QUIT WHEN THE TIDE IS LOWEST,
FOR IT’S JUST ABOUT TO TURN.

DON’T QUIT OVER DOUBTS AND QUESTIONS,
FOR THERE’S SOEMTHING YOU MAY LEARN.

DON’T QUIT WHEN THE NIGHT IS DARKEST,
FOR IT’S JUST A WHILE ‘TIL DAWN.

DON’T QUIT WHEN YOU’VE RUN THE FARTHEST, FOR THE RACE IS ALMOST WON.

DON’T QUIT WHEN THE HILL IS STEEPEST, FOR YOUR GOAL IS ALMOST NIGH;

DON’T QUIT, FOR YOU’RE NOT A FAILURE, UNTIL YOU FAIL TO TRY.

JILL WOLF

Saturday, October 27, 2007 8:33 PM CDT

Hello,

Johnathan's has had no nose bleeds so far. I am hoping that the cauterization that Johnathan had done at the ER will stop his nose from bleeding for good.

We went to the Derm doctor this past Thursday to find out what kind of rash Johnathan has on his hands and neck. She said it did not look like GVHD (Thank God!). It looked to her like he just had really dry skin. It looks like dry rough patches. The doctor said that he just needs to keep putting the hyporalergenic cream on those areas. If it gets worse she wants us to come back to see her.

We went to the ENT clinic after we saw the Derm doctor. Even though Johnathan got his nose cauterized in the ER, they still wanted to see Johnathan to make sure everything was okay.

Then after that, we came back home and my husband Nathan took Johnathan to take his written driver's test so he could get his temps. Johnathan past his tests with flying colors! I was so happy for him because he was kind of nervous and afraid that he would not pass. Way to go Johnathan! I knew you could do it!!!

This past Friday, Johnathan had to have a Glucose tolerance test done in the morning. It lasted about two and half hours. Then we ate lunch at the mall that was close by. We walked around the mall for a while and then we headed back to Children's hospital to see the Cardiologist.

Johnathan had a Echogram done. The results came back normal. The only thing the doctor said was that Johnathan's wall around his heart was a little thicker than normal, but said it was nothing to worry about. He assured me that Johnathan's heart looks very healthy at this point. (Thank God!)

After Johnathan's appoinment with the Cardiologist, we headed back to the mall and I bought some clothes for Johnathan and then we ate supper at Apple Bees. It ended up to be a very good day.

I want to thank everyone for your prayers and encouraging words.

God bless!
Ann

The Lord your God will go ahead of you.
He will neither fail you nor forsake you.

Deuteronomy 31:6 (NLT)

Tuesday, October 23, 2007 10:24 AM CDT

Hello,

UPDATE:OCTOBER 23, 2007 9:00PM

WE JUST GOT BACK FROM THE ER. JOHNATHAN'S NOSE STARTED TO BLEED AGAIN AND WOULDN'T STOP. I CALLED THE ENT CLINIC TO LET THEM KNOW AND THEY TOLD ME TO BRING HIM TO THE ER RIGHT AWAY. JOHNATHAN ENDED UP GETTING HIS NOSE CAUTERIZED IN BOTH NOTRILS.

THE ER DOCTOR WOULD NOT DO IT AT FIRST, SO I ENDED UP HAVING TO GO OUT INTO THE LOBBY AND CALL THE ENT DOCTOR ON CALL. I TOLD HIM THAT THE ENT CLINIC TOLD ME TO BRING JOHNATHAN TO THE ER TO GET HIS NOSE CAUTERIZED. I ALSO TOLD HIM ABOUT JOHNATHAN HAVING TO HAVE THIS DONE IN THE PAST AND THAT JOHNATHAN WAS AFRAID TO SLEEP AT NIGHT FOR FEAR HIS NOSE WOULD START TO BLEED AGAIN.

I ALSO ASKED THE ENT DOCTOR ON CALL IF THE ENT CLINIC EVER CALLED HIM TO LET HIM KNOW THAT WE WERE COMING TO THE ER AND WHY. HE SAID THAT HE NEVER GOT A CALL. THE ENT CLINIC SAID THAT THEY WERE GOING TO MAKE SURE THEY CALLED,BUT NEVER DID.

I WAS NOT SURPRIZED BY THIS, BECAUSE THEIR SEEMS TO ALWAYS BE SOME KIND OF BREAK DOWN IN COMMUNICATION EVERY TIME I HAVE GONE TO THE ER IN THE PAST.

THE ENT DOCTOR ON CALL TOLD ME THAT HE WOULD CALL THE ER DOCTOR RIGHT AWAY AND EXPLAIN WHY JOHNATHAN NEEDED TO HAVE THIS DONE. SHORTLY AFTER THAT THE ER DOCTOR CAME IN AND APOLOGIZED FOR THE CONFUSION AND ENDED UP CAUTERIZING JOHNATHAN'S NOSE.BY THE TIME HE DID THIS WE WERE ALREADY THERE FOR THREE HOURS. IT TOOK HIM LESS THEN 10 MINUTES TO DO THE PROCEDURE.

JOHNATHAN'S BLOOD PRESSURE DROPPED A LITTLE BIT AND THEN WENT BACK UP,SO THEY SAID THAT HE DID NOT NEED ANY FLUIDS. I BROUGHT A GATORAIDE WITH ME AND THANK GOD I DID. I TOLD JOHNATHAN TO DRINK AS MUCH AS HE COULD. I AM CONVINCED THAT IS PROBABLY WHY JOHNATHAN'S BLOOD PRESSURE WENT BACK UP. I DON'T KNOW WHY THEY HAD TO TAKE SO LONG TO DECIDE WHETHER TO GIVE HIM FLUIDS OR NOT. I THINK THEY SHOULD HAVE GIVEN HIM THE FLUIDS RIGHT AWAY BECAUSE HE WAS FEELING WEAK AND DIZZY WHEN WE FIRST GOT THERE.

EVERY TIME I GO TO THE ER THEY START ASKING ABOUT JOHNATHAN'S HISTORY AND THEN THEY START TO FREAK OUT AND DON'T WANT TO TOUCH HIM. THAT'S ONE OF THE REASONS WHY I HAD TO CALL THE ENT DOCTOR ON CALL RIGHT AWAY.

IT WAS A VERY STRESSFUL THREE AND A HALF HOURS TO SAY THE LEAST. I AM SO GLAD THAT IT'S OVER AND WE ARE BACK HOME SAFE AND SOUND.

THE ER DOCTOR ALSO ORDERED A CBC TO MAKE SURE JOHNATHAN'S PLATELETS WERE OKAY. THEY WERE 250,000 (AWESOME!), SO THEN WE FINALLY GOT THE GREEN LIGHT TO GO HOME.

WE STILL HAVE TO GO TO THE ENT DOCTOR THIS THURSDAY FOR A FOLLOW-UP NOW FROM THE ER, SO I JUST KEPT THE SAME APPOINTMENT TIME FOR THAT DAY. PLEASE KEEP JOHNATHAN IN YOUR PRAYERS.

THIS TO SHALL PASS!!!

I AM GOING TO GO CRASH NOW. I AM SOOOO TIRED!!

GOD BLESS!
LOVE,
ANN

Johnathan is home sick today. He contracted a viral infection over the weekend. He did try and go to school yesterday,but had to go to the nurses offices soon after he got there because he could not stop coughing in class. The nurse took his his temperature and he ended up also having a fever, so he called me to come and pick him up.

I was able to get Johnathan into see the doctor after I picked him up from school. They tested him for strep throat and it came back negative. The doctor said that it just looks like he has a bad viral infection. She recommened Nyquil at this point and if Johnathan get's worse she will probably have to perscribe an antibiotic.

I walked into Johnathan's room this morning to see how he was doing. I looked down at his wastebasket and it was full to the brim with bloody kleenex. He said he woke up in the middle of the night with a bloody nose and that it took about 30 minutes for it to stop. He said that a lot of blood came out of his nose. I asked him why he didn't wake me up. He said that that he didn't want to.

Johnathan already has an appointment set up with the ENT this Thursday to have his nose cauterized. He had to have the same thing done last year at this time.

Johnathan also has to see the Derm because he has some kind of rash on his hands neck and stomach. I took him to the primary doctor twice and the doctor suggested that I take Johnathan to see the Derm doctor. I am just thinking that he may be just dry skin, but somewhere in the back of my mind I keep thinking, what if it's GVHD of the skin??? He has had GVHD of the skin shortly after his transplnat and it came back in the beginning of this year as well. He will be seeing the Derm doctor this Thursday morning.

Johnathan also has to have an oral glucose test this Friday morning. Minnesota wanted Johnathan to have this done. It's part of his three year post check-up tests that he has to have every year. We couldn't go up there this year because our insurance company said that they were out of network, so all his tests had to be done here.

We also have to see the Cardiologists later in the afternoon this Thursday. Please pray for a good report.
Johnathan won't be missing any school Thursday and Friday because their will be Teacher's convention those two days.

In the midst of these appointments, we have to try and sqeeze time in for Johnathan to take his written driver's test.

Johnathan told me the other day that he is sick of always feeling sick. He told me even though he feels this way most of the time, he tries to muster up enough energy get through the day. It's kind of like MIND OVER MATTER. I keep praying that God will give him the strength that he needs and the stamina that he needs, so he can start to live a normal and healthy life like everyone else.

I have said this many times before, that Johnathan has come a long ways and that I thank God every day that Johanthan is still here with us. He may have had setbacks here and there, but has been able to over come them some how.

I am really praying that Johnathan will start to feel better all the way around. He is still tired all the time, but still pushes himself every day. He still gets fatigue at times, but he still forges on. He still deals with stomach issues, but still keeps trying to eat to gain some more wieght. It's a stuggle at times for Johnathan, but I am so proud of him that he is not willing to give up no matter what comes his way.

I will never give up on hope because hope is what keeps us going. Hope is what helps us feel that better days are on the way. Hope helps us hold on when we can't. Hope comforts us and helps us never to give up.

I thank God that we have a hope in him and that He will be there for us when we are on the mountain and when we are in the valley below. I believe that God is my hope.



Thank you for your continued prayers and support.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

MOUNTAINTOPS ARE FOR VIEWS AND INSPIRATION,BUT FRUIT IS GROWN IN THE VALLEYS.

-BILLY GRAHAM

Sunday, October 14, 2007 2:22 PM CDT

Hello,

Johnathan has to finish the rest of his Neuropsychogical
Evaluation tomorrow morning. I am hoping that this will be the last of the testing (will keep you posted).





REFRESH YOUR SPIRIT:


THE MIRACLE, OR THE POWER, THAT ELEVATES THE FEW IS TO BE FOUND IN THEIR INDUSTRY, APPLICATIONS, AND PERSEVERANCE UNDER THE PROMPTING OF A BRAVE, DETERMINED SPIRIT.

MARK TWAIN


THE LAW OF THE LORD IS PERFECT,
REVIVING THE SOUL.

THE STATUES OF THE LORD ARE TRUSTWORTHY,
MAKING WISE THE SIMPLE.

THE PRECEPTS OF THE LORD ARE RIGHT,
GIVING JOY TO THE HEART.

THE COMMANDS OF THE LORD ARE RADIANT,
GIVING LIGHT TO THE EYES.

PSALM 19:7-8


CALM BEGINS IN OUR OWN SPIRTS, AS GOD GIVES US HIS PEACE. THE WORLD AROUND US MAY BE CHAOTIC, BUT WE CAN EXPERIENCE CALM IN OUR HEARTS THROUGH HIS STRENGTH AND POWER.


POSITIVE SAYINGS FROM THE BOOK,"A POSITIVE PLAN FOR CREATING MORE CALM, LESS STRESS."
BY KAROL LADD

GOD BLESS!
ANN

Wednesday, October 10, 2007 3:19 PM CDT

Hello,


Johnathan got behind the wheel for the first time the other day. I'm not going to lie, I was a little nervous. He did break a lot and went a little to fast when he was taking the corners. I kept telling him to slow down because I was starting to get car sick (We went out to eat about an hour before and my breakfast was starting to come up in my throat). When I think about it, it was kind of funny, because I kept saying, "I think I'm going to throw-up! Don't break so hard! Slow down! Watch out for that pot hole!" It was very comical to say the least.

All and all,I think he did pretty good for the first time being behind the wheel. Now I know what my parents must have felt when I was learning how to drive.

Johnathan got his first taste of independence learning how to drive. Even though it was a little nerve racking, I tried to cherish the moment. He has come a long way from July 7th 2004.

Even though we have been having to go to a lot of doctor's appointments lately, we still try to live life as normal as possible.

I just want to say that in my last e-mail, I was just venting to try and get some stuff off my chest again. I am going to try to be more positive and remind myself that Johnathan is still here with us and that is a miracle in itself. He is one true survivor.

God bless!
Ann


WHEN YOU CAN'T SEE THE LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL, TURN TO THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD.

Monday, October 8, 2007 12:20 AM CDT

Hello,

I just got off the phone with the Derm doctor. Johnathan could be be having these headaches and nausea from a perscription that he has just started taking to clear up his face. It's called Doxycycline. He has had many of the side effects that this drug can cause Like, Nausea, Diarrhea, Vomiting, Upset stomach, Loss of appetite, and unusual headaches.


Johnathan started to feel better by the afternoon yesterday and then this morning I gave him the Doxycycline and 10 minutes later he started to feel sick again. That confirmed to me that he was having a reaction to the drug.

The Derm doctor told me to stop the drug for two weeks and let it get out of his system. She said to try it again after two weeks and if he gets sick, you know that it's from he drug. I told her that I don't think that I am going to give him the drug anymore. I don't feel comfortable with him taking the drug. I don't want him to get sick again and have to miss school. I told her that I think that Johnathan should just continue using the topical cream on his face for now.

I thought that maybe Johnathan got food poisoning or a flu bug, but now it is making more sense to me, that it has to be from the acne drug that he was taking.

I also got a call from the ENT nurse today and Johnathan's CT scan results of his sinuses looks good and is all clear. The ENT doctor wants Johnathan to have some allergy tests done. He thinks allergies could be the reason for Johnathan's hacking and blowing all the time.

I also got a call back from the Neuro Doctor this morning. She wants Johnathan to come back for more Neuropsychological Evaluation testing on the 15th. He will have to miss more school (not good).

I have to some how squeeze in an oral glucose test in the middle of seeing all these doctors. Will it ever end??? I don't know. I wish I had the answer for that.

At the end of this month Johnathan also has to see the Cardiologist because they found something abnormal on his last EKG test.

At our last visit with the BMT doctor she wanted Johnathan to see an orthopedic doctor for his bones because his whole body bone density test showed that his bones were not that strong for his age.

I can't keep up with all this right now. It is getting very overwhelming. Please make it stop!!! Maybe I will have to say no more. I don't know??? I am having a hard time dealing with so many doctor's at once. I can't keep track anymore. I can literally say I am at the end of my rope!!

Please keep our family in your prayers.

God Bless.
Ann

Sunday, October 7, 2007 2:05 PM CDT

UPDATE:10-08-07 (today)


Johnathan woke up sick again this morning. His stomach is hurting him again. He tried to throw-up but nothing came up. He can't eat anything at this poiont and he has a major headache.

I am going to call the doctor today. I know that weird viruses are going around and strep throat. Maybe Johnathan has a virus instead of possible food poinsoning. I don't know???

All I know is that he did not look good again this morning and said that he could not make it to school today.

Johnathan is bummed because he did not want to miss school or driver's ed today. You can only miss driver's ed class two times.

Please pray for better days ahead.

God bless!
Ann


Hello, (yesterday 10-07-07)


Johnathan went to the have a CT scan this past Saturday. The results should be back on Monday. Will keep you posted.


Johnathan got up this morning feeling sick to his stomach. He started throwing up. He threw-up so hard that his nose started to bleed. Johnthan thinks that it was maybe the eggs that he had yesterday at the restuarant where we ate for breakfast. Johnathan said the eggs tasted a little funny, so he could have maybe gotten a touch of food poisoning.

It's the afternoon and Johnathan told me that he is starting to feel better (he just feels a little tired). I was so happy to hear that he was feeling better because I did not want him to miss anymore school. He has missed so much school due to doctor appointments this year already. I am just relieved that he is not feeling sick anymore.


Thank you for your continued prayers for Johnathan and checking in on his site:o)

God bless!
Love,
Ann

DON'T WORRY BE HAPPY!

DON'T WORRY ABOUT ANYTHING;
INSTEAD, PRAY ABOUT EVERYTHING.
TELL GOD WHAT YOU NEED, AND THANK
HIM FOR ALL HE HAS DONE. IF YOU
DO THIS, YOU WILL EXPERIENCE GOD'S
PEACE.
PHILIPPIANS 4:6

Tuesday, October 2, 2007 9:19 AM CDT

Hello,



Johnathan went to a homecoming football game this past weekend. He had a blast, but ended up getting a touch of laryngitis from screaming for his team to win. They ended up winning! Don't remember the score, but they creamed the other team.


We are still waiting for a call from the Neuro doctor.

I will be taking Johnathan to get a Oral glucose test next week.

John will also be getting a CT scan this Saturday.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann


WHERE GOD GUIDES HE PROVIDES.

"WHEN YOU PASS THROUGH THE WATERS I WILL BE WITH YOU...
FOR I AM THE LORD YOUR GOD.... YOU ARE PRECIOUS IN MY SIGHT....AND I LOVE YOU."

ISAIAH 43:2-4

Friday, September 28, 2007 6:31 PM CDT

Hello,

We went to the BMT clinic and ENT Clinic this week for a check-up. Johnathan had to have his yearly scope down his throat. Everything looked pretty good. The ENT doctor did noticed some swelling in the lower part of his throat, but thinks it is because of all his hacking and snorting due to his sinuses. He wants Johnathan to come back in three months to have another scope done again.

Johnathan may be getting surgery on his sinuses soon. He has to have a CT scan of the sinuses on October 6th. I will keep you posted with the results.

Johnathan may also have to double up on his Calcium now. His last whole body bone density test that was done three weeks ago showed that his bones are not that strong. The doctor was very concerned about the standard deviations results from the test because they are below normal for Johnathan's age. She recommended Johnathan to see an Ortho doctor. Johnathan was very bummed about this.


Yesterday we were at the Neuroscience clinic for eight hours. Johnathan had to have a Neuropsychological Evaluation. The BMT doctor thought it would be a good idea to have this done because Johnathan had chemo in the past. Johnathan has been feeling fatigue off and on since his transplant and it's makes it hard for him to focus at times. The evaluation test will help the show the doctor where Johnathan's deficit is.

We may have to go back again for more testing next week. We are waiting for the the Neuro doctor to call us back. According to the doctor, Johnathan has doing well on his evaluation testing so far.

Johnathan also has to have a Oral glucose tolerance test in the next week or so. He has to probably miss school again for that. He has to fast and have it done early in the morning.The reason why he is having this done is, Fanconi patients are more susceptible of getting surgar diabetes.

Johnathan has missed so much school this year already. I feel like I am on a merry-go-around and I can't get off. I feel like when we see one doctor they take some tests and then they find something wrong and then we are referred to another doctor and so on and so on. It's really taking It's toll. I feel like I am in a maze and I can't find my way out. It has become a burden that seems to be getting heavier with each passing day.

I just keep on going because I have no choice. I want my son to feel better and I will do whatever it takes for him to have a better life. I am hoping by the time he goes to college that most of his health issues will be taken care of. I am praying for that. I am hoping and praying by then, he will be stronger and that he starts to feel like an average person. I am believing that with all my heart.

Yesterday when we got home from the hospital. I was so tired that I ended up going to bed by 7:30. I have to be really tired to be in bed that early. The funny thing is, I still feel really tired. Maybe it's because I am getting older. I will be 42 next Wednesday October 3rd. I think it's a combination of stress and getting older.


Johanathan is doing pretty good in spite of all that has been going on the past few weeks. Like having surgery and multiple doctor appointments. He is still trying to enjoy his teenage years the best he can. He is at his school's Homecoming football game as we speak. I hope he is having a good time. GO KNIGHTS!!!

Here is Johnathan's latest blood counts.

WBC's 8,500
RBC's 5,000
Hemoglobin 16.1
Platelets 250,000
ANC 4,000

Please keep Johnathan in your prayers. He is stressing with all these doctors appointments and also having to worry about his recent health issues. All this stuff with his bone age, his last EKG results, more testing,and GVHD are really taking a toll on him. It's not only affecting him physically, but mentally as well. Please pray that God will give him the strength that he needs right now. He just wants to get over this bump in the road and get on with his life. I know that this to shall pass. I pray that the dust will settle soon and for better days ahead.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann


BUT THEY THAT WAIT UPON THE LORD SHALL RENEW THEIR STRENGTH
THEY SHALL MOUNT UP WITH WINGS AS EAGLES, THEY SHALL RUN AND NOT BE WEARY, THEY SHALL WALK AND NOT FAINT.

ISAIHA 40:31

Thursday, September 20, 2007 9:31 PM CDT

Hello,

Johnathan will be going to the ENT and BMT doctor next Tuesday. I will keep you all posted.


Johnathan seems to be doing okay. I think he is getting his little brother's cold though. There's been a lot of hacking and coughing around here lately.

We have had real nice weather all this week so far. Tomorrow is suppose to be in the high 80's. We are going to go swimming for one last time tomorrow, then we will be closing our pool up for the Winter. It's sad that Summer has come and gone already.

Thanks for keeping Johnathan in your prayers.

God bless!
Love,
Ann

TRUST-IN HIS TIMING

RELY-ON HIS PROMISES

WAIT-FOR HIS ANSWERS

BELIEVE-IN HIS MIRACLES

REJOICE-IN HIS GOODNESS

RELAX-IN HIS PRESENCE

COME NEAR TO GOD AND HE WILL COME NEAR TO YOU.
JAMES 4:8

Thursday, September 13, 2007 10:24 AM CDT

Hello,



Johnathan seems to be handling the news about his GVHD a little better this week. He does not have a nervous stomach anymore. I am praying for better days ahead.

We are seeing the ENT and BMT doctor next week.I will keep you posted.

Thank you for all your continued prayers. WE FEEL THEM!!!


God bless!
Love,
Ann

PS I have to be honest with you, that it has not been easy since we heard Johnthan has GVHD again. I know it's mild, but I can't help but worry. I guess that's part of being a mom. I felt inspired to write this poem. I love writing poems, because it is like a therapy for me. This poem just came to me from my heart and I wanted to share it with you.


LORD, HOLD ME AND KEEP ME
FROM WORRYING SO MUCH
TODAY.YOUR STRENGTH IS WHAT I
NEED, LORD HEAR ME NOW
I PRAY.

LORD, PLEASE TAKE THESE BURDENS
FROM ME, JUST TAKE THEM
ALL AWAY.LORD,MY HEART IS HEAVY,
PLEASE TELL ME IT WILL BE
OKAY.

LORD, I KNOW YOU SAID YOU
WOULD BE THERE AND I
SHOULD NEVER HAVE TO FEAR.
I KNOW YOU ARE WITH ME
ALWAYS,EVEN WHEN I SHED
A TEAR.

LORD, I NEED YOU,I NEED YOU
HERE RIGHT NOW. I ALWAYS KNOW WITH
YOU BY MY SIDE, I WILL MAKE IT
THROUGH SOMEHOW.

POEM BY:
ANN ECKSTADT (9-13-07)

Thursday, September 6, 2007 10:57 PM CDT

Hello,

Friday 9-07-07

UPDATE: Johnathan called me around 9:30 from school this morning. He told me that his stomach was really hurting him and that he couldn't stop going to the bathroom. I asked him if he could try to sweat it out until the end of the school day, but he was afraid to hang around school feeling that way he was feeling, so I went and picked him up.

I don't know if Johnathan's stomach is acting up again or the fact that he may be kind of nervous about having to to walk around with GVHD in his liver. Not knowing if it will get worse or just hang around for awhile. I can only imagine what must be going on inside his head right now.

My heart goes out to Johnathan because he can't be a normal teenager and just worry about normal things that teenagers worry or think about. The first week of school can be stressful on anyone, but having to worry about your health on top of it all, can add even more stress.

Thank you for signing Johnathan's guestbook. Thank you for all your kind and encouraging words.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann


Hello,

We were at the doctor's today. We found out the results of the liver biopsy. We were told that Johnathan has GVHD of the liver.

The doctor said that it was a mild case of GVHD (GVHD is when the body starts to reject the new donor cells). The doctor told us not to worry at this point. He said I need to bring Johnathan in for blood tests periodically to check his liver enzyme levels. He does not need to be treated as of yet, but if his levels continue to go up, then it's time to worry and then start some kind of treatment.

We have been down this road before with Johanathan having to deal with GVHD of the GI track and that was a more serious case. That was a very scary time for all of us.

It was not great news to hear that your son has GVHD again, but I am thankful that it is only a mild case this time.

I believe in my heart that we will get over this bump in the road once agian. We have gotten over many in the past. I know we will try our hardest to get over this recent bump as well.

Johnathan was a little bummed about the news and told me that he can't keep worrying about his body anymore. He seemed kind of weary today (I know I was). Please say a little prayer for him, so that God will give him peace and some calmness about the whole thing.

Thank you for your prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

EVERY EVENING I TURN MY WORRIES OVER TO GOD, HE'S GOING TO BE UP ALL NIGHT ANYWAY.
Mary C. Crowley

CAST YOUR CARES ON THE LORD AND HE WILL SUSTAIN YOU; HE WILL NEVER LET THE RIGHTIOUS FALL.

PSALM 55:22 (NIV)

Thursday, August 30, 2007 3:12 PM CDT

Hello to all,

I just wanted to let you know that all went well with Johnatahn's liver biopsy. He came home from the hospital today. He just needs to take it easy for the next couple of days and follow-up with the doctor in a week or so.


The last two days were very tiring, but we made it through it once again. Johnathan was a trooper and a half! I know that I have said this before, but I would take his place in a heart beat! No one wants to see their child go through any type of surgery or pain. It can be very stressful at times.

I just want to thank everyone for all your PRAYERS and SUPPORT.

WE FEEL YOUR PRAYERS!

God bless!
Love,
Ann


PSALM 9:1-2

1)I WILL THANK YOU,LORD WITH ALL MY HEART;
I WILL TELL OF ALL THE MARVELOUS THINGS YOU
HAVE DONE.

2)I WILL BE FILLED WITH JOY BECAUSE
OF YOU. I WILL SING PRAISES TO YOUR NAME, OH
MOST HIGH.

Friday, August 24, 2007 11:50 AM CDT

Hello,

Johnathan will be having his liver biopsy done next Wednesday the 29th. He will possibly being staying over night. Please pray that all goes well. We have to be there at 7:30 in the morning. So that means we have to leave here at 6:30 or so. That is early for me. I guess it will get me prepared for when school starts, because Johnathan has to be to school by 7:30 every morning.

He will be seeing the Cardiologist at the end of October. That is how far booked they are. The doctor said that he felt that it was nothing to get to worried about and felt that was a reasobable time frame to see the Heart Specialist. On the other hand if Johnathan starts to feel any pain, they will get him in right away.

Dr. Martinez (the GI doctor) who ordered the EKG feels that the latest results could be related to his bone marrow transplant. He felt that it wasn't something that ocurred over a long period of time.

Even though the Primary doctor was not to concerned with the EKG results and Dr.Martinez also did not seem to excited at this point. I am trying to stay neutral until we find out more at the Cadiologist appointment.


Thank you for your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

PS Please say a prayer for me. Feeling a little stressed out these days. It feels like it is never ending with doctors and specialists visits. I know Johanthan is also feeling tired and weary of constant doctors visits and weird things alway happening to his body. It takes it's toll some times and I know that I am feeling it right now. I am trying to keep my head above water, but I feel like I am slowly sinking. I know I have to keep treddng water and keep praying for a cure for Johnathan. On the other hand, I am so thankful that Johnathan is still here in spite everything that he has had to go through. Like I said, I'm just stressing a little bit. Please pray for peace and some calmness in my life. Life is sure full of surprises, some good and some bad. Just had to get some stuff off my chest again. I feel a little lighter now.

Tuesday, August 21, 2007 3:03 PM CDT

Hello,

We saw Johnathan's primary doctor yesterday. We discussed the EKG results with him. The doctor said that he was not to worried about the abnormal results just yet. He did feel that Johnathan should see a Cardiologist to make sure that everything is okay. I was told when we do see the Cardiologist that the appointment could take up to two hours long.

I am not worrying as much today. I pray that it is nothing and that everything will be okay.

I am still waiting for a call to set up Johnathan's liver biopsy. I guess when Johnathan does have his biopsy, they want him to stay over night as a procaution.

We also found out while we were at the doctor's office that Johnathan has an ear infection. So the doctor put him on antibiotics. When is rains it poors.

Thanks again for all your prayers.

God bless!
Love,
Ann

THE DOCTORS ARE THE WORKERS, BUT GOD IS THE HEALER!

Saturday, August 18, 2007 11:03 PM CDT

Hello,

I got a disturbing phone call from the GI clinic yesterday. I actually heard the message today on my voice mail. It was Rosa the nurse who works under Dr. Matinez in the GI clinic at Children's hospital.

She told me that the results of Johnathan's EKG were normal in one area and he can now start the medication for his intestinal track. There was another part of the EKG that showed that one of Johnathan's Valves looked abnormal. We have to see Johnathan's primary doctor on Monday the 20th and get a referral to see a Cadiologist. I am trying not to worry, but it's hard not to.

The nurse also told me that Johnathan's liver enzymes were still elevated and that he will have to have a liver biopsy done soon. So I have to set all this up in the next week or so. I will keep you all posted.

I told Johnathan the news about what the nurse said. He was really bummed out and it kind of took the wind out of his sails. He told me that their is to many things that keep going on with his body. He was just starting to get excited about school and drivers ed ect... and Wham! Please keep Johnathan in your prayers.

I told Johnathan not to worry until we find out what is going on. I have to keep telling myself that as well.

I hope and pray that it's not seroius and if their is something wrong, I am hoping that they will be able to treat it.

I also have to keep telling myself that God is in control and I have to just trust in Him. I have been in this place before where you feel like you have no control and you start to think the worst. Once again, I have to tell myself to just take one day at a time and hold on to God's unchanging hand.

Thank you for all your prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

"Therefore, I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours” (Mark 11:24, NIV).

Wednesday, August 8, 2007 8:02 AM CDT

UPDATE!

Friday August 10,2007

I had so much to say in my last journal update that I forgot to tell you that Johnathan grew some. He was Five one,and now he is Five one and a quarter. God is good!

There is no limitations with God. There is nothing He cannot do. With God all things are possible!!!



Hello,

I took Johnathan to the GI doctor yesterday for another check-up. I told the doctor that Johnathan was still having stomach problems. He wants to try to put him on very low dose of Amitriptylin to help relax his intestinal track and slow it down. Usaully right after Johnathan eats a meal he needs to find the nearest bathroom right away.

Also every once in a while he gets very bad pains in his stomach that are unbareable at times. Johnathan told me that it feels like he is going to die. That is how painful it gets.

Johnathan had to get a EKG yesterday before they start him on the Amitriptypin. I guess the last one he had a few years back showed a long pause at times with the beat of his heart. Like a murmer. The doctor was not to worried about it, but did do not want to take any chances by giving the medicine and causing something to happen to his heart. I will keep you posted with the results.

When Johnathan was little the doctor also thought that Johnathan might have had a slight heart murmer. The doctor said that is what it sounded like to him and that was many years ago. If the results come back funny again. I am going to make an appoinment with a heart specialist.

Johnathan also had some lab work done to have his liver counts checked. I will keep you posted.

The only things that Johnathan seems to still be dealing with since the transplant are feeling fatigued and stomach issues. He doesn't seem to let that stop him from doing all the things that he wants to do, like playing tennis, riding his bike, playing basketball, and hanging out with his friends.

I know it will take awhile for Johnathan's strength to get to a 100 percent and his stomach to heal, but you would never know he had these problems, because he is so active. He just keeps on pushing himself.

Johnathan told me that he wants try to live his life to the fullest every day. He keeps telling me that he does not know how much longer he has to live. I told him that he will live a long time and that God did not bring you this far to leave him. I just try to put it in God's hand's and keep on believing for a long, healthy, happy life for Johnathan.

Today Johnathan might be going to State Fair with some friends. He loves going to the State Fair and playing the games and winnng prizes. His favorite game is seeing how many basketballs he cen get in the hoop. He won several prizes last year playing that game.

I also took Johnathan to resgister for school yesterday morning. He will be going into 11th grade. It was kind of hard to get up this morning because we just got back from vacation the day before. We went to Sounthern Illinois to visit relatives. Johnathan got to see his cousins again and they all had a great time just hanging out together. They stayed up late every night and then went swimming during the day. They have a inground pool in there back yard.

My Mother-in-law's surprise 75th birthday party went well. She did not have a clue. She walked in the room and her mouth just dropped. The best present she got was a mother's ring from all her kids. It was beautiful! We all had a very nice time at the party. It was a fun weekend all around.

Getting back to the school thing. I not only registered Johnathan for school yesterday. I also signed Johnathan up for drivers ed for the Fall. He is very nervous, but excited at the same time. He can't wait to learn how to drive. On the other hand I am just holding my breath and trying not to worry to much.

I can't believe he is going to be driving soon. I never thought this day would come for many reasons. I just thank God that Johnathan is still here and is able to learn to drive just like every other teenager his age. God is good all the time and all the time God is good!!!!

This Summer has gone by so fast. School is just around the corner. I am going to try to savor every last moment of the Summer because it's going to be gone before we know it. I'm going to try to go swimming in our pool today and just try to relax.

Thank you for your continued prayers for Johnathan.

God bless!
Love,
Ann



STRENGTHEN ME GOD

LORD GOD, YOU WHO ONCE COMMANDED THE LIGHT TO SHINE FORTH OUT OF DARKNESS, ENABLE A BRIGHT LIGHT TO ALSO SPRING UP IN MY HEART THAT I MAY KNOW AND FEEL YOUR CONTINUAL PRESENCE AND COMPANIONSHIP IN MY LIFE.

GOD OF ALL LIFE, BREATH UPON ME WITH YOUR CALM; LIFT THE BURDEN FROM MY HEART, SOOTHE THE ANXIETIES IN MY SOUL. HELP ME TO STAND IN THE SHADOWS OF YOUR WINGS, TO LOOK OUT WITH NEW VISION.

STRENGTHEN MY FAITH, RENEW MY HOPE, AND GIVE ME COURAGE.I NOW BRING TO YOU, O GOD, MY SILENT THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS...

PRAYER BY: REV. LAURA KELLY

Thursday, August 2, 2007 10:42 PM CDT

Hello,

We are heading out tomorrow to take my Mother-in-law back to Southern Illinois. She lives there with Nathan's older brother David. We will be having a surpise 75th birthday party for her while we are there. It should be a fun time.

Johnathan just had a thyroid blood test again and his level has stabilized, but if he goes off the medication it could go down again. He will have to take thyroid pills the rest of his life now. That is what the doctor told me.

All and all Johnathan is doing well in spite of his stomach issues. We are seeing the GI doctor next Tuesday. I will be asking the GI doctor if there is anything he could give Johnathan to help his stomach. It just doesn't seem to be letting up. I will keep you posted.

I hope everyone is having a great Summer so far. Mine has been very busy and fun at the same time.

Thank you all for your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Like the deer that yearns for
the running streams,
so my soul is yearning
for you my God.

Psalm 42:1

Saturday, July 21, 2007 2:57 PM CDT

Hello,

We have health insurance now. I can't believe that it took almost three weeks, but we are finally covered and that is all that matters.

Our new insurance is great,but they will not cover us if we go up to Minnesota because it is out of their network. We have to have Johnthan get tested here at Children's hospital of Wisconsin and then his doctors here will have to send the results up to Minnesota.

Johnathan was really bummed that we weren't going to be able to go up to Minnesota. He really wanted to visit the 4th floor where he had his transplant to say hi all the nurses and doctors that took care of him.

Maybe we could still go up there some time and pop in to say hello and then visit the RMH as well.We could make a vacation out of it. We could also visit my Aunt Leslie while we are up there as well. Minnesota is only about Six hours from Milwaukee.

Johnathan is still dealing with stomach issues. He still has to avoid certain foods or he will pay for it later.

Thank you for keeping Johnathan in your prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Thursday, July 12, 2007 10:20 AM CDT

Hello,


Johnathan has one more day of Tennis Camp. He wishes it was longer. Johnathan told me that this Summer is going by way to fast. I feel the same way. I can't believe that it is mid July already.

Next week is Cody's last week of Summer school and Summer band. Then the Summer will finally begin for him.

My Mother-in-law is coming next Friday and staying with us a week. Then we are going to take her home to Sounthern Illinois where she lives with Nathan's older brother David. We will be staying there fora few days to visit with everyone. It should be a fun time. Johnathan and Cody will be able to see his cousins Victoria, Kristen, and Shauna.

All and all Johnathan is enjoying the Summer. He seems to live every day the fullest. He loves life and the outdoors and just hanging out with his friends playing Tennis and basketball. Every day with Johnathan is a gift from God.

Hope you all are enjoying the Summer.

Thanks for your continued prayers.

God bless!
Love,
Ann

I GIVE THIS DAY TO YOU, GOD

DEAR GOD, I GIVE THIS DAY TO YOU,
THE FRUIT OF MY LABOR AND THE DESIRES
OF MY HEART.
IN YOUR HAND I PLACE ALL QUESTIONS,
ON YOU SHOULDERS I PLACE ALL BURDENS.
I PRAY FOR MY FAMILY AND FOR MYSELF.
MAY WE ALL BE BLESSED.
MAY WE FIND OUR WAY HOME,
FROM THE PAIN TO PEACE,
FROM FEAR TO LOVE.

PRAYER BY: MARIANNE WILLIAMSON

Saturday, July 7, 2007 11:32 AM CDT

HELLO!!!


TODAY IS JOHNATHAN'S THREE YEAR POST TRANSPLANT RE-BIRTHDAY. HAPPY THIRD BIRTHDAY TO YOU JOHNATHAN! WE LOVE YOU AND WE ARE SO THANKFUL THAT YOU ARE STILL HERE WITH US. YOU WERE 14 YEARS OLD WHEN YOU HAD YOUR TRANSPLANT AND NOW YOU ARE 17 YEARS OLD. WE THANK GOD FOR YOU EVERY DAY AND WE ARE SO PROUD TO HAVE YOU AS OUR SON. LOVE DAD AND MOM.

MAY GOD GIVE YOU MANY YEARS OF HEALTH AND HAPPINESS. FOR WITH GOD ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE! LOVE, MOM

JOHNATHAN SEEMS TO BE DOING WELL. HIS STOMACH SEEMS TO STILL BE BOTHERING HIM THOUGH. I CONTINUE TO PRAY FOR HEALING EVERY DAY. WE STILL DO NOT HAVE INSURANCE YET. MY HUSBAND'S NEW COMPANY SAID THAT WE WOULD BE ACTIVE JULY 1ST AND WE ARE STILL NOT IN THE SYSTEM. MY HUSBAND HAS CALLED THE INSURANCE COMPANY EVERY DAY THIS WEEK. I DON'T KNOW WHY IT IS TAKING THEM SO LONG. I CAN'T EVEN MAKE AN APPOINTMENT FOR JOHNATHAN TO GO UP TO MINNESOTA, BECAUSE WE ARE NOT COVERED YET. PLEASE PRAY THAT NOTHING MAJOR WILL HAPPEN, SO WE WILL NOT GET STUCK PAYING OUT OF OUR POCKET. I AM GETTING REALLY WORRIED ABOUT NOT HAVING INSURANCE AT THIS POINT. I AM HOPING THAT BY MONDAY WE WILL HOPEFULLY BE COVERED. I AM KEEPING MY FIGERS CROSSED.

WE ARE HAVING A GREAT SUMMER SO FAR. WE HAD MY FOLKS OVER AND OUR GOOD FRIENDS MIKE AND KAREN YESTERDAY. WE WENT SWIMMING IN OUR POOL ALL DAY AND WE HAD FOOD FOR AN ARMY. KAREN BROUGHT HER DOG MANDY OVER AS WELL, SO MY DOG CHECKERS HAD SOMEBODY TO PLAY WITH. THEY WERE RUNNING AROUND TOGETHER IN THE BACK YARD ALL DAY AND HAVE A GRAND OLD TIME.

I CAN'T BELIEVE THAT IT HAS BEEN THREE YEARS ALREADY SINCE JOHNATHAN'S TRANSPLANT. ALL I CAN SAY IS, GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME AND ALL THE TIME GOD IS GOOD!

From Dad: We are so blessed to be enjoying your 3rd BMT Birthday. I am looking forward to enjoying the day with you today. I pray continued health blessing and strength.
Love you much!

CHECK OUT THE NEW PICTURES:O)

THANKS FOR ALL YOUR CONTINUED PRAYERS.

GOD BLESS!
LOVE,
ANN

FAITH IS BEING SURE OF WHAT WE HOPE FOR AND CERTAIN OF WHAT WE DO NOT SEE. HEB. 11:1

Wednesday, June 27, 2007 9:11 PM CDT

Hello,

I had to cancel Johnathan's appointments for this past Monday. We are getting new health insurance as of next Monday, so I have to wait for all the new insurance forms and cards ect.... Nathan started a new job, so with a new job comes new insurance. I just hope our new insurance covers us when we can go to Minnesota for Johnathan's third year check-up. I am keeping my fingers crossed.

I can't believe it is going on three years. God is good!

Johnathan didn't go to Tennis Camp today. His stomach was acting up again. He has his good days and bad days.

He also has had very low energy since he has been on the growth hormones. His thyroid started to drop when he started taking them (one of the side affects). The growth doctor told us to finish out the growth hormones even though his bone age test showed that he stopped growing.

Well, Nathan and I decided that Johnathan should stop the growth hormones all together. We are hoping by doing this, his thyroid will start to stabilize and he will then start to feel less tired.


I feel like we are making the right decision at this time. The growth doctor said that the only thing that will keep on growing if he continued taking the hormone would be his hands and feet.I also feel for that reason it wouldn't be worth it to continue.

All I can do is put my trust in God and keep believing that He will help Johnathan grow. With God all things are possible!

Check out the new pictures:o)

Thanks for all your prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Hebrews 4:16

LET US THEREFORE COME BOLDLY TO THE THRONE OF GRACE, THAT WE MAY OBTAIN MERCY AND FIND GRACE TO HELP IN THE TIME OF NEED.

Friday, June 22, 2007 7:25 PM CDT

Hello,

I just wanted to say that Johnathan is doing very well. Still has stomach issues, but they are very mild at this point.

Johnathan went to his first drum lesson yesterday. He really liked it allot. Now he wants a drum set. Hmmmm I will really have to think long and hard about that one. I told him we would have to clear out the storage area down stairs and he would have to play his drums down there. I know where ever their is drums, their will be noise. Lots of noise! We shall see:o)

Johnathan will be starting Tennis Camp next Monday. Then after that off to the doctors for blood tests. I will try and take some pictures of him playing tennis and post them soon.

Hope everyone is having a great Summer so far.

Thanks for your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

IF THERE IS BEAUTY IN CHARACTER,
THERE WILL BE HARMONY IN THE HOME.
IF THERE IS HARMONY IN THE HOME, THERE
WILL BE ORDER IN THE NATION.
IF THERE IS ORDER IN THE NATION,
THERE WILL BE PEACE IN THE WORLD.
-CHINESE PROVERB

Monday, June 18, 2007 8:26 PM CDT

Hello,

Johnathan is going to be seeing the GI doctor, growth doctor, and BMT doctor for his follow-up check-ups on June 25th. He is going to get a CBC, Tsh and Liver blood test that day.

We will be going up to Minnesota in mid August now instead of mid July. With Dr. MacMillan's schedule being so busy, we have to see her later in the Summer.

Johnathan seems to be doing good. He is having a great Summer so far. He will be starting drum lessons this week.

We all had a really nice Father's day. We went out to eat and Nathan and my dad opened their gifts. We took some pictures as well. I will be putting up new pictures soon.

God bless!
Love,
Ann

LIVE IN PEACE AND PEACE WILL LIVE IN YOU.

Thursday, June 14, 2007 6:25 PM CDT

Hello,

Monday was the last day of school and unfortnately later that day we ended up in the ER.

Johnathan was playing basketball after school and his friend accidently hit him in the nose really hard. His friend's arm came up and smacked him right in the nose. They were playing behind our house. We have a basketball hoop set up on our back patio. My Son Cody was the one that came in the house and told me that Johnathan got hurt. I ran outside and saw Johnathan on the ground holding his nose and blood was everywhere. Johnathan said that he felt like he was going to pass out. Twenty minutes later he started to throw up. He couldn't stop throwing up, so I called the doctor and he said to take him to the ER right away. I called my parents and told them about what happened and told them to say a prayer for Johnathan.

Johnathan was throwing up all the way to the hospital. I gave him a popcorn bowl to throw up in just in case. (We won't be eating out of that bowl anytime soon). When we got to the ER the nurse gave Johnathan some Ibuprofen right away, because he said that his head was banging.

We waited a little over an hour before the doctor saw Johnathan. He checked Johnathan's eye's and made him walk up and down the hall way several times. He also stopped throwing up. He said it did not look like Johnathan had a concussion, so they did not take a CT scan. They gave him some Zophran (not sure of spelling) for his nausea and told me to keep an eye him. We got there at 6:00pm and got out of there a little after 9:00pm. That was not to bad. Johnathan felt better the next day and my Wednesday he was playing basketball again with his friends and swimming in the pool. I told Johnathan that Bumpa and Nani were praying really hard for him. I know that God heard their prayers.

I didn't expect the last day of school would be this stressful. I am just thankful that Johnathan ended up being okay. It could have been worse.

I would have posted sooner, but I have been going somewhere every day. I have been at the doctors with my other son Cody. He has been having back problems due to the accident that we were in this past April. He had to have an X-ray on his lower back yesterday. He is going to start Phyical Therapy soon. His lower back muscles are extremely tight. I just finished Physical Therapy for my neck this past Tuesday (I got a whiplash from the accident). It has done wonders for me, so I know that it will benefit Cody as well.

Thanks for your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Trust the Lord completely; don't ever trust yourself. In everything you do, put God first, and he will direct you and crown your efforts with success” Proverbs 3:5-6 (TLB).

Wednesday, June 6, 2007 5:38 PM CDT

Hello,

Johnathan seems to be doing a little better these days. This week is exams and then next Monday is their last day of school. Johnathan is really looking forward to Summer.

I signed him up for Tennis camp this Summer. He will be going in June and in July. He is really pumped up about that. I am going to try to take some pictures of Johnathan playing Tennis this Summer. I tried once before, but something was wrong with my camera and the pictures did not take. I will make sure I get some next time he plays.

Thanks again for all your kind words and prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Psalm 147:1

PRAISE THE LORD!
FOR IT IS GOOD TO SING PRAISES TO OUR GOD;
FOR IT IS PLEASANT, AND PRAISE IS BEAUTIFUL.

Sunday, June 3, 2007 7:06 AM CDT

Hello,


I just want to thank you all for your encouraging words on Johnathan's guestbook page. It really lifted his spirits and made his day:o)

Johnathan just really had his hopes up that the growth hormones would make him grow a little more. It just hit him really hard when the doctor said that it looks like he pretty much stopped growing.

Johnathan just really wants to fit in at school and be like his other friends. I keep telling Johnathan that he is so lucky to have made it this far.

I know that Johnathan has been through allot over the years and he has been and is still a trooper. I know all he wants to do is to just fit in. Most of his friends have girlfriends or dates to homecoming or the prom. That kind of stuff has really been bugging him lately as well.


All I can do is just keep telling Johnathan that he is somebody special and that their is a reason that he is still here. My hope is for Johnathan, that some day he will be able to speak before an audience and tell his story. He has so much to share that will help other people who may be going through what he had to go through. I told Johnathan that he has touched so many people through his own experience already and that he is a walking miracle.

Thanks again for all your prayers and encourging words.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

"BUT MY GOD SHALL SUPPLY ALL YOUR NEEDS ACCORDING TO HIS RICHES IN GLORY BY CHRIST JESUS."

PHIL. 4:19

Wednesday, May 30, 2007 4:47 PM CDT

Hello,

I got a call from the growth hormone doctor and she said the results from the bone age test shows that Johnathan has stopped growing. Being on the hormones this long, the doctor said Johnathan should have grown more than just an inch by now. They want Johnathan to finish out the growth hormones that he has left and then he will no longer be taking them. We did all we could do at this point, and now we just have to give the rest to God. (It's out of our hands).

If our insurance company would have approved the growth hormones two years ago,Johnathan may have grown a little more, but they kept denying coverage until late last year. Johnathan should have started them when he was at least 15, and it probably would have been more affective. Normally with boys they usually stop growing by age 17. Johnathan turned 17 this past April.

We are hoping by some miracle that Johnathan will grow at least one more inch or so while he finishes out the last of the growth hormones. I know that with God their are no limitations. All I can do is keep trusting in God that Johnathan will grow some more.


Please say a little pray for Johnathan. He is having a hard time dealing with the bad news.

God bless!
Love,
Ann


WHEN WE ARE WEAK. HE IS STRONG!

Thursday, May 24, 2007 8:33 AM CDT

Hello,

Still waiting for the results of the bone density test. I called the growth doctor yesterday to find out if they came back yet. Waiting for a call back. Will keep you posted.

Johnathan is doing well and can't wait for final exams to be over. I am thinking of signing Johnathan up for Tennis Camp this Summer. That would be fun for him and would keep him busy over the Summer months.

Johnathan's stomach issues seem to be under control for now. He has been taking probiotics and acidophilus. The combination seems to be working.

Thanks for all your continued prayers:o)


God Bless!
Love,
Ann


TROUBLES ARE OFTEN THE TOOLS BY
WHICH GOD FASHIONS US FOR BETTER
THINGS.

"GOD IS OUT REFUGE AND STRENGTH,
A VERY PRESENT HELP IN TROUBLE."
PSALM 46:1 (RSV)

Tuesday, May 15, 2007 4:12 PM CDT

Hello,

We went to the growth doctor today. unfortunately Johnathan has not grown anymore at this point. Johnathan was not a happy camper after hearing the news, but he has grown one inch since he has been on the growth hormone. That is better than no inches at all right?

The doctor did order some additional blood tests along with his thyroid test and also ordered another bone density test. If it shows that his bones have fused together, he will have to stop taking the growth hormone,because his body would have reached it's growth limit. If the test shows that he still has room to grow, the doctor is going to bump up the growth hormone dose. Johnathan took the blood tests today and he also had the bone density test done today as well(they were able to squeeze him in). We just have to wait for the results and see what happens next. I will keep you posted.

God bless.
Love,
Ann

This prayer I pray today.

God, you know my needs even before I ask You. God, I thank You for bringing Johnathan this far and I thank You for all the things that You have done for Johnathan, so that he could even make it this far. I know that their are no limitations when it comes to You God. I know that You can heal Johnthan and make him whole. I know that You can make him grow. I know that You can make a way out of no way.

I know that You can see that my heart gets so heavy to the point where it hurts to breath some times! Thank you Lord for being there for me through the tough times.

God,It's a heavy load to have to carry when your child is sick with a disease and their is no cure. It's a heavy load when I try to do every thing I can possibly do to make my child's life a little better, or try to make it a little easier. Their is only so much that I can do.I just have to learn to give the rest to You Lord.

God, some times I wish I could make this horrible disease go away, it's constantly there staring me in the face day after day. I try to imagine that it's only a dream, but it's not. It's real, so real that it scares me to even think of the future and what this disease can still do to my precious son. God, my heart aches today more than other days. That's why I need to just pray this prayer and just write down how I am feeling right now, because if I don't, I think I will explode!

God,you know I have my good days, bad days and really bad days and this is one of those really emotional days for me for some reason. Trusting and leaning on You God and holding Your hand is all I have right now. My faith in You is what keeps me going. If I didn't have that, I don't know what I would do? I don't know why I am feeling heavy in my heart today Lord. I just think that I am weary today and just need to rest at your feet and give you all my burdens to carry. I have to keep reminding myself that when things are out of control, that's when You are in control. Amen!

Monday, May 14, 2007 8:17 AM CDT

Hello,

Rosa the nurse from the GI clinic called me over the weekend and told me that the rest of Johnathan's blood tests to find out why his Liver counts are elevated, came back normal. His Liver counts still remain elevated and they don't know why. The doctor wants to continue to moniter Johnathan's liver counts with blood tests every couple months or so. If they continue to rise, The doctor may have to do a liver biopsy. We will have to wait and see.

Johnathan is feeling a little better today. He went to school. I started giving him probiotics and Acidolphilus again over the weekend for his stomach. Tomorrow we go the growth doctor to see how much Johnathan has grown and to have another thyroid blood test. I will keep you posted.

I found out later in the day last Friday by via e-mail from Johnathan's tennis coach.That Johnathan was named Honorary "King of the court" because he won all three of his tennis matches. Way to go Johnathan!!!

I had to e-mail his coach last Friday to tell him that Johnathan would not be at tennis practice or the Pizza party, because he was sick. Then I got an e-mail back from his coach with the good news. When I told Johnathan he was smiling from ear to ear. As a mother, I was soooooooo proud of him! I think Tennis is his favorite sport now.

I had a very nice Mother's day. We went to church and then I was taken out to lunch, then came we came home and just chilled the rest of the day. It was a nice day. My Mother's day gift was to go out shopping for some Summer clothes. I love to shop, so that was a perfect gift.

We celebrated Mother's day with my mother last Sunday, because they put their house of for sale this past week and had to be there to show the house this weekend.

My mom and dad are are going to be moving to Texas. I am really going to miss them, but they always wanted to move some place warm when they retired. I just want them to be happy and it will be a nice place to go when we visit them. It really has not hit me yet that they are really moving. I am helping out my mom with her rummage sale this weekend. They are getting rid of allot of stuff, due to the fact that they are moving. I have some things that I am going to also try to sell in the rummage sale. It should be fun and sad at the same time.

Thank you for your continued prayers.

God bless!
Love,
Ann Eckstadt

GOD HATH NOT PROMISED
SKIES ALWAYS BLUE,
FLOWER-STREWN PATHWAYS
ALL OUR LIVES THROUGH.

GOD HATH NOT PROMISED
SUN WITHOUT RAIN,
JOY WITHOUT SORROW,
PEACE WITHOUT PAIN.

GOD HATH NOT PROMISED
WE SHALL NOT KNOW
TOIL AND TEMPTATION,
TROUBLE AND WOE.

HE HATH NOT TOLD US
WE SHALL NOT BEAR
MANY BURDEN, MANY A
CARE.

BUT GOD HATH PROMISED
STRENGTH FOR THE DAY.
REST FOR THE LABORER,
LIGHT FOR THE WAY,
GRACE FOR THE TRIALS,
HELP FROM ABOVE,
UNFAILING SYMPATHY,
UNDYING LOVE.

AUTHOR KAROL LADD

Friday, May 11, 2007 10:34 AM CDT

Hello,

Johnathan is not feeling well today and did not go to school today. His stomach has been hurting him again. To me it looks like his C-diff is coming back. He seems to have all the signs pointing in that direction.

I treated it with a holistic approach last time and it seemed to clear it right up. I will be swinging over to the Health food store again to pick up some Flora-Jen which contains Probiotics and buy some more Cultrelle which contains Acidolphilus. This formala will help prevent the bad bacteria from killing the good bacteria in his stomach.

Johnathan is kind of bummed, because it was the last day of Tennis practice and they were also going to have a Pizza Party. I don't think Pizza would have helped Johnathan's stomach anyway. But still, he wished that he could have gone today.

I also have to take Johnathan to the Endocrine doctor next Tuesday. His has to take another thyroid blood test, because his thyroid level has been slowly dropping due to being on growth hormones. So he will be missing some more school again.

I am still waiting for the rest of the tests results from his liver enzyme test. I will be calling the doctor today to see if the results came back yet. Will keep you posted.

Thank you for keeping Johnathan in your prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Luke 11:9-10 (NLT)

9)AND SO I TELL YOU, KEEP ON ASKING, AND YOU WILL BE GIVEN WHAT YOU ASK FOR, KEEP ON LOOKING, AND YOU WILL FIND. KEEP ON KNOCKING, AND THE DOOR WILL BE OPENED.

10)FOR EVERYONE WHO ASKS, RECEIVES. EVERYONE WHO SEEKS, FINDS.AND THE DOOR IS OPENED TO EVERYONE WHO KNOCKS.

SOME PEOPLE WONDER WHY GOD DOESN'T ANSWER THEIR PRAYERS. IN REALITY, THIS OFTEN MEANS THEY HAVE HARDLY GIVEN GOD A CHANCE.THEY MAY HAVE PRAYED A FEW TIMES AND NOT GOTTEN WHAT THEY WANTED. JESUS DID PROMISE TO GIVE IF WE ASK, BUT HE EXPECTS US TO KEEP ASKING. PRAYER SHOULD BE AN INTEGRAL PART OF OUT LIVES, NOT JUST PRACTICED IN EMERGIENCIES. MAKE TALKING TO GOD A HABIT. TELL HIM ABOUT EVERYTHING, AT ANY TIME OF THE DAY.

DEVOTIONAL WORDS FROM THE (NLT) BIBLE.

Wednesday, May 2, 2007 4:04 PM CDT

Hello,

Johnathan went to school today. He got allot of rest yesterday, so he is feeling a little better today.

I have some of the results back from the additional blood tests that he had to recently take, due to his elevated liver counts.

Heptitis B panel is normal

Heptitis Anitibody is normal

Chemistry profile slightly elevated (the dr. said not to worry)

Ferritin that stores Iron is slightly elevated to 790 (the dr. said not to worry)

GGT Liver enzymes still elevated

I am still waiting for another handful of tests results to come back. It could be next week some time. I am so glad that most of the tests came back normal so far. I will keep you posted when I find out more on the rest of the results.

Thank you for your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

1Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NLT)

ALWAYS BE JOYFUL. KEEP ON
PRAYING. NO MATTER WHAT
HAPPENS, ALWAYS BE THANK-
FUL, FOR THIS IS GOD'S
WILL FOR YOU WHO BELONG
TO CHRIST JESUS.

WE MIGHT WONDER HOW SOMEONE CAN
REJOICE OR BE JOYFUL ALL THE TIME,
ESPECIALLY DURING PAINFUL OR DIFFICULT
EXPERIENCES. BUT UNLIKE HAPPINESS,
WHICH IS BASED ON THE CIRCUMSTANCES,
JOY IS A POSITIVE AND CONFIDENT OUTLOOK
ON LIFE, DESPITE OUR CIRCUMSTANCES.
KNOWING THAT GOD IS IN CONTROL AND
THAT HIS LOVE SURROUNDS US GIVES
SECURITY AND CONFIDENCE. NO MATTER
WHAT HAPPENS, WE SHOULD DELIGHT IN
GOD AND PRAISE HIM FOR HIS GOODNESS.

DEVOTIONAL WORDS FROM THE NEW LIVING TRANSLATION BIBLE

Tuesday, May 1, 2007 4:37 PM CDT

Hello,

We had a little scare this morning. I got up at 6:30 this morning to find Johnathan on the bathroom floor holding his stomach. The first thing I thought of was that his appendix ruptured or something like that. I don't mean to be gross, but whatever was in his stomach it came out like water. He layed down and slept most of the day. By the afternoon he made his way to the couch. John said his stomach still hurts, but feels a little better than he did this morning.

Needless to say, Johnathan did not go to school today. He has missed so much school this semester. I am hoping that he will start to feel better by tomorrow.

All I can think of was that he may have had some kind food poisoning or maybe a stomach virus. It looks to me more like it was a stomach virus.

Johnathan went and got some additional blood tests done this past weekend to see why his liver counts have been so high lately. They took five viles of blood out of him. He had eight viles taken out at once before and afterwards he got very dizzy and had to drink some juice. This time he did okay.

I tried calling Johnathan's nurse in the GI department to find out the results of his blood tests (I got her voice mail). John's GI doctor discovered his high liver counts from the post-op blood test that he had before his Colonoscopy a few weeks back. Johnathan had to retake the liver blood test to check his levels again and they were still high. That's what prompted the GI doctor to order additional blood tests. I will keep you posted as soon as I hear anything about the test results.

Thank you for all your prayers and all your support. It really means allot to Johnathan and our family.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

HERE ARE SOME ENCOURAGING WORDS FROM THE BOOK CALLED, 'THE PRAYER OF JABEZ FOR WOMEN'.

1)DEPENDING ON THE HAND OF GOD IS A MOMENT BY MOMENT PROCESS.

2)GOD'S HAND WILL PROVIDE JUST WHAT IS NEEDED, WHEN YOU ASK.

3)ASK FOR GOD'S HAND TO BE ON YOU!

4)WHEN WE'RE IN THE MIDST OF STRUGGLES AND HARDSHIPS IS WHEN OUR HEAVENLY FATHER LONGS TO POUR OUT HIS SUPERNATURAL FAVOR ON US.

5)GOD'S BLESSING CAN TAKE PLACE IN THE MIDST OF DIFFICULTY.

Tuesday, April 24, 2007 5:36 PM CDT

Hello,


I ended up getting a call from the GI clinic this afternoon. The nurse said that Johnthan's liver counts are still very high. They want me to bring Johnthan in for more blood tests. They want to test for hepatitis of the liver, autoimmune deficiency and somthing about protien deficiency. These can all stimulate the liver and cause the liver counts to go up.

I will be taking him to get these tests this week. I will keep you posted.

Just when we thought we were over all the bumps in the road another one appears.When I mentioned the liver test results to Johnathan he was not to happy. I was hoping that he would get a little break from having to have a blood test for awhile.

Please pray that this is nothing serious and that it can be treated.

Ending on a positive note, Johnathan won another tennis match yesterday. He is fast on his feet and he loves to spike the ball over the net. He is really getting into Tennis and is practicing every day.

Tennis is the best thing that could have happened to Johnathan. I know he said that when he plays sports it gets his mind off of his condition.

Thank you for keeping Johnathan in your prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

THESE ARE THINGS THAT I SAY TO MYSELF TO GET THROUGH THE HARD TIMES AND THE HEAVY CARES OF LIFE.


WITH GOD ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE!

TRUST IN GOD.

HE CARES FOR US AND HEARS OUR PRAYERS.

HE CARES ABOUT OUR CHILDREN.

HE DID NOT BRING US THIS FAR TO LEAVE US.

THIS TO SHALL PASS.

THE JOY OF THE LORD IS OUR STRENGTH!

TAKE ONE DAY AT A TIME.

DON'T WORRY.

GOD IS IN CONTROL.

HE WILL NEVER LEAVE US OR FORSAKE US.

IN THE GOOD TIMES AND BAD TIMES, GIVE GOD THE THANKS.

LAST BUT NOT LEAST, GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME AND ALL THE TIME GOD IS GOOD!

Monday, April 16, 2007 10:01 AM CDT

Hello,

Johnathan's thyroid blood tests came back and his thyroid levels have dropped again. The growth doctor is going to have his dose (thyroid pills) changed again to regulate his thyroid level.

Johnathan has been complaining lately of feeling really tired and fatigue. The doctor feels that it is probably due to his abnormal thryroid levels. This is the third time that they have had to adjust his dose.

The growth doctor also said and has said this before, is that when you are taking growth hormones, it can also affect your thyroid levels. The doctor also believes that due to Johnathan being post tranplant and still having to deal with FA, could also be contributing factors as well.

I am still waiting to hear the results from the blood test that Johnathan had to have done to check his liver counts. I will keep you posted if I hear anything. I may have to give the GI doctor a call today.

The kids are back to school and they were not very happy about it. It's back to routine for now, but Summer is just around the corner. Yeah!

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Today,well lived,
makes tomorrow a vision
of hope.

"Surely there is a future,
and our hope will not be
cut off."

Proverbs 23:18 (NASB)

Wednesday, April 11, 2007 11:54 AM CDT

Hello,

Johnathan went to the BMT doctor yesterday he had to get several immunizations shots and a couple of them were painful. Later on in the day he could not move his arm. He was crying because of the pain and it takes allot for Johanthan to cry. He has had to endure allot of pain in his life and few times has had to shed some tears. This is one of those times where he could not take the pain.

Johnathan started to get the chills by the evening time. I took his temp and it was a 102.5. I called the doctor who was on call last night and she told me that he is having a common reaction to the Tetanus shot that he received. She also told me to give Johnathan Ibuprofen and to try to keep heat on his arm. She said if his fever got any worse I would have to take him to the ER at Children's Hospital.

His fever stayed around a 102 and never went up any higher (Thank The Lord!). His fever finally broke around 4:00am this morning.

The doctor who was on call also wanted us to see John's primary doctor this morning to get checked out. On our way to the clinic a snow storm was starting up. The weather is suppose to be really nasty here in Wisconsin today and it's getting worse by the hour. I am glad that Johnathan's appointment was this morning when the storm was not that bad yet. The snow is really coming down at this point and it's very windy. The power keeps going off and on. If this keeps up, I will have to gather up all my candles soon.

My husband Nathan did not go into work today because of the weather, so he took us to the doctor. I did not want to get into another accident again due to the weather. I am very nervous every time that I get behind the wheel now. I am sure that will be that way for a while.

Anyways, John's primary doctor said that his arm will be sore for a few days and to take it easy the rest of the week. He also wanted John to keep putting heat on his arm.

Johnathan also has another sinus infection on top of it all. The doctor precribed Z-pak for him again.

This spring break has been very Crazy and stressful so far. Between my accident, my sore neck, cracked tooth, Johnathan having two cavities and Johnathan's reaction to his Tetanus shot, it has just been one thing after another. This to shall pass right?

I am hoping that the remainder part of the week will get better.

Also, we just found out that the driver that hit me this past weekend does not have any car insurance, so we have to get a Lawyer now. When it rains it pours! I am just trying to put all this into God's hands. That's all I can do.

Thanks for keeping Johnathan in your prayers.

Johnathan's blood counts are:
WBC's 5,900
RBC's 4,940
Hemoglobin 15.6
Platelet's 239,000
ANC 2,500


God Bless!
Love,
Ann

PHILIPPIANS 4:6-7 (NLT)

6)DON'T WORRY ABOUT ANYTHING; INSTEAD, PRAY ABOUT EVERYTHING. TELL GOD WHAT YOU NEED, AND THANK HIM FOR ALL HE HAS DONE.

7)IF YOU DO THIS, YOU WILL EXPERIENCE GOD'S PEACE, WHICH IS FAR MORE WONDERFUL THAN THE HUMAN MIND CAN UNDERSTAND. HIS PEACE WILL GUARD YOUR HEARTS AND MINDS AS YOU LIVE IN CHRIST JESUS.

Sunday, April 8, 2007 6:18 PM CDT

UPDATE:4/09/07

I decided to share this incident with you today instead of yesterday, because it was all about Johnathan's birthday yesterday. I wanted to try to stay positive and enjoy the day.

I just wanted thank God for keeping his hands on me and my younger son Cody this past Friday. A Ford pick-up truck slammed into us. He was going about 30 or 35 miles an hour.

I got off a ramp and was getting ready to turn on a back street and BOOM!I was hit from behind. Cody started screaming and I was stunned and shaking like a leaf. I was driving a small compact car, so we really felt the impact.

The driver that hit me told the Cops right away that it was his fault. Their was also a witness there who gave me his card. The Ambulance was there right away as well. In the ER, I had X-rays done on my neck ,but nothing serious showed up. It only showed that I pulled some muscles and ligaments on the right side of my neck.

My neck was really swollen yesterday, but today it has gone down some. I have been putting ice and heat on it all weekend and taking allot of Ibuprofen. The ER doctor prescribed Percocet, but I don't do good with stuff like that. It makes me very dizzy

To top it off, the kids and I went to the dentist for just a cleaning today and they noticed that my veneer was cracked behind my tooth. I know it probably happened due to the accident, because my head hit the head rest pretty hard. The dentist has to put a new one on now. I just hope it doesn't pop off in the mean time. Johnathan has two cavities and is kind of bummed out about that.

Cody seems to be doing okay so far. He was just really scared and shaken up by the accident. All I can say is that it could have been worse. I'm thankful that I could celebrate Easter with my family and celebrate Johnathan's birthday.

GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME AND ALL THE TIME GOD IS GOOD!!!






Happy 17th birthday Johnathan!!!!

We celebrated Easter and Johnathan's Birthday today.My parents were here as well. Johnathan got allot of neat gifts, but the coolest gift was the coin proof set from my mom and dad. He is holding up the coins in one of the new pictures that I just posted.

Johnathan has a mild cold, but seems to be doing pretty good otherwise.

I hope that you all are having a nice Easter.

God bless!
Love,
Ann

THIS IS THE DAY THAT THE LORD HAS MADE, LET US REJOICE AND BE GLAD IN IT!!!

Tuesday, April 3, 2007 8:39 PM CDT

UPDATE 4-05-07:

I JUST WANTED TO SHARE WITH YOU THAT JOHNATHAN WON HIS FRIST TENNIS MATCH YESTERDAY! WAY TO GO JOHNATHAN!!!!




HAPPINESS DEPENDS ON EXTERNAL THINGS THAT "HAPPEN" TO US. JOY IS A DEEP QUALITY THAT WE CHOOSE AND PARTAKE OF IN SPITE OF CIRCUMSTANCES.



Hello,

Johnathan is doing great! He is really getting into tennis these days. They practice every day after school. I think besides basketball, tennis is becoming his second favorite sport.

Johnathan will be 17 this Sunday. Johnathan was born on palm Sunday. I think that it's kind of neat that his birthday falls on Easter Sunday this year.

I can't believe Johnathan is going to be 17. God is good!

This Summer he will be taking drivers ed. It's hard to believe that he will be driving soon.

Johnathan has spring break next week. I scheduled his appoinment with the BMT doctor for next week as well, so he won't have to miss anymore school. He sees the BMT doctor every three months now. Johnathan also has to have another thyroid and liver blood test done next week.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann



HAPPY BIRTHDAY JOHNATHAN! WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOU THAT YOU HAVE MADE IT THIS FAR! WE LOVE YOU SO MUCH!

Love,
Dad and Mom

PSALM 32:11(NASB)

BE GLAD IN THE LORD AND REJOICE YOU RIGHTEOUS ONES, AND SHOUT FOR JOY ALL YOU WHO ARE UPRIGHT IN HEART.

Tuesday, April 3, 2007 8:39 PM CDT

UPDATE 4-05-07:

I JUST WANTED TO SHARE WITH YOU THAT JOHNATHAN WON HIS FRIST TENNIS MATCH YESTERDAY! WAY TO GO JOHNATHAN!!!!




HAPPINESS DEPENDS ON EXTERNAL THINGS THAT "HAPPEN" TO US. JOY IS A DEEP QUALITY THAT WE CHOOSE AND PARTAKE OF IN SPITE OF CIRCUMSTANCES.



Hello,

Johnathan is doing great! He is really getting into tennis these days. They practice every day after school. I think besides basketball, tennis is becoming his second favorite sport.

Johnathan will be 17 this Sunday. Johnathan was born on palm Sunday. I think that it's kind of neat that his birthday falls on Easter Sunday this year.

I can't believe Johnathan is going to be 17. God is good!

This Summer he will be taking drivers ed. It's hard to believe that he will be driving soon.

Johnathan has spring break next week. I scheduled his appoinment with the BMT doctor for next week as well, so he won't have to miss anymore school. He sees the BMT doctor every three months now. Johnathan also has to have another thyroid and liver blood test done next week.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann



HAPPY BIRTHDAY JOHNATHAN! WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOU THAT YOU HAVE MADE IT THIS FAR! WE LOVE YOU SO MUCH!

Love,
Dad and Mom

PSALM 32:11(NASB)

BE GLAD IN THE LORD AND REJOICE YOU RIGHTEOUS ONES, AND SHOUT FOR JOY ALL YOU WHO ARE UPRIGHT IN HEART.

Friday, March 30, 2007 8:54 AM CDT

NO ONE IS INSIGNIFICANT IN GOD'S EYES.

Hello,

Johnathan is feeling much better and has gone back to school this week. He will be done with his antibiotic by the weekend.

Johnathan told me that he joined the tennis team at his school this week. I was a little worried because I did not want him to relapse. I know he was considering joining last year, but didn't. This year he did not want to pass it up again, so he joined. Some of his friends joined as well. I know it will be good for him to try another sport besides basketball. Basketball will always be his number one sport, but it is good that he is trying something different.

I just hope and pray that he will not overdo it, because he has been so sick for the past two weeks. Johnathan is a trooper and has allot of determination when it comes to sports. He loves being active and now that he is feeling some what better, he is going to take advantage of being involved in some kind of sport. He is a fighter that way.

Johnathan always tells me that when he plays basetball or any type of sport, that it gets his mind off of his disease. It's very theraputic for him.

Thanks for your prayers and support.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

"I loved you with an everlasting love;
therefore I have drawn you with lovingkindness."
Jeremiah 31:3 (NASB)

Monday, March 26, 2007 8:44 AM CDT

Hello,

Johnathan is feeling better and he went to school today. I am praying that his pink eye will not come back again for his sake.

Johnathan has had tons of homework from missing so much school. He managed to get most of it done this past weekend.

We are enjoying really nice weather here in Milwaukee. It has been in the high 70's and low 80's for the past two days now. By the end of the week it is supposed to be in the 40's. That's Wisconsin weather for you.

I am so happy that things are getting better with Johnathan at this point. I pray that he will start to feel better and stronger with each passing day.

Thanks for your prayers!

God bless!
Love,
Ann

Pslam 28:6-7

6)Blessed be the Lord,
Because He has heard the
voice of my supplication!

7)The Lord is my strength
and my shield; My heart
greatly rejoices, And with
my song I will praise Him.

Tuesday, March 20, 2007 3:00 PM CDT

Hello,

It's been a hetic year so far that is for sure.

I had to pick up Johnathan again today at school. His pink eye came back in his right eye. It started to look red yesterday, so I started him back on the eye drops again, but he wasn't getting better. He said that he was feeling really tired and weak this morning, but ended up pushing himself to go to school (he didn't not want to miss anymore school).

I ended up having to take Johnathan to the doctor in the afternoon today. When we were there Johnathan told the doctor that the roof of his mouth seemed tender and sore. She then tested him for strep and it came back positive.That explains why he felt so tired and weak. The doctor put him on a stronger antibiotic this time. He will have to take it for two weeks plus put more drops in his eye's for a week instead of three days like last time.

Johnahtan won't be able to go back to school until possibly Friday (if he feels better by then). Johnathan is really bummed about his health right now and wants to get better so he can attend school and not get behind. Please pray that he will get better so that he can get back to his normal life at school and to be able to hang out with his friends again.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Psalm 27:1

The Lord is my light and my salvation;
Whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life;
Of Whom should I be afraid?

Wednesday, March 14, 2007 7:30 AM CDT

Update:3-15-07

Johnathan's GI doctor wants him to start on the medicine called,Hydrocort to help prevent the bleeding again and to help with the healing as well. I am hoping and praying that this medicine will help prevent anymore episodes in the future.

The drops for Johnathan's pink eye are finally working. He still has been doing allot of hacking and blowing due to his sinus infection. He will be done with his antibiotic for that by the weekend.

I am hoping by Monday he will feel allot bettter and he will be able to go back to school.





Hello,

I got a call from Johnathan's school nurse yesterday. She told me to come and get Johnathan, because he ended up getting pink eye. Johnathan's left eye was hurting him on the weekend, but he just thought that there was an eye lash in his eye. When the other eye started acting up, it was inevitable that something was going on.

I had to take him to the doctor right away after I picked him up. The doctor confirmed it was pink eye.Johnathan also has a sinus infection on top of it all. The doctor gave him some antibotics for his sinuses and drops for his eye's.

The Doctor told Johnathan he had to stay home for a couple of days, so now he has to miss more school again.

The drops should start working after 24 hours (that's what the doctor said). I thought that this month Johnathan would be doctor free, but no such luck.

Johnathan is miserable. He did not sleep well last night, because he eye's were discharging so bad and his eye's were so swollen. I'v never seen pink eye that bad before.

Johnathan also started bleeding again as well. It only lasted for three days though. I am waiting to hear back from the GI doctor. They said if the bleeding ever came back, to call and let them know. They will then start to treat him with medicine through an enema. I will keep you posted.

This is yet another bump in the road to try and get over. This to shall pass right? It's all about just trying to keep moving forward and just trying to take one day at time. We are also trying to stay positive and hold on to our faith. That is all we can do.

Thanks for all your prayers. We feel them.

God bless!
Love,
Ann

Philippians 4:13 (NLT)

For I can do everything with the help of Christ who gives me the strength I need.

Saturday, February 24, 2007 9:00 PM CST

Hello,

Good news! Johnathan's liver ultrasound results came back normal. Thank the Lord! The doctor did say that he wants Johnathan to get another blood test done in six weeks.

I just want to thank you for all your prayers, because prayer can move mountains! I know God has had his hand on Johnathan through this very stressful and difficult month. There were two major scares this month. I am very thankful that Johnathan ended up being okay. God is good all the time and all the time God is good!

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Psalm 55:22

"Cast your burden on the Lord and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be moved."

Friday, February 16, 2007 6:16 PM CST

Hello,

I got a call from Johnathan's GI doctor today. Johnathan's biopsie results came back and they came back normal. The digital pictures that were taken during the colonoscopy did show something, but the doctor again thinks those areas looked ulceretic and that they seem to appear to be healing.

Johanthan has not had any problems for two weeks now. I am so relieved that it was not anything serious. I am praying that the symptoms will not come back.

Now we have to find out why Johnathan's liver readings are so high. I am hoping to find out why on Monday when Johnathan has his liver ultrasound done. I am hoping and praying that it will be nothing serious as well.

We went to the growth doctor yesterday and Johnathan had to take another thyroid test. It showed that his thyroid level is lower then it was the last time he had the test done. So the doctor ordered a higher dose of thyroid medicine.

Johnathan is showing signs of growing while being on the growth hormones. He was a very happy camper when he heard the the good news from the doctor.

Thank you for all your prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

LAMENTATIONS 3:22-23 (NLT)

THE UNFAILING LOVE OF THE LORD
NEVER ENDS! BY HIS MERCIES WE
HAVE BEEN KEPT FROM COMPLETE
DESTRUCTION. GREAT IS HIS
FAITHFULNESS; HIS MERCIES BEGIN
AFRESH EACH DAY.

IN LIFE, PEOPLE MAY TURN AGAINST US,
FRIENDS MAY FAIL US, AND FAMILY MEMBERS
MAY ABANDON US, BUT GOD IS FAITHFUL.
HE STANDS WITH US AND FOR US. IN FACT,
HE IS THE SAME YESTERDAY, TODAY, AND
FOREVER. GOD'S UNCHANGING CHARACTER AND
FAITHFUL LOVE PROVIDE A SOLID FOUNDATION
FOR LIVING. WE STAND SECURE IN HIM. (NLT)

Wednesday, February 14, 2007 8:41 AM CST

Hello,

I have not heard anything yet on the results of Johnathan's colonoscopy or Endoscopy. Will let you know ASAP when I do find out.

Johnathan has been going to school and seems to be doing better (has not bled for two weeks now). He just has been feeling really tired lately.

We will be going to the growth doctor tomorrow and he will be having his liver ultrasound next week. I will keep you posted.

Thanks for all your prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Shoot for the moon even if you miss,
you'll land among the stars.

Saturday, February 10, 2007 12:49 AM CST

Hello,

Here is an update:

I don't have all the results back from Johnathan's Colonoscopy and Endoscopy yet, but the doctor did show me some pictures and you can see allot of reddnes around the inside of his rectal area. It looks like it is in two areas. One looks irritated and the other one looks to be healing. The doctor said that he thinks that it could possibly be ulceres (the doctor did not see any signs of hemorrhoids on the outside or inside of the rectal area). We will hopefully know more when the results of the biopsies come back.

The Endoscopy showed some redness and swelling, but the doctor does not have any explaination as to why. Again, we will know more when the biopsie results come back.

Johnathan's stool sample and cultures came back normal. His blood tests results came back good. The only thing that seemed on the high side was his liver enzymes. The doctor ordered a liver ultrasound next week. I am going to try to get it done next Saturday, so Johnathan will not miss any school. He has missed quite a bit of school already this month due to doctors appts.

Thank you for all your prayers and support.

(Check out the new pictures)

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

2 CORINTHIANS 4:16-18 (NLT)

JESUS WILL ALWAYS BE THERE FOR US.HE IS OUR HELP IN THE TIME OF TROUBLE:

16)That is why we never give up.
though our bodies are dying, our
spirits are being renewed every day.

(17)For our present troubles are quite
small and won't last very long. Yet they
produce for us an immeasurably great glory
that will last forever!

18)So we don't look at the troubles we can
see right now; rather, we look forward
to what we have not yet seen. For the
troubles we see will soon be over, but
the joys to come will last forever.

Tuesday, February 6, 2007 9:45 PM CST

Hello,

Update 2-7-07 (forgot to mention)
I don't know how or why I forgot to mention this. I guess because there is so much going on right now. This is something very exciting. Johnathan went up one pant size since he has been on the growth hormones. Just thought I'd share the good news with you.


Johnathan hasn't been bleeding for a couple of days now, but is running to the bathroom allot. He also has this rash on his arm that the doctor thinks might or could be GVHD. The doctor ordered some Triamcinlone (steroid cream) to put on his arm.

Healthwise, I don't know what is going on with Johnathan right now. It really has me a little worried. I hope to find out more from the results of his colonoscopy this Friday. Johnathan is also having an endoscopy and some biopsies done as well. I hope it is something minor and that can be treatable. I am trying to stay positive at this point and just trust in God.

Tomorrow I am taking Johnathan to the Audiologist to get his hearing aide look at. I canceled Johnathan's appointment with the growth doctor today for next week due to the weather. It has been so cold here the past couple of days. School was canceled yesterday and today, because of record cold temperatures. It's suppose to get up to 15 degrees tomorrow, so they are having school. I guess you could say a warm front is coming through.

Thanks for all your prayers and checking in on Johnathan.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

PSALM 8:3-4

3)WHEN I LOOK AT THE NIGHT SKY
AND SEE THE WORK OF YOUR FINGERS,
THE MOON THE STARS YOU HAVE SET IN
PLACE.

4)WHAT MORTALS THAT YOU SHOULD
THINK OF US, MERE HUMANS THAT YOU
SHOULD CARE FOR US?

THE PSALM DECLARES THE MAJESTY OF GOD.
TO RESPECT GOD'S MAJESTY FULLY, WE MUST
COMPARE OURSELVES TO HIS GREATNESS. BUT
WHAN WE LOOK AT CREATION, WE OFTEN FEEL
SMALL BY COMPARISON. THAT IS A GOOD WAY
TO GET BACK TO REALITY. IT'S EASY TO FEEL
BIG AND IMPORTANT, BUT ONE LONG, NIGHTIME
LOOK AT THE STARS CAN CURE THAT FEELING OF
SELF-IMPORTANCE. GOD, THE CREATOR OF ALL
THE HEAVENS, THE MOON, AND STARS, IS TRULY
MAJESTIC AND WORTHY OF OUR PRAISE, HONOR,
AND WORSHIP.

BIBLE VERSE AND DEVOTIONAL WORDS FROM THE (NLT BIBLE)

Friday, February 2, 2007 9:27 PM CST

Hello,

Johnathan is still the same. I had to take Johnathan and his brother Cody to the doctor today, because they have been sick with colds for two weeks now. The doctor gave them both an antibiotic. Allot of stuff is going around.


Johnathan had a blood test after school today.

Thank you for your prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

The joy of the Lord is our strength.

Wednesday, January 31, 2007 8:33 AM CST

Hello,

Here is an update on Johnathan: Thursday
1-01-07

Johnathan is going to have to have a colonoscopy next Friday the 9th. The doctor needs to make sure everything is okay in there.

During Johnathan's examination today the doctor did see some blood, but he wasn't sure why or where the blood was coming from ( he did not see any signs of hemorrhoids anywhere). Hopefully the colonoscopy will let us know more of what might be going on.

For two days now Johnathan seemed to be doing okay, but by the afternoon today, there was more blood in his stool again( I'm thinking the doctor must have irritated something during the exam). I have to take Johnathan to get some blood work and drop off a stool sample this weekend.

Last week when Johnathan started getting blood in his stool. I called the BMT doctor. The doctor said it could possible be hemorrhoids. My motherly instinct kicked in and I called the GI doctor as well. I wanted to make sure for my peace of mind and find out if it was really hemorrhoids or not.

I am glad the the GI doctor decided to do a colonoscopy on Johnathan just to be safe. Some times with this disease you have to try to stay on top of things and always try to stay ahead of the game.

It's better to be safe than sorry. Plus, I need to have that peace of mind. I know some of you can relate to what I am saying. Some times the doctor says oh it's no big deal or it's nothing to worry about, but then what if it ends up being a big deal and you didn't push to get it checked out. Like I said, before it's better to be safe than sorry right?

It's just so stressful dealing with doctors some times. I know they are not perfect, but when You feel something in your gut, you need to keep pressing until you get an answer. Even if it turns out to be nothing, at least you made that effort as a parent to make sure that your son or daughter gets the proper care.

I feel like I am in a boxing ring and and some days I get socked in the stomach and maybe hit hard in the head, but I just tell myself to get back up and keep fighting and to never give up.

PS Sorry for venting there a little bit. I'm just a little stressed out. One day at a time sweet Jesus that's all I'm asking of you....

God Bless!
Love,
Ann


***************************************
We are going to be seeing the GI doctor tomorrow. Johnathan has had another flare up with his stomach again. I asked Johnathan first to see if he would be comfortable if I posted on his site what has been going on with him lately. He said that it would be okay.

All last week Johnathan has been having bloody stools. It was allot of blood and it was really freaking Johnathan out! (his mom too!)

The BMT doctor thinks that it might be internal hemorrhoids,so the doctor told me to pick up some preperation H and some stool softener. I only gave him a stool softener pill one time though,because by the end of the week last week,Johnathan was running to the bathroom. By Sunday his stomach was really bothering him allot. He was in the bathroom all night that night.

I made a call to Johnathan's GI doctor and he wanted to see him ASAP. Johnathan had no signs of blood in his stool yesterday, but they still want to see him and examine him to decide whether it could be hemorrhoids or something else. The doctor was thinking of doing a colonoscopy on Johnathan just to make sure everything is okay in there.

In the midst of him having a lingering cold and stomach issues. Johnathan still wanted to go to school, because as you know he does not like to get behind. He did although bow out of joining the baketball league that I signed him up for this year. His cold was getting the best of him and with his stomach problems, he just did not have the want to. I told him there is always next year. They have these leagues every year around this time through the Salvation Army.

Due to Johnathan's ongoing cold and the fact that he has been feeling really tired again, I am going to have to set up an appointment with his primary doctor as well. Next week he has to see the Endocrine doctor(growth doctor) for a check-up and also the Audiologist. I have a feeling it's going to be a very busy month that's for sure.

I wanted to say on Johnathan's journal today that everything is going great,but this is just a set back and we will get through this once again. I am trying to keep the faith and just take one day at a time.


Please keep Johnathan in your prayers this week. I will keep you posted on what the GI doctor had to say.


God Bless!
Love,
Ann




Psalm 27:5

FOR IN THE TIME OF TROUBLE HE SHALL HIDE ME
IN HIS PAVILION: IN THE SECRET OF HIS
TABERNACLE SHALL HE HIDE ME; HE SHALL SET
ME UP UPON A ROCK.

Wednesday, January 24, 2007 10:43 AM CST

Hello,

Johnathan has exams this week and he is sick with a bad cold. Johnathan told me that he always gets sick around exam time, because it stresses him out. He stays up late studying and it takes a toll in him. That's how he ends up getting sick. I remember going through the same thing when I was his age. That seems like another life time ago. It's sad but true.

The kids have no school this Friday. So it will be a short week and a long weekend. Can't complain about that.

Johnathan seems to be doing well in spite of his cold. I have been feeling a little sluggish the past couple days and sneezing allot. I hope I am not getting Johnthan's cold. Tis the season though.

Thanks for keeping Johnathan in your prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Numbers 6:24

The Lord bless thee, and keep thee....

Wednesday, January 17, 2007 10:04 AM CST

Hello,

Johnathan is doing well. He is feeling much better these days. That makes me soooooooo happy that he is doing well and making progress.

Johnathan's doctor appointments seem to be less and less. He does not have to see the BMT until April. That is an awesome feeling!

Also, next Friday his basketball league starts. He is really exctied and can't wait. I know that I have said this before, that basketball is Johnathan's life. Johnathan once said to me that when he gets out on the court, it helps him forget his disease for that moment. It helps him cope. He knows that he will never be a normal kid, but he strives to keep up and tries to stay positive. Some days are harder than others, but in spite of it all he never gives up.

Johnathan's younger brother Cody got to play in the Festival of Bands this past weekend (Cody plays the Clarinet). This yearly event has all the bands in district play and then at the end they all play a song together. It's really cool. The bands that participate are the elementary school bands, Middle school bands and the high school band. The mayer was there and introduced each school band, before they played. The place was packed out!

Thanks for keeping Johnathan and our family in your prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Tuesday, January 9, 2007 3:58 PM CST

Hello,



Still no side affects from the growth hormones. Johnathan is getting the hang of giving the shots to himself. What a trooper!

I signed Johnathan up on a basketball league through the Salvation Army. Every year at this time they have basketball leagues for the high school students. Johnathan is excited about being able to play.

It's gettiing colder here and their might be snow on the way. It really feels like winter today. Very windy and cold. We have been so spoiled here in Wisconsin with 40 degree weather. I don't like the cold!

Thanks for keeping Johnathan in your prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Blessed are those who trust in the Lord....
They are like trees planted along a riverbank,
with roots that reach deep into the water.Such
trees are not bothered by the heat or worried
by long months of drought. Their leaves stay
green, and they go right on producing delious
fruit.

Jermiah 17:7-8(NLT)

Friday, January 5, 2007 4:47 PM CST

Hello,

Johnathan had his growth hormone dose bumped again up this week. The doctor wants to try to slowly bump it up to his regular dose that he was taking before. So far, Johnathan is not feeling any side affects. Thank the Lord!

Johnathan's hearing aide keeps falling out of his ear, so we have to go to see the Audiologist to find out what the problem is. One time it fell out of his ear in class and he didn't even realize it. A kid sitting next to him found it on the floor. It's real small and fits behind the ear, you can hardly see it.

I Can't believe school has started up again. It was so nice to have a week off. Now the kids are looking forward to spring break and it will be here before we know it!

Thanks for all your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

I would like to share this with you. These are my thoughts to help anyone who is hurting and feels that there is no end to the problems that we all have to face in this life.

We are never alone, God is with us always. When we are down, He is there to pick us up. When we feel like we can't go on, He is there to give us the strength that we need. When there seems to be no way out, He will always make a way. When we are hurting, He takes the hurt away and He carries it all on His shoulders.. There is nothing that God cannot do, if we just trust Him and give it all to Him. He will take our burdens away if we only ask Him. He is there even though we don't feel that He is somtimes. Just remember that God said in His word, that He will be there for us even to the ends of the earth.

Wednesday, December 27, 2006 8:24 AM CST

Hello,


I had to take Johnathan to the GI doctor yesterday. He still has been dealing with stomach problems. We discussed different procedures on how to help Johnathan. I told the doctor that I put Johnathan back on Culturelle again and I am going to put him back on Flora-jen as well. These are forms of probiotics and acidophilus. If Johnathan does not seem to be doing better on this holistic procedure. The GI doctor wants to put him on Flagyl (not sure of the spelling).

Johnathan is still feeling tired allot, but seems to be hanging in there and still able to go to school. He has been on growth hormones for a week now and Johnahtan says he does not feel dizzy or nausous at this point.

We had a very nice Christmas, but there was no snow on the ground and the temperature was between the high 30's and 40's. That is very odd for this time of year. This week it has been slowly getting colder though. According to the weather here, we might get some snow by the end of the week.

The kids are really enjoying being off for Christmas break. It is so nice not to have to wake up at 6:00am this week. The mornings are less hectic as well. I'm loving it.

God bless!
Love,
Ann

Here is a poem I wrote not to long ago. The poem is about how God will always be there no matter what you are going through or have to face in this life.

My poem is called LIFE:

LIFE CAN BE FILLED WITH SADNESS AND DESPAIR.
GOD SAID, HE WILL ALWAYS BE THERE.

LIFE CAN BE FILLED WITH PAIN AND SORROW.GOD
SAID, HE WILL BE THERE FOR YOU THIS DAY AND
FOR YOUR TOMORROW.

LIFE CAN BE FILLED WITH LONELINESS AND SOME
TIMES PAIN.GOD SAID, HE WILL CARRY YOU EVEN
THROUGH THE RAIN.

LIFE CAN BE FILLED WITH HOPELESSNESS THAT NEVER
SEEMS TO END. GOD SAID, HE WILL PUT YOUR LIFE BACK
TOGETHER AND YOUR BROKEN HEART HE WILL MEND.

LIFE CAN SEEM UNFAIR AT TIMES AND YOU CAN FEEL SO
OUT OF PLACE. GOD SAID, HE WILL HOLD YOUR HAND AND
EVERY TEAR HE WILL ERASE.

LIFE CAN LET YOU DOWN AT TIMES AND CAN SEEM LIKE
NO ONE IS AROUND. GOD SAID, YOU WERE ONCE LOST MY
CHILD, BUT NOW YOU ARE FINALY FOUND.

BY ANN ECKSTADT (2006)

Thursday, December 21, 2006 7:56 AM CST

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!

JOHNATHAN SAW THE BMT DOCTOR LAST FRIDAY. HE HAD ANOTHER BLOOD TEST AND HIS COUNTS LOOK REAL GOOD!
HIS WBC'S ARE 7,OOO AND HIS RBC'S ARE 4,830. HIS HEMOGLOBIN IS 15.7 AND HIS PLATELETS ARE 215,000. HIS ANC IS 3,000.

WE DO NOT HAVE TO SEE THE BMT UNTIL APRIL AND THEN JOHNATHAN WILL BE GETTING THE REST OF HIS IMMUNIZATION SHOTS AT THAT TIME.

JOHNATHAN STARTED BACK ON HIS GROWTH HORMONES THIS WEEK AT A VERY LOW DOSE. AS TIME GOES ON, IT WILL SLOWLY BE BUMPED BACK UP.

JOHNATHAN IS STILL FEELING REALLY TIRED AT TIMES, BUT OTHERWISE HE SEEMS TO BE DOING A LITTLE BETTER THESE DAYS. I AM HOPING THAT HE WILL GET SOME GOOD REST OVER CHRISTMAS VACATION WHICH STARTS NEXT WEEK.

THANKS FOR ALL YOUR CONTINUED PRAYERS.

GOD BLESS!
LOVE,
ANN

JESUS IS THE REASON FOR THE SEASON! HAVE A WONDERFUL HOLIDAY!

Thursday, December 14, 2006 8:25 AM CST

Hi,

Johnathan has been taking his thyroid pills for a week now. He said he is feeling a little better. We got the green light from the doctor for Johnathan to start his growth hormones again. He will be starting at a very low dose this time to see how his body will resond and then slowly bump the dose up. I am keeping my fingers crossed. If he starts to get the dizziness and nausea feeling back, then we know it is definitely from the growth hormones. It's all trial and error at this point.

Thanks for your continued prayers.

God bless!
Ann

Have a blessed holiday season!

God has a special plan to abundantly bless you and then also bless others through you. (The prayer fo Jabez for Women)

Friday, December 8, 2006 9:12 AM CST

Hello,


I had to take Johnathan to get another thyroid blood test taken again this week. The doctor put Johnathan on a thyroid medicine and it's required to get a thyroid panel test done when starting the medicine. The doctor put him on a very low dose and will slowy bump it up. thyroid medicine gives you energy which Johnathan needs, but he could lose weight on this medicine as well. That he can't afford at this point.

I have to wake Johnathan up at 6:00am every morning now to take his tyhroid medicine. It works better when taken a half an hour before you eat. He normally gets up at 6:30, because he has to be at school by 7:30. He is not liking the fact of having to get up a half an hour earlier every morning. I am hoping and praying that the thyroid medicine will help him feel less tired.

Johnathan will be seeing the BMT doctor next Friday and the GI doctor during Christmas break.

Johnathan's brother Cody will be playing in the Christmas concert at his school this year again. He plays the Clarinet. I am really looking forward to the concert. I am very pround of Cody that he is in band and is doing well. He really loves music.

I hope everyone has a wonderful Holiday season. Merry Christmas!

Thanks for all your continued prayers.

God Bless!

Love,
Ann

Jeremiah 29:11-13 (NKJV)

11)For I know the thoughts that I think towards you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.

12)Then you will call upon Me when you search for Me with all you heart.

13)And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.

Monday, December 4, 2006 6:14 PM CST

Hello everyone,

We ended up getting that snow storm last Friday and their was no school. I can't remember when the last snow day was. All I know is it has been awhile. Cody had fun playing in the snow, while Johnathan was snoring away. That's what happens when you are a teenager. I remember when I was Johnathan's age, I loved sleeping in as well. Those were the days.

I have not heard anything on wether Johnathan can start his growth hormones up again.I will keep you all posted as soon as I hear anything.

Johnathan said he still can't shake feeling dizzy and tired. Johnathan will be seeing the BMT doctor next week. He will also be getting another blood test. I will keep you posted on that as well.

I put some new pictures up:o)

Thanks for your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Psalm 46:1
1)God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble.

Thursday, November 30, 2006 10:01 PM CST

Hello,

We had a nice Thanksgiving. I can't believe that Christmas is about three weeks away. Where did this year go??? Poof! it's just about gone.

I have most of my Christmas shopping done and my Christmas cards are being sent out soon. I'm starting to feel the stress of the holidays. I have some packages that I have to get mailed out as well. Last but not least, having to wrap the presents.

Johnathan is still a little on the tired side, but he looks like he is feeling better. I will be talking to the Endocrine doctor next week and will find out if Johnathan can start taking the growth hormone again. I will keep you posted.

We are expected to have a big snow storm tonight. Johnathan and Cody are hoping that their will be no school tomorrow. We shall see. If so, the kids will have a long four day weekend, because they already have off on Monday due to an inservice district meeting for all the teachers.

Thanks for your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann


Bless the Lord oh my soul; And all thatis within me, bless His holy name!

Psalm 103:1

Monday, November 27, 2006 4:11 PM CST

Hello,

Johnathan's blood test results came back. His Thyroid panel was in the normal range and he does not have mono. I don't know why he still feels so tired. Johnathan said that he had a headache today and felt a little dizzy again.

His BMT doctor said that if he continues to have these syptoms, she wants me to bring him into clinic. My back is against the wall right now. I wish I knew what was making him feel this way. His growth hormones are still on hold. I am just waiting for the Endocrine doctor let me know what to do next.

I will Keep you all posted.

God bless!
Ann

Every evening I turn my worries over to God. He's going to be up all night anyway.

Mary C. Crowley

Tuesday, November 21, 2006 10:41 AM CST

Hello,

Johnathan went back to school today. He is not feeling as dizzy or as nausous, but he still has very low energy. I am hoping to hear from the doctor soon about Johnathan's blood tests results. He had a thyroid panel done yesterday and a mono test as well. The doctor added the mono test at the last minute. I will keep you posted as soon as I hear anything.

Johnathan is also having intense tummy problems again. I am keeping an eye on that. If it gets worse, I will have to call his BMT doctor. Just when you think things are going pretty smooth wham! somthing odd or weird happens. I look at it as just another rough patch that we will get though. All we can do is take one day at a time and pray for better days ahead.

One good thing is, Johnathan does not have to go back to the Derm doctor for his warts anymore. The treatments worked and he is wart free! yeah!

Thanks for your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

My life is in Your hands, Lord
I am depending on You.
Please help me through this, Lord.
I place my trust in You.

How can I trust You, Lord?
How can I know You care?
How can I be safest, Lord?
In Your hands is where.

My life is in Your hands, Lord.
I am depending on You.
Please help me thruogh this, Lord.
I place my trust in You.

Author unknown

Sunday, November 19, 2006 11:26 AM CST

Hello,


Johnathan has had a litte set back. He is having reactions to the growth homromes. He has been feeling dizzy,nauseous and very tired for two weeks now. It was getting worse by this past week and this past Friday Johnathan could not go to school. I called the Endocrine doctor and she told me to take him to an Ophthalmologist ASAP! the reason being is, she wanted to make sure Johnathan did not have optic nerve edema or a pseudo tumor behind the eyes. These are side affects that can occur due to growth hormones.


I called to make an appointment for Johnathan and they sqeezed him in early Saturday morning. He had a couple of tests and the results came back normal. The doctor said that some times it is hard to detect these types of side affects in a youger person vs an adult. He still strongly believes that Johnathan's dizziness and nausea are from the growth hormones. I agree, because a week after Johnathan started taking the hormones he started to feeling like this.

I called the Endocrine doctor back and told her what the eye specialists had said. She said that she wanted Johnathan to stop the hormones this week. She also told me that thyroid levels can dropped while on growth hormones. She said that it probably explains why Johnathan is so tired lately. The doctor wants to start Johnathan on thyroid medicine to try and bring his tyroid level up. That is why he has to have a blood test early Monday morning. They have to test his cortisole level to see if he can take the thyroid medicine or not.

The doctor also wants to try and maybe cut his growth hormone dose in half vs taking the whole dose and see how Johnathan reacts to that.

Most of Johnathan's teachers also noticed a change in Johnathan these past two weeks. They hope that Johnathan starts to feel better soon. His teachers are very understanding and supportive. I told his teachers that Johnathan is the bounce back kid and he will get over this bump in the road once again.

Johnathan will be missing school again on Monday due to his blood test. Johnathan is not to happy about that, because he worries about getting behind, but the teachers told Johnathan not to worry. They are allowing him to make up his tests when he feels better or is able to. That helped ease the stress off of Johnathan a little bit. Johnathan is still not feeling up to par and needs more rest.


Thanks for your continued prayers. I will keep you all posted.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

THE JOY OF THE LORD IS OUR STRENGTH!

Wednesday, November 15, 2006 4:08 PM CST

Hello,

Nathan and are going out of town this weekend for our 20th anniversary. I can't believe it has been 20 years already! My parents are staying at our house with the kids while we are gone. It should be a fun time. Our anniversary is not until December 27th, but we are going out of town now, because it is so busy around that time. It will be good to just catch my breath.

I have Johnathan trained to give himself his own growth hormone shot. He does a really good job. What a trooper!

Johnathan told me that he was going to try out for the basketball team this year again. Well, try outs were this week and Johnathan did not make it. I told Johnathan if you did your best that's all you can do. He seemed to have a good attitude about it though. As a mother my heart was breaking, because basketball is Johnathan's life.

Johnathan is thinking of trying out for manager to help out with the team. That way he can still shoot hoops with the guys when they practice and go to the games. I am saying a prayer that some how he will get the position. Their are also allot of other kids that signed up for manager as well. Johnathan is really hoping to get the position.

Johnathan said to me that he missed out on basketball camps and leagues in the past, because of his illness. Johnathan told me that coaches look at that as part of making the team as well.

I am very proud of Johnathan for trying out for the team again this year. As a mother it hurts that this is the second time that he did not make it. My heart breaks in two, because Johnathan loves the game. If he could play basketball 24 hours a day he would.

The Salvation community center here in Oak Creek is having a spring basketball league and anyone can sign up. Johnathan is looking forward to signing up for that one.

Johnathan does have his days though. Some times he hates his life, because of his disease and feels like he will never be able to be normal like his friends are. He hates having to go to the doctor all of the time, but I know that it will not be like this forever (he still sees allot of specialists).

Johnathan has to work extra hard to keep his grades up and some days he just does not have allot energy, but yet he just keeps marching on like the trooper he is. I keep telling him that he has made it through his transplant and is lucky to be alive. He tells me that he knows that, but he will never be able to be a good basketball player, because of his disease. Like I said before, basketball is his life. We have conversations like this every now and then.

Johnathan said to me that I don't know what it's like at all to be sick with a disease. I told him that I don't know how he feels, but I know what it is like to have a son with a disease and it hurts deep in my gut. You wonder why did this have to happen? Then You just say to yourself it happened, and you have to deal with it the best you can.

I know that Johnathan has allot of dreams and it really hurts me that this disease has gotten in the way of some of those dreams. I told Johnathan that their is a reason he is still here and that God has a plan for him.

As a teenager, you some times have a one track mind and it's hard to except what life hands out to you. I know that Johnathan will find his way. I'm trying to give him direction.

My husband and I think that Johnthan would make a good teacher, but Johnathan does not want to do that. He is undecided at the moment. We also told him that he could go into sports medicine. I think he is leaning more toward somthing like that. He has two years to decide and then he will be graduating. Wow! I can't believe that he only has two more years left!

It's good that we have this caringbridge site. This site is good therapy and you can get allot of things out that are really bothering you. Well, this is one of those times where I had to get allot of things out. I feel a little better now:o)

Thanks for your continued prayers for Johnathan. It really means allot.


God bless!
Love,
Ann

This is a very encouraging verse of scripture.

Phillippians 4:6-8

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethern, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Friday, November 10, 2006 8:35 AM CST

Hello,

I finally got the results back from Johnathan's thyroid test and oral glucose test.

His Thyroid level is a still on the low side. Johnathan will have to take another Thyroid test in a couple of months to check his level again.

His insuline level looks normal at this point. Thank the Lord! I was really worried about that one.

Thank you for all your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart's desires. Commit everything you do to the Lord.
Trust him, and he will help you.

Psalm 37:4-5 (NLT)

Monday, November 6, 2006 12:44 AM CST

Hello,

I have not gotten the results back from Johnathan's glucose and tyroid test yet. I called the Enodocrine clinic today and left a message. I hope to here from them soon.

Johnathan is still very active with basketball. He plays all the time with his friends. He also goes to open basketball every weekend. It is so good to see him able to enjoy something that he loves to do. Two years ago at this time, Johnathan could not even jump. He makes jump shots all the time now. God is good!

Johnathan sees the ENT doctor this Friday for his yearly scope down his throat. Then he sees the Derm doctor in a couple of weeks. I hope that will be his last treatment for his warts. I am keeping my fingers crossed.

Thanks for checking in and thanks for your continued prayers.

Jude 1:24-25 (NLT)

A Prayer of Praise

24)And now, all glory to God, who is able to keep you from stumbling, and who will bring you into his glorious presence innocent of sin and with great joy.

25)All glory to him, who alone is God our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Yes, glory, majesty, power, and authority belong to him, in the beginning, now, and forever. Amen.

Tuesday, October 31, 2006 4:38 PM CST

Hello,

Johnathan was suppose to see the GI and the Derm Doctor this week, but I had to cancel both appointments. Johnathan has statewide tests all this week, so now I have to reschedule them some time in November.

Johnathan said that it was very stressful having to take tests all day today let alone all this week. My heart goes out to him. His younger brother Cody is in the same boat. I am sure they can't wait for this week to be over.

I'm still waiting for the results from Johnathan's thyroid and glucose test.I will let you know as soon as I hear anything.

It's getting colder here by the minute. I walked my dog Checkers yesterday and it was 65. Today I was walked Checkers and it was very windy and in the low 40's. It's suppose to get down to 28 degrees tonight BRRRRR!

Thanks for all your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

James 5:15
"And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up."

Friday, October 27, 2006 9:00 AM CDT

Hello,

We were at Children's hospital yesterday from 8:00am until 3:00 pm. Johnathan had a oral glucose tolerance test and thyroid blood test in the morning. In the afternoon we had to attend another growth hormone class with nurse Jenny. Johnathan gave himself a shot while we are there. I am hoping to get Johnathan to start giving himself a shot in the stomach and legs and I my job would just be giving him the shot in his arms. Johnathan did a really good job injecting himself with the growth hormone. He was a natural. He did it in his stomach. I'd say that was very brave of him.

Keep you all posted on the blood tests results as soon as I hear anything.

God bless!
Love,
Ann

Before the mountains were born or You brought forth the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting You are God.

Psalms 90:2 (NIV)

Monday, October 23, 2006 8:25 PM CDT

Dear friends and family,

I finally got the results from Johnathan's glucose tolerence test back. He had this done up in Minnesota. It was part of a research study for FA patients. His insulin output level was a little low. Johnathan is going to get an oral glucose test done this Thursday here at Children's hospital. He is also getting a base line blood test to test his Thyroid level as well.

Johnathan is also going to be getting some digital x-rays done this Friday. My kids do not have school this Thursday and Friday,so it made it easier to schedule these appointments for Johnathan.

Thank you for your continued prayers.

God bless!
Ann Eckstadt

Every major difficulty you face in life is a
fork in the road. You choose which track you
will head down, toward breakdown or breakthrough.

By John Maxwell

Saturday, October 21, 2006 7:24 AM CDT

Hello,


There is a hole in our hearts today. We had to put our dog Lucky down yesterday. I stayed with him to the end. I got to hug him and say good bye. It was sooooooo hard to let him go. He will be forever be missed. I know it was for the best, because he was suffering so. He was only three and a half years old and he had so many health problems. The vet said that it wasn't my fault and that it was just due to poor breeding. Lucky was a Lhasa Apso and he was soooooo cute! His face looked just like a teddy bear. My eye's are all swollen from crying so much yesterday.

This past year we found out Lucky had 4th stage hip displasia. Which means their was nothing but bone on bone. We were taking him to the vet to get adiquan shots twice a week.This only helped for only a while though and to have surgery was way too expensive. He also had bladder stones and kidney problems. Towards the end his immune system started failing causing him to contract a full blown yeast infection all over his body. I had to give him two oatmeal baths this week to soothe the itching. He was also drinking water like crazy! That is not a good sign.

We are are moping around here today and our other dog Checkers (who is half poodle and shitzu) was walking around the house yesterday and this morning crying looking for Lucky. Lucky was kind of like a mother figure to him, because Checkers is only a year old. He followed Lucky around everywhere. He was Lucky's side kick. It's all very sad. I know as time goes on, it will get a little easier, we will never forget the memories that we had with Lucky.

Lucky also helped Johnathan get through some tough times before and after transplant. He always layed next to Johnathan when Johnathan wasn't feeling well. Johnathan is very sad and misses his little buddy.

Cody did not want Friday to come and had a hard time concentrating at school yesterday. He really misses Lucky as well.

Johnathan is doing great healthwise. He is surviving the growth hormones shots every day so far. Again, please pray that that the growth hormones will work and help him grow. IN JESUS NAME!

We go the gasroenterolist for Johnathan's acid reflux and the Dermatologist at the end of the month for his wart treatments. Johnathan's warts are almost gone on his feet, but he still has some on his knee. His stomach is still acting up, but not as much as before. Please continue to pray for healing in his stomach.

Thanks for checking up on Johnathan.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

I cry to You for help, O LORD; in the morning my prayer comes before you. Psalms 88:13 (NIV)

Sunday, October 15, 2006 11:59 AM CDT

Hello,

Johnathan is starting to feel better. He went to school last Friday and has to make up a couple of tests next week. He did not get to far behind in his school work. He always worries about that.

I started Johnathan's growth hormone shots two days ago. I was a little nervous the first time I gave him the shot. The second time around I felt a little less nervous. I know the more practice I get the better I will be at doing it. Johnathan is still uneasy about giving the shot to himself at this point.

I bring you very sad news. We are going to have to put our dog Lucky down next week. He has 4th stage hip displasia and bladder stones. He also might have slipped a disk. I have tried to save Lucky, but he is getting worse. He has been on Adequan shots to help his hips and just recently got an antinflamatory (Metacam) injection this past Friday. I think he ended up getting a reaction from the Metacam, because his skin is all red and itchy.

I even tried to get help for Lucky from a rescue shelter for Lhasa's. He has to many problems and they will not take him. He is getting very irritable and has been biting all of us and growling allot as well. He has even been some what mean to our other dog Checkers. The reason Lucky is acting that way is because he is in allot of pain and very miserable at this point.

I have talked to several people and they have all said that it would be best for Lucky to be put down. It took me the whole Summer to realize this. I have finally come to terms with the fact that their is nothing else I can do for Lucky. I don't want to see him suffer anymore. We also do not have the funds to get him surgery and it is not guaranteed that he will be the the same after sugery.

It is going to be very hard on me and my family when the time comes to say goodbye to little Lucky. Please keep our family in your prayers. We are going to miss him so much.

I put Johnathan's school picture on the the homepage and I put some new pictures up of Johnathan at homecoming.

Thank you for keeping Johnathan in your prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann Eckstadt

Psalm 18:28

You, O Lord keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness into light. (NIV)

Wednesday, October 11, 2006 9:51 AM CDT

Hello,

Johnathan is home sick today. I took him to the doctor yesterday after school. He has a double ear infection, bad cough and sore throat. The doctor put him on antibiotics. I am hoping they will start to kick in soon, so he will start to feel better.

We were suppose to see the Derm doctor for Johnathan's wart treatment yesterday as well, but he was to sick to go. I had to call and reschedule his appointment for a later date.

Tomorrow Johnathan and I will be attending a class to help us learn how to inject growth hormones correctly. I am asking everyone to pray that the growth hormomes will help Johnathan grow. He really wants to be a little taller than he is now. He is only five one at this point.

Johnathan told me that it would be nice to grow a few more inches, so he can feel more comfortable driving. He also just wants to look and feel normal like all the other kids his own age.

Thank you all for your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Ann Eckstadt

Life is a process:

To God process isn't a means to an end; it is the goal.
Whatever sends us running to him, makes us enbrace him,
causes us to depend on him, is the best good in our lives.

Gloria Gaither

Monday, October 2, 2006 2:09 PM CDT

Hello,

Johnathan saw the BMT doctor last Friday. He does not have to take Entocort for his GVHD anymore, because he is GVHD free now. God is good! I hope and really pray that it will not come back any time soon. I pray this for Johnathan's sake.


Johnathan went to homecoming this past weekend. He had a real good time with his friends.

Johnathan will be starting his growth hormones in a couple of weeks. We are going to a class next week to show us how to administer the hormone. He will be taking the hormones for a year. Please pray that the hormones will work for Johnathan and help him grow some. He really wants to be taller than he is now. It bothers him alot that he is shorter than all of his friends.

I told Johnathan that I love him just the way you are and that I am so thankful that he is here, alive and doing very well. Johnathan is also very thankful to be alive, but when you are a teenager you get very selfconscious of how you look. Everything seems to be so magnified at that age. My heart goes out to him though, because I know he just wants to be normal just like the other kids his age.

Johnathan tries real hard to do his best in everything he does. He pushes himself to keep up with kids his own age. He does a very good job at doing this. He is a trooper and a half and a real fighter. I always pray that Johnathan is here with us for many, many years to come.

Thank you for all your continued prayers.

God bless!
Love,
Ann

"All the Way My Savior Leads Me"

All the way my Savior leads me
Cheers each winding path I tread
Gives me grace for every trial
Feeds me with the living bread
Though my weary steps may falter
And my soul athirst may be
Gushing from the Rock before me
Lo a spring of joy I see.

Hymn by Fanny Crosby

Thursday, September 28, 2006 8:43 PM CDT

Hi,


Johnathan has homecoming this weekend. He is really looking forward to it. The weather is going to be a little on the cool side though.

Johnathan still has a cold, but is doing pretty good otherwise.

We are seeing the BMT doctor tomorrow.

God Bless!
Ann

Tuesday, September 26, 2006 10:55 AM CDT

Hello!

I bring you very good news! We recently received a letter from our insurance company and after all the submissions and several appeals, they are finally going to cover Johnathan's growth hormones!!! God is good!

I couldn't believe what I was reading! I had to keep reading it over and over to make sure it really said that they were actually going to cover the hormones! I kept thinking that maybe their was a reason that Johnathan kept being denied (they say their is a reason for everything). I just kept putting it in God's hands and left it there. I knew that I had no control over the situation anymore. All I know is that God may not come when you want him but he is always right on time!

The results from Johnathan's bone age scan that he had done in Minnesota, stated that Johnathan bones still have room to grow. Please pray with me that the gorwth hormones will work and that they do what they are suppose to do. That is to make Johnathan grow! In Jesus Name!

Johnathan has been fighting a cold. He was complaining of his throat hurting him as well. I gave him some Tylenol cold and he went to school today. He does not like to miss school, but if he has a fever, that is where I draw the line. He does not want to miss anything and get behind.

This Friday Johnathan sees the BMT doctor. I will keep you posted.

Thanks for keeping Johnathan in you prayers.

God Bless!
Ann Eckstadt

"Blessed be the Lord, who daily loads us with benfits. The God of our salvation."

Psalm 68:19 (NKJV)

Thursday, September 14, 2006 12:38 AM CDT

Hello,

I got the results from the biopsy from Johnathan's GI track. There are no more signs of GVHD. Thank the Lord! I am really going to pray hard that it will not return.

Johnathan had to have his nose cotorized again last Tuesday (He was still getting nose bleeds). Hopefully this time it did the trick. The doctor really cotorized it good this time, because the left side of Johnathan's nostril was all black inside for a couple of days. All his friends were asking him what happened. It eventually turned into a scab and fell off (gross).

The next appointment that Johnathan has to go to at the end of this month is with the BMT doctor. Then shortly after that he sees the GI doctor for his other stomach issue (acid reflux). I will keep you all posted.

The sun is finally out today. It has been raining here since last weekend. Our pool has water right up to the rim, because of all the rain that we had.If it would have rained a couple more days, it probably would have overflowed! Everyone is mowing their grass today. It's good to see the sun again and It's such nice day today. I have all my windows open. What a nice breeze.

Johnathan is happy that it stopped raining. Now he can shoot some hoops again with his friends. It's hard for him not to go a day without shooting some hoops. Basketball is his favorite sport.


Johnathan is still trying to get use to school and the early hours. He did say to me the other day,that he never would have imagined that he would ever make it this far. He can't believe he is in tenth grade. I know how he got this far, It was from his dertemination, Faith and everyone's prayers. God is good all the time and all the time God is good!

2Corinthians 4:18 (NLT)
So we don't look at the troubles we can see right now; rather, we look forward to what we have not yet seen. For the troubles we see will soon be over, but the joys to come will last forever.

God Bless!
Ann Eckstadt

Saturday, September 9, 2006 10:00 AM CDT

Hello,


I just got some more results back from when we were up in Minnesota.

Here is Johnathan's blood test results.
RBC'S 4,800, WBC'S 8,400, hemoglobin 16.3, Platelets 264,000, ANC 4,600. Johnathan's counts are still holding strong! Thank The Lord!

Johnathan's cellularity went from 70 percent from last year to 80 percent this year. His liver, kidney, thyroid, urine tests came back normal as well. Johnathan's IgG a little low. The doctor thinks that it's probably from being on steriods for his GVHD.

Still waiting on some more results. I am going to call up to Minnesota on Monday to see if they came back yet.

Well we all survived the first week of school. It's hard to get use to getting up so early. Johnathan has to be at school by 7:30, so I am now up with the birds every morning getting myself up and ready. Then I have to get the dogs fed and let out before the kids get up. Once the kids are up it's a mad dash to get everyone ready and out the door. The madness begins! (ha,ha)

I put some new pictures up. The picture on the home page makes me look back at the last time I took a picture of Johnathan sitting next to Ronald in front of the RMH. It was right before his bone marrow transplant. It was so awesome to see Johnathan sitting there in the same spot again two years later. God is good!

I put some pictures up of Johnathan with Dr. Macmillian and Pat Fidler. I also put up a picture when Johnathan and I were at the Mall of America with my Aunt Leslie and her two kids Lindsey and Zack. Johnathan really had a good time riding the rides with them and I had a great time hanging out with my Aunt Leslie. It was really nice seeing them again.

I will keep you posted on the rest of the results as soon as I hear anything.

Thanks for all your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Psalm 116:5

How kind the Lord is! How good he is!
So merciful, this God of ours!

Thursday, August 31, 2006 8:03 PM CDT

Hello,

Johnathan went to his hearing aide check-up yesterday and they adjusted his new hearing aide. Today Johnathan had a Derm appt. for his wart treatments. He said that it really hurt this time when they injected his foot with the Candia treatment (that is what the treatment is called). He was in intense pain all the way home in the car. When we got home I gave him some Aleve for the pain. He started feeling better as the evening went on.

I have been doing allot of running around this week, trying to get things done before school starts. I can't believe that it is next week already!

Our new insurance denied Johnathan growth hormones.Our prior insurance denied them as well. Johnathan was really bummed out. There are some other avenues that I can take. I have already made some phone calls. I will keep you all posted as soon as I hear anything. This is so frusrating for Johnathan, because he really wants to grow some more, so that he feels more comfortable driving. He does not want to take drivers ed this year. He feels to short and does not feel quite ready at this point.

Please pray that some doors will open for Johnathan, so that he can recieve the growth hormones that he needs at this stage in his life. The window for the growth hormones to work right now is slowly closing. The bodies growth spurts usually stop by 17 or 18. That is what Johnathan's Endocrine doctor told us here.
I just keep reminding myself to just trust in God and that he is in control.

I do have some good news though. I got some results back from Johnathan bone marrow biopsy. Johnathan is still a 100 percent grafted! God is good!!! They did see some irritation near his esophagus from when they did a scope down Johnathan's GI track. They think it's from acid reflux, so the doctor wants him to take aciphex two times a day instead of once a day. I am still waiting for the rest of the results. I will keep you posted.

Thanks for your continued prayers.

God bless!
Love,
Ann

Samuel 2:2

No one is holy like the Lord!
There is no one besides you;
There is no Rock like our God.

Saturday, August 26, 2006 3:14 PM CDT

Hello,

Well we made it to Minnesota in one piece there and back. We had a fun time, but it was a very hectic week as well. I met some new people and saw some old faces. It really brought allot of memories back when we were there for Johnathan's transplant two years ago.

We also ventured out to the Mall of America while we were there. We went there on Monday and then on Thursday we met my aunt Leslie there and had a really good time. We laughed allot and talked allot. She brought her daughter Lindsey who is 18 and Zack who is 15. Johnathan really had a good time with his second cousins. They had a blast at Camp Snoopy riding the rides and playing games. I was told it was not called Camp Snoopy anymore. It is now called The Park of Mall of America. I like the old name much better.

We didn't get a chance to get to the State Fair while we were in Minnesota. Maybe next year we will try to go and check it out.

I have to take Johnathan to his follow-up hearing aide appointment and then to the Derm doctor for his warts next week. Johnathan is also getting his nose cortorized again in a couple of weeks. His nose is starting to bleed again. His back is getting better as well. He was really complaining about having pain in his back, but it has subsided. I will be keeping an eye on it though. I let his primary doctor know about it and he thinks that Johnathan may have pulled a muscle, because Johnathan has been working out on his dad's Bow-flex.

Johnathan seems to be doing good otherwise. Blood counts are still looking good! God is good!


Thanks for your continued prayers.

God bless!
Love,
Ann


Matthew 6:32-34 (NLT)

Your heavenly Father already knows all your needs, and he will give you all your needs from day to day if you live for him and make the kingdom of God your primary concern. So don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring Its own worries. Today's trouble is enough for today.

Have you ever wished you could know the future? Some people worry so much about tomorrow that they forget about today. The only thing sure about the next day, week, month, or year is that it will be filled with new callanges, problems, struggles. and opportunities. That's why Jesus said that each day has its own problems. Instead of worrying about the future or dreading it, we should concentrate on what we have to do today, making the most of each moment we have to live. That means seeing time as a valuable resource and using it wisely. It also means seeing friends and family as precious gifts from God and treating them right. God wants us to prepare for the future but to live for the moment. (NLT)

Wednesday, August 23, 2006 12:26 AM CDT

Hello,

We are still here in Minnesota for Johnathan's two year check-up. I am typing this on the RMH computer, but we are staying at the Days Inn. They were not sure if they were going to have a room for us, because their was a waiting list, so we are just staying at the Days in up the street from here. They said that we could still come and visit the RMH while we were here. Johnathan is shooting hoops in the gym as we speak. It was really nice to see all the staff again here at the RMH. They are the sweetest people you ever want to meet.

We got here on Sunday evening. On Monday we went to the Mall of America. We walked around for about Six hours. By the end of the day Johnathan was to tired to go on any rides. We are possibly going to go back to the Mall tomorrow. One of the Social workers here at the hospital gave Johnathan some free tickets to ride the rides at Camp Snoopy. I was told it was not Camp Snoopy anymore and no one can seem to remember the new name. I will make appoint to check that out when we go back tomorrow.

Johnathan had his bone marrow biopsy,Endoscopy,plus some biopsies of the GI track yesterday. We will be getting some of the results back by the end of this week or the beginning of next week. We had to be there in morning and did not get back to the motel until 6:00pm, so it was a very long day yesterday.

Then we had to be back at the hospital today by 8:00am for a Glucose tolerance test and a bone age/X-ray. After Johnathan had all that done, we went up to the 4th floor to see all of the Nurses and doctors that took care of Johnathan while we were there in 2003. I was happy and very emotional at the same time being on the 4th floor. It really brought back allot of memories. It was so neat to see everyone again.

We also ran into two nurses that took care of Johnathan in the hallway as we were coming into the entrance of the hospital. They were just getting off their shift. It was really nice to see them. They were so happy to see Johnathan.

I also got to meet Matthew Pearl's mom. (Her son Matthew just recently had a bone marrow transplant here in Minnesota.) He seems to be doing pretty good right now. The mom is really nice and sweet and I really enjoyed talking to her. Please keep Matthew and his family in your prayers.

Johnathan is glad that all his tests are done, and now he can just have fun and relax.

Thank you for all your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

The Lord is my strength!

Monday, August 14, 2006 12:24 AM CDT

Hello,

Johnathan is finally getting his hearing aide this week. We have an appointment this Wednesday for the fitting. You won't be able to hardly see his hearing aide. It hides behind the ear. You barely see the tubing in the inner ear at all. Johnathan still wants to grow his hair out a little so it will be completely covered up. The shag look is really in now,so Johnathan will fit right in.

I also have to take Johnathan this month for another treatment for his warts. He still has them on one of his knees. I am hoping that the treatments will be over soon for Johnathan's sake. The treatments are kind of painful when they inject the needle. It's really hard for me to watch the whole process.

The State Fair is over here in Wiconsin. I went three times this year. I took my younger son Cody on opening day. The second time I went, I took Johnathan and a couple of his friends. The third time I went was last night with my husband. The weather was perfect and we had a great time.

I know when we go up to Minnesota next week, their State Fair will be just starting. I would like to see what their State Fair is like when we are there. I also want to try to get to the Mall of America as well.

Pray for Johnathan next week. Pray that all goes well with his procedures and that all the results will be good.

Thanks for your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

The Joy of the Lord is my strength!!!!

Saturday, August 5, 2006 9:56 PM CDT

Hello,

Johnathan went to the ENT doctor this past Wednesday and he ended up getting his nose cotorized. I told the ENT doctor that Johnathan's nose bleeds started when he started using the Flonase. I told him that I had stopped the Flonase and Johnathan's still continued to have nose bleeds. He said that nose bleeds are one of the side affects when using Flonase. Flonase can some times thin the membrane in the nose and when that happens you are highly prone to getting nose bleeds.

I also told the ENT doctor that my brother,my mom and I all had to have are nose cotorized as well. So it could also be hereditary. Johnathan has not had any nose bleeds since he had his nose cotorized. PTL!

Johnathan also had to see the BMT doctor yesterday. He got a CBC and his counts look awesome! His WBC are 8,000 and his RBC are 4,750. His hemoglobin is 15.9 and his platelets are 228,000. His ANC is 3,600. God is good!

Johnathan also had to get more immunization shots. He got the Polio vaccine, Tetanus and Diphtheria vaccine.He also got the Measles mumps& Rubella shot and a Heppattitis B vaccine. Johnathan said it felt like someone gave him 20 charlies in both of his arms after he got the shots. I told him that his arms will be sore for a couple of days. He had to take some Tylenol right away to ease the pain.

Johnathan also saw the Derm Doctor last week and most of his warts fell off his feet, but he still has them on his knee. They will still have to continue to do treatments on that area a few more times. I am glad that the treatments are working for Johnathan. He is happy that his warts are going away on his feet.

The BMT doctor wants Johnathan to still stay on his Endocort for his GVHD. He is also still on Valtrex and Previcid. He is off of Guafinex for his sinuses and is now taking Claritin instead. Which seems to be working better for him.

In two weeks we will be going up to Minnesota. Can't wait to see Johnathan's doctors and the nurses who cared for him while we were there.I am hoping to see my Aunt Leslie as well.

Thanks for your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Philippians 4:13(NLT)

For I can do everything with the help of Christ who gives me the strength I need.


This verse comes at the end of a section where paul explains that he can be content in every situation. What was Paul's secret to contentment? He knew that God was with him, whether he was in need or had plenty, was hungry or well fed, was feeling bad or feeling great. Paul knew that, regardless of the circumstances, God would give him the strength to make it through. When are you tempted to discontent? When things are going well and you have a lot, do you want more? When you are struggling, do you fret and doubt? In both extremes, and everything in between, keep your focus on Christ. Remember the souce of your strength, and look for his guidance. (NLT)

Friday, July 28, 2006 12:21 AM CDT

Hello,

Johnathan has an appointment with the ENT doctor next week for his nose bleeds and the BMT doctor to get a CBC and some immunizations shots.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Psalm 9:1-2 (NLT)

1)I will thank you, Lord, with all my heart;
I will tell of all the marvelous things
you have done.

2)I will be filled with joy because of you.
I will sing praises to your name, O Most High.

Wednesday, July 26, 2006 4:31 PM CDT

Hello!

Well, we got our pool up finally, but ended up having massive damage done to our yard though. Put it this way, the guy was not very careful digging out the yard where our pool was going to go. He tore the rest of our yard up as well. We did complain to the pool place where we bought the pool from and the guy that oversees everything is going to help get our yard back to it's origional state. He saw the damage and I think he knew that he had to do something about it. He knew that Nathan and I were pretty upset about the whole thing. I will keep you all posted.


We should be able to swim in the pool by this weekend some time. It has to sit and level out with the water in it for a couple days. Then the pool guy will be hooking up the filter on Friday. The kids can't wait! They are so excited!!!


We almost were not able to go to Minnesota in August again. My new insurance said that Minnesota was not in their network. I thought that was strange, because we had the same insurance before when Johnathan had his BMT in 2004.

One of the financial advisors at the University did some investigating for me and She found out that Johnathan was in fact eligable to go up to Minnesota. I really don't know what happened on my end, but I was on the phone for about three hours trying to find out why Minnesota was not in network.

The financial advisor said that it had to do with the tax ID number and they could not find the right billing address or something to that affect. I am not really all clear as to what really happened, but I am so glad that it all worked out. Now we are for sure able to go up to Minnesota in August. Insurance can really be a pain some times, but I am thankful that we have it.

Johnathan has been having allot of bloody noses again, and I do not know why. My brother and I use to have bloody noes allot when we were gowing up. We both had to get our noses cotorized (not sure of the spelling).

I called Johnathan's doctor today and explained to her about the situation and that it might be inherited. She wants Johnathan to come in for a CBC just to see where his platelets counts are at.

She also told me that I need to make an appointment with the ENT doctor ASAP to possibly have his nose cotorized as well. I know that will really help him, because it really did wonders for me.

The ENT doctor is always really booked up, so I hope Johnathan will not have to wait to long. I hope they will be able to sqeeze him in because of the situation.


Thanks for all your prayers and support:o)

Love,
Ann

Lord you and good and you mercies endureth forever!!!!!

Sunday, July 23, 2006 8:15 PM CDT

Hello,

First of all I want to say that Johnathan is doing great! His GVHD is still under control. Yeah!!! His stomach is still giving him some problems off and on, but he never seems to let those things get in the way of wanting to have a great Summer with his friends.

This Tuesday it won't be all that great for Johnathan, because he has to have more treatments for his warts on his feet. I wish it was me instead of him. The treatments seem to be working though and that is a good thing.

Looking back and remembering when Johnathan was up in Minnesota going through his transplant. I would tell Johnathan to picture himself playing basketball and hanging out with his friends again. My mom would also try to tell Johnathan to picture himself on the basketball court and that he should not give up making it through his transplant and keep trying to score the winning point. It looks like he has been winning the game ever since. PTL!

It was hard at the time for Johnathan to picture himself doing that at times, because he was so sick and in pain. Deep down inside I know that he wanted so badly to play basketball with his buddies again. I know that he made that one of his goals to get through the whole ordeal. Now Johnathan always has a baketball in his hands. I believe that by Johnathan playing basketball all the time, is one of the factors tha has helped him through post transplant. The doctor said to me, the more active Johnathan is the better.

He also made it a goal to graduate from 8th grade and then go on to high school with all his friends. He has accomplished both of those goals and I am so proud of him! He will be going into tenth grade this year. God is good!

Lance Armstrong, Bret Farve, and Michael Jordan also inspired him not to give up. Most importantly God, for without God and the prayers of family,freinds, and churches from all over the country, I know that Johnathan would not have made it this far.Thank you Lord!

It's a total miracle that Johnathan is here with us today. When I was going through Johnathan's tranplant with him. All I could do was pray God's will and to trust in God whatever the outcome might be.

I told God that he was in control, because their was nothing I could do at the time, but to pray and hold on to my faith.

I also tried to take one day at a time and some times that was really hard to do. Worry and panic would seem to set in some days, but God always seemed to let me know that he was there. I know at the time it was all completely out of my hands and I just had to put it all in God's hands.

Through all the sleepless nights, blood sweat and many, many tears. It all seems worth it now,because Johnathan made it, and he is still here. Thank you Lord!

I remember their were times where their were allot of touch and go situations that could have gone either way. Those times were very intense and scary for Johnathan.

Like I mentioned before, It's because of the support from all his friends,family, pastor,school ect....

I could never thank everyone enough for all the support and kind words.

Johnathan's determination, his strong faith and his strong will also helped him get through those touch and go moments. What a trooper!

I believe that all your prayers are still carrying over to this day and that is what's keeping Johnathan going and keeping him strong to this day. Thank you and God bless you all.


I want to share part of my journal that I wrote the day of Johnathan's transplant.

July 7th 1:00am Day Of Transplant:

Johnathan is having his transplant today at 1:00am. Johnathan wants us to wake him up for the transplant.

It's 1:00am and Johnathan is having his transplant. It is very emotional, I am crying tears of joy!

As I was crying, I felt a warm feeling come over me. I knew it was God's presense letting me know that it was going to be alright.

I pray with with all my heart that Johnathan's BMT will take. I pray that the cells will go where they need to go and multiply ASAP!

We video taped the procedure. It lasted 29 minutes and 34 seconds.

I can't thank the donor enough for giving my son a second chance at a new life!

Happy Birthday again Johnathan! I love you very much!

Love,
Mom





Thank you for your continued prayers and support.

God Bless!

Love,
Ann

Romans 8:26 (NLT)

26)The Holy spirit helps us in our distress.
For we don't even know what we should pray
for nor, how we should pray.But the Holy Spirit
prays for us with groanings that cannot be
expressed in words.

Tuesday, July 18, 2006 4:56 PM CDT

Hello,


Johnathan is having a great Summer so far. He has some of his friends over today. They played ping pong, air hockey, soccer and basketball. He is has been very very active thus far. God is good!

It is a beautiful Summer day here in Wisconsin. It is not in the high 90's anymore. It is in the low 80's today with a nice breeze.

This is the day the Lord has made let us rejoice and be glad in it!

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Saturday, July 15, 2006 8:39 AM CDT

Hello,


The doctor called me back yesterday on the Flonase situation. In my last journal I had mentioned that Johnathan was getting allot of nose bleeds lately. He started Flonase about a month and a half ago for his allergies. Anyways, I told Johnathan that his nose bleeds were probably from the Flonase. I told Johnathan to stop using it and see what happens. In a few days his nose bleeds began to stop. The doctor told me that is one of the side affects from Flonase and she said that I did the right thing. She told me to put him on Clariton and see if that will help his allergies, so that is what I am going to do. I will keep you posted.

It is going to be in the high 90's this weekend and that it very rare here in Wisconsin. It feels like Flordia weather here today. It is early in the morning here and when I let my dogs,you could feel that it was going to be a very hot and muggy day.

We bit the bullet and bought an above ground pool this Summer, but it has been sitting our garage for about three weeks now. We had to wait for the permit to get approved and it seemed like that took forever! We finally got it approved yesterday, so some time this week hopefully it will get put up. I wish it was already up, because of the major heat wave we are getting all of a sudden. As the old saying goes, "Good things come to those who wait." So, I am holding on to that.

We will be going up to Minnesota in August for Johnathan's two year check-up. It would be the week of the 21st. I wish we were still going up to Minnesota next week. I was going to be able to see freinds and family that I have not seen in a long time. I am kind of bummed about the whole thing. I had mentioned in my last journal entry that we were not going up there next week now, because we we would not be activated with our new insurance in time, so we had to rescedule.

Thanks for your continued prayers and support

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

LAMATATIONS 3:22-23 (NLT)

THE UNFAILING LOVE OF THE LORD NEVER ENDS!
BY HIS MERCIES WE HAVE BEEN KEPT FROM
COMPLETE DESTRUCTION. GREAT IS HIS FAITHFULLNESS;
HIS MERCIES BEGIN AFRESH EACH DAY.

In life, people may turn against us, friends may fail us, and family members may abandon us, but God is faithful. He stands with us and for us. In fact, he is the same yesterday, today, and forever. God's unchanging character and faithful love provide a solid foundation for living. We stand secure in him.

This was a translation of the scripture above and also from the (NLT).

Thursday, July 13, 2006 3:59 PM CDT

Hello,

I am sorry to say that we had to reschedule our trip up to Minnesota next week. Nathan my husband, started his new job this past Monday and we will not be fully activated with the new insurance at his his new job until next Thursday. So we had to reschedule for the end of August. That is the only other time that Dr. MacMillan has available to see Johnathan.

I was very bummed about the sudden change of plans, because I was wanting to see the Kuell's again and my aunt Leslie. I will hopfully be able to still see my aunt in August, because she lives in Minnesota, but I probably won't be able to see the Kuell's until next year at this time. I am very sad about that.

Johnathan has been keeping really busy this Summer and has been very active. Which is a good thing! His stomach is still giving him grief, but he is doing good otherwise. Johnathan's nose has been bleeding allot lately. I told him that maybe it was from using the Flonase. I told him to stop taking it and see what happens and his nose stopped bleeding. (weird?)

I am going to call Johnathan's doctor today and tell her about his bloody noses and the fact the the Flonase was probably the factor. I hope that they don't have us come in, because I won't be able to come there until next Friday, because we won't be in the system until then. I am sure that they will understand (I hope).

Thanks for your continued prayers and support:o)

God Bless!
Ann

Galations 2:20(NLT)

I myself no longer live, but
Christ lives in me. so I live
my life in this earthly body
by trusting in the son of God,
who loved me and gave himself
for me.

The Phrase "Christ lives in me" means
that God is with us in our struggles. Through
the Holy Spirit, Christ is working inside
us, helping us want to obey God and then giving
us the strength and power to do what is right.
Not only has God forgiven us, he has given us
himself. When you feel alone or don't know
which way to turn, remember that Christ lives
in you. Talk to him about your problems and ask
for his guidance. This is the transulation of
the verse of scripture above from the (NLT).

Friday, July 7, 2006 8:42 AM CDT

Hello,

Today is Johnathan's two year anniversary!!!! Yeah!!!! God IS GOOD ALL THE TIME AND ALL THE TIME GOD IS GOOD!!!


We bought Johnathan an X-Box game and gave him some money for his second birthday. He also got a card from his Nani and Bumpa with some money. He was a Happy Camper!!!!

I put a new picture of Johnathan holding his game and card on his home page, so you could see how good he looks and the fact that he is smiling from ear to ear. Like I said, GOD IS GOOD!!!! (I also put new pictures up on the photo page.)

Happy second birthday Johnathan! We love you and we are so grateful and glad that you are still here with us!!!!!
Love,
Dad,mom,&Cody

Thank you for your continued prayers. For without all your prayers and support Johnathan would have not made it this far. Thank you so much:o)

God Bless!
Love in Christ,
Ann

This verse of scripture is so profound! I thought is would be a good scripture for Johnathan's 2nd birthday.

Jeremiah 29:11 (NLT)

"FOR I KNOW THE PLANS I HAVE FOR YOU," SAYS THE LORD. "THEY ARE PLANS FOR GOOD AND NOT FOR DISASTER,TO GIVE YOU A FUTURE AND A HOPE.

Friday, June 30, 2006 4:56 PM CDT

Hello,

We went to clinic yesterday. Johnathan's counts look great! His WBC is 8,100 and his RBC is 4,560. His Hemoglobin is 15.4 and his Platelets are 211,000. His ANC is 3,500. God is Good!

The doctor decided to decrease Johnathan's steroid (Endocort) for his GVHD from 6mgs a day to 3mgs a day. That is a good sign that his GVHD is getting under control. God is Good!

Johnathan is gaining weight. He is up to 93 pounds now and that is really good for him. He is starting to eat more and he has been working out. His stool is getting better, but he still gets stomach aches after he eats. I am hoping that as time goes by that the stomach aches will get better as well.

We are going up to Minnesota on the 16th of July for Johnathan's two year anniversary. Yeah!!!!!

My mom will be coming up there with me this time. I am glad that she is coming, because I don't like driving on long trips by myself. It was just Johnathan and I last year and I thankfully I made it there in one piece.

It will be nice to have my mom come with me this time. Nathan my husband wanted to come, but he is starting a new job in July and will not be able to take off. He will be working for Verizon as a sales rep. It is a better position and the insurance is better as well. Thank the Lord!!!!

We are hoping to see the Kuell family while we are there. Their son Brain who also has FA, had his transplant last July and this will be Brian's one year anniversary. I am so glad that we got to know them. They were always checking up on Johnathan when he was going through his transplant and we always checked in on Brian as well. We still keep in touch and I can't wait to see them again.

I also hope that I get to see my Aunt Leslie while I am up in Minnesota. She is lives there. That would be so nice to be able to see her again.

Thank you for all your prayers and continued support.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Psalm 150:1-2

1)Praise the Lord!
Praise God in His sanctuary;
Praise Him in His mighty firmament!

2)Praise Him for His mighty acts;
Praise Him according to His excellent
greatness!

Friday, June 23, 2006 10:22 PM CDT

Hello,


Johnathan will be getting a hearing aide next month. It's the same kind of hearing aide that the lead singer of Huey Lewis and the news wears. In fact he is the spokesperson for the hearing aide. It's a new hearing called the Delta. It hides behind the ear and you can hardly see it.

Johnathan's hearing loss as gotten a little worse in his left ear and since he is going to be driving next year, the doctor said that Johnathan will need to wear it especially for that reason.

Our insurance will be paying eighty percent of the hearing aide. Can you believe that! I almost fell over!! They won't cover Johnathan's growth hormones, but they will help cover most of the hearing aide????? I didn't think insurance companies covered hearing aides. Johnathan wore one when he was in grade school and our insurance that we had back then would not cover it. The Lions Club had to help us with cost of the hearing aide at that time. Johnathan did not wear it much, because the other kids always would make fun of him.

Johnathan also got treated for his warts again. It was again very painful for him. The treatments are starting to work though. His one big wart that he had under one of his big toes fell off already. Hopefully all of them will start to fall off for Johnathan's sake.

Johnathan is having a great Summer so far. It sounds like his little brother Cody is getting a cold. He has been coughing all day. I told Johnathan to stay clear of Cody, because he was also complaining of his throat hurting. Not Good!!! Please say a little prayer that Cody gets over this cold or whatever it is soon!!

Thank you again for all your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Joshua 1:9
I command you-be strong and courageous! Do
Not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your
God is with you wherever you go.

Monday, June 12, 2006 2:21 PM CDT

Hello!

School is finally out! Their last day was the 9th. It feels strange that I don't have to get up at the crack of dawn and get the kids up and out the door in time for school. It's kind of nice.

Johnathan has been out and about with his friends and riding his bike all over creation. Next year he will be learning to drive and I know that I will probably hardly ever see him then. Two more years and Johnathan will be 18. Wow, that makes me feel really old. (ha,ha)

I forgot to mention in my last update that Johnathan's stool sample came back normal. I was very happy to hear that! PTL!!!!

Also, when we went out of town for Memorial day weekend Johnathan was not feeling well. I had to get a perscription for and anitbiotic for him before we went. I think the last day he started to feel better. (He was on the Z-pack)He still had allot of fun with his cousins even though he was a little under the weather.

His stomach has still been acting up. The cramping is always their right after he eats. The doctor said that he may have to deal with tummy problems for awhile and that it will take time to heal. Johnathan is still taking steroids for his GVHD and the GVHD is in his GI track, so that does not help things either. I am still holding on to the hope that it will completely go away. I hope real soon for Johnathan's sake.

Johnathan is kind of bummed right now, because most of his friends are involved with sports this Summer, except him. When he had his transplant at age 14, that is when all his freinds were starting to try out for teams at school. Now they are either on the school baseball team or on the school basketball team. Most of Johnathan's friends are all at baseball camp or basketball camp through the school this Summer. He wishes that he would have made the basketball team, so that he could be with his friends.

I tried calling the YMCA to see if they had any summer basketball leagues and they did, but not for Jonhnathan's age group. I am going to try and call other places this week. Maybe Johnathan will get on basketball team yet. I am praying an hoping that he does.

He could never play baseball before his transplant, because the doctor did not want him to accidently get hit in the head with a bat or ball. His platelets were quite low at the time. The doctor also did not think it would be be wise for Johanthan to play any kind of contact sport, because Johnathan only has one kidney. The only thing that he felt some what safe for Johnathan to do is play basketball.

Johnathan said that he loves basketball, but he thinks he is to short to play on a team. He knows that is why he did not make the school team. When he plays with his friends, he doesn't not get picked to be on team right away, because he is to short. That is what he told me the other day.

He said that he is not good at anything. I told him that he could try tennis or golf. He told me that he is not good at tennis or golf either. I told him that you have to work at it and pratice to get good. I also told him that he should persue Art, because he is good at drawing, but his heart is totally into sports right now.

I don't know what to do or say anymore? My heart is breaking in two right now, because I feel so helpless that he feels like he will never be able to play sports because of his height. Johnathan also knows that he is not up to par health wise either right now. He knows that it will take time before his body gets to be a hundred percent. He also has had allot of set backs the past two years as well.

I told him that it will get better and that he will get stronger. He is happy to be alive and given a second chance, but he is really having a hard time with being shorter than all his friends. I am trying to encourage him the best that I can. I hope it is working some how, because he is feeling really bummed out about it. Please say a little prayer for him today. I think that he is just having one of those moments in life. When you think that life is not fair. I know I have had those moments many times in my life and you just have to do the best you can and be thankful.

I am hoping to get the growth hormone process moving. I called the Lily access program today to find out if Johnathan would be eligble. I had to leave a message on their voice mail. I am hoping to hear from them soon. Johnathan still has time to start the injections. The sooner I start him on them at this point the better.

I am still trying to keep the faith and taking one day at a time. Fanconi Anemia is a cruel disease and because of that, it has been a battle every day to try and combat it. Johnathan did get one up on the disease and gave it black eye by making it though his transplant. Their have still been things that we have had to deal with even after tranplant, but Johnathan still keeps pressing on and doesn't give in or give up. He has been a trooper and a half his whole life. He is my hero!

Wow! I did not mean to write a book today, but I just could not stop for some reason. I guess I had to get allot off my chest. I feel a little better now.

Thank you for your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

This verse of scipture is definitely speaking to me.

(NLT)
Matthew 6:32-34
Your heavenly Father already knows all your needs,
and he will give you all you need from day to day if you live for him and make the Kingdom of God your pimary concern. So don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring it's own worries. Today's trouble is enough for today.

Saturday, June 3, 2006 11:19 AM CDT

Hello,

Sorry, that I have not updated in awhile. We were out of town for Memorial day weekend. We had a great time. We visited Nathan's older brother David. They have a really nice pool and we went swimming quite allot. Johnathan and Cody were very happy to see their cousins again.

Johnathan went to clinic yesterday. It went very well. The doctor said that Johnathan looks good. We only have to see the doctor once a month now, instead of every two weeks. yeah!!!

The doctor does think that Johnathan may have some allergies going on along with his sinus problems. The doctor wants Johnathan to try some Flonase and see if that will help him. The doctor also said that when we see him next time, that he wants to lower Johnathan dose of Endocort (meds for his GVHD)to 3 mgs once a day, instead of 6 mgs once a day.

I also wanted to to say that the second mono test that Johnathan had taken a couple weeks ago was normal. Johnathan does not have mono!!! PTL!!!!

Johnathan does have another hearing test coming up and has to see the Derm doctor again for his warts on his feet. He probably needs about four or five more treatments.

We are going to be going up to Minnesota soon for Johnathan's second year anniversary. He had his BMT July 7th, 2004. I can't believe how fast these two years have gone by! Johnathan is still doing pretty good. He has had some set backs along the way, but in spite of that, he is hanging in there and enjoying life to the fullest!

Johnathan's counts are awesome! His WBC are 12,600 (I know that is high, but the doctor did not seem that concerned). His RBC are 4,720 and his Hemoglobin is 15.6. His platelets are 334,000 (WOW!) and his ANC is 9,000(double WOW!) GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME AND ALL THE TIME GOD IS GOOD!

Instead of appealing for a third time to my insurance company regarding Johnathan's growth hormones, I can go through a retroactive rembursement program. This is a seperate program called the, Lily's patients access program. I am not sure how much they will pay or cover, but it is worth a try to find out. I will be calling to find out more details about the program next week. I will keep you all posted as soon I find out anything.

Johnathan made the honor roll this last quarter and was able to qualify for test exemption. Even though he missed allot of days this year due to doctor's appointments and colds, he was able to still keep up with his grades. I am so very proud of him for that and for making it this far after tranplant. I can't help but say this again, GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME AND ALL THE TIME GOD IS GOOD!

I hope that you all had a wonderful Memorial Day weekend.

Thanks for your continued prayers!

God Bless!
Ann Eckstadt

Psalm 136:1
Oh give thanks to the Lord, for He is good!

Monday, May 22, 2006 7:24 AM CDT

Hello,




Johnathan is eating a little better, but still is dealing with tummy problems. We went out to eat yesterday for my mom's birthday and he ate chicken strips and after that, he ran straight to the bathroom again. He is really trying to make himself eat more, but then he pays for it later. He is still coughing a little and hacking, but his chest does not hurt anymore. Johnathan slept most of the day on Saturday. I think that rest did him good.

I am still waiting on the mono test. I will probably give the doctor a call today. Also,I am going to ask if I should bring a stool sample in this week, just to make sure things are okay. I have to pick up a perscription at Children's hospital this week anyway.

We are planning on going to visit relatives this memorial day weekend in Southern Illinois. My neice Kristen is having a graduation party on Saturday. It should be a fun time. I am hoping and praying that Johnathan will start to feel better all the way around, so that he will have a good weekend.

My insurance company denied Johnathan's growth hormones again. There is going to be a third appeal, but I have a feeling that they are not going to budge. Maybe this is a sign that Johnathan should not take them, I don't know??? Johnathan really wanted to take them, because he wants to grow more. I will keep you all posted on the the results of the third appeal.

Hoping everyone has a nice Memorial day weekend.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann


Numbers 6:24-26 (NLT)

24)May the Lord Bless you
and protect you.

25)May the Lord smile on you
and be gracious to you.

26)May the Lord show you his favor
and give you his peace.

Friday, May 19, 2006 8:45 AM CDT

Hello,


Johnathan's blood results are great! His WBC are 11,100. They are a little high, but still in the normal range (4.0-12.0). His RBC are 4,960 and his platelets are 272,000. His Hemoglobin is 16.5 and his ANC is 7,500. PTL!

The only test that we are waiting on is his mono test. I will let you all know as soon I find out.

The doctor thinks that Johnathan has a cold and that could be why his stools are loose. Not to be gross, but they have been very mushy lately, but not watery. If they were watery,it would probably be his GVHD acting up. That is not the case at this point. On the blood test it showed that Johnathan's Absolute Eosinophils are at 0.3, which lets you know that the steroid is working and is keeping the GVHD under control. The lower the number the better.

Johnathan also got some more shots again while we were at clinic. He got the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine and the polio vaccine. Johnathan is slowly getting his shots again. He has to wait to get his MMR shot though, because he is still on a steroid for his GVHD.

Johnathan had some toast this morning, but did not eat it all. It seems like everything he eats has been affecting his stomach again. He did lose a couple of pounds from last time we were at clinic. Please pray for a complete healing of Johnthan's stomach, so he can eat without worring about cramping afterwards.

Thank you all for all your support and prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

For in the time of trouble He shall hide me in
His pavilion: in the secret of His tabernacle
shall He hide me; He shall set me up upon a rock.

Pslam 27:5

Thursday, May 18, 2006 10:26 AM CDT

Hello,


Johnathan's stomach is not getting any better. I thought it was and now he is have problems again. He has had to deal with stomach issues for so long.I don't know when or if it will ever go away. He could not eat his cereal this morning, but did eat a few saltine crackers instead. His stools have not been normal as well.

Please pray that God will heal his stomach. He has been dealing with this off and on since his transplant. Just when I think that his tummy problems are over, it always seems to return for some reason.

We are going to clinic today, I hope it is not Johnathan's GVHD acting up again.

I have not heard anything if that student at Johnathan's school had the mumps or not. Like they say, no news is good news right?

Johnathan's sinuses are acting up as well and when he takes a deep breath his chest starts to hurt. Johnathan still went to school today, because he does not want to miss anymore days of school. He missed so many days already. He does not want to get behind. Johnathan is very dertermined to keep up with his grades in spite of all the days that he has missed so far. I am so very proud of him.

Thank you for your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

God is great and greatly to praised!!!!

Monday, May 15, 2006 9:47 AM CDT

Hello,


I had a very nice mother's day. The only thing is, Johnathan was not feeling well. He went to church with us, but could not go out to eat. He was complaining of a headache and his stomach was hurting him again, so he did not come out to eat with us and my folks. My dad said a little prayer over him that his headache would go away and that his stomach would start to feel better.

This morning he was still feeling kind of sluggish, but still went to school. Maybe it's just a virus that he must be fighting. I don't know. He sees the BMT doctor this Thursday. If his stomach does not get better by then, I will have to let the doctor know.

God Bless.
Love,
Ann

Psalm 23(NLT)

1)The Lord is my shepherd;
I have everything I need.

2)He lets me rest in green
meadows; he leads me beside
the peaceful streams.

3)He renews my strength.
He guides me along right
paths, bringing honor to
his name.

4)Even when I walk through
the dark valley of death,
I will not be afraid,
for you are close beside me.
Your rod and your staff
protect me and comfort me.

5)You prepare a feast for me
in the presence of my enemies.
You welcome me as a guest,
anointing my head with oil.
My cup overflows with blessings.

6)Surely your goodness and
unfailing love will pursue me
all the days of my life. and
I will live in the house of
the Lord forever.

Friday, May 12, 2006 10:05 AM CDT

Hello,

Johnathan is doing very well so far. He has been playing basketball with friends allot lately. Which is a good thing!! The weather is getting nicer and Johnathan and all his buddies meet at the park and play basketball for hours. Just think two years ago Johnathan was so weak and now he is getting so strong. God is good!

We go to clinic again next Thursday. I will keep you all posted. He has to get a blood test again to see if the mono virus is lurking inside him somewhere. It does not appear that Johnathan has the virus to me, because he is and has been very active these days. I have been really praying and that is all I can do. The doctor just wanted to do the test again just to make sure he does not have the beginnings of mono.

I think the last test could have been low, because he is on an immunesuppresant drug (steroid) for his GVHD. I guess we will find out next Thursday.

Thanks for all your continued prayers:o)

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Only in giving of oneself is
enough taken away to make room
for receiving more.

(Author unknown)

Friday, May 5, 2006 8:50 AM CDT

Update from clinic appt. Friday May 5th:
(Sunday May 7th)

Johnathan's BMT doctor talked with the community health nurse about someone possibly having the case of the mumps at Johnathan's school.Since it is not confirmed, Johnathan is able to stay in school for now. Like I said before,this person is not in any of his classes, so I am very glad about that.

Johnathan's counts really look good! WBC are 8,600 and his RBC are 4,630. His Hemoglobin is 15.8 and his Platelets are 235,000. His ANC is 4,600.
Thank the Lord!

Johnathan also started his immunizations shots this past Friday. He got a Hib vacinination, a Tetanus shot, and the Hepatititus B Vaccination as well. He won't be able to get his MMR shot until next year, because that is a live virus and he is still on Endocort for his GVHD and it is considered am immune suppressant drug.

One thing that the doctor mentioned on his blood test was, his EVB Viral Load results were not normal. This is what detects the Mono virus. He will be getting another EVB test in two weeks. Please pray that it will go back to normal. Please pray that he does not have the beginnings of Mono. That would just do him in!!!

There is also something to worry about with this disease. It seems like it just never ends. Just when you think you have a handle on everything. Something else pops up. Only God can make Johnathan completely whole. I am still holding on to that and trusting in God.

I know that God has brought Johnathan so very far already and I know Johnathan is a walking miracle. It's just that we still are dealing with bumps in the road. Some have been small and others have been pretty big in the past. It still has been a roller coaster ride even though Johnathan is going on two years post transplant.

I just have to remind myself that I have to be thankful that Johnathan made it this far in spite of the bumps in the road. Right now things aren't that bad and Johnathan is still active and is just trying to be a normal teenage boy. God is Good!!!!

All we can do is keep pressing forward and thank God for each passing day that Johnathan is still here with us here on this earth. I will never stop praying and believing for a complete healing for Johnathan.

Thanks again for your prayers.

Love,
Ann

Matthew 11:28 (NLT)

Then Jesus said, "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.

Hello, May 5th

I got a call from the health nurse here in Oak Creek and she called to inform me that their is person at Johnathan's school that might possibly have the mumps, but it is not confirmed yet, because of the pending blood tests that were taken. Their is no definite results as of yet. This person is not in any of Johnathan's classes though. Thank God!!!!

We go to Children's hospital today for Johnathan's check-up and blood test. I am going to discuss this new development with the Doctor today and see what she says. I will keep you all posted. She might want me to pull Johnathan out of school. I don't know????

I also found out that the application for the appeal to my insurance company regarding the growth hormones got lost and was never processed. So, the humatrope people are resending the form to them and hopefully they will get it this time. Can you believe it? All this time that has been wasted now and who knows how long it will take for the process to be completed.

I know that these humatrope injections are very expensive and the insurance company needs to make sure that Johnathan really needs them. In other words, they have to make sure that it is all legitimate before they will cover anything. Right now all I can do is put it all in God's hands.

In the mean time the window for Johnathan to start these injections is shrinking, so Johnathan is running out of time, because the average person stops growing at age 17. Even though Johnathan has grown a little bit. The doctor thinks that he should at least try the humatrope injections on a trial basis to see if it will help him grow a little bit more.

I finally talked to someone in the Endocrine clinic. She told me that Johnathan does not need a growth stimulation test,due to the fact that on his the blood test that they ordered for him, it showed a low growth hormone count. Johnathan would have to wait a month to get it done anyways and then wait another month for the results as well.

No matter what, it all boils down to a the waiting game all the time. Which is like second nature to me, because I am use to the waiting around at this point.

Johnathan has been doing pretty good so far and still remains very active. He still has stomach issues, but it is becoming less and less these days. He is looking forward to school letting out soon and is hoping to have a funfilled and exciting Summer.

I finally put new pictures up on the website, make sure to check them out:o)

Thank you for your prayers!

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

God hath not promised
Skies always blue,
Flower-strewn pathways
All our lives through.
God hath not promised
Sun without rain,
Joy without sorrow,
Peace without pain.
God hath not promised
We shall not know
Toil and temptation,
Trouble and woe.
He hath not told us
We shall not bear
Many a burden,
Many a care.
But God hath promised
Strength for the day,
Rest for the laborer,
Light for the way,
Grace for the trials,
Help from above,
Unfailing sympathy,
Undying love.

Poem found in a book called, a positive plan for creating more calm, and less stress. By Karol Ladd

Friday, April 28, 2006 7:24 AM CDT

Hello,

Johnathan is doing great!

I would like to make a correction on Johnathan's Height. He has grown four inches instead of two inches. I talked to Pat Fidler who is the Nurse coordinator up in Minnesota the other day and told her that Johnathan is now five one and was four nine last year. She did some calculations over the phone and said he grew four inches not two inches, so that is even better news!!!! God is Good!!!!!

The reason why I called her was, I remember Dr. MacMillan saying to me that if Johnathan started to grow on his own, that she did not recommend growth hormones for him.


Pat Fidler suggested that Johnathan get a growth stimulation test again (He has one a while ago) to see how many hormones Johnathan is making in his own at this point. If it is slow, she said maybe you might want to go ahead with the growth hormone injections and if he is making hormones at a steady pace, that it would probably not be necessary to go the route of injections.

I tried calling Johnathan's growth hormone doctor yesterday here in Wisconsin and left a message. I am hoping to hear from her today. We do have an appointment already with her at the end of this month, but I can't wait that long to tell her that Johnathan has started growing on his own!

Really, it all boils down to my insurance company, if they will even decide to cover the injections (they already denied it once and it's in appeal right now). I tried to call the contact person other day to find out the status of the appeal with my insurance and got another voice mail. We filled out the form a while ago and sent it out in order to get the appeal going and I have not heard anything from them for the longest time!!! This is getting very frustrating. I am sure getting the run around and I am really getting tired of this waiting game. I hope that I will hear something or from someone soon!

Johnathan got a paintball gun for his birthday and he is thinking of going paintballing with his friends this weekend. Johnathan got the green light from his BMT doctor to go, so Johnathan is really pumped and very excited!!!!

I am really going to try hard this weekend to put some new pictues up on the site of his birthday. I promise!

Also, next time we see the BMT doctor they are going to start his immunizations shots. He will be getting his tetnis shot and influenza shot. The doctor said that he will have to wait until maybe next year to get his MMR shots, because it is considered a live virus. I am so happy that at least he is able to start getting some shots.

The doctor decided to start some shots now, even though he is still on a Steroid for his GVHD. The only reason the dcotor has decided to do this, is because his T-cells are so high, which is a verygood thing!!! Yeah!!!!! :o):o):o):o)

Their have been no reports of the Mumps outbreak at Johnathan's high school yet, but their is one confirmed case here in Oak Creek in an Elementary school. I am hoping and praying that Johnathan makes it through the last month of school mump free. Like I said in my last jounal, it would be a major set back for Johnathan if he contracted the mumps. All I can do is just keep praying that God will protect him.

Thank you all for your continued prayers and support.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

God is great and greatly to be praised!!!!!!!!!!!

Friday, April 21, 2006 5:09 PM CDT

Hello,

Johnathan went to clinic today. His blood counts are way up there and still looking great! Johnathan's glucose was a little low though and they are going to keep an eye on it.

Johnathan grew some more, he is now five one from being four nine in 2005. That's about two inches!!!! Maybe he will not need the growth hormone after all. I have been really praying that Johnathan will grow on his own.I really hope that this trend continues.

I am sure that you all heard about the mumps outbreak here in the Midwest. Their have been 20 cases here at UWM (the college here in Milwaukee). Their have also been three reported cases in the Milwaukee public schools this week. The doctor said that it will be a matter of time and it will probably hit the schools here in Oak Creek Wisconsin.

The doctor had to write a note to Johnathan's school saying, that if their are any kids in his classes that have the mumps, that they need to call me and I will have to pull Johnathan out of school pronto!

The good news is, Johnathan's T-cells are pretty high at this point in spite of his mild GVHD. The doctor may decide to start Johnathan's immunizations shots right away. I hope that is the case,because with this mumps outbreak, I am getting very, very nervous and concerned for Johnathan!

I have been really praying that somehow God will spare Johnathan from being exposed this virus. Please say a prayer with me that God will protect him.

Their is nothing that the doctor can do for Johnathan if he contracts the mumps. I feel so helpless right now! I also feel helpless that Johnathan is so vulnerable to all these viruses that are lurking out there.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Lamentations 3:22-23

22)The unfailing love of the Lord never ends! By his mercies we have been kept from complete destruction.

23)Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each day. I say to myself, "The Lord is my inheritance; therefore, I will hope in him."

Wednesday, April 12, 2006 11:31 AM CDT

Hello,

Johnathan went to clinic this past Monday. His blood counts look really good! His Eosinophils came back as being in the normal range. That lets us know that his GVHD is pretty much under control at this time. The new drug must be working and most of all, all your prayers must be working as well. GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME AND ALL THE TIME GOD IS GOOD!

His WBC is 6,700 and his RBC is 4,590. His Hemoglobin is 15.6 and his platelets are 222,000!!!!! His ANC is 4,300 That is the highest that it has ever been!!!! Like I said before, GOD IS GOOD!!! Thank you , Thank you and Thank you for all your continued prayers and support!

Johnathan had an awesome birthday party! I will be putting up pictures of his party soon. It went pretty smooth and Johnathan and his friends had a blast playing basketball in the gym. They also got to go swimming and afterward we ordered Pizza's from Pizza Hut. Their was enough candy, chips and pizza to feed an army! Mostly all of his friends showed up and Johnathan was a very HAPPY CAMPER!

I think that Johnathan must have over did at his party, because he was in bed by 9:30 that night. By the next morning, he was up and ready to go church. After church, we went out to eat with my parents to celebrate Johnathan's B'day with them. They got him the basketball that he really wanted. He was all smiles!

I am so thankful that Johnthan was able to be here to experience his 16th birthday party. It's a miracle that he has made it this far! I know It had allot to do with Faith, Many Prayers, Hanging on to Hope, Determination, Persaverance and all your support that got Johnathan to where he is today. GOD IS GOOD!!!!!!!

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Psalm 145:1-5

1)I will extol thee, my God, O, King; and I will bless thy name for ever and ever.

2)Every day will I bless thee;and I will praise thy name for ever and ever.

3)Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised; and his greatness is unsearchable.

4)One generation shall praise thy works to another, and shall declare thy mighty acts.

5)I will speak of the glorious honor of thy majesty, and of thy wonderous works.

Thursday, April 6, 2006 7:47 AM CDT

Hello,

We went to see the ENT Doctor last night. We had a 6:30 appt. and did not get home until 8:30. It made for a long evening.

Anyways, The doctor said that there is not really anything that he can do for Johnathan surgical to help improve his hearing. He noticed from the CT scans that in Johnathan's bad ear, the canal is very narrow and suspects that is why Johnathan has impaired hearing in that ear.

He wants us to see him every six months and wants Johnathan to get another hearing test as well. He is thinking that maybe an inner ear hearing aide may help. Johnathan already has a hearing aide that he wears behind the ear. He says that he hears better without it. When he is wearing it, all he can hear is all the back ground noise around him and it makes it hard to hear what the teacher is saying. Maybe the inner ear hearing aide will be a better fit for Johnathan. We will have to wait and see.

We have to see if our insurance will cover most of the hearing aide, which I don't think that is going to happen, because our last insurance did not cover his first hearing aide. The doctor told us that their are other avenues that we can check out to help assist us with the cost of the hearing aide. Again, We had to do that with Johnathan's first hearing aide.

So now I have to set up an appt. for another hearing test for Johnathan this month. I will keep you posted with the results when I get them back.

We will be seeing the BMT doctor on Monday the 10th for a blood test and a check-up.I will keep you posted on those tests results ASAP.


Johnathan is still hanging in there. He still has stomach issues, but his energy level is getting a little better. Yesterday he seemed really tired. I'm assuming that he over did it shooting hoops with his friends the day before. When is comes to Johnathan, nothing will stand between him and his basketball. If he had his way he would be shooting hoops 24/7. That is how much he loves the game! It is a good outlet for him. He told me once, that when he plays basketball it helps him forget that he even has a disease.


You always hope that maybe the doctor's visits will slow down. Just when you think that will happen. Wham! Things start happening like a row of dominoes falling into eachother. You wonder if normal will ever come. Then you have to come to the realization that with having Fanconi Anemia,it will never allow you to be normal. Not even after a bone transplant. It is a very cruel disease. It has no feelings or emotions. It just keeps creeping up everywhere. Warts, hearing loss, short in stature, GVHD, ect....


Then I have to stop myself from thinking like that and Thank God that Johnathan is still here. Normal may never be in the picture for Johnathan, but God has given him a second chance at life and I could never thank Him enough for that. Yes, I do have allot to be thankful for. Even though, you always wonder what life would have been like for Johnathan if it were not for this cruel and horrible disease. I can't change the situation, I can only do what I have been doing, trying to take just one day at a time and trusting in God.

I don't know where all that came from, some times you have stuff in you that you have to get out from time to time. It was good to get all that out again. It helps me to deal with it, and to just get it off my chest once in a while, so I apologize for venting. I hope that I didn't sound to negative. I want to try and stay positive most of the time, but I do have my days and I think that today is one of those days, so please bare with me. I know I have allot to me thankful for, and I know I just need to dwell on that to get me through the not so good days.


Johnathan will be turning 16 this Saturday and I am so thankful that Johnathan is still here to celebrate his sweet 16 birthday. We are having it at the YMCA. He invited a bunch of friends from his school and is really pump up and excited about it! They will be swimming first, then they get to shoot hoops in the gym. Then the last hour is opening up gifts and eating pizza.

We booked this party way in advance, so we did not know Johnathan was going to get GVHD again. I told Johnathan that he can still have fun, but needs to pace himself. On the other hand, the party will be a great Morale Booster for Johnathan as well.

I want to thank everyone again for all your continued prayers for Johnathan. It means so much to Johnathan and the whole family.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Go up to the mountain of blessing
Alone with the Master in prayer;
In fellowship sweet to sit at His feet
And tarry awhile with Him there.
Then down to the work in the valley below
Your face with the love-light of Jesus aglow.

Author Unknown

Wednesday, March 29, 2006 10:33 AM CST

Hello,

Johnathan had to go to the Derm Doctor yesterday for the second time for treament for his warts on his feet. The warts seem to be spreading from toe to toe. The treatment is always painful for Johnathan at first, but then by the next day the pain is almost gone. I have to give him Tylenol right a way. He will have to have about 4 or 5 more treatments to make sure they are all gone. Not a fun process.

Johnathan seems to be hanging in there. He is still able to go to school, but still feels a little sluggish and still has some tummy problems. I am sure the more his in on the Steroid for the GVHD, the stomach problems will be less and less. I am hoping and praying for that.

Thank you all for your prayers, support, and kind words on Johnathan's guestbook page. Prayer is the only answer.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

p.s.When I went to my Auntie Creal's Funeral a couple of weeks ago, my third cousin Carolyn presented my brother and I some bible's that my grandmother owned. In the back of one of the bibles my grandmother wrote:

Prayer is so simple. It is like quietly opening a door and slipping into the very presence of God. There in the stillness, perhaps to petition or only to listen. It matters not. Just to be there in His presence in prayer.

Saturday, March 25, 2006 8:15 PM CST

Hello,

We went to clinic yesterday and the doctor sat us down and told us that it was good that we found out what was wrong with Johnathan when we did. The doctor was glad that they caught in time before it could spread. I was glad and thankful that it was only stage one GVHD.

They are going to try a new drug called Entocort instead of Cyclosporine. Entocort is also a steriod and only targets where the GVHD is. The GVHD is only in the GI track and the Entocort acts like a coating over the GI track and stomach area. I was told by the doctor that this drug is fairly new and I am hoping and praying that it does what it is suppose to do since it is so new.

Johnathan's also has to take Prevacid, because when they did the Endoscopy they noticed that their was irritation on the esophagus. They feel that the irritation is being caused by acid from the stomach. The doctor also wants to keep him Valtex to prevent internal shingles from coming back.

I haven't heard anything about the growth hormones yet and even if the insurance company decided to cover the hormones,Johnathan would not be able to take the shots, because he will be on a Steroid again, which acts like an immune suppressant. Johnathan will have to wait until he is off of the steroid. His immunizations shots will also have to be put on hold as well, due to the same reason.

All we can do is just take one day at a day and hope and pray the the drug will work for Johnathan, because that is his only hope at this point of getting rid of the GVHD, but most importantly prayer will also help Johnathan get through this, and we have hope in God.

Thanks again for all your prayers and concern.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Isaiah 56:18-19

18)I have seen his ways, and will heal him: I will lead him also, and restore comforts unto him and to his mourners.

19)I create the fruit of the lips; Peace peace to him that is far off, and to him that is near, saith the Lord; and I will heal him.

Friday, March 24, 2006 10:34 AM CST

Hello,

I got a call from Children's hospital yesterday. They were calling about the results from his colonoscopy, Endoscopy, and biopsies that Johnanthan had on March 10th. They told me that his pancreas was working just fine, but it looks like their is some irritation on his esophagus and that it probably caused by the acid from his stomach. They also said that they did find stage one GVHD from the biopsies that they took that day.

It hit me like a ton of bricks for some reason, that the GVHD was showing it's ugly head again! I thought it was gone for good and would not have to worry about it coming back anymore! My heart began to break in two and I felt like someone punched me in the stomach!

On the other hand, I know that it can be treated and I am so glad that Johnathan is living in this day and age where the medical field is making great strides every day! Thank God for modern medicine! I am assuming that they will probably be starting Johnthan back on Cyclosporine again. That means that getting immunizations shots will be put on hold for a little while longer.

We are going to Children's hospital today to see the BMT doctor. I will find out more then about what they are going to do and how they will be treating Johnathan's GVHD.

I had a feeling that something was up with Johnathan, because he was complaining of stomach cramps and he was always very tired looking for the last month or so. Again, I am so thankful that the GVHD was caught as soon as it was. I believe that God was looking out for Johnathan. God has brought Johnathan so far, and I know that God will notleave him.

Johnathan told me that he was not to worried about it and that he felt that he was going to he okay. That is like Johnathan, he does not let stuff like this get him down. He has always been determined to get through anything that comes his way. He is a very strong young man. He's my HERO!

Please Keep Johnathan in your prayers. He will get through this and We will continue praying and hoping for better days ahead.



God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Romans 8:38-39

38)For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,

39)Nor, height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to seperate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus out Lord.

Wednesday, March 22, 2006 3:13 PM CST

Hello,

Johnathan's cold is not getting any better and his stomach had really been hurting him. Once again, he is forcing himself to go school, because he has to make up a test today and has another test tomorrow. He does not have school this Friday, but he does have a clinic appointment on Friday with the BMT doctor. I am going to let the doctor know that Johnathan has been really sick all week and I am hoping that the doctor will perscribe him something. Tylonal cold is not really helping him at this point anymore.

I have not heard the results from his Colonoscopy, Endoscopy and biopsies of his GI track yet. I am going to call them tomorrow. It's weird that it would take this long to hear about the results? It's going on two weeks now.

Thanks for keeping Johnathan in your prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Oh Lord, hear my prayer. Please heal Johnathan of his cold and touch his stomach so that he can eat. In Jesus Name Amen.

Sunday, March 19, 2006 8:18 AM CST

Hello,

We got back from my Auntie Creal's funeral in Michigan around midnight last Thursday.

It was a very emotional week for me. My Auntie Creal was my grandma's sister, so that would make her my great Aunt. Anyways, My grandma and Auntie Creal lived together for a long time, until my grandmother past away with cancer in the early 90's.

My brother and I got to go into the house and were allowed to take what was our grandmother's. It was really emotional for me to go into my grandmother's room. I found allot of pictures of my dad (her only son) who also died of cancer when I was three years old. That is why it was so emotional for me to see all those pictures of my dad when he was little all the way up until his twenty's or so ( He died in his early 30's). I never got to really know my dad and I would have loved him to have gotten to know Johnathan and Cody. I know that we will see my dad, grandma, and Auntie Creal in heaven some day and what a glorious family reunion that will be!

The funeral was very touching and emotional. I was going to read a poem that I wrote about heaven,but I didn't think that I would be able to make it through the first sentence without crying, so my Auntie Creal's cousin Carolyn read it for me. That was so sweet and so nice of her. My Auntie Creal will be forever missed, but she will forever be in our hearts.

I got a call from the Lab at the hospital and Johnathan's stool sample was negative. I am just waiting on the results of his other procedures that he had when he had day surgery about a week ago.

I still have not heard anything from my insurance company yet, if the Johnathan's growth hormones will be covered or not. We had to appeal, so I guess it will be a long waiting game before we find out anything at all.

Johnathan is sick with a cold again. He probably got it from his younger brother Cody, who has been sick for about a week now with a cough and runny nose.

Johnathan will hopefully be starting his immunizations shots soon. We are still waiting for the doctor to let us know when he will start the shots. I am thinking in April some time.

Thank you for all your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

This was my Auntie Creal's favorite verse: Psalm 23 (NKJV)

1)The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2)He makes me to lie down in the green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters.
3)He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of rightousness For His name's sake.
4)Yes, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
5)You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over.
6)Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the Lord Forever.

Saturday, March 11, 2006 6:42 PM CST

Hello,

I just want to start out by thanking everyone for your prayers and concern this past week.

Johnathan's day surgery went well. He had three things done. He had a Endoscopy, Colonoscopy, and a Pancreas Secreation. The Pancreas Screation is when they test to see if the enzymes are secreating properly from the pancreas. If is not, this could be one of the reason's Johnathan has been having cramps and digestive problems. They also took some biopsies as well. I will hopefully hear about the results by next week some time. I will keep you posted.

After the Derm doctor aspirated Johnathan's blister's last Wednesday, Johnathan's feet have gotten a whole lot better. He can walk on them without pain now. God is good!!!

The doctor still wants Johnathan to go back on the Valtrex for awhile. I am still waiting for an approval letter from our insurance company concerning Johnathan's growth horomones. I hope I hear something soon, I'm tired of waiting. I hope that it will be good news.

I just want you to say a little prayer for me, my Auntie Creal passed a way last Friday. I had gotten a call the night before at around midnight,and I was told that her breathing was becoming labored and thay they did not think that she was going to make it through the night. I found out the next morning when I was at the hospital with Johnathan, that she passed away. It was really hard not to cry when I heard the news. One of the nurses gave me a hug and a box of kleenex and kept asking me if I was going to be okay. I thought that was so sweet of her.

Auntie Creal, was my grandma Annette's sister,so she is my great Aunt. She was the sweetest person you would ever want to know or meet. She had so much energy and she was so full of life. She always had a radiance about her. People were always drawn to her.

She called me many times when Johnathan was going through his transplant and encouraged me and prayed with me. I did get to talk to her a few days before she passed and I got to tell her that I loved her. She also read my letter and card that I sent her as well. I was so grateful for that. She will be missed by all who knew her. She is someone that I looked up to and want to strive to be like.

We are going to her funeral in Michigan next week. It's going to be hard, but I know that she is God's loving arms now. She was 94 and lived a long happy life. She will always remain in my memory and my heart.

Thank you again for all your prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann


God is not only powerful, but also just-not only omnipotent,but also right in all that He does.
(Don Baker)

Wednesday, March 8, 2006 9:05 AM CST

UPDATE: 6:00pm 03-08-06
Johnathan ended up getting his blisters aspirated today. It was really gross to watch. All this stuff came oozing out of it. My stomach was doing flip flops!

The doctors do not know what is causing these big blood blisters on his feet, because Johnathan is not doing anything out of the ordinary. They have speculation, but no real definite answers yet.

The BMT doctor does want to try to put Johnathan back on Valtrex right away and see if that will clear the blisters up. Johnathan had internal shingles in his feet last Jauuary and it caused him much pain. The doctors think that it may be trying to start up again, so to be safe, they want to see what happens by starting Johnathan back on the Valtrex again.

Johnathan is also still having his GI scope done this Friday. (When it rains it pours.) Due to Johnathan's stomach problems, they want to see if something abnormal is going on.

Johnathan will not be going back to school the rest of this week and he is kind of bummed about that,because he does not want to get behind. The teachers have been really understanding thus far. I have to go to his school tomorrow and pick up his homework.

Please keep Johnathan in your prayers, because this week has been really stressful on him. I hope and pray that next week will be a better week,especially for Johnathan.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

"Oh come, let us worship and bow down; Let us kneel before the LORD our Maker." Psalm 95:6 (NKJV)

Hello,

I had to take Johnathan to the Emergency room last night. He has blood blisters the size of half of dollars on the bottom of both his feet. They started last Friday and seemed to be getting bigger and bigger. On the pain scale he was between an 8 and 9.

The ER doctor did not want to aspirate them for fear of infection setting in. The gave us some ointment and dressing. I have to put the ointment on once a day plus change his dressing and give him Tylenol when needed.

The ER doctor said that he has seen these kinds of blisters on very active people. Johnathan is always active, so I don't understand why he would get this kinds of blisters out of the blue like that.

I told them that he just got off of Valtrex and that I thought that these blisters may have something to do with that and he may probably have to back on them. They did not think so.

Johnathan got an excuse from gym until his feet heal. He was in allot of pain last night and this morning as well. Johnathan forced himself to go to school today, because he has some tests to take and did not want to get behind. I told him to stay home, but he said that he would be okay. I told him to call me if he could not take the pain anymore. He was walking like an old man this morning. Very slow and wobbley.

I got a call from Johnathan's BMT doctor about 10 minutes ago and she wants me to bring Johnathan in today to have a Dermatoligist look at his feet. Come to find out the BMT doctor agreed with what I said about the Valtrex. She thinks that this is more viral and that Johnathan may have to go back on The Valtrex.

I also have to bring Johnathan back to Children's hospital this Friday for his GI scope. It has been a very stressful week!!!

My heart breaks that Johnathan has to go through all this. He just wants to be a normal kid and not have to worry about all these weird things that keep happening to him.

I am just taking one day at a time and taking deep breaths. I will again give this to God, because he is in control and always will be in control. I am trusting in God that He will and can work this out.

I am thinking if Johnathan is still in a lot of pain by Friday, they might have to reschedule the GI scope. We will have to wait and see what happens.

Thanks for your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Faith, Faith, Faith, just a little bit of Faith. You don't need a whole lot, just use what you got. Faith, Faith, Faith just a little bit of Faith.

That was a song I use to sing in church when I was a young girl and the words are so true.

Saturday, March 4, 2006 7:12 PM CST

Hello,

Johnathan's Endoscopy has now been moved up to the 10th of this month, and his appointment with his ENT doctor has been moved to the first part of April.

I will keep you all posted on the results of the Endoscopy.

Thanks for your continued prayers.


God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Tears are often the telescope by which we see far into heaven.

Henery Ward Beecher

Tuesday, February 28, 2006 5:17 PM CST

Hello,

It looks like Johnathan will be having his GI scope done on the 17th of this month. Johnathan also sees the ENT doctor next Thursday. I will keep you all posted on that.


Johnathan seems to be doing well in spite of his off and on stomach problems. He is playing basketball at the park with his friends as we speak. He has still been pretty active so far, which is a very good thing.

I am doing much better than this past weekend, I still have been feeling really tired though and my stomach is still just a little sore yet. I know it will take time to heal.

Thanks for your continued prayers:o)

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

The joy of the Lord is our strength!!!!

Saturday, February 25, 2006 11:57 AM CST

Hello,


My surgery went well. I just did not do to good afterwards. I always have a reaction to the anesthetic. They gave me five different things to help with the nausea before the surgery and I still managed to throw up afterwards.


They were almost going to admit me into the hospital, because every time I stood up the room started spinning, and I felt like I was going to throw up.

I was in so much pain as well and they could not give me anything for the pain, because I was so nauseated. I did finally manage to make it home though and I crawled into my bed right away and woke up at around 9:30 that night feeling much beter. My stomach is still a little sore, and I have to take a pain pill every four hours or so.

I am just glad that it is over with and I can start to hopefully feel better now. My family has been great and has been waiting on me hand and foot. I am also getting allot of hugs as well.


I will be keeping everyone posted with the gorwth hormone situation and when Johnathan will possibly be having his GI scope done.

Thank you all for your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

We may not have control over our circumstances, but we do have a choice
as to how we will adapt and respond to our circumstances.
Thankfully we know the One who is in
control, and He provides calm in the
midst of the storm.

(From the book 'A Plan for creating more calm,less stress' By Karol Ladd)

Friday, February 24, 2006 10:38 AM CST

Hello,


Johnathan may have to have a GI scope coming up pretty soon. Johnathan's bowels have been normal at times and not so normal at times. The doctor thinks that he may have to go in there and see if everything is working the way it should be. Or if their is anything weird going on.

I have surgery to day at 1:30. Please pray that all goes well. Hopefully this surgery will correct some female problems that I have been having to deal with over the years.

In spite of Johnathan's unperdcitable stomach. He is has been doing good otherwise.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

The sufferings we have now are nothing compared to the great glory that will be shown to us. Everything God made is waiting with excitement for God to show his children's glory completely.

Romans 8:18-19

Monday, February 20, 2006 6:42 PM CST

Hello,

Giving everyone an update on what has been going these days.

Well, my hunch was right about our insurance company possibly denying Johnathan's growth hormones. The Nurses at the Humatrope center are appealing and I was sent a form to sign giving them permission to appeal to our insurance company.

I guess it is normal for an insurance company to deny you right off the bat, because they need more reasons or proof that you really need the treatment. So the waiting game begins again!

Johnathan had to go to the Derm doctor today at Children's Hospital to get his warts taken off his feet and knee with Liquid Nitrogen. The Liquid Nitrogen is used to freeze the warts off. It is a very painful procedure, so it was not a fun experience for Johnathan at all.

He has about two or three more treatments he has to get done before all the warts are gone.

I asked the doctor why Johnathan has all these warts on his feet. She said that the reason is, that after transplant the immune system is not that strong and that warts are caused by a virus. This is a very common occurance after a BMT.

Johnathan is not looking forward to have another treatment done. He has to go again next month.

We have to go back to Children's hospital again tomorrow. Johnathan has an appointment with the GI doctor.


Johnathan has been having severe cramps off and on for about three weeks or so. The BMT thinks that it might be some underlying GVHD in Johnathan's GI track again. So Johnathan will probably be having another GI scope done next week.

I am praying and hoping that it is not GVHD for Johnathan's sake. I will keep you all posted.

This Friday I am having minor surgery done. Pray that all goes well.

Please continue to keep Johnathan in your prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Calm begins in out spirits, as God gives us His
peace. The World around us may be chaotic, but we can experience calm in out hearts through His strength and power.

By Karol Ladd From her book called, Positive Plan For Creating More Calm, Less Stress

Saturday, February 11, 2006 8:39 AM CST

Hello,

Johnathan went to clinic yesterday. His counts still are looking good. His White cells are 4,000 and his Red cells are 4,860. Hemoglobin 16.2 and his Platelets are 232,000. God is Good!!!!!

Johnathan is now officially off the rest of his major pills. The doctor stopped Johnathan's Valtrex and his Bactrim. The only thing he has to take is Guaifenex for his sinuses, but only as needed. Johnathan is one happy Camper!!!!!

Johnathan has to see the Derm Doctor to get some warts taken off the bottom of his feet and Johnathan has expressed to me that they hurt as well. He is not looking forward to this appointment, knowing that they will have to burn them off. Not fun!

The doctor said that warts on the body are a common thing that can occur aftet a BMT. I don't know why, but this is what she said.

Poor Johnathan, he does not seem to ever catch a break from seeing specialists and doctors all the time. That is part of this disease though. It's like a roller coaster, allot of twists, sharp turns and allot of loopdy loops. I'm hoping that in time the roller coaster will slow down a little bit. At least for Johnathan's sake anyway. It's a one day at a time thing and trusting in God as well.

Still waiting from my insurance company regarding the coverage of the growth hormones. Maybe I will hear something next week. I will keep you posted.

Thank you for your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

The happiness of life is made up of minute fractions- the little soon- forgetten charities of a kiss or a smile, a kind look or hearfelt compliment.

Samuel Taylor Coleridge
(1772-1834)

Wednesday, February 8, 2006 9:10 AM CST

Hello,

I finally got a call from the ENT doctor. We have an appointment with him in March. We will then find out if Johnathan will need surgery on his left ear or not.

Johnathan will be going to clinic this Friday. I thought he was feeling better, but now his stomach is acting funny again. His stool is not looking right. We have to bring a sample of his stool to clinic when we go on Friday.

I am still waiting for confirmation if Johnathan's growth hormones to see if they will be covered or not. I should hear something real soon.


It is snowing outside right now and it looks like one of those snow globes, that when you shake it, all the snow inside swirls around. It looks so pretty coming down and the snowflaks are huge! It's sticking to the ground and coming down fast. This kind of snow is fun for making snowmen. My younger son Cody who is eleven, loves playing in the snow. I know what he will be doing after school today.

Thanks for your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Be glad for all God is planning for you. Be patient in trouble, and always be prayerful.

Romans 12:12 (NLT)

Sunday, February 5, 2006 9:34 AM CST

Hello,

Update for Monday 1-6-06: As you all know the Steelers won the Super Bowl and today Johnathan is $10.00 richer!! I lost the bet, because I was wanting the sea Hawks (the under dog)to win. Oh well, their is always next year. (ha,ha)


I spoke with Terry the coordinator of the Humatrope clinic last Thursday (Johnathan will be getting humatrope injections through this clinic). Terry said that she called the preathourization number through my insurance company and was told that I would only have to pay $150.00 a month verses $1200.00 a month. Terry thinks that whoever at my insurance company quoted me that price, was quoting me the perathorization price. She thinks that is the price one would have to pay if their insurance company did not cover the growth hormone.

A 150.00 sure sounds better than than $1200.00 a month!! Terry said to me that she would never be able to afford that kind of money every month either. I will keep you posted as soon as I find out.

Johnathan stayed home from school on Friday. He came home with the chills and fever after school on Thursday. He is feeling better today and thinks that he will be able to go back to school on Monday.

It seems like everyone here in Wisconsin is getting sick, because of the weather. It has been in the forties and now it's back down to the thirties and at night it has been down in the twenties and high teens. It does not feel like the winters that we normally get here. It has been pretty mild this year so far.

I hope everyone is having a good weekend and is excited about watching the Super Bowl! I want the Sea Hawks to win and Johnathan wants the Steelers to win. We have a bet going that if my team wins Johnathan owes me $10.00 and visa versa.

Johnathan told me that for sure I will owe him $10.00, because the Steelers are a better team. We shall see. Stay tune.

Thank you for checking in and for your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Ann

The Lord is my shepherd;
I have everthing I need.
He lets me rest in green pastures.
He leads me to calm water.
He gives me new strength.
He leads me on paths that are right
for the good of his name.

Psalm 23:1-3

Tuesday, January 31, 2006 10:26 PM CST

Hello,

Still have not heard from the ENT doctor. I think I will wait until Friday to give his nurse a call again. Johnathan was suppose to be going to clinic this Friday for his check-up with the BMT doctor, but I changed it for next Friday, because he does not have school.

I found out what the co-pay is going to be for Johnathan's growth hormone injections,$1200.00 a month. I don't think that we can afford that, infact I know that we can't afford that! That is like paying an extra house payment every month. I don't know what we are going to do. Someone gave me some places to call for assistance. All I can do is try and see what is out there, so we can maybe get some help with the co-pays. If not, Johnathan will not be going through with the treatments.

Johnathan did have growth hormone shots when he was four and they did not work, so maybe he will not respond this time around as well (I don't know?). I don't want to have to spend all that money and then it not work.

I am at a cross roads with this right now. It's very stressful when insurance companies make it so hard to provide the treatments that you need for your child. I wonder what the insurance is going to be like when our kids get older???? It's a scary thought.

Now with my surgery coming up at the end of February, it will seem like stress upon stress. I am having three procedures done at once. Not fun at all.

I am trying to stay positive about the whole thing with Johnathan and that he might not get to have the treatment he needs and then with my situation as well. All I can do is just take one day at a time and see how everything plays out. I also just need to trust in God.

Prayer is the key and I have been doing allot of that lately. That is what is keeping me from not falling apart at this point.

I don't mean to bring anyone down with my journal today. I guess I just had to get it all off my chest. Don't worry It will all be alright. With God by our side, we can get through anything. Nothing is impossble for God to do.

Thank you for your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Life is a process.

To God process isn't a means to an end; it is the goal.
Whatever sends us running to him, makes us embrace him,
causes us to depend on him, is the best good in our lives

Gloria Gaither

Friday, January 27, 2006 3:16 PM CST

Hello,

Johnathan's results from the growth hormone doctors came in. His Thyroid is a little on the low side it's 0.65 and should be around 0.72, so he has to get another blood test in about a month. His IGFI (growth factor) is on the low side as well. It should be between 217 to 608 and John's is 213.

The doctor wants to start him on growth hormone shots and wants to start giving them ASAP. The doctor wants to try the growth hormone shots for a year to see if they will take. I am hoping and praying that they will work for Johnathan.

The doctor said that she thinks that the insurance company would probably cover the growth hormone shots, because Johnathan is considered to be in the catagory of a person who is Idopathic short in stature. That means that there has to be a cause for the short stature such as a condition or some kind of internal problem stunting the growth process ect......

The thing I worry about is, will we have to pay the co-pay for the growth homones and how much???? With insurance companies now days you always seem to have to pay some kind of co-pay.

We are still waiting to hear from John's ENT doctor on the results of his CT SCAN that he had on his left ear. I did talk to the nurse today and she told me that the doctor just recieved the films today and that it will take time for him to look over the all the films and determine what the next step will be.

Johnathan is still doing great! He has been very active and is always hanging out with his friends. He is just a typical teenager always looking for something to do or somewhere to go. I remember those days way back when.

All I can say is God is good all the time and all the time God is good!

Please keep me in you prayers. I have been having some health/female problems and will have to have surgery at the end of next month. They found a polyp that has to be taken out. It's minor surgery, but it's something that I'm not looking forward to.

Thank you for all your continued prayers and for checking up on Johnathan.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Peace does not dwell in outward things, but within the soul.

Francois Fenelson

Wednesday, January 18, 2006 4:47 PM CST

Hello,

I took Johnathan to the doctor today for a follow up for his ears. He has been dealing with a few ear infections the past couple of months. The doctor looked inside Johnathan's ears and they are all clear of any infection. He did find some wax way down the ear canal that he had to scrape out though.

John is getting better and he has more energy. He had his friend Eric over most of the day yesterday. They got to get out early from school, because it's exam week. They had fun hanging out, playing ping pong, shooting hoops and playing XBOX 360.

Johnathan has one more day of exams and then he has no school on Friday or Monday, so he has a nice Three day weekend.

We are all doing well and life is good right now.

Thanks for all your continued prayers and checking up on John's site.

God Bless and keep the Faith!!!

Love,
Ann

Children are a gift from the Lord;
they are a reward from Him.

Psalm 127:3 (NLT)

Friday, January 13, 2006 8:48 AM CST

Hello,

Johnathan is feeling a little better this week and has made it to school every day. He has just been blowing his nose allot, which means he is in the last stage if his cold.

Johnathan is getting ready for exams next week and is a little nervous. He told me that this weekend he will be studying extra hard so he will be ready for anything.

The weather here has been so weird for January. Yesterday, It was in the high 40's and the sun was shining. It felt like a beautiful spring day. Today, it is a little colder, but still nice for the month of January. It's cloudy and in the 30's.

The only thing that is coming up for Johnathan, is his CT SCAN on his ear. That will be on the 23rd. I will keep you posted with the results.

Thank you again for checking in on Johnathan and for your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, nothing shall be impossible to you. Mattew 17:20

Sunday, January 8, 2006 8:16 PM CST

Hello,

Johnathan ended up getting a nasty winter cold, and missed two days of school last week. He had an ear infection, sore throat, headache and cough. I had to take him to clinic last Friday. They wanted to check his throat.Johnathan had a white patch in the back of his throat. They took swab back in his throat to see if it was strep, and it came back negative (Thank the Lord!). The doctor said that Johnathan just has a virus that needs to work itself out of his body.

Johnathan is already on an antibiotic for his ear infection. Today he seems to be feeling better and hopefully he will be going back to school this week.

Thanks again for all your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Every evening I turn my worries over to God. He's going to be up all night anyway.

Mary C. Crowley

Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the rightous fall.

Psalm 55:22 (NIV)

Friday, December 30, 2005 3:00 PM CST

Hello!

Johnathan went to clinic today and his WBC are 5,500 and his RBC are 4,510. His hemoglobin is 15.9 and his platelets are 221,000. His ANC is 2,100. God is Good!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Johnathan also gained another 5 pounds. He is now 85 pounds!!!! He is eating better, now that his C-diff is under control.

Johnathan did go to the Growth doctor December 21st. He had a bone x-ray on of his hand and a blood test. The doctor will determine what they are going to do for Johnathan from the results of the x-ray and blood test. I have not heard from them yet. I am hoping to hear from them next week. The doctor did mention to us at the appointment that she wanted to possibly try to start giving Johnathan testerone to try and stimulate his pituitary glands to hopefully start the growth process that way. If that does not work, he will have to go ahead with the growth hormone shots.

I will keep you all posted as soon as I find out the results of the blood test and x-ray and then that will hopefully help us decide what the next step will be.

I am hoping that plan A will work for Johnathan, so he can avoid plan B and not have to get the shots. We will have to wait and see what happens.

Johnathan is also getting a CT-scan in January on his left ear to determine wether or not they can repair the bones in there, so that he will be able to hear better. I will keep you posted on that as well. (He has a 40 percent hearing loss in his left ear due to Fanconi Anemia.)

Instead of seeing the doctor once a month, it will be every two months now. Johnathan is a very happy Camper!!!! He is doing so good and I am so proud of him that he has come this far. God is good!!!!!!

We had a very nice Christmas. We had my folks over and had a Turkey dinner and then opened up presents. We also celebrated my dad's birthday. His birthday is on Christmas eve.

Thank you all for checking up on Johnathan and thank you for all your continued prayers.

Hoping you all have a very Happy New Year!!!!

God Bless!
Ann Eckstadt

Now may the Lord of peace give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.

2Thessalonians 3:16

Thursday, December 15, 2005 7:26 AM CST

Hello!

First of all, I want to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and very, very, very HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!!!

Johnathan is feeling much better these days. He had an ear infection and it's pretty much gone, thanks to anitbiotics.

He even went sledding this past weekend with his friends Eric and Robert. They had a blast! Johnathan did manage to hit his eye with his sled and has a slight bruise above his right eye. It looks like he has eye shadow on. (Ha,Ha)

Johnathan goes to the growth doctor next Wednesday. I will keep you all posted.

We are having Christmas with my parents here at my house and I am cooking the Turkey. The kids are very excited for Christmas vacation to start.

We feel so blessed to have Johnathan here for his second Christmas after his Tranplant. God is good all the time and all the time God is good!

We had a snow storm here yesterday. I shoveled the driveway twice and the snow was really heavy. My back is a little sore today. We ended up getting about six inches. It started at around 9:00AM yesterday, so the kids still ended up going to school. It got worse in the late afternoon and evening. It stopped around 8:00 or so last night. The snow was perfect for making a snowman. My younger son Cody went ouside made a couple of them when he got home from school.

It looks like we are going to have a white Christmas this year after all. There have been times in the past when we had no snow on Christmas. Which is really strange for living in Wisconsin, but believe it or not, we do get mild winters here every once in a while.

Again, I hope that everyone has a real nice Christmas and a blessed New Year!!!!

God bless!
Love,
Ann

Psalm 24:1

1)The earth is the Lord's and all its fullness, The world and those who dwell therein.

Wednesday, December 7, 2005 10:38 AM CST

Hello!!!!


Johnathan went to clinic yesterday. His counts are looking good!!!!

His WBC are 7,200 and his RBC are 4,670. His Hemoglobin is 16.4 and his Platelets are 246,000. Johnathan is still going strong!

We did find out at clinic, that Johnathan has the beginnings of an ear infection. So the doctor started him on Amoxicillin. His C-diff days seem to be over and I am hoping that it will not come back now, because he is still on Bactrim which is an anitbiotic and now he is has to take Amoxicillin for the next ten days. To many anitbiotics can cause C-diff. It takes away the good bacteria that the stomach needs and then the bad bacteria starts to build up. I am still going to keep him on the Acidolphilas for a while longer to make sure that his C-diff will not return. C-diff is not fun and I don't wish it on anybody!!

It is really hard to stay warm here in Oak Creek Wisconsin. The high today is only going ot be 18 degrees and tonight it will be in the single digits. According to the weather channel, it will be warming up a bit for the weekend. The older I am getting, I wish that we could live someplace warm during the winter months and come back here to live in the Summer months. Wishful thinking I guess.

Thanks for keeping Johnathan in your prayers and thanks for checking in to see how he doing.

God Bless!!!!!

Love,
Ann

Romans 8:38-39
(NLT)

38)And I am convinced that nothing can seperate us from his love, Death can't, and life can't. Our fears for today our worries about tomorrow, and even the powers of hell can't keep God's love away.

39)Wether we are high above the sky or in the deepest ocean, nothing in all creation will ever be able to seperate us from the love God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Wednesday, November 30, 2005 9:40 AM CST

Hello!


Johnathan has been home two days of school already due to a nasty cold. He has no fever as of yet. I am hoping and praying that he will get better soon, because I know that he is not looking forward to all the homework.

I am going to to try and start to decorate the house for Christmas either this week or this weekend. It has been so cold outside, that we put off putting up the lights outside for now. It is snowing as we speak. Hopefully this weekend we can get it done.

Johnathan goes to clinic for his check-up next week and then he has to see the Endocrine doctor on the 21st. I Will keep you posted on both.

Well, I am hoping that this nasty cold bug will leave our house soon. It is bummer being sick with a cold this time of year.

Thanks for your continued prayers!

God bless!
Ann Eckstadt

Psalm 31:1-2

1)In You, O Lord, I put my trust; Let me never be
ashamed. Deliver me in You righteousness.

2)Bow down Your ear to me, Deliver me speedily;
Be my rock of refuge, A fortress of defense to
save me.

Sunday, November 27, 2005 11:23 AM CST

Hello!

Well, I knew that I would catch something sooner or later. I have an eternal tickle in my throat and it makes it very hard to sleep at night. You know Winter has arrived when everyone is coughing and hacking around you. Johnathan is still not feeling well. He has been fighting his cold for a week now. Nathan is feeling better, but is still hacking up allot of junk (which is a good thing). Cody is at the end of his cold, because he has blown which seems like three gallons of snot out of his nose in the past three days. That is a good sign that all that stuff is finally coming out! We have not been so lucky this year when is comes to colds. I am hoping and praying that we all get better soon and be well for the Christmas holidays.

We had a very nice Thanksgiving (even though some of us had the sniffles) and it was very relaxing as well. We went to my mom's house this year and we really had a good time. The food was out of this world! My mom is the best cook and I'm not just saying that because she is my mom. Well, maybe I am, but seriously she can cook and bake up a storm! Everything was very yummy!!!


I am almost done with my Christmas shopping and now I have to start wrapping gifts and decorating the house. We are going to try to put up the tree this week. It all sounds so stressful, but is oh so worth it in the end. I am so thankful that Johnathan is here for his second Christmas after trasplant. God is good!!!

I hope everyone had a real nice Thanksgiving!

God bless!
Love,
Ann

John 14:1

1)"Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God,
believe also in me."

2)"In my Father's house are many mansions;" if it were not so,I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you."

3)"And if I go an prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also."

Tuesday, November 22, 2005 8:15 AM CST

Hello!!!!!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL!!!!!!!!

Nathan is back to work, and is starting to feel much better. He is still hacking up some stuff though, which is normal. Everything is starting to loosen up in his lungs.

Johnathan still has a cold. It just seems to be hanging on and he was able to deal with it until last night. He came home from school and fell asleep in his bed for about an hour and woke up with a really bad headache. He forced himself to go to school today, because of tests and the fact that he has a short week this week. I hope and pray that he is feeling a little better by Thanksgiving.I'm also keeping my fingers crossed that I don't end up getting whatever is going around

We are going to my mom's for Thanksgiving. She is making everything and told me just to bring soda. I am making Christmas dinner, so then it will be her turn to just relax and not have to worry.

I know I stated in my last Journal that Johnathan was going to try and sign up for the Salvation basketball league. We were waiting on some information on when to sign up. Well, I called them to find out when John could sign up and it is way to late. He was suppose to sign up last month. So, John will have to wait until next year. Maybe it is for the best in a way, because Johnathan will be so much stronger by then and have more stamia as well. Johnathan is really bummed once again. I told him that things will get better and to try an look forward to trying out for the school team again next year and possibly joining a basketball league as well. I am going to try and sign him up for basketball camp or some kind of league next Summer.

I ended up getting a PSP game for Johnathan and a DS game for Cody at the mall for getting good report cards this quarter.

I hope that everyone has a nice Thanksgiving!!!!

We all truly have allot to be thankful for! I am thankful that Johnathan is still here with us, so that we can all be together as a family once again on this very special day.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann


PSALMS 30:11-12

11) YOU HAVE TURNED FOR ME MY MOURNING INTO DANCING;
YOU HAVE PUT OFF MY SACKCLOTH AND CLOTHED ME WITH GLADNESS

12)TO THE END THAT MY GLORY MAY SING PRAISE TO YOU AND NOT BE SILENT, O LORD MY GOD, I WILL GIVE THANKS TO YOU FOREVER.

Friday, November 18, 2005 7:22 AM CST

Hello,

Yesterday was parent teacher conference. It was kind of different. All the teachers were in the gym sitting at tables and you had to find your teacher and wait in line to speak with them. Very different from just meeting in the classroom. Anyways, Johnathan is doing very well in high school so far.I am so proud of him for getting a good report card for his first quarter. For all that he has been through to get to this point, it is a miracle! God is so good!!!!!

Johnathan does not have school today, so he will be sleeping until God knows when (ha,ha). He has to get up at 6:30 everyday for school, so any chance he gets to sleep in he takes advantage of it (ha,ha).

Please pray for my husband Nathan. He has been sick with Bronchitis for almost three weeks now. He has not been able to go to work this week at all. He saw the doctor this past Tuesday. The doctor put him on an inhaler and some strong cough medicine with condine in it to help him sleep. He just started a new job almost three months ago and he is not liking the fact that he has to miss work already. I am praying that Johnathan won't get this as well. Nathan has been steering clear from Johnathan as best as he can. So far so good.

I am going to be taking Johnathan and his little brother Cody to the mall today,so they can get something for getting such good report cards.

Johnathan and his friend Eric might sign up for the Salvation Army basketball league, so now Johnathan will still be able to play basketball this year after all. He is waiting for his friend to get all the information on how to sign up for the team. John is very excited about this.

Thanks again for all your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Isaiah 59:1
Behold, the Lord's hand is not shortened,
That it cannot save; Nor His ear heavy,
That it cannot hear.

Wednesday, November 16, 2005 5:57 PM CST

Hello,

Well Johnathan tried out for the freshman basketball team this week and did not make it. He was really bummed, because basketball is his whole life. He really wanted to make the team. I told him to not give up on his dream and to try again next year. I know that he will be a whole lot stronger by then as well.

As a mother, my heart breaks for him. I don't know and may never know, if Johnathan did not have Fanconi Anemia, maybe he would have had a chance at making the team. I know that he would have been taller and so much stronger if it weren't for his disease.

Then on the flip side, Johnathan is still here and he has a second chance at life. Johnathan knows that as well, but it still hurts him that he did not make the team with all of his friends. I know that has got to hurt allot. He just wants to be one of the guys and be a normal teenager. It is hard sometimes when you have a diesease that does not allow you be normal at times.

I think that Johnathan is doing awesome for all that he had to go through in his young life. I am so grateful that he is here and he has made so much progress thus far.

As a teenager Johnathan is very short for his age and is very self conscience of that. Some kids ask Johnathan at school why he is so short and why his head is so small. He tells them that he has a disease and they say sorry and that they didn't know. Again, as a mother my heart just breaks and I wish that Johnathan did not have to be asked those kind of questions.

Yes, Johnathan does not like that he was born with Fanconi Anemia, but he just keeps hanging in there and does the best he can. He knows that he is very lucky to be alive and he is very thankful for that.

God Bless!
Love,Ann

Isaiah 40:28-29 (NKJV)

28)Have you not known?
Have you not heard?
The everlasting God, the Lord,
The Creator of the ends of the
earth, Neither faints nor is
weary.

29)He gives power to the weak,
And to those who have no might,
He increases strength.

Saturday, November 12, 2005 9:09 AM CST

Hello!

I know, I know, I know! I just could not bear to stay away from updating Johnathan's website any longer! As the days went by, I just kept feeling this feeling in my gut to start Johnathan's journal up again. It has been a part of me for so long, that I feel like I cannot completely let it go. I may not update every day, but when I do have some news to share, I will definitely post it and share it with all of you.

I Know I thanked everyone under the sun in Johnathan's suppose to be last journal, but I could never ever thank everyone enough for all your support and prayers!

So, I have officially decided to continue his journey and do the best I can to keep his site going.

Johnathan has been doing great these days. He just has a mild cold going on. Our house has been the house of the many colds this month, but we are slowly starting to feel better. John's tummy problems are becoming less and less. His pills that he takes everyday are becoming less and less. He is enjoying school and is trying out for the basketball team next week. Johnathan is a little nervous, but I just told him to do his best and that is all you can do.

He recently attended his first homecoming as a freshmen and had a really good time. They're are new pictures that I put up of him dressed in a suit for Homecoming. He went stag, but he ended up getting his picture taken with a couple of girls that he knows though. They all went to a bon- fire afterwards. He had a really good time!

Johnathan went and saw the ENT doctor this past week and he still has a mild conductive hearing loss in his left ear, due to Fanconi Anemia. He is going to be getting a CT scan on his left ear in January and may possibly have a surgical procedure done to correct the loss. We are going to decide what to do when the results of the CT scan come back. Johnathan also had a scope done up his nose, in his mouth and down his throat. Everything looks fine and their are no signs of cancer anywhere. Thank the Lord! Johnathan will have to have this scope procedure done once a year to make sure everything is okay.

Johnathan's blood counts are also still really good as well. His white blood cells are 4,900 and his red blood cells are 4,650. His Hemoglobin is 16.2 and that is the highest they have ever been!!! His platelet counts 225,000 and his ANC is 2,000. Thank the Lord!!!!!!!

Johnathan is also eating really good these days. He is now a little over 80 pounds now. Johnathan is really happy about that. He has been going on the tredmill and exercise bike as well.

Johnathan is doing really good for being a year and a half post transplant. God is good all the time and all the time God is good!

It's really good to be back on Johnathan's site again and keeping you all up to date.

God Bless!
Ann

Psalm 31:24
Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart,
All you who hope in the Lord.

Friday, September 23, 2005 6:53 AM CDT

Hello!

I just want to thank everyone for following Johnathan's journey with us. With much thought and careful consideration. I have decided to discontinue updates on Johnathan's journal for now. I will still keep the site up though, in case I might have to start updating again, you never know.

Johnathan is doing pretty good at this point and his clinic visits are getting farther apart.

He is also taking less pills at this point and his stomach is slowly on the road to recovery.

Johnathan has come so far and he would not have come this far without all your prayers and support. Thank you all for being a part of Johnathan's journey and for all your kind words that were expressed in Johnathan's guestbook along the way.

I want to thank The Lord Jesus Christ, for carrying and walking this road with Johnathan! He is so Awesome!

I also want to thank Parkway Church and JAM (Jesus Live Ministries)For all your faithful prayers, for without them Johnathan would not have made it this far. I could never thank all of you enough!

I also wanted to thank East Middle School for all your prayers and support. I want to thank Mr. Sigler the principal for all your patience and understanding and to all Johnathan's teachers as well. I want to thank you for your understanding and helping Johnathan graduate the 8th grade. I know he missed allot of school last year due to a setbacks with his health. In spite of those setbacks, Johnathan seemed to have beat all the odds and finished Middle school on time. He is now in the 9th grade and has been doing great in school thus far. Way to go Johnathan!!!!!

I want to give a big thanks to Johnathan's former 6th grade teacher, Mrs.Ashenhurst and her husband for taking the time to visit Johnathan in the hospital when he was up in Minnesota. You made Johnathan's day that day!

I want to thank my Mother-in-law and Brother-in-law David and his cousins for coming to Minnesota to see and pray over Johnathan when he was going through his transplant. That really meant the world to Johnathan and I, that you would come all that way to see him. He was so happy to see his cousins as well. That really cheered him up. Also, a big thanks to my sister-in-law (Donna) and family for their prayers and enouragement. Thank you so much for being there for Nathan and I. May God bless you for your kindness.We love you guys!

A big thanks to Johnathan's Uncle Phil for coming up to visit Johnathan at the Ronald McDonald house and playing basketball with him in the gym a week before Johnathan had to go into transplant.

Thank you Aunt Leslie and Jerome for coming up to see Johnathan when he was going through his transplant. By you being there, you made it easier for me to get through those stressful days. It was so nice to see you and your family. We Love you guys!

I also want to thank Johnathan's friends that came up to see him as well when he was up in Minnisota. Thank you David, Robert, Eric, and Tommy. Thank you Kim, Rose, and Nancy for all you did for our family. You are great friends!
We love you guys!

I also want to thank my mom and dad for being there for me all these years. They have been with us all the way when we first found out about Johnathan's Fanconi Anemia until now. They have been a rock for our family to lean on. I also want to thank all my friends and relatives for being there for us as well. I could never thank you all enough for all your prayers that went up for Johnathan. We felt your prayers and still feel them now. Thank you. We love you guys!

Last but not least, I would like to thank my brother Mike for coming all the way from California to see Johnathan when he was up in Minnesota. Thank you so much. You will never know how much that meant to Johnathan. Thank you for being there for him. Thank you Teresa, Tres,and Noel for all you prayers. We love you guys!

Thank you Kim and Chris ,Diane and Paul for being there for us! We love you guys as well!

I hope that I am not forgetting anyone if am, all I can keep on saying is thank you, thank you, and thank you!!!

I will pick up where I left off with Johnathan's journal if need be. This is really hard for me to stop writing in Johnathan's journal, but I feel it is time to end his journal at this time. As the old saying goes, "No news is good news."

All I can say is, Johnathan is going towards the right direction health wise and is getting stronger and stronger every day. He plays basketball every day with his friends and is very active. That is a very good sign that he is going in the right direction. Thank the Lord!

God bless you all!
Love,
Ann

I want to say thanks to everyone as well! May God bless each of you richly!

Nate Eckstadt

I just want to leave you all with something before I sign off.

GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME AND ALL THE TIME GOD IS GOOD!

Love and God bless you,
Ann Eckstadt

PS I am just going to just keep on keeping the faith that Johnathan will just keep on getting better and stronger as the days and months go by. He seems to be doing just that and I am so very proud of him!

Tuesday, September 20, 2005 10:01 AM CDT

Hello!

Please keep Jordan Brunson in your prayers. He is having a few setbacks right now and is back in the hospital. He has FA and had a BMT about three months ago. www.caringbridge.org/ut/jordanbrunson

Johnathan is doing really good these days. The treatment that I am giving to Johnathan for his C-diff is working!( I mentioned it in my last jounal) His stomach is starting to show signs of healing. His is having less bathroom trips as well. I might have to keep up this treament for a while to make sure that the C-diff does not return, but we are finally on the right track now and slowly getting rid of it.

Johnathan has been doing really well in school and is adjusting to all of his classes so far.

Johnathan is still keeping up with basketball and wants to try out for the school team. The try outs start in November. He is hoping that he will be able make the team.

Johnathan does not have to go back to clinic until October 10th. He only has to go once a month now, so we are having fewer clinic visits now. Johnathan is very happy about that.

The weather has been beautiful here and you can start see the leaves changing color. I just love this time of year.

Thank you all for your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Psalm 146:17-18 (NLT)

17)The Lord is righteous in everything he does;
he is filled with kindness.

18)The Lord is close to all who call on him, yes,
to all who call on him sincerely.

Tuesday, September 13, 2005 8:29 AM CDT

Hello!

Johnathan went to clinic yesterday. The doctor stopped two medications that he was taking. He no longer has to take Duratuss for his hacking and no longer has to take Nystatin
(daily mouth rinse). The doctor also lowered his magnesium from three times a day to two times a day.

I am so happy that Johnathan is able to take less pills now. This will help his C-diff as well (the less pills the better).I am also treating Johnathan's C-diff with Florastore and Cultorelle which are both a form of Acidophilus. This will help Johnathan's C-diff by adding the good bacteria that Johnathan needs and is lacking at this point. The more good bacteria that is in his stomach the less he has to deal with the C-diff, and it will eventually go away.

Johnathan has been taking Flagyl for his C-diff and I have to start pulse dosing while he is on Florastore and Cultorelle. Pulse dosing is when you try and trick the stomach, so the good bacteria stays and the bad bacteria goes. I have to slowy wean Johnathan off of Flagyl. Like four days on and two days off of the flagyl for 2 weeks, then three days on and two days off of the Flagyl for another two weeks, until Johnathan is down to one dose of Flagyl a week and then eventually he will be completely off of it. I hope this works, because this is my last resort to try and turn this around for Johnathan. Wish me luck. This seems to be our last hump to get over. Otherwise, Johnathan is doing great!

Johnathan's blood counts are: White cells are 4,000 and his red cells are 4,460. His Platelets are 220,000 and his hemoglobin is 15.7. His ANC is 1,600. Things are still looking good! Thank the Lord!

No signs of GVHD coming back! God is good all the time and all the time God is good!

Again, thank you all for checking Johnathan's site and for all your continued prayers.

Nathan put some couple of new pictures up when we were at the Dells.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann
Psalm 136: 1
O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good: for his mercy endureth forever.

Thursday, September 1, 2005 12:49 AM CDT

Hello!

Johnathan went to clinic this past Monday. He has been off of his CSA for two weeks now and his blood test shows no signs of GVHD. Yeah!!! Johnathan's other counts look great as well. His white cells are 4,400 and his red cells are 4,560. His hemoglobin is 14.7 and his platelet count is 214,000. His ANC is stable at 1,600. Thank the Lord!

Johnathan started school today and was a little nervous, but I know that he was very excited as well. I know I have said this before, but I can't believe that Johnathan is in high school already! Johnathan is also starting to talk to me about the fact that he can't wait to drive. I can't even imagine him driving some day. I am so glad that Johnathan has been able to come to this point in his life, to be able to enjoy being a kid or should I say a teenager again. He has been through so much in his life and I am so happy that he finally has some normalcy in his life right now. All I can say is, God is good all the time and all the time God is good!

Johnathan's little brother Cody started Middle school today and he was somewhat nervouse this morning as well. I can't believe how fast my boys are growing up. It is starting to make me feel so old! As the old saying goes, you can't stop time.

I know I said that I was going to post new pictures of our vaction in Wisconsin Dells, but Nathan and I have been sick with a bad Summer cold.( We will get them up soon, I promise). I am still trying to get rid of it. I can't remember the last time I was this sick! It has been going on for about two weeks now. I think the worst is over for us, because my husband and I have been blowing our nose like crazy! Johnathan and Cody don't seem to be affected by our colds as of yet. I am keeping my fingers crossed and praying that they do not get this virus. Especially Johnathan, because he can not afford to get sick. I am praying that Cody will be spared as well. School just started and I wouldn't want them to start out the school year being sick. So far they seem to be okay.

Thank you for checking on John's site and thank you for your continued prayers.

Love,
Ann


Psalm 37:18-19 (NLT)

18)Day by day the Lord takes care of the innocent
and they will receive a reward that lasts forever.

19)They will survive through hard times; even in famine
they will have more than enough.

Wednesday, August 24, 2005 7:47 PM CDT

Hello,


We just got back from our vacation in Wisconsin Dells. We had a blast! We stayed at the Great Wolf Lodge and it was allot of fun! Our room had a loft, a fireplace and three TV's. The Hotel had an indoor and outdoor waterpark. It had a huge arcade on the first floor and Johnathan and Cody hit the jack pot and won alot of tickets. They got allot of prizes with all their tickets. We could barely fit all the stuff that they won in the car on the way home.(ha,ha)

We went to an amusement park called Mount Olympus. It has allot of go cart tracks and several wooden roller coasters. We went on a roller coaster ride that literally went under ground at one point. I was screaming my head off!!!! My voice has not been the same after that. I think I screamed to much or it could have been the change in the weather that day. It went from being 80 degrees during the day to the 60's in the evening. I think it was combination of both that caused me to get laryngitis for a few days. We also went miniture golfing at Priates Cove one day as well. It was the biggest miniture golf course I have ever been to. We did 36 holes and boy were we sore after that! It was worth it though, because we had so much fun!

Johnathan has a couple friends over right now. They are playing ping pong and air hockey as we speak. He has this week and next week to try and have as much fun as he can possibly squeeze in before school starts next Thursday. I can't believe school is starting already! Where did the Summer go! It was a fun and exciting Summer for Johnathan compared to last Summer when he was up in Minnesota for his transplant. He has come so far and has made so much progress since then. I know I keep saying this, but I am so very proud of him!

Johnathan is officially off of CSA and I am praying and hoping that Johnathan's GVHD is gone for good! John has been eating better and has gained five pounds in the last three weeks. He went from 72 pounds to 77 pounds! Johnathan was very pleased as well as the doctor. He still has tummy problems, but not as much as before. I have been seeing a slight improvement thus far.

Thank you for your continued prayers:)

Pictures of our trip are coming soon!

God Bless!
Ann Eckstadt

Psalm 91:9-11(NLT)
9)If you make the Lord your refuge,
if you make the Most High your shelter,
10)no evil will conquer you; no plague will come near your dwelling.
11)for he orders his angels to protect you wherever you go.

Thursday, August 11, 2005 11:22 AM CDT

Hello!

New pictures are up the site of My mom-in-law and hubby's B'day party. They are a normal size now. Nathan finally figured out how to size the pictures down.

Johnathan is still doing well. He registered for high school this week. He was very excited and nervous at the same time.


One of Johnathan's goals to get him through his transplant was to go to high school with all his friends. I am so proud of him that he made it this far to do just that!

Johnathan is still on CSA, but is being tapered off it at this time. When Johnathan is completely off of the CSA, he has to wait six months before he can get his immmunization shots. His body has to try to start building up antibodies on its own. This means that he has to go through most of the school year without any shots. Their are so many germs floating around at school, especially in the winter time. I am going to really pray that Johnathan will not get any weird viruses.

John is still battling with his stomach. I have started him back on Advanced Acidophilus. This replaces the good bacteria that Johnathan is lacking in his stomach at this point. I know it will just take time for Johnathan to get over this one last hurdle. I am praying for a healing of his stomach so that he can start to gain weight and feel stronger.

Johnathan is having a hard time right now. He really wants to play football, because all of his friends are signing up. I told him that he is not strong enough to play football right now and I have to keep reminding him that he only has one kidney. He hates the fact that he only has one kidney, because that keeps him from being able to play any contact sports.

John is also having a problem with his hieght as well. He has been 4.9 for three years now. He can't start growth hormones until he is off of his CSA. He also has to wait three to six months after stopping CSA before he can start the growth hormones. He is kind of bummed. I told him that next year at this time he will be that much stronger and things will be so much better. I told him that he could possibly start to grow on his own, you never know. I am praying for that miracle.

My heart really goes out to him. I keep telling him that he is a survivor and that he is lucky to be here. I know he is looking at all the other kids his age and wishing that he was as tall as them. I told him to just be himself and not to dwell on being short. He has allot of friends that give him the support that he needs and they all said that they will watch his back at school.

John just wants to fit in. I remember those teenage years. Those years can be hard some times and kids can be really cruel.

I just want to apologize for not signing other websites. I read them often though. This Summer has been the busiest Summer yet. Both my kids had Summer school, we went to Minnesota, my mother-in-law came to visit (We had a blast with my mom-in-law by the way). We are celebrating my other son Cody's birthday this weekend as well. Next week we are going to clinic and register Cody into Middle school.

Also, in the middle of the next week, we are going to Wisconsin Dells. Then school starts on September first. It has been a packed Summer so far. I will start to sign everyone's websites as soon as my head stops spinning (ha, ha).

I think about and pray for everyone who signs Johnathan's website and I hope you all are having a great Summer so far. I also thank all of you for still keeping up with Johnathan's website.

Thank you so much for your continued prayers and support. You all remain in my prayers always.



God Bless!
Love,
Ann

"But I am the Lord your God, who divided the sea
whose waves roared-The Lord of hosts is His name.
And I have put My words in your mouth; I have covered
you with the shadow of My hand..."

Isaiah 51:15,16 (NKJV)

Thursday, August 4, 2005 4:45 PM CDT

Hello!

Sorry for not updating sooner, but I have been one busy mama!

I have had company for last two weeks and I have not been home much. My Mother-in Law is here visiting. I have been going here there, and everywhere. I have had so much fun these past two weeks going out to eat with my Mother-In-Law and shopping. I also had fun just talking to her and listening to her funny stories. She is a very funny lady. There were a couple of times I laughed until I cried and until my stomach hurt! They say that laughter is good for the soul.

We also celebrated My Mother-In-Law's birthday and Nathan's birthday last weekend, because there birthdays are close together. I invited family and friends over and we all had a really good time.

Johnathan went to clinic this past Tuesday. He counts are still looking great!

His White blood cells are 4,600 and his Red blood cells 4,280. His Platelets are 208,000 and his hemoglobin is 14.5. His ANC is also 2,200. God is good all the time and all the time God is good!

John still has his tummy issues and we are working real hard to get this problem fixed, but it will take time. The stomach after transplant is sometimes the last place to heal. I am going to be checking out a website that I got from another mother who has a child that was battling stomach problems post transplant as well. The web site is www.cdiffsupport.com/discuss/ I am hoping to get some answers so that I can help John get better.

Johnathan is also getting tapered off of his GVHD and was told to stop taking prevacid that helped control the acid in his stomach. So, maybe the dose changes are affecting his system at this point. I will know more as the days go by. I'm thinking that I may have to bring in another stool sample to clinic again. I just keep praying that we can get over this hump, because other than his stomach bothering him, he is doing very well at this point.

John spent the night at his friend Eric's house the other night and had a blast! My dad will be picking him up on Friday to take him to lunch and go Clay shooting. That is when they throw this clay pigeons up in the air and you have to try and shoot them down. My dad took me when I was a little girl and It was allot of fun. The state fair is going on in our town, so we are wanting to try and go there maybe next week some time.

Next week I have to register Johnathan for high school. I can't believe that he is going to high school. I am a little nervous. On the other hand Johnathan is very excited.

I will be putting up new pictures soon. I hope they will be a little smaller this time. Nathan reset the settings on the digital camera, so the pictures won't be so big.


I hope that everyone is having a great Summer!

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Luke 4:10
For it is written, He shall give his angles charge over thee, to keep thee.

Saturday, July 23, 2005 11:00 AM CDT

Hello,

We put new pictures up!

Johnathan and I arrived in Minnesota in one piece last Monday. Can you believe I made it up there all by myself! I didn't hit any deer! I did see a couple dead deer on the side of the road and it brought back memories. My husband Nathan, Johnathan, and I came home yesterday and made it home safe and sound as well.

All seemed to go real well while we were up in Minnesota. It was neat to see all the doctors and nurses again. When Dr. MacMillan saw Johnathan she could not believe how good Johnathan looked! She was very pleased at Johnathan's progress! She wants Johnathan to start to taper off of his CSA and see what happens. John has no rash and his mouth seems to be free of any signs of GVHD as well. Dr. Macmillan told us that one of the last places to heal after post transplant is the stomach. (This seems to be the case with Johnathan.) His stool is back to a brown color, but he still seems to have his moments where he is running to the bathroom.

The doctor also wants John to stop taking the Previcid and the mouth rinse, Chlorhexidine. I am hoping that he will be off of CSA and the other two things for good now. The less medication the better. I know John is a happy camper!

Johnathan still has to take:

Nystatin---mouth rinse for his mouth
Magnesium--keep levels stable
Flagyl-----keep c-diff under control
GuaifenexDM-for his sinusitis
Bactrim-----Anitbiotic
Valtrex-----to keep shingles under control
Cyclosporine (CSA)for GVHD (being tapered)

I got a call from Fairview University yesterday evening and it was Pat Fidler. She gave us the bone marrow biopsy results and said that Johnathan is still a 100 percent donor and that his cellularity is at 70 percent. That really made my day and Johnathan's as well! Thank the Lord!!!! There is another part of the test that we are still waiting on. The test has to do with the DNA side of it. I will know more about the results from that test next week some time.

I got to meet Darlene Brunson up in Minnesota while we were there. She is such a nice and very sweet person. Her Son Jordan is 30 days post transplant. I am so glad that I finally got to meet her. We e-mailed each other and have signed each other's websites. It's nice to have finaly met Darlene and Jordan in person. Please keep Jordan in your prayers and his family as well. It has been difficult for Jordan this week.Please say some extra prayers for him today. I remember how stressful it was this time last year. The prayers and thoughts from everyone really kept me going. I hope by Johnathan meeting Jordan that it inspired him to hold on and keep up the fight and that their is truly a rainbow after the rain.

We also met the Kuell famliy that I had met through Johnathan's website. Bill and Carol Kuell have a teenage son named Brian, who also has FA. They are from Florida. It was such an honor to meet them and we had a really nice time visiting with them while we were up there. They are the nicest people you ever want to meet. Please keep them in your prayers. Their son Brian just finished his radiation treatment yesterday. He will be starting his Chemo treament on Sunday the 24th. Please pray for Darlene's family and the Kuell family. They really need to feel your prayers right now.

I wanted to say that Johnathan's stool sample results were negative for C-Diff. Yeah for that!!! He had it tested the week before we left. It must just be what Dr. MacMillan said, that some times the stomach takes longer to heal. Johnathan will probably have tummy problems until he is completely healed in that area. I pray that happens real soon!

I will be giving you the latest update on his blood counts from Fairview soon. They are sending them to me in the mail. I should get them next week some time. His last blood counts were good and I am hoping for the same with the results from Fairview. I will keep you all posted.

It was weird being up Minnesota again. I even lived there until I was four. My real dad died of cancer when I was that age. That is why we moved. My mom met my step dad (who is and has been a great dad to me)and we lived here in Milwaukee ever since. Then Johnathan had to go back up there to Minnesota for his transplant. It really brings back alot of memories that's for sure.

What matters and is most important right now is, Johnathan is doing very well and I have allot to be thankful for.

We did not stay at the RMH this time, because there was a long waiting list for some reason. We even had a hard time finding a motel to stay at, because their is some kind of Soccer Tournament in town. I vaguely remember when I was at the RMH last Summer, seeing all these kids in soccer uniforms and they were from all over the world. When we checked into our Motel last Monday their were a group from Mexico checking in and all the kids had their soccer uniforms on. I am just glad that we got a room for the week when we did or we would have had to reschedule John's appointment for another week or so. Where we stayed was about seven miles away from Fairview University.

My Mother-in-law is coming next week. She will be flying in on Monday. We are anxious and happy to see her again. Please pray that she has a safe flight. I hope that it cools off a bit, we have been having really hot and humid weather this Summer so far. It's nice swimming weather though.

Hope everyone is haveing a wonderful Summer!



I just want to say a big THANKS to my mom and dad for holding the fort once again while we were gone. Thank you mom and dad for taking care of Cody and watching our dog Lucky. I could never thank you enough for always being there for us. Thank you so much. We Love you dearly!!!!

We now have new pictures up!

God Bless!
Love,
Ann Eckstadt

These are some of my favorite sayings:

GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME AND ALL THE TIME GOD IS GOOD!

THE JOY OF THE LORD IS MY STRENGTH!

GOD MAY NOT COME WHEN YOU WANT HIM, BUT HE IS RIGHT ON TIME!

Wednesday, July 13, 2005 3:33 PM CDT

Hello,

We will be leaving for Minnesota for Johnathan's one year check-up next week Monday the 18th and coming back home on the 22nd.

Please pray that all goes well with Johnathan's bone marrow biopsy results.

Johnathan's tummy is still not right. He is still running to the bathroom right after he eats something. I don't mean to be gross, but the color is looking green again,and it is very dark green this time. I had to bring a stool sample into Johnathan's doctor yesterday. I hope to get the results by the tomorrow or Friday. The doctor thinks that it is John's GVHD acting up once again. Please pray that God will heal him of this and that his stomach will get back to normal. It has not been normal since his transplant.

I probably will not be able to update John's website until we get back from Minnesota. I have a millions things to do before we go. I will keep you all posted with John's results when I get back.

Again, I hope all is well with everyone and that you are having a great Summer so far!

Thank you for your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann
(NLT)
Matthew 15:29-31

Jesus Heals many People:

29)Jesus returned to the sea of Galilee and
climbed a hill and sat down.

30) A vast crowd brought him the lame, blind,
crippled, mute, and many others with physical
difficulties, and they laid them before Jesus.
And he healed them all.

31)The crowd was amazed! Those who hadn't been
able to speak were talking, the crippled were
made well, the lame were walking around, and those
who had been blind could see again! And they praised
the God of Israel.

Thursday, July 7, 2005 6:59 PM CDT

Hello!

I just wanted to let everyone know that today is Johnathan's one year anniversary! He is officially one year post transplant! God is good all the time and all the time God is good!

I went out and bought him a mint chocolate ice cream cake from Cold Stone Creamery ice cream shop. Mint ice cream is his favorite!

I also went out and got him his favorite, Boston Market. He really loves the Mac&Cheese!

Like I said in my last journal, we had some of John's friends that went and saw him when he was in Minnesota last Summer, sleep over night this past weekend. They had a blast!!! Last Summer Johnathan was very weak and in a wheel chair most of the time. I am sooooooooooooo proud of him. He has been a real trooper and was determined to get back on his feet! He did just that! He can pretty much keep up with all his friends now. He seems to be getting stronger every day.

I will also be taking him to the mall to buy a game or a movie that he might want. He will be up for that I'm sure!

I hope that the donor will want to meet us. I know that we would like to meet him as well, especially Johnathan. When we go up to Minnesota for John's check-up and biopsy, I am going to ask how we can get in touch with John's donor and if he wants to meet us. I could never thank him enough for giving the gift of life to my son.

I hope everyone is having a great Summer so far!

Thanks for all your continued prayers and all of your support this past year. We can't thank you all enough. May God bless all of you abundantly!

Check out the new pictures!

Love,
Ann

Philippians 4:4

4)Rejoice in the Lord always: and
again I say, rejoice!

Tuesday, July 5, 2005 10:31 AM CDT

Hello!
12 MONTHS POST TRANSPLANT!!!!!!

Johnthan seems to be feeling better in the hacking and blowing department, but still has tummy problems and still needs to take Gengraf everyday. He is still only on 25 mgs a day, which is a very low dose. He is also on Flagyl for his C-diff as well.

Johnathan is still surviving the early hours of Summer school. He has about three more weeks to go. He can't wait!

We had a real nice 4th of July holiday. Johnathan had some of his friends sleep over night. It was like a celebration of Johnathan being able to do teenage stuff again and being able to hang out with his friends. You can also say it was a little 2nd birthday celebration get together, because he will be a year post transplant July 7th. The friends that he had sleep over came to see him when he was up in Minnesota. When they went up to see John in Minnesota, he was not able to do much and was in a wheel chair and very weak. Now he is able to pretty much keep up with them and play a mean game of basketball as well. He is truly come a long ways! God is good all the time and all the time God is good!

Yesterday for the 4th, Johnathan was able to hang out with his friends at the local parade/festival and see the fireworks. He told me that he went in the dunk tank and got dunked by his friends about five times. I told him that I hope that he did not get sick, because that water is not very clean and it was raining off and on yesterday as well. He said that he really had alot of fun at the festival. He seemed to be okay this morning and he made it to Summer school on time. I am sure he will sleep good tonight, because he had a very funfilled and exciting weekend.

We went down town to see the fireworks Sunday night and Johnathan stomach was bothering him, so he stayed home. I am glad the he was starting to feel a little better on Monday the 4th, because he got to see some firworks locally with all of his friends that night.

We will officially be going up to Minnesota on the 18th for Johnathan's one year anniversary. Pray that his bone marrow biopsy results come back good and pray that we have safe trip there and a safe trip back. Please, pray that we do not hit any deer this time.( We hit a deer coming back from Minnesota last October).

It will be just my mom, me and Johnathan going to Minnesota, because Nathan can't get off of work. My dad will be here to watch my younger son Cody.

I hope that everyone had a great 4th and I thank you all for your continued prayers!

God Bless!
Ann Eckstadt

GOD IS GREAT A GREATLY TO BE PRAISED!

Sunday, June 26, 2005 10:15 AM CDT

Hello,

We went to clinic last Thursday.

Johnathan's counts are still looking great! His White blood cells are 4,800 and his Red blood cells are 4,180. His hemoglobin is 14.9 and his platelet counts are 215,000. His Absolute neutrophils are 2,200. Yeah! God is good all the time and all the time God is good!

Johnathan still has been hacking and blowing, so the doctor put Johnathan on Guaifenesin and Dextromethorphan. The Guaifenesin thins fluids in the lungs and the Dextromethorphan affects the cough in the brain. Three other post transplant patients here at CHW are on the same thing as well. Johnathan has been taking this for two days now and I notice a big difference. He has been hacking a lot less. He is beginning to get some sort of relief now. He is not hacking so much flem up anymore. They say that it starts to make you feel better soon after you start taking the medicine.

Johnathan is still having tummy problems and I know it is probably due to his GVHD in his gut. My heart goes out to him, because as soon as he is finished eating something, he has to run to the bathroom. I pray that this will get better soon. It has been going on for a long time now. I try to help his stomach by making sure he eats yogurt every day and I also started him on Acidophilus to help his stomach. There is probiotics in the Acidophilus which is considered good bacteria that your stomach needs and Johnathan is lacking this in his stomach at this point. I am hoping to see some improvement soon.

Check out the new pictures!

Thanks for your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Psalms 59:16 (NIV)

But I will sing of your strength in
the morning I will sing of your love;
for you are my fortress, my refuge in
the times of trouble.

Monday, June 20, 2005 6:49 AM CDT

Hi everyone,

11 months post transplant:

I think this is the longest that I'v gone without updating the website. (sorry)

It has been real busy for us with school letting out and a bunch of other things that I had to catch up on.

Johnathan slept over at his friends Robert's house this past weekend and we all celebrated Father's day this past Sunday as well. I will be putting up new pictures of Father's day some time this week.

Johnathan starts Summer school today. He is not use to getting up this early. He has to be there at 7:30am. It is only Monday through Thursday. He gets Fridays off. John is very happy about that.

Johnathan has his clinic visit this Thursday, I will keep you posted. I made a couple of appointments for the DERM Dr. and the ENT Dr. in July. I will keep you post on all that as well.

I hope that everyone is having a wonderful Summer so far.

Thank you for checking in and thank you for your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

Psalms 115:1 (NLT)

1)Not to us,O Lord, but to you goes all the glory
for your unfailing love and faithfullness.

Monday, June 13, 2005 12:31 AM CDT

Hello everyone!

11 months post transplant:

In spite of Johnathan's GVHD coming back, his hacking, and blowing. He Graduated from his eighth grade class at East Middle School last Friday night June 10th. I was so proud of him and it was a miracle that he made it this far and is now going to get to go to highschool in the fall with all his friends. It was definitley a night to remember! I was a proud mama! John got an special Outstanding Academic Achievement Award for showing his effort in getting his work completed. He missed a lot of school this past year. We had to have tutors come to the house for a while and John always seemed to manage to keep up with his class. He work really hard to be able to pass eighth grade with his friends. I am so very proud that he got this award.

I want to thank my friend Karen (she is like a sister to me) for recording the whole ceremony for me.
What a sweet heart for coming a long ways and doing that. For those of you that read the journal about when we were in Mexico a couple of months ago, our Camcorder got stolen. We have not had the chance to get another one yet. Thank you again Karen! We love you dearly!

I have to set up a couple of appointments for Johnathan this week. One with the ENT doctor and one for the DERM doctor. John is starting to get acne and the doctor does not want him to pick at it, because it could cause infection (his immune system is still some what surpressed due to the CSA that he still has to take for his GVHD) Anyway, the BMT doctor perscribed a topical lotion for his face, but it does not seem to be working all that great, so we have to see if the DERM doctor has anything better to help clear it up.

Johnathan will be going up to Minnesota some time next month for his one year anniversary. I have to also call up there this week and set a time when we can go. I can't believe it will be one year already! God is good all the time and all the time God is good!

We will be going to clinic next week Thursday for his standard blood tests. I will keep everyone posted.

Johnathan and Cody also start Summer school next week.

Thank you for all your kind words on the guestbook entries. Thank you all for your continued prayers and support.

Love in Christ,
Ann Eckstadt

Here is a poem that the Principle Mr. Sigler gave all the kids on their graduation night.

Your Inspiration: Never Forget

Your presence is a gift to the world,
You're unique and one of a kind.
Your life can be what you want it to be-
Take it one day at a time.

Count your belssings, not your troubles,
And you'll make it through what comes along.
Within you are so many answers,
Understand, have courage, be strong.

Don't put limits on yourself,
Your dreams are waiting to be realized.
Don't leave your important decisions to chance-
Reach for your peak, your goal and your prize.

Nothing wastes more energy than worrying-
The longer a problem is carried, the heavier it gets.
Don't take things to seriously-
Live a life of serenity, not a life of regrets.

Remember that a little love goes a long way-
Remember that a lot goes forever.
Remember that friendship is a wise investment,
Life's treasures are people.....together.

Thursday, June 9, 2005 7:57 PM CDT

Hello,


Here is an update from when we went to clinic today. John's white cells have gone down from the last few blood tests he has had. He is going to the bathroom more as well and had lost weight because of it. As soon as he is finished eating something, he is running for the bathroom. Johnathan's is also getting a rash on his neck and stomach again from GVHD.

The doctor feels that the GVHD is contributing to the frequent bathroom trips, so instead of John taking CSA every other day he wants him to start back to taking it every day for now. He is on a low dose though, which is only 25 mgs, but the doctor said that John will have to be on CSA probably through the summer and than by September he wants to try and taper him off the CSA again.

The doctor said that some post transplant patients take longer to get over GVHD. Some times it can takes up to one to two years before it completly goes away.


As far as the pain in his leg that he experienced yesterday, well John said that it feels a little better today. The doctor is baffled as to why that happened. I was thinking that he might have been dehyderated or something like that. It has been really hot and humid here the past week or so. I don't know, it's just a guess. I am just glad that it is not hurting him like it did yesterday. I was really praying that it wasn't shingles again.

The doctor told me to take John to the ENT doctor again, because of John's hacking and coughing. When we went last time, the dcotor said that he could do surgery to help his sinus problem, but felt that he wanted to wait until John was off of the CSA. He could still do it, but wanted to wait and see if his immune system would get stronger and he would be able to fight off these sinus infections that he has been battling forever, but now that he is back on CSA again I don't know what to do? I am going to make an appointmemt again and see if we should just go ahead with the sinus surgery,so John can get a break from having to deal with blowing, hacking and coughing all the time. I hope between us and the doctor we can figure how to help John get better.

It is so frusturating when you think the GVHD might finally be going away and it shows it ugly head again. Please pray that this won't go on to much longer. I feel sorry for Johnathan, because the GVHD has always been in his gut and when this happens, he always gets bad stomach aches and gets major diarrhea. I am hoping that upping the CSA will keep all this under control. I am still trying to keep the faith, still trying to stay positive and still trying to take one day at a time. That is all I can do. This is just another bump in the road and we are hoping to get over this bump again as well.

Thank you all for your continued prayers.

Isaiah 26:3-4

3)THOU WILT KEEP HIM IN PERFECT,
PEACE WHOSE MIND IS STAYED ON
THEE:BECAUSE HE TRUSTETH IN THEE.

4)TRUST YE IN THE LORD FOR EVER:
FOR IN THE LORD JEHOVA IS EVERLASTING
STRENGTH.

THIS IS FORM THE (NLT BIBLE)

YOU WILL KEEP IN PERFECT
PEACE ALL WHO TRUST IN YOU
WHOSE THOUGHTS ARE FIXED
ON YOU!

I GOT THIS FROM THE NLT BIBLE AS WELL
AND JUST WANTED TO SHARE IT WITH YOU.

TO FIX YOUR THOUGHTS ON GOD MEANS
TO THINK ABOUT HIM OFTEN. HOW WILL
THIS GIVE US PEACE? WHEN WE REMEMBER
THAT GOD IS IN CONTROL, WE WON'T
DESPAIR OVER THE TURN OF WORLD EVENTS.

WHEN WE REMEMBER THAT GOD IS ALL-
POWERFUL, WE WILL KNOW THAT HE CAN
HANDLE ANY PROBLEM WE MAY ENCOUNTER.

WHEN WE REMEMBER THAT GOD IS ALL-KNOWING,
WE WON'T WORRY ABOUT THE FUTURE. WHEN WE
REMEMBER THAT GOD IS ALL-LOVING, WE WILL
LIVE CONFIDENTLY, KNOWING THAT HE WANTS
ONLY WHAT IS BEST FOR US.

WHENEVER YOU FEEL UNEASY OR AFRAID, FOCUS
YOUR THOUGHTS ON GOD.

Wednesday, June 8, 2005 9:35 PM CDT

Hello,

11 months post transplant:

Please say a little prayer for Johnathan. He has been really hacking a lot of flem up today from his lungs. John told me that his chest feels real tight. We are going to clinic tomorrow, so I will definitley be telling the doCtor this.

Johnathan also has been experiencing a sharp pain in his left leg as well. He said, it started in school today and that it felt like his leg was going to explode right off! The pain came back today after school when we went to the mall to get a hair cut. After his hair cut we walked around for a little bit and the pain started to come back. He could barely make it to the car. When we got home I gave him some tylenol right a way. I have no idea what is causing this pain all of a sudden????


I hope it is not the beginnings of internal shingles again. He is still on the Valtrex to keep it under control though. I hope the doctor has some idea as what is causing John so much pain. Maybe it's a fluke thing I don't know??? Maybe tomorrow John will wake and the pain will be gone. I pray that will be the case.

Things were going so smoothly and wham! Something else comes along when you least expect it. I guess it all comes with the territory of being post transplant. It takes a while for your body to heal and feel normal again. It's just another bump in the road and hopefully we will get over this one as well.

I will keep you posted:)

Thank you for your continued prayers.

God bless!
Ann Eckstadt

THE JOY OF THE LORD IS MY STRENGTH!!!!!

Tuesday, June 7, 2005 7:51 PM CDT

Hello,

Johnathan had a minor set back this past weekend. He felt very weak and tired and pretty much slept all weekend. He was really coughing on Sunday and still is coughing off and on. Monday he stayed home from school, because he was just plum out of energy. That is all part of post transplant though, sometimes you are going to have some set backs and some bumps to get over. So far, John has gotten over each bump. He does at times feel weak and tired, but he will push himself to keep up with his peers. I find myself saying to him a lot is to try and pace yourself and to try not over do it. When it comes to Johnathan, it is easier said than done.

I want to thank the Oak Creek National Honor Society for holding a walk agaist cancer last Sunday to benefit cancer victims. One of the people they walked for was Johnathan. Some of the money they raised they donated it to Johnathan, and to other people who were in need as well. I am really grateful for this, because John has a lot of co-pays for every time he sees the doctors and for all the medication he takes. All those co-pays can really add up.

Those of you that don't really know or understand John's condition, is that the second phase of John's disease will eventually turn into cancer. The pattern that I have been noticing in other Fanconi patients is, that the cancer seems to stike in the late 20's and 30's. He is susceptible to cancer of the head, stomach throat, mouth,and esophagus. Until they find a cure for Fanconi Anemia, their will always be that second phase. I pray every day that Johnathan will be spared of these terrible cancers and that a cure will be found some day soon. I will never give up that hope.

Thank you for all your prayers.

God Bless!
Ann Eckstadt

Philippians 4:13 (NLT)

FOR I CAN DO EVERYTHING WITH THE
HELP OF CHRIST WHO GIVES ME THE
STRENGTH I NEED.

Friday, June 3, 2005 9:44 PM CDT

Hello,

11 months post transplant:

Johnathan was hanging out with his friends tonight. He just got back from being at his friend Tyler's house. In these last couple months Johnathan has been able to start doing normal things that normal teenagers do. Like going to parties, playing basketball and baseball with his friends. He gets a little tired afterwards, but always seems to push himeself to stay active and keep up with his friends. The doctor once said to me, that the more active Johnathan is, the stronger he will get as time goes by.

We had communion in church a couple weeks ago and I felt so blessed that Johnathan was standing next to me taking communion. I felt very emotional and started to cry,and at that moment, I really had so much to thank God for.

Johnathan is going to watch Nathan play baseball tomorrow. Nathan is on a Summer league. I hope that the rain holds off, because we are suppose to get severe thunderstorms in the afternoon. Cody, John's little brother would be going as well, but he is really afraid of thunderstorms. He watches the weather channel all the time, so he knows what the weather is going to be like every minute (ha,ha). I told Cody that he should become a weather man when he grows up.

We go to clinic next week Thursday. It seems weird going every two weeks now. It's kind of nice to get a break in between.

Next Friday the 10th is Johnathan and Cody's last day of school. Then we will be going to Johnathan's Middle school graduation that night. I can't believe John is going into high school next year and Cody is going to be going to middle school. The years seem to be going by just to fast! I am so happy that Johnathan, with all that he has been through, will be going to high school in the fall with all his friends. God is good all the time and all the time God is good!

I hope you all have a great weekend.

Thank you for your continued prayers.

Love,
Ann

I bought this card that says:

God knows each heart and heartache.

He knows each thought and care.

Where we are in life,

Our Father will be there.

Thursday, June 2, 2005 8:03 PM CDT

Hello,

11 months post transplant:


We had a really nice Memorial Day this past Monday. The weather was perfect! We cooked out with my mom and dad. My mom and I went for a walk later on and Johnathan went to the park to shoot some hoops and ended up playing baseball with a group of kids.

Johnathan was at the park for a long time. My parents left so, I decided to take the dog for a walk up to the park and When I got there, I saw Johnathan hitting the ball out of the park a couple times and he had good open field hits as well. It was so good to see him hitting that ball and running the bases. I was so proud of him. John is getting stronger with each passing day. He amazes me!!!!!

I told him that if he wants to, I would sign him up for baseball next Summer. He said that he would like that.

It has been a very busy week so far and I know it is not going to calm down any time soon, because Summer school for the kids is just around the corner. I am just glad that the warm weather is finally here.

I hope you all had a nice Memorial Day weekend.

Thanks for your continued prayers. Also pray for these two families.

www.caringbridge.org/mn/brennan www.caringbridge.org/wi/lukekaiser

They really, really need all of your prayers right now.

God Bless!
Ann Eckstadt

Isaiah 40:30-31 (NLT)

30)Even youths will become exhausted,
and young men will give up.

31)But those who wait on the Lord will
find new strength. They will fly high
on wings like eagles. They will run and
not grow weary. They will walk and not
faint.

Thursday, May 26, 2005 9:26 PM CDT

Hello,

10 months post transplant:

Hello,

We went to clinic today.

Johnathan's counts are still looking good! His white cells are 3,900 and his red blood cells are 4,350. His hemoglobin is 15.1 and his platelets are 245,000. His ANC is 1,900. God is good all the time and all the time God is good!

Dave and Carol with WKLH 96.5 (classic rock radio station) were at Children's hospital here in Milwaukee today raising funds for the hospital. They interviewed John last year at this time. They were set up in the caferteria of the hospital. Johnathan and I just went down there to tell them that John made it through his BMT and that he is doing pretty good at this point. They asked Johnathan and I to do another interview as a update from last years inerview.( I had no idea that was gong to happen.) Again, I was just as nervous as last time and Again, Johnathan was a natural. I was really proud of him. He answered all their questions and Johnathan made us all laugh as well. (He is good at doing that.)

That really made Johnathan's day to get to be live on the radio. He felt like a celeberty. It was so neat to be be able to come back a year later with a good report to give everyone. It was a very eventful day.

John has a rash, but only in one spot on his body. The doctor said, that it looks more fungle like than a rash from GVHD. John had this once before and had to treat it with anti-fungle cream. The doctor also still wants him to take his CSA every other day. John also seems to be getting better. He is not blowing his nose that much anymore,and he seems to be hacking less. I hope the trend continues.

John has been keeping up with his studies and with all of his friends as well. He is not looking forward to going to Freshmen Academy this Summer. It is a six week course and it's from 7:30 to 12:30 in the afternoon. He better get use to it though, because when he gets to highschool, he will also start at the same time (with the birds!). It is harder to get up that early when it's the Summer time, so my heart goes out to him. I think one of Johnathan's friends will be in the same Summer school class , so he won't be alone.

The doctor thinks that John is doing really good at this point, so we don't have to go back to clinic for another couple weeks. John is very happy camper at this point.

Thank you for all your continued prayers.

God Bless!
Love,
Ann

JOSHUA 2:1 (NLT)

1)I COMMAND YOU - BE STRONG AND
COURAGEOUS! DO NOT BE AFRAID
OR DISCOURAGED. FOR THE LORD
YOUR GOD IS WITH YOU WHEREVER
YOU GO.

Monday, May 23, 2005 12:55 AM CDT

Hello!

10 months post transplant:

We had a very busy weekend. It was my mom's birthday Saturday and we celebrated it with some close friends and family at the Rain Forest Cafe at Gurnee Mills in Gurnee Illnois. Gurnee Mills is a huge outlet mall and is about 45 minutes from our house. We had a really good time. We even got to walk around the mall and shop a little bit after we ate.

My neighbor Judy also invited us to her son Aaron's graduation party this weekend. He graduated from UWM here in Milwaukee. We were very happy for him! We had a really good time as well. The weather this weekend could not have been better! It was in the 70's and low 80's all weekend.

This weekend John was also invited to Robert's birthday party on Sunday, one of his good friends from school. He told me that he had a blast! The Party was at the YMCA. They played basketball and then after that, they went swimming. (I called Johnathan's doctor to get a okay if he could go swimming. The doctor felt that it would be fine for him to go.) This would be the first time that John has gone swimming since his transplant.

We will be going to clinic this Thursday. It was weird not going to clinic last week. It was nice break for Johnathan though.

Johnathan is still hacking and blowing. I am continuing to give John Flonase and Claritin at this point. John was also on the Z-pac and Omni-pac (anitbiotics). They really did not help him all that much. We are waiting to see what happens with the CSA. He is taking it every other day now and is to be off of it hopefully soon.
I am praying that the GVHD will not come back.

I'm just waiting for John to get off the CSA, so that his sinuses and hacking will start to improve, due to a stronger immune system.

I will keep you all posted on this weeks clinc visit ASAP.

Thanks for your continued prayers!

God Bless!

Love,
Ann

NUMBERS 6:24-26 (NLT)

24)MAY THE LORD BLESS YOU
AND PROTECT YOU.

25)MAY THE LORD SMILE ON YOU
AND BE GRACIOUS TO YOU.

26)MAY THE LORD SHOW YOU HIS FAVOR
AND GIVE YOU HIS PEACE.