What started as a dogged virus became more serious after a test found that she had only 7% of the blood cells that she needed. Her immune system wasn't working, her organs weren’t getting enough oxygen, and we had no concrete answer as to why. Non-stop blood transfusions, and a steady drip of fluids and meds barely moved the numbers. But after 48 grueling hours, we had confirmation of the fear that lurked in our minds but could not be believed: Iris has leukemia (acute lymphocytic leukemia, to be exact.)
So what's in store for Iris? The first step is Induction— a one month fight to drive out the disease and rebuild her tattered immune system, then she’ll move along to Consolidation, a 6-8 month push to make sure that the disease doesn’t come back. And then, finally, hopefully, Maintenance, where we watch, wait, and hope that the cancer is gone for good.
Honestly, we don’t have much figured out yet. We’re working on it. What we know at this time is that chemotherapy has already begun. During Maintenance, Iris will be living at Mary Bridge Children's Hospital in Tacoma, a wonderful facility filled with sunlight, books, and Nintendo Switches. The support and care we’ve received so far has been profound. As we’ve tried in vain to turn off the televisions in our heads looping non-stop nightmare scenarios, the doctors and staff have been loving, kind and patient with us.
Our plan is to use this page as a place to share Iris’ progress, have a way for people to send messages and words of encouragement to Iris, and make asks to those of you who are willing for things that might make this time easier and more comfortable for all of us.
Speaking of which— your words and gestures have been astounding. Thank you so much. Each of you are loved and appreciated by us and your support is keeping us going.
Hi lovely community. Once again, I want to say that Melissa and I are so thankful for the many (hundreds!) of calls, emails, texts and gifts sent to support Iris while she’s been in the hospital. As we are starting to plan on transitioning Iris home for her next phase of treatment, many people have asked if they could help by providing meals— and the answer is absolutely yes. We’ve set up a Meal Train to coordinate. Here’s the link if this is a way you’re interested in helping.
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