December 31, 2009

Well today is the last day of 2009. It has been a tough year, but God has been good and answered so many prayers both big and small. Trystan did eat a good lunch but soon after that she started not feeling very well. She has not been feeling well most of the day. Ate very little for dinner. This evening her shots had still not shown up. So at about 7 p.m. I called the on call oncologist and she called Apria Healthcare. Her shots were picked up by UPS at 6 p.m. yesterday and were to be here by this morning. After they tried to track it the only thing that UPS showed was that it was picked up and that was all. The gentleman went back into work and fixed up more syrum and had a corrier bring it out for her. She showed up about 9:45 p.m. and we were able to give her her shot by 10:10 p.m. So not only is she having pain from the shot, but the jaw, leg and arm pain has started from the chemo! Please pray that the pains would stop and the nausea would subside.

December 30, 2009

Finished up with the post hydration from Trystan's last short chemo treatment. Just after finishing that she was taken down to have an x-ray of her right ankle. She hurt it Monday evening while sitting on the edge of the couch and bouncing playing the Wii. It was still bothering her at the hospital so they wanted to look at it to be sure it was o.k. The x-rays showed not fractures. We were very happy about that! We were off and heading home about 1:00 p.m. We stopped for lunch, which Trystan ate very well, then stopped to pick up Alyssa. Once home the girls got out one of Trystan's Christmas gifts (Disney Sing It) and played it on the Wii. They continued playing Wii Resort and American Idol. We then had dinner and sat down to watch the Sound of Music. A very old movie but our girls just love it! By the time that was over it was time for bed. Trystan has done extremely well today. No nausea or vomitting!

December 29, 2009

We arrived this morning at 10 a.m. got right into a room but only to wait an hour for Trystan to be accessed. She was accessed a little after 11 a.m. and fluids began. Premeds were given about 2:15 p.m. and chemo started about 2:40 p.m. She was finished with the chemo and fluids started by 3:45 p.m. About 6:30 tonight she asked for something to eat from Applebee's. I called it in and walked over with a PCA to pick it up and bring it back to her. I am so happy when she asks for something to eat/drink while here! It's only few and far between that that happens!!

This was round 25 of treatments. There's only one more to go! Praise God for all that he has done for our sweet precious Trystan! Please continue to pray for our family.

December 28, 2009

This morning we went for bloodwork. Trystan sat so still for her arm stick. I was so very proud of her! We left Maryville and headed back to Greenville for Trystan's physical therapy appointment. Went and had lunch Alyssa, Trystan and myself. The clinic called to let us know that Trystan's counts were pretty good. All were high enough for chemo tomorrow. Yeah! So we are to report to the nineth floor of Children's tomorrow morning 10 a.m. Tonight we went to my sister's house for the Rieke Christmas. Had a good time.

December 27, 2009

This morning we braved the snowy roads and went to church as a family. Once we were at church, Trystan didn't want to use her wheelchair. She walked on her crutches there and did great. We were so proud of her!! We came home after service and the girls played and I cleaned the upstairs. Tomorrow we will go for counts to see if she makes it for chemo.

December 26, 2009

Today was nothing unusual. That is the way we like it around the Watson household! The kids slep in a little this morning. At noontime my sister and I ran into town and did some errands and had lunch together. The girls stayed at home with daddy, played the Wii, and ate lunch together. This evening we went to Tracy's mom's for dinner. Blessings are good today!!

December 25, 2009

Merry Christmas! This morning the girls were excited to see what Santa had to bring for them. Stockings were filled and pretty much everything they asked Santa for he delivered!!!! This afternoon we went to Tracy's brother's Tim and Lori's house for the Watson get together. It was hard without Tracy's dad there but we were able to shed some tears and able to have laughs as well. Good food, good times, good memories together!!! Trystan got the crutches out and showed all of her aunts, uncles, cousins and grandma how well she can walk! Thank you Lord for another day with family.

December 24, 2009

Merry Christmas Eve to everyone! Cleaned up a little bit today so Sanata wouldn't break his neck when he stepped out of the chimney! This evening we went to our church's first Christmas Eve service. Trenton played his horn with Uncle Ster and did a marvolous job! After the service was over we went to the Shrine in Belleville to look at the lights. Tracy, myself, our girls and Tracy's mom Doris all went together. We then stopped by Collinsville Denny's for a snack. It was a great time together.

December 23, 2009

Despite the clinic telling me that we should wait until next week Monday for counts, I took her for counts today because we wanted to know where she stands for the long weekend. We were afraid that her counts would drop again. Our gut instincts were correct! When the clinic called with her counts her hemoglobin had dropped slightly, platelets dropped, white blood cells and anc also dropped. None are low enough for transfusions but are continuing to drop! The nurse also told us that we are to start the daily shots back up for the next few days as well. One last thing she said was that her bone marrow is just so tired and probably just needs a little more time to rebound. Thank goodness we didn't listen to the clinic and went ahead and got the counts today!

All and all the girls had a pretty good day. They played literally all day together. This evening Tracy took Alyssa with him to do some Christmas shopping. Trystan and I stayed home and ate dinner together. She's been pretty exhausted tonight. I'm hoping her counts will turn around and begin to rise. We can't go for counts now until Monday because of the holiday. Her counts on Monday will determine if she makes it for chemo on Tuesday the 29th.

December 22, 2009

Today I still wasn't feeling very well. Hoping that the antibiotics start kicking in soon! We didn't do much today. This evening we took the girls to visit with Grandma Watson for a bit while Tracy and I went to eat and pick up a few things. Tomorrow we will go for counts to see how she is before Christmas.

December 21, 2009

Went this morning for Trystan to have her bloodwork done at Quest. Then on the way home we stopped by Troy Township Park and saw the two reindeer they had. Trystan was so excited when she saw them. She had to get out of the car and get closer! So I carried her over to the fence. Of course she wanted to feed them but we had nothing to give them! Took pictures of the two reindeer though.

Called the clinic at about 12:30 p.m. just as I was told per clinics request on friday. They had just gotten Trystan's counts. All were good except those stubborn platelets! The platelets weren't low enough for transfusion though, so that was good news. The nurse told us we didn't need to get counts until next week Monday and admission for chemo next week Tuesday. I told her that I would prefer that we at least get a cbc on Wednesday so we know where she's at just before Christmas. She said that that would be fine. She also told us we should stop the daily shots that boost her white blood cells. We were surprised since they weren't all that high to begin with. We'll see on Wednesday if that was a good call and also be sure that her platelets are continuing to rise.

Though we are a little bummed out that she didn't make counts for Wednesday, we are also glad that her counts should be high and she should feel good for Christmas! We know and understand that God is in control.

December 20, 2009

This morning we all went to church together. It's been a while since we've all gotten to go as the four Watson's. During the service, Trystan asked to stand along with everyone else while we were singing. It made my heart soar to see her standing and singing so loudly! We went out for lunch with Tim and Lori then came home and made christmas cookies!

Alyssa went to her friend Lillie's house for a birthday sleepover this evening. Tomorrow while I take Trystan for bloodwork. Alyssa will be going to lunch with her friends then off to the Greenville Humane Society to volunteer. She is so excited to be able to go!

December 19, 2009

This afternoon took the girls to Highland to see Santa at the square. The girls were excited to talk to him. After seeing Santa, they wanted to walk around the square and look at the little elf houses. It was really cold! But the girls had a great time and that's all that matters.

December 18, 2009

It's been a pretty busy and eventful day for the Watson's today! The day started with me taking Trystan for bloodwork and Tracy taking Alyssa to school. Quest had to draw labs from Trystan's arm today per doctor's orders. Her veins are so beat up from all of the arm sticks that have had to be done that they are having difficulty getting anything from her veins. It gets harder and harder every time they have to do an arm stick. She has permanent bruises on her arms that never really have a chance to heal. They were only able to get a little blood from her arm and ended up having to do a finger stick as well. After bloodwork we headed back home for an early lunch. About 1:00 p.m. she took off the bandaid on her finger. It began to bleed pretty badly. It took me almost a half an hour to get it to stop! During that time I called the clinic to tell them that we were having problems getting her finger to stop bleeding. They had to call Quest because they hadn't heard from them yet! The clinic called me back to let me know that her platelets were back down and she needed another transfusion. Trystan and I left right away to get down to the clinic. Tracy stayed home so he could get Alyssa from school. We arrived at the clinic about 2:50 p.m. They accessed her right away and started the pre-medications before she's able to receive platelets to try to avoid an allergic reaction. She has to take tylenol and zyrtek orally. They then give her benedryl, hydrocortozone, and pepsid all through the iv. After she had gotten all of that and the transfusion finally started about 4:25 p.m. All of the medications made her drowzy and she slept through the entire transfusion. The nurse monitored her vitals and I monitored her for hives. She finished the transfusion about 5:15 p.m. and I am happy to report that she didn't get a fever or hives! Praise God!!! We were on our way out the door of the clinic at about 5:45 p.m. and on our way home. We were both pretty hungry so we stopped for a bite to eat on the way home. While we were sitting in the parking lot eating Trystan decided to lose another tooth! Thankfully, she lost it after she received the platelets and not before! We were able to get it to stop bleeding. Seems to never be a dull moment! Once we got home, Trystan needed to be stuck one more time with her shots that we have to do to help boost her white cells. We have to continue the shots through the weekend and report for bloodwork again on Monday for possible admission for chemo on Wednesday.

December 17, 2009

Trystan had her second physical therapy treatment today. She did a little better today than Monday. We've also been practicing at home leg and foot exercises along with waking on the crutches. We are all so proud of her. Tomorrow she will go for bloodwork again. Praying that she makes counts for chemo. If she does make counts she will go in on Monday and come home on Tuesday.

December 16, 2009

We started off our day dropping Alyssa off at school then heading down to Children's. We arrived about 9:15 a.m. for bloodwork. The fingerstick was done about 10 a.m. Got her counts back by about 11 a.m. and her hemoglobin dropped yet some more so we for sure had to stay for those. Her platelets were higher than Monday because of the transfusion but were still low. They weren't low enough for a transfusion. Her ANC seems to be climbing which is great news! The blood finally arrived and the transfusion began just a few minutes after noon. The entire time we were at the clinic Trystan's temperature was elevated, but not high enough for her to be hospitalized. Had her ANC not been coming up she would have for sure had to stay. The hemoglobin transfusion went well other than the temperature. We came home knowing that if her fever went up another degree we would be right back down in the er. Just as soon as Tracy carried Trystan into the house she got sick! I took her temp within the half hour of being home and it was normal and has been normal all evening! Praise God! Hoping that her temperature stays down.

Tomorrow she'll go to her second physical therapy appointment to teach her how to walk with her crutches. She did walk a little on Monday but was very weak from her counts being so low. We have practiced the last two days here at home. She is only allowed to put 50% weight on her right leg; therefore, she needs to be shown what 50% feels like. Trystan was so excited to show her daddy and sissy that she could walk with her crutches. I stay behind her holding onto her waist so she doesn't lose her balance and fall or put too much weight on her right leg. Tracy, Alyssa and myself are so very proud of her! This is just another step closer to Trystan being able to walk, run, jump, skip, etc!

December 15, 2009

Nothing too exciting happened today. We are always thankful for an uneventful day! Trystan will have her bloodwork done at the clinic tomorrow morning. They wanted us to come in there for bloodwork in case she needs another transfusion. Thank you all again for your continued support and prayers for Trystan and our family.

December 14, 2009

This morning Trystan and I dropped Alyssa off at school and went to Maryville Quest for her bloodwork. After we finished there we came back to Greenville and Trystan started a little bit of physical therapy. She learned some excersises to do with her bad leg and how to use her crutches. Trystan was a little scared while we were there learning what 50% feels like on her right leg. We then went to McDonald's drive thru and ate lunch in the car. While we were sitting there Aunt Teri came thru the Drive thru and got in our car and ate with us too! After lunch we came home. We weren't home very long when the clinic called to let us know that all of Trystan's counts are extremely low! We left right away for Children's for a platelet transfusion. We arrived at the clinic at 2:30 p.m. The nurse did all of the pre-meds: hydrocortozone, benedryl, and tylenol. The transfusion began at about 3:30 p.m. and was to be about an hour long. Everything was going well until about 4:15 p.m. or so. Trystan was sitting on my lap, and I looked down at her to kiss her on the head and saw that she was getting hives! I called her nurse over. The nurse practitioners ordered another dose of hydrocortozone, along with zyrtek and pepsid to try to counteract the reaction. Her temperature was beginning to elevate, but came down as the rash started to lighten. Finally by about 5:45 p.m. the hives were lightening up and beginning to fade. We were allowed to leave, but I have to continue benedryl every six hours for the next 24 hours. I was told that we have to keep an eye on her and wake her up through the night to administer the benedryl. Hopefully, the hives will not return! Thank you to all of you who saw my plea on facebook when I cried out for prayers for her. God did answer!

December 13, 2009

This morning Tracy and Alyssa went to church and Trystan and I stayed home. She cannot go anywhere because her counts are so low. Trystan didn't eat very well today and lacked energy. After supper she seemed extremely exhausted and fell asleep by 8:00 p.m. We'll be going for counts in the morning. Tracy and I suspect that her platelets and hemoglobin have continued to drop and that we will most likely be going in for transfusions.

December 12, 2009

We spent the day at home with the kids today. Didn't do much, but the girls did play together. This evening Alyssa and I went to Justin's for his 10th birthday and Tracy and Trystan stayed home. Trystan's energy level has dropped a little throughout the day, but she and Alyssa did play hard together early in the day.

December 11, 2009

Today was an interesting and extremely frustrating day. This morning Tracy took Alyssa to school while I took Trystan for bloodwork in Maryville. We arrived in Maryville and ended up having to wait almost an hour before being called back. Once back there we were seen by someone that was filling in for one of the regulars. She did her finger stick and I asked the woman if she was going to take to pedi-tubes and she told me they only need to take one. I then proceeded to tell her that they normally take two. She insisted that for a CBC only one was needed. A little before 2 p.m. we received a call from the clinic that the lab had called and they didn't have enough blood to run the CBC! She proceeded to tell me that I would have to run back to Quest for another blood draw. We drove all the way back and got there right around 2:30 p.m. and were out and back on the road to come home by 3 p.m. Poor Trystan not only had to have a finger stick this morning but also an arm stick this afternoon. Didn't think we would know what her counts were until Monday but the on-call doctor from Children's called about 5:45 p.m. tonight to give us the numbers. Her platelets and hemoglobin are continuing to drop. They are low but not low enough for transfusions at this point. Her white blood cells and ANC are dangerously low. We are to continue her shots through the weekend and report back on Monday for bloodwork. This evening my mom came over and sat with the kids so Tracy and I could go out for dinner together.

December 10, 2009

Today Trystan got to go on a field trip to Danikan Tree Farm with her class. She was so excited to be able to do something with her class especially seeing her best friend Olivia. She really wanted to go back to school, but we didn't think that it's safe yet to do so. Especially with so many kids with colds, etc. This afternoon after school Trystan's tutor came by to work with her for a little while. Today she also ate really well! A lot of great things are happening this week. Praise God for the small blessings He's given us!

December 9, 2009

Trystan woke up a couple of times through the night complaining that her legs and arms were hurting. This is normally a sign that her white count/neutrophils are high.

Took Trystan to Maryville Quest for bloodwork then we were on our way to see the surgeon. As soon as we arrived at the doctors office they sent us over for x-rays, as they have done every visit since surgery. Chest x-ray was clear and he said that her leg was still healing and looking good. He also told us that she no longer needs to wear her leg brace. Although she isn't needing to wear the leg brace she is still pretty much non-weight bearing on her right leg. She will be going to physical therapy to learn how to use crutches and to know what 50% weight bearing feels like.

Soon after finishing our appointment the clinic called with counts. Trystan's counts are not too bad for being a week out of the start of her last chemo. Her neutrophils were a little elevated so it was suggested to skip todays shot and resume them tomorrow morning. Also, no transfusions are needed at this time. We are to report back for more bloodwork on Friday.

December 8, 2009

Today went pretty well. Trystan accomplished a lot of school work today and I got a lot of the laundry caught up too! Another positive is Trystan ate pretty good today and didn't get sick! Although it was a gloomy rainy day, these small blessings made the day a little brighter.

Tomorrow we will go for counts and then we have to go to see the surgeon.

December 7, 2009

We came home from the hospital today! Trystan was so excited to be able to come home today. On the way home Trystan did get sick in the car on the way home, but later tried to eat something. She did get sick again later in the day as well. Trystan was able to eat supper and able to keep it down. All and all, not too bad of a day.

December 6, 2009

Day five of chemo went ok today. Trystan slept through about half of the treatment and then woke up. After waking up she did get sick and then again later in the day. But otherwise she did pretty well. Trystan still hasn't eaten anything since Thursday. We get to get go home tomorrow we all can't wait!

December 5, 2009

Today was day four of Trystan's chemo. She did really well today. Even with all of the benedryl she was able to stay awake and not get sick. She still hasn't eaten anything but all and all is doing well. Our roommate was moved to another room so we are again by ourselves. Her roommate was screaming and moaning in a lot of pain, day and night. We weren't getting too much sleep. Hopefully tonight will be better.

December 4, 2009

Day three of chemo is finished! We are over halfway finished with this stay. Trystan is in good spirits even though she hasn't eaten anything today. So far no vomiting this go round. Many things again to be thankful for today. Thank you all for your continued support and prayers!

December 3, 2009

Trystan wanted to eat something at about 11:30 a.m. Of course she was requesting green grapes and they only have purple ones. But not being too picky she ate those instead with some cheese cubes and club crackers. We get pretty excited when she decides she wants to eat something while we are staying at the hospital. Normally she doesn't want to eat while we're here. It doesn't take too much to get us excited while we are here. Trystan's chemo started at 1:30 this afternoon and ended a little before 4 p.m. She slept through the first drug, but was awake for the second. She did pretty good.

December 2, 2009

We arrived at the hospital a little after 9 a.m. this morning. Trystan's nurse came over from the clinic to access her and fluids were started by 10 a.m. Trystan also ate lunch today. She was ready for chemo by 2 p.m. She was given all of her pre-meds and chemo started a little after 3 p.m. She finished chemo about 5:30 p.m. She slept through her entire treatment today and her blood pressure did pretty thru the second chemo drug. Many things to be thankful for today!

December 1, 2009

Today was a busy day at the Watson house. I did all the laundry, cleaned the house, and packed for the trip to the hospital tomorrow. This afternoon Trystan's tutor came by to work with her as well.

November 30, 2009

This morning Trystan and I dropped Alyssa off at school and went for bloodwork. After we were finished we went by Grandma Watson's so I could help her with some paperwork. While we were waiting in the school parking lot, Tracy called to let us know that the nurse from the clinic called with Trystan's counts. She made counts on time! Praise the Lord!! We are excited that she isn't delayed this time. She will be going in for a treatment on Wednesday morning. This is the long treatment. Therefore she will be in the hospital for five nights and six days we won't be home until sometime next week Monday.

November 29, 2009

This morning as soon as Trystan woke up we gave her her daily shot and medication. Then we all got dressed and ready to go to church together. After church we headed home and chilled out there for the day. This evening Alyssa and I went to my brother's house in Highland for the Rieke Thanksgiving. Alyssa and I had a good time! Tracy and Trystan had to stay home due to her animal allergies.

November 28, 2009

Today Tracy got down all of the Christmas boxes and then we started moving furniture to make room for the tree. The girls and I decorated the tree and put out small decorations through the house. Thinking we'll wait until tomorrow or next week sometime to get out the "big" tree that goes in the front room. The girls asked daddy to put the lights up outside. So, it was off to Wal-Mart. He decided to try something new this year and we need new lights. While at Wal-Mart the girls wanted to spend some of their shopping money they've gotten from different people and each bought themselves new Best Friend Club (BFC) doll. They haven't stopped playing with them since we got home.

November 27, 2009

This picture was taken at the Highland day after Thanksgiving Parade!

I got up early this morning for black friday shopping with my sister and mom. My sister and I go every year and get most of our shopping finished in one day! This year was the first year that my mom went with us and she had a blast! I think we've made a black friday shopper out of her as well.

The girls stayed at home with daddy while I was out doing some of the Christmas shopping. I think they had a pretty good time together! Tracy did say that Trystan cried on and off throughout the day because I left before she got up this morning.

After I got home, we decided to go to the square in Greenville for their festivities that were to begin at 5:30 p.m. When we got there, there wasn't anything set up and ready. We did see the carrolers and one limping sad looking reindeer! We decided pretty quickly to just go to Highland and watch the parade like we normally do every year.

Other than a few rude people at the parade, we had a nice family night together. After the parade we stuck around and watched Santa turn on all of the lights on the square. Once the lights were on, we walked around the square and looked at all of the houses. The line was too long to see Santa, but we will go sometime between now and Christmas.

November 26, 2009

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone!

Today we went to Teri's house at 1:00 p.m. and speant the afternoon/early evening with the Watson side. Though it was difficult without dad/grandpa, everyone seemed to have a pretty good time. We ate and played left, right, center. There was a short time when Trystan had a difficult time. Every time we have get togethers they are hard on her. She doesn't like having to watch the other kids run around, it is a countinuous reminder to her that she cannont. After getting over that little bump, she ended up having a pretty good time too!

November 25, 2009

This morning we went to Maryville to have bloodwork done. Just before leaving to pick up Alyssa from school we got our call from the clinic. Trystan's hemoglobin's good, platelets dropped a little but is holding, her white counts and ANC dropped a little but is holding as well. She was given the go ahead to enjoy Thanksgiving. The nurse just said if anyone has any cold symptoms, etc. they should stay clear of Trystan and that we shouldn't be afraid to tell family members that. We aren't supposed to get counts done again until Monday with a possible admit of Wednesday, December 2, 2009.

November 24, 2009

We were off to Children's Hospital this morning after dropping Alyssa off at school. Arriving right at 9 a.m. and Trystan being accessed by 9:30 a.m. the morning was moving smoothly. We were hoping to have the blood in an hour (by 10:30 a.m.) but it didn't arrive until closer to 11 a.m. Hemoglobin transfusions are over a two hour period. Thankfully, Trystan didn't run fever during or after the transfusion. No hospital stay for us! She was finished a little after 1 p.m. and we were on the road coming home by 1:30 p.m. Just enough time to pick up Alyssa from school. We will be going for bloodwork again tomorrow to check levels again.

November 23, 2009

This morning was the same as any other Monday morning. Trystan and I dropped Alyssa off at school and went to Maryville Quest for bloodwork. The clinic called with the results. Her hemoglobin's dropping, platelets holding, white blood cells and ANC were good. The nurse told to come into the clinic tomorrow for a hemoglobin transfusion. We are to be there by 9 a.m.

November 22, 2009

This morning Alyssa danced with the christian group "Feet of Grace" at the Greenville Free Methodist Church. She danced during both services. I was only able to be at one with Trystan. But the girls did a wonderful job!

Trystan has still been complaining today of aches and pains throughout her body as well as stomach aches. If it continues tomorrow, I'll talk to her nurse about it when she calls with the results of her bloodwork.

We are thankful that Trystan is going to be home for Thanksgiving. We aren't sure if she will be able to go to family get togethers yet. That will all depend on counts and if any of our family members have cold/flu symptoms.

November 21, 2009

Trystan has still been complaining of jaw and leg pain as well as belly pains. Which is it from: chemo treatment, flu shot, or the daily shot? Not sure which is the culperate or if it's a combination. But on a positive note, she hasn't gotten sick yet.

Alyssa did really well today. She didn't complain at all about her leg. That's an answer to prayer!

November 20, 2009

Trystan did pretty well again today. She has complained off and on today of jaw and leg pain which is a side effect of one of the chemo drugs. She has been able to eat and keep it down. Instead of getting three drugs this past treatment she only got two. She is finished with one of the chemo drugs on the short stays. Maybe that was one that gave her more nausea before? Praying that since she only got two instead of three drugs this last time, possibly her counts will bounce back easier.

Alyssa complained a couple of times today that her leg was hurting but not too bad. Praying that that stops as well.

November 19, 2009

This morning Tracy took Alyssa to the doctor to have her leg looked at. The doctor didn't feel anything unusual but as a precaution sent them over to the Greenville Regional Hospital for x-rays. Later, the doctor's office called to let us know that the x-rays were clear. They suggested two different things one just to give ibuprofin whenever she has pain or she could try some physical therapy. We decided just to try the ibuprofin and if it continues to be bothersome we would just do both girls in physical therapy together.

After the doctor's appointment, Alyssa went to grandma's and Tracy made his way to the hospital to pick up Trystan and I. Before leaving the hospital Trystan did eat some lunch from Applebee's of course. She was able to eat it and keep it down! We were so excited that she even has a little appetite.

All in all it was a good day! Trystan was doing well and Alyssa's x-rays wer clear. Alot to be thankful for!!

November 18, 2009

This morning we dropped Alyssa off at school and headed to Children's. Got right into our room as soon as we got here. We then found out that the nurse that Trystan prefers to have access her wasn't available to, so the nurse that was scheduled to her went ahead and did it. The fluids started right at 11:00 a.m. While she was hydrating we found out that this is not her last short stay. What we were told wasn't correct. Post surgery it is eight rounds not six. Trystan is bummed and Tracy and I are upset. We thought she would be finished before Christams and now it looks like she probably won't be done until well into January. After all of this terrible news, chemo finally started at about 3:30 p.m. She finished right at 4:45 p.m. and post hydration started right at 5:00 p.m. She will have to post-hydrate for 24 hours.

During treatment Tracy called me to let me know that Alyssa is still complaining that her leg hurts. It's been bothering her for a couple of days. We aren't taking any chances. I called the pediatrician's office right away but couldn't get her in until 10:00 a.m. tomorrow morning. So, he will take her to school in the morning, then go and pick her up and take her to her appointment.

Please pray for Trystan that she will continue to be strong, maintain high spirits, and that she won't be too delayed for the next round because of low counts. Also, please pray for Alyssa that the pain in her leg is nothing too bad. Maybe just growing pains or something minor. Lastly, please pray for Tracy and I that we will keep our sanity! Today has been very trying for all of us.

November 17, 2009

Today was another day to be thankful for. We are preparing to go to the hospital tomorrow. This will be our last short chemo treatment! We are so thankful that the chemo did its job in shrinking the tumor and that the surgery went well. Now we are praying that all of the cells have been destroyed by the chemo post surgery.

November 16, 2009

This morning we dropped Alyssa of at school then headed to Maryville for bloodwork. After bloodwork, we went to Tracy's mom's house to drop off the thank you's that I finished yesterday. We stayed for just a little bit to visit. Then the three of us went out to the cemetary and to the Galaxy for lunch. It was a very nice time. After lunch we dropped Doris back off at her house then Trystan and I came home. Once home we sat down to do her schoolwork. Shortly after 1:30 p.m. the clinic called with Trystan's counts. Thanks to everyone who's been praying that Trystan's counts would come up high enough for counts. She finally made it!!! As of now, she will be admitted on Wednesday morning.

November 15, 2009

This morning Tracy and Alyssa went to church and Trystan and I stayed at home. I finished up the rest of the housework and did schoolwork with Trystan. Also during the day I did some thank you cards from the funeral to help Doris out. It was a very productive and busy day!

Praying for good counts tomorrow!

November 14, 2009

At our house today was a big cleaning day! The girls weren't at all happy about that. After they helped pick up their messes, I let them enjoy the weather outside. They sat on the front porch together and played. All in all it was a good day!

November 13, 2009

Today was another good day. This morning Tracy left to take his mom to a doctor's appointment and Trystan and I took Alyssa to school. We then came home and did some schoolwork. By that time it was lunch. I thought I was going to fix her lunch but after discussing what to make for lunch we ended up in town in McDonald's drive-thru. We sat in my car and ate lunch and watched a DVD together. After filling our bellies we came back home and did some more schoolwork. We were then off to pick up Alyssa from school. Came home and Alyssa and Tracy went outside to shoot some hoops together. We made tacos for dinner then all sat together for a movie on TV then off to bed!

November 12, 2009

This morning Trystan woke up and still had pains in her chest. I called the clinic to see if there was anything that we could do to help her. The doctor said that it sounded like acid reflux and we were to get the Pepcid chewables for her. After getting her bloodwork done we got in the car and started heading home. Trystan began to feel sick. She did get sick while I was driving. So, I went ahead and picked up the Pepcid for her. When we got back in the car from coming out of the drug store she got sick again. But after she did this time she said she felt better and wanted to get something to eat. We sat at Sonic in the car and watched a movie and ate lunch together. Once home she did some schoolwork. She did well for the rest of the day. She didn't get sick anymore. We received our call from the clinic about 2:30 p.m. All of her counts were o.k. except for her platelets again. They haven't dropped and they didn't come up either! They're not low enough for a trasfusion, but not high enough to receive chemo. Trystan, along with the rest of us were discouraged. She is just ready to get it all overwith as are we.

November 11, 2009

Today was a good day. Alyssa didn't have school today because it is Veteran's Day. So the girls played all day today and had a good time. This evening Tracy's mom came over for dinner. We had a good time with her. Trystan went to bed tonight with a bellyache. I am hoping that it was just indigestion. We will be also going for counts tomorrow to see if she makes it for chemo on friday.

November 10, 2009

Today was pretty much routine. During the day while Alyssa was at school, I cleaned and Trystan watched a movie. We ate lunch then worked on schoolwork, by that time it was already time to leave to get Alyssa. After picking her up we came back home and Trystan's tutor came over to do some assessments. Trystan seemed to do o.k. The tutor should be coming back on Thursday to work with Trystan again. By that time we should also know if she will be admitted on Friday.

November 9, 2009

This morning we dropped Alyssa off at school and went to Quest in Maryville for bloodwork. Once we finished we came home finished watching a movie, ate lunch, and did schoolwork. By that time it was time to leave to pick up Alyssa. The nurse called from the clinic to tell us that her platelets had dropped again but were not low enough for a transfusion. So again Trystan did not make counts. The nurse said that we should give Trystan a shot on Monday and Tuesday and not go for counts until Thursday. The shots were finally delivered at 7:00 tonight. If she makes counts on Thursday she will be admitted on Friday.

November 8, 2009

We all went to church as a family today! I think the last time we all got to go together was at the beginning of October. After church we all went to Tracy's mom's house to have lunch. It was good for all of us.

November 7, 2009

The funeral for John was today. It was the most touching and moving funeral I have ever been to. He would have been so proud of all of the things said about him and how well behaved his grandchildren were during the visitation and funeral. I know we all were.

November 6, 2009

This morning we got up and went for counts. We came back home to start getting ready to go to Tracy's dad's visitation. Just before leaving, we got our call from the clinic with Trystan's counts. All of her counts are continuing to climb except for her platelets they dropped in half. We headed off to the visitation. It was very touching all of the people who came out to the visitation. John touched so many lives. Praise God!!! After the visiation we headed home. I picked Trystan up and brought her inside the house. I was getting her evening medications together when Alyssa yelled, "Uh mom, Trystan's nose is bleeding. It's bleeding really bad!!" I applied pressure to the bridge of her nose and thought I finally had gotten it to stop. But, a clot fell out of her nose and the bleeding started again a little harder. We thought again we got it to stop but an even larger clump came out and bled even harder. Tracy applied pressure while I called the on-call oncologist. She gave some suggestions of other things to do and told us if it continued to clot and dislodge and bleed over the next hour we would have to call her back and come to the ER to have it looked at. While on the phone with her, an even larger clot came out with gushes of blood. Trystan was screaming and crying from being completely afraid. We did the suggestions she told us and had prayer chain from church going and it finally stopped. We monitored her through the night to be sure her nose didn't begin bleeding while she was sleeping. Another sleepless night at the Watson house.

November 5, 2009

Went to Grandma Watson's today as a family to meet with Pastor. I think it was good for Trystan though. Being in Grandma and Grandpa Watson's house helped her to cry, which she hasn't done much of since all of this has happened. It was good for all of us to sit around and cry and laugh together telling stories of Grandpa. Tomorrow is going to be a hard and busy day. In the morning the girls and I will go for bloodwork while Tracy goes to the mall still searching for suits. Then we will all head to the church for the wake.

November 4, 2009

This morning we had to break the news to our daughters about grandpa. It breaks our hearts to see them so upset! We gave Alyssa the choice if she wanted to go to school or stay at home with me. She was afraid that she would cry too much and not be able to pay attention so she decided to stay home. However, we had to go for counts for Trystan. Alyssa, Trystan and myself went to Maryville for bloodwork. We got our call from the clinic her counts were a little higher than Monday. This is good news! We are praying that her counts would continue to rise, especially since she will be around so many people Friday night and Saturday. We are also praying that God will protect all of us, mostly Trystan, and keep us healthy.

November 3, 2009

This morning we dropped Alyssa off at school. While driving to Children's, Tracy received a call from St. Joseph's in Highland that his dad had taken a turn for the worse and he should come to the hospital as soon as he could. We were just between Pocahontas and Pierron when they called. So we went to the hospital and Tracy got out of the car and I drove the rest of the way to Children's. Trystan did awesome with just mommy there. She is so strong. I made a deal with her that if she did very well I would go and buy her some red lipstick. She's been asking for some so that was good bribary! Whatever it takes. Trystan had two transfusions. One was platelets and the other hemoglobin. She didn't break out into hives or get a fever. That was a prayer answered.

Throughout the day Tracy would text me to let me know what was going on with his dad. For those of you who don't know, John has been fighting cancer for a few years. He had a siezure sometime during the night and has been unable to speak. He also went into a coma and his health declined throughout the day. John passed away this evening.

Trystan at Quest 11-2-09

This is a picture of Trystan incognito at Quest getting her finger stick.

November 2, 2009

We dropped Alyssa off at school and Trystan and I went to get counts done. We got our call after 4:00 p.m. this afternoon. We were told from the clinic that all of Trystan's counts are dangerously low. We are to monitor her throughout the night tonight. If anything unusual happens or if she starts to feel bad we are to call the on-call Oncologist on duty and get an emergency transfusion. Otherwise we are to show up at the clinic in Children's tomorrow morning at 9 a.m. We expect to be there all day. They'll have to access her, draw blood to cross match it, then transfuse both hemoglobin and platelets. Hopefully, she'll not have a reaction to the transfusions and not get a fever. If a fever occurs she'll be admitted for at least 48 hours.

November 1, 2009

It was a pretty good day today. Trystan ate fairly well. The girls played the Wii while Tracy and I put together a basketball hoop outside that we've had for a long time.

October 31, 2009

Happy Halloween!!!!

The girls were so excited that they got to go trick or treating. We went to see Grandma and Grandpa Rieke's house and then trick or treated in their neighborhood. After finished there we went to trick or treat at St. Joseph's Hospital in Highland to see Grandma and Grandpa Watson.

Pictured is Trystan in the backseat of the car. Trick-or-Treating is pretty exhausting!!!

October 30, 2009

Gave Trystan a shot by myself today! She still fights me on it but eventually she gives in! About 10:15 a.m. this morning the school called to let me know that Alyssa wasn't feeling well and I should come pick her up. She came home and went right up to her bed. She layed around up there and then finally took a small nap. She said she felt a little better after her nap. She ate supper and never ran a fever. Not sure why she had such a terrible stomach ache. Perhaps we'll never know. The girls are so excited to dress up for Halloween tomorrow. Hope they are both well enough to go!

October 29, 2009

Before leaving the hospital on Wednesday the nurse practitioner on the floor said that we should probably go and get counts Thursday (today) because Trystan's counts were dropping. He was afraid that she may need blood transfusions before the weekend. So this morning Trystan and I dropped Alyssa off at school and headed for Maryville. As soon as we pulled up she got sick in the parking lot. We went in got her finger stick then came home. I had to give Trystan a shot myself this afternoon. She fought me pretty good today, but I got it done. We left to get Alyssa from school and soon after that we got our call from the clinic. Trystan's hemoglobin, white blood cells, and ANC were a little better today! The only thing that dropped was her platelets. The way they are dropping we will probably need a transfusion early next week. Once home the girls did some homework and soon we were headed back into town for Alyssa's dance. Trystan and I stay in the car while Alyssa is inside dancing. After dance we dropped Trystan off at home to stay with daddy and Alyssa and I went to find a Halloween costume. She finally decided what she wanted to be yesterday! So now we just had to find something at the last minute! Thank goodness we did and were home just before bedtime!!! Whew! What a day!!

October 28, 2009

Trystan was deaccessed and discharged by 9:30 this morning and the tree of us made our way to see the sergeon. As soon as we got there there was an order for her to have a chest x-ray and leg x-ray. After the x-rays were finished we went into the waiting room for the doctor. After a little wait we were called back to the casting room were they cut off Trystan's cast. Her leg has a lot of old dead skin on it that will eventually come off. But the doctor was happy with Trystan's x-rays and said that she could now move to a full leg brace. She was so excited to hear this because now she would be able to take a bath in the tub! She has only been able to have sponge baths since August 7th. After we left the doctor's office we were finally on our way home. On the way home Trystan asked daddy to stop at Wendy's because she wanted to try to eat. We did stop for lunch on the way home. She didn't eat too much but something is better than nothing! Trystan and I couldn't wait to see Alyssa after school. Once home from school, Alyssa did her homework so that the girls could play. They played for a while but soon Trystan wasn't feeling well. She ended up throwing up everything she at for supper. Soon after she was ready to have a bath. She enjoyed her bath, she soaked in the tub for over a half an hour!

Pictured is Trystan getting her cast cut off!! Oh happy day!

October 27 2009

Day five down now just 22 hours of post hydration! Trystan started out doing beautifully today. She did get sick during the first chemo drug but soon after was wanting to eat! This is a great thing since she normally won't eat at all while she's in the hospital. Just before falling asleep tonight she got sick really bad! I think she pretty much lost everything she ate today! Bless her heart. She is so excited to get to go home tomorrow though! Her spirits are so high! Since no one under 18 is allowed to visit in the hospital she can't wait to see her sissy tomorrow after school and niether can I!!!

October 26, 2009

Trystan did pretty well during chemo this morning and throughout the day. She did get sick just before bed after trying to take some oral meds. Day four of the chemo down one more to go, then 22 hours post hydration.

October 25, 2009

We thought today was going to be a good day. The chemo was started right on time at 11:30 a.m. Between the first chemo drug and the second one Trystan got sick pretty bad while being premedicated for the chemo she is allergic to. Her chemo was finished by 2:30 p.m. as she slept off the benedryl they have to give her. At about 8:00 p.m. she got sick pretty bad again and was in screaming pain from her leg. We propt up her leg and gave her more anti-nausea medicine to attempt to help her feel better. We are praying that she will be able to sleep tonight and have an easier time with chemo tomorrow. Chemo is scheduled to begin by 9:30 a.m. tomorrow morning.

October 24, 2009

Well we got through another day of chemo today. It was uneventful, which is what we like! Uneventful meaning no allergic reaction. That is an answer to prayer!

October 23, 2009

This morning we dropped Alyssa off at school and headed to Children's for Trystan's chemo. Arrived a little before 10 a.m. We were a direct admit so we got into a room right away. She was accessed and had fluids going by 11:00 a.m. Chemo wasn't able to be started until about 3:40 p.m. and ended about 6:30 p.m. They are planning on moving the chemo up two hours so it should begin at about 1:30 p.m. tomorrow. Trystan hasn't gotten sick yet but doesn't feel well at all. The only meal she ate today was breakfast before we got to the hospital. Don't expect her to eat anything else until probably Wednesday when we leave.

October 22, 2009

God has answered more prayers! Trystan hasn't gotten anymore hives and she made counts for chemo tomorrow. We finally received our call from the clinic at 3:40 p.m. today. This is a long treatment so she will be there for five nights and six days. We will be coming home sometime next week Wednesday. The girls are so excited that she will not be in the hospital on Halloween! She should be able to go trick-or-treating with her sissy. It is little things like this that can make children happy!!

October 21, 2009

Gave Trystan benedryl through the night and all day today. She has done really well today. The hives have not returned! We are to go for counts again tomorrow. If her counts are good she will be going in for chemo on Friday.

October 20, 2009

Today was an interesting day. Trystan continues to keep us on our toes and constantly at prayers. We went to the clinic at Children's for Trystan to receive platelets. She got her premedications of tylenol and benedryl. All was going well until just after the transfusion was finished. Tracy notice a few spots on Trystan's head. We told the nurse and the hives quickly spread throughout her entire head, down her neck, to her chest and back, then arms and legs. Her lips and eyes also swelled. Thank goodness her airway never became constricted. They gave her hydrocortizone but it didn't do anything for her. The doctors then ordered a sterroid. After the sterroid was finished going through the iv, the hives began to fade. Since the hives were going away we were allowed to leave. We were told that she should continue with oral benedryl every six hours for the next 24 hours. The nurse said that it was very important to wake her through the night to administer the benedryl. Bloodwork was done on Trystan to be sure that she is never matched with the same donor again as well. So far the hives have not returned. Thank the Lord!

Pictured is Trystan with hives from the platelet transfusion received October 20, 2009.

October 19, 2009T

This morning we did our normal Monday morning routine, dropped Alyssa off at school and headed for Maryville Quest for bloodwork. We were in and out pretty quickly this morning. By 2:15 p.m. we got our phone call with the results of her counts. White blood cells, hemoglobin, and ANC were good. But, her platelets were too low. We are to report to the clinic at Children's tomorrow morning for a transfusion.

October 18, 2009

This morning we woke up and Alyssa and I headed into town to the First Christian Church. The Feet of Grace group was to perform at both services at FCC. Trystan again stayed home with daddy. When Alyssa and I got back, she and Trystan played the entire day together. Only had to break up a few spats. Trystan still isn't eating the best, but she's eating.

October 17, 2009

Trystan did much better today and had a little bit more energy. We spent the day inside by the fireplace and the girls also played the Wii together. This evening I took Alyssa in town to dance with Feet of Grace at the evening service at the FCC. The girls did such a great job! Tracy stayed home with Trystan. She was unable to go because of her low counts. I think she enjoys the one on one time with daddy. I know I enjoy the one on one time with Alyssa.

Happy Birthday Carrie!!!

October 16, 2009

This morning we dropped off Alyssa at school and headed to Children's for Trystan's transfusion. We arrived a little after 9 a.m. Her port was accessed and blood drawn by 9:45 a.m. Tracy stepped out for a conference call and came back and the blood still hadn't arrived yet! Finally, the blood arrived at 11:45 a.m. I left for the cafeteria for lunch, returned and then it was Tracy's turn. Trystan did get sick a couple of times while we were there but we think it was from her nerves and also not eating today. She got through the entire treatment without fever! Praise God!! She was deaccessed and we were soon on our way home. Unfortunately we knew we were not going to make it back to Greenville in time for Alyssa when she got out of school. Mrs. Hick offered for Alyssa to stay in the room with her until we could get back. I finally made it to Alyssa just in time to get her to dance practice at 3:30 p.m. Whew! What a day!!

Happy Birthday Tracy!! The girls and I love you bunches!!!!!

October 15, 2009

This morning Alyssa was feeling much better and went to school. After dropping her off Trystan and I headed to Maryville for bloodwork. She cried halfway there because she knew they were going to draw from her arm. After we were finished there we headed home. Once home we worked on some of her schoolwork and ate lunch. Just before we had to leave to pick up Alyssa from school we received a call from the clinic on Trystan's counts. They are all low. We were told that we have to come to the clinic tomorrow at Children's for a blood transfusion. She also has to continue the shots. As long as she doesn't get a fever before, during or after the transfusion she will not have to be admitted.

October 14, 2009

Alyssa and Trystan both slept through the night. Alyssa didn't get sick but as soon as she woke up she began complaining that her stomach hurt. I gave her the option to stay home from school but she decided she wanted to try to go. I made sure before she left that she didn't have a fever. Trystan and I did some schoolwork during the day and then went and picked up Alyssa. As soon as Alyssa saw me she began to cry saying that her stomach still hurt and was hurting all day at school. After dinner Alyssa seemed to be feeling maybe a little better.

October 13, 2009

Today I had to give Tyrstan a shot by myself while Tracy was at work. After a little fight she let me go ahead and give her the shot. We later went and picked up Alyssa from school and she began to complain that had a stomach ache. She did eat dinner but soon complained that it was worse. I am hoping that she isn't getting the flu.

October 12, 2009

Alyssa didn't have school today so she went with me to take Trystan to get her bloodwork done. We finally got the call at about 4:20 p.m. Trystan's hemoglobin and platelets were still in the "o.k." zone. However her white blood cells were extremely low as well as her anc. We were told again to watch for any signs of fever or infection. If she gets any type of fever we are to report directly to the hospital and she will be admitted. Please pray that her counts will come up and that Thursday her counts will be better. Thanks again for all of your continued support and prayers.

October 11, 2009

This morning Alyssa and I went to church. Trystan and daddy stayed home together since she wasn't feeling the best. By the time Alyssa and I got back from church Trystan seemed to be feeling much better. She ate a good lunch and supper. She also didn't complain quite as much about her jaw and leg pain. I am hoping that we are on the decline of the feeling ill and pains. Tomorrow we are going for counts.

October 10, 2009

This morning instead of Trystan being the first one up this morning she was the last! This is very unusual for her. She came downstairs and went straight to the couch. She was still so extremely tired. We debated on calling down to Children's but thought we would just wait to see how breakfast went. The girls wanted me to make a hot breakfast for them. I put the plate in front of Trystan and she was only able to eat a little of it. After breakfast she went down to watch a movie. Trystan came back upstairs and Alyssa and I got her to draw and color with us. Once we got her going, it seemed her energy increased. I made lunch and the four of us sat down to eat lunch. Trystan ended up getting sick at the table. Once she calmed down she said she felt better and was able to eat her lunch. Off and on for the rest of the day she continued to get spurts of energy. She has also been complaining of leg and jaw pain which is a result of one of the chemo drugs she received. Not that today was completely bad but, hope tomorrow is a better day.

October 9, 2009

There wasn't any school today so Alyssa and I went to the doctor's office to get our flu shots. After the shots we ran some errands in town and then headed home. When we got home I found out that Trystan hadn't wanted to eat breakfast. We were kind of expecting that this was coming. She did eat some lunch. Once she was finished with lunch she didn't want to play much. She began to get extremely lethargic and eventually fell asleep on the floor. She slept for about three and a half hours! Alyssa and I talked about what I should make for dinner. I went ahead and began to make supper. Trystan woke up shortly before I was finished with supper and said she wanted to eat. She did eat a little supper but had a hard time trying to stay awake to do it. The one good thing is she was able to keep down what she did eat. I gave her a sponge bath and she went to bed.

October 8, 2009

Trystan did very well today. She woke up hungry! Breakfast, lunch, a snack, and dinner!! Praise God! Another thing to be praising is the fact that she hasn't gotten sick at all with this treatment. It normally does come the second day after chemo ends. Maybe she won't at all this time. The only thing she has complained of is jaw pain and a little bit of leg pain. This started right before bed. These pains are a side effect of chemo she had this week.

October 7, 2009

Trystan didn't get sick last night or today. This is great news! She received her chemo right at 3:00 p.m. Shortly after her chemo was finished, they went aheand and gave her her flu shot. Tracy decided to walk over to Barnes today and get his flu shot there. We were strongly advised by the clinic to get flu shots for the entire family including Trystan. Alyssa and I will be going for our flu shots on friday here in Greenville.
After Trystan was deaccessed we were heading home. Before we could come home we picked up Alyssa. Once home Tracy, Alyssa and myself were pretty hungry for supper. While supper was cooking Trystan smelled the food and decided she wanted to try to eat as well. She ate a good supper and even a snack later. After a bath she felt good enough to work on some homework. I guess I must have worn her out with that because as soon as she took her medicines and 9:00 hit she was asleep on the couch.
It's been a good day. I pray that the night is as good as today was!

October 6, 2009

We dropped Alyssa off at school this morning then headed to Children's for the third round of chemo. Little did we know that instead of taking a little over an hour to get there it was going to take us a little more than two hours! We finally arrived about 10:15 but should have been here by 10:00. They had our room waiting for us. Today Trystan wanted to try to stand on her left leg to be weighed and measured. I was so proud of her to be able to do that. I think it made her feel proud of herself as well. She hydrated a little quicker than normal today as well. She finished with chemo by 3:30 p.m. today. She hasn't eaten or drank anything since this morning, but again that isn't any surprise to us. No vomitting yet. Hopefully she will not be quite as sick this time. Normally she either gets sick in the middle of the night or first thing in the morning.

October 5, 2009

This morning we went for bloodwork to see if Trystan made counts for chemo tomorrow. When we got the call I was a little surprised to find out that her anc, white blood cells, and hemoglobin all dropped! Her platelets did rise. The doctor has decied to go ahead with chemo tomorrow though. Thank goodness it is only a one night stay. However, this treatment is harder on her than the long one. Once we get through this one we only have three more to go! Praise the Lord!!!

October 4, 2009

This morning we all went to church together. After church Alyssa went to a birthday party, while Tracy, Trystan and I went into Highland for lunch. The three of us ate lunch at Farmers. After lunch we went to Grandma and Grandpa Watson's for a visit. Grandpa has been in quite a bit of pain. Please pray for him as well. When we finished visiting we went back to Alhambra to pick up Alyssa from her party. We all came home and have relaxed for the rest of the afternoon. We have had another wonderful day.

October 3, 2009

This morning Alyssa and I went into town to work at the Fusion Dance Centers booth at the Apple Days in Greenville. Some of the girls did face painting and had a pretty good time doing that. While a few of us adults sold chocolate dunked rice crispie squares on a stick. Man were they good! Trystan stayed home with daddy, since it was pretty chilly outside. It was another good day.

Pictured is Cadence. Alyssa did her fancy facepainting on Cade's face. Great job!!

October 2, 2009

Today was another good day! Praise the Lord!! After school Alyssa had dance practice and then she was off to the Cardinal game with Grandma Rieke. Cold night for a ballgame!

October 1, 2009

This morning Trystan and I dropped Alyssa off at school and went to get bloodwork done. We finally got our call at about 3:00 p.m. on the results. Her platelets and hemoglobing are beginning to climb. Her white blood cells and anc were o.k. She made counts with everything but her platelets they were 69 and have to be at least 75. The plan is to stop shots and go in on Monday morning for counts. As long as she makes counts she will be admitted on Tuesday. This stay will be for one night and two days. Trystan was so excited to find out that the shots are going to be stopped!

September 30, 2009

Although we are all still tired from Monday, it was a good day. I think that it will take a few days to catch up. We are so greatful for the good days. God is so good.

September 29, 2009

We are all extremely exhausted today from the long night last night. I feel so sorry for Alyssa today. Alyssa was so tired and yet I told her she could go in late to school today and she refused. She wanted to get to school on time! What a good girl she is!! I admire her so much. She loves school!!!

September 28, 2009

This morning we took Alyssa to school then went to Maryville Quest for bloodwork. We received our call about 12:30 p.m. that her platelets were the lowest they have ever been. It was suggested from Children's that we go to Missouri Baptist Children's ER for her platelet transfusion. We arrived at MO Bap at about 3:30 p.m. and were back in a room by 3:45 p.m. The nurse came in to go over some things at about 4:00 p.m. By 4:45 p.m. they finally accessed her port and drew the blood to type and screen it. Told us that it would be anywhere from an hour to two hours for the blood to arrive. They came back in after 6:00 p.m. and drew more blood. Not sure why. They kept coming in and saying the blood was on its way. Finally by 8:45 p.m. the blood arrived and the transfusion began at about 8:50 p.m. The transfusion goes over an hour. After the transfusion was finished we had to have her deaccessed and go over discharge paperwork. We left MO Bap at about 10:30 p.m. and had to stop by my mom's house to pick up Alyssa. After the extremely long day we finally got home at about midnight! Thanks to all of you who continue to pray for our family it means so much to us.

September 27, 2009

This morning Alyssa and I went to church while Tracy and Trystan stayed at home. Trystan was so upset when she found out that she wasn't going to get to go to church. Her counts were too low for her to be able to go. She cried because she couldn't go. After church we ate lunch together. Then the girls played together the entire afternoon and Tracy was outside cutting grass. This evening Tracy went to visit his dad at the hospital.

Tomorrow I am going to take Trystan to get her counts done to see if they've rose. Hopefully, she will make counts for chemo later this week.

September 26, 2009

Trystan was tired and crabby today. We think that it is from counts being so low. Despite being crabby she did learn something new today. She has now mastered the stairs. To go up the steps she uses her good leg and her arms to push her bottom up the stairs. She comes down on her bottom using her arms and good leg as well. We are all so proud of her! She is proud of herself as well. Now she can really get to where she wants to.

September 25, 2009

This morning I took Alyssa to school only this time I stayed. We went on a field trip to the Lewis & Clark Museum. I am not a history buff but it was really interesting. Alyssa and I had a good time. After the field trip we returned to the school. Alyssa had dance practice for Feet of Grace, a Christian Dance Group, and later performed at the Art Walk in Greenville. She did a great job!

Trystan had to stay with Tracy all day since her ANC was only 45. At lunchtime they took a drive to Highland to go to the drive thru at the bank. Then came home after that. Trystan was upset that she was unalbe to go to see her sissy dance. I was sure to record it for her.

September 24, 2009

This morning Trystan and I dropped Alyssa off at school then went to Maryville Quest for bloodwork. We came back home and ate lunch. Just after lunch we got our call from the doctor's office. It was worse than what we expected. Her white blood cells and platelets were extremely low. The total ANC is the lowest it has ever been at 46. However, her Hemoglobin was still good from getting her blood transfusion last Friday. With the ANC being so low we have to watch for any type of fever even low grade. If she were to get even the slightest fever we are to take her to the hospital and they would have to admit her for at least 48 hours. This is to be sure that there is no bacteria in the blood. She will also have to stay until her ANC reaches a certain number. We have met so many families that have spent more than a week in the hospital waiting for ANC counts to rise. Please pray that Trystan's counts would bounce back and that she wouldn't get a fever.

Tomorrow I am going on a field trip with Alyssa! Looking forward to spending time with her.

September 23, 2009

Trystan had a really good day today. She ate and felt well. I hope it continues. We didn't hear about her kidney test today. Hopefully we will hear something tomorrow. Tomorrow is also the day we go for bloodwork to see if Trystan makes counts for chemo on Monday.

September 22, 2009

Today Tracy went to work and I had to administer Trystan's "super hero" shot myself. It normally is both of us teaming up to do it. Tracy normally holds Trystan while I administer the shot. She asked this morning if we could go and eat at Wendy's. I told her that I had to give her her shot myself, but if she allowed me to do it we could go to Wendy's for lunch. She cried and said that she needed Daddy to help her, but said that she would try. When it came time for the shot she did beautifully. I was so proud of her. Soon after the shot we headed to Vandalia to eat lunch through Wendy's drive-thru. We ate in the car and she watched a movie. Hopefully, we will find out the results of the kidney test tomorrow.

September 21, 2009

This morning we had to be down at Children's Hospital by 8:00 a.m. Trystan was not at all happy about having to go down to the hospital again! She had her port accessed for labs first then we were taken over to neuclear medicine. While there they had to butterfly needle in the dye. She also had to drink a very small amount as well. They had to then periodically at timed intervals draw labs from her port over a four hour time period. She refused to eat the entire time we were there because she didn't want to eat at the hospital. The test was finished by a little after 1:00 p.m. and she was deaccessed by 1:20 p.m. and we were on our way home in time to pick up Alyssa from school. We were told that we will not get the results from the test until sometime on Wednesday. We also got the results of Trystan's counts while we were at the hospital and they were all still good. We are still to giver her her "super hero" shots at least until Thursday. On the way home Trystan started to tell us that she was wanting to eat something but instead ended up getting sick. We arrived home at 2:30 p.m. Trystan and I then went into town to pick up Alyssa from school. On the way back home Trystan decided for sure she wanted to eat a snack wrap from DQ. She did eat a good late lunch. She also ate a good supper and was able to keep all of her food down.

September 20, 2009

Today was a turnaround day for Trystan. She was able to eat and keep it down today. Hopefully this will continue. Tomorrow is a test at Children's Hospital to be sure Trystan's kidneys are still functioning correctly and haven't been damaged from the chemo.

September 19, 2009

Trystan woke up this morning doing a happy dance singing "I get to go home today!" Over and over. We got home this morning by 11:45 a.m. Trystan got sick as soon as we got home but later decided she wanted to eat lunch! She ate a good lunch, but later in the after noon did get sick again. This evening she did eat an awesome supper! Thank you all of praying for her appetite to come back. I am hoping that it continues.

September 18, 2009

Today has been a long day. Trystan's chemo began at 9:30 a.m. this morning and ended about 11:45 a.m. During the first chemo drug Trystan got sick twice, but didn't get sick during the second one. While the chemo was going, we were told that Trystan's hemoglobin was low and she would need a blood transfusion. The transfusion was started in the after noon and last about two hours. Shortly after the transfusion was finished she did get sick again. Trystan has continued to get sick off this afternoon and evening.

Tracy and Alyssa came down to the hospital this evening. My sister Carrie also came down. The five of us went out to the rooftop gardent to see the hot air balloon glow in Forest Park. We were so happy that Trystan wanted to go out and see them. It was awesome.

The other excitement of the day is Trystan lost her other front tooth!

Pictured is Trystan posing after losing her other front tooth today.

September 17, 2009

Trystan has been sick off and on throughout the entire day. She hasn't eaten since Tuesday morning. I've learned not to worry about it, that she will eat when she is ready. But I'm not saying that it doesn't bother me. Tomorrow morning will be her last day for this round of chemo. Then she will have 24 hours of hydration.

September 16, 2009

After posting last night how well Trystan was doing we hit a bump in the road. Trystan began complaining that her right leg was hurting. It was huring her so badly she was screaming and crying in pain. After taking some tylenol and about an hour the pain stopped. Following all of that excitement she did sleep o.k.

This morning Tracy dropped Alyssa off at school and headed down to the hospital. He came up to meet Trystan and I to walk over to see the surgeon. Our appointment was at 9:30 a.m. and we arrived at 9:20 a.m. They sent us over for x-rays right away. We got back over to clinic by 9:55 a.m. Then the wait started. We finally got called back at about 10:40 a.m. The doctor came in and showed us the x-rays and said that everything looks good, just as it should. After seeing the doctor we went back to the casting room to have her splint cast removed. The doctor came back in to look at her incision and the blister on her heel. The spot is still on her heel, but he thought it looked better. Guess what! She finally got her purple cast!!

We got back to her room at about 11:45 a.m. Just in enough time to start her premedications at noon. Chemo then began at 1:00 p.m. She got sick a few times this afternoon and this evening. Trystan has not eaten anything today and doesn't have the urge to want to eat anything as well. Maybe tomorrow.

This picture was taken right after Trystan had her new cast put on.

September 15, 2009

This morning Trystan woke up in a good mood. She even ate a late breakfast! This is great considering she normally doesn't eat anything after chemo starts. Normally when she does eat, she gets sick. Thank goodness that has not been the case today! She has kept her breakfast down so far today. Although she hasn't eaten anything else but breakfast, we are thankful that she ate that and has kept it down. Two days of chemo down and three more to go! Tomorrow we have to go over and see Dr. McDonald at 9:30 a.m. to have them take off the current splint cast she has on and hopefully she will get a regular cast. We hope that she will soon be able to use crutches but don't think that it will happen tomorrow.

The pictures are of Trystan playing with the stickers she got from the clown doctor, Dr. ICU.

September 14, 2009

This morning we dropped Alyssa off at school and headed to Children's Hospital. We arrived at the clinic at 9:30 a.m. The nurse accessed Trystan's port and drew labs to make sure that her platelets were high enough for chemo. After getting the go ahead we were admitted to the floor. While waiting for her urine to be diluted enough to receive chemo Trystan started coughing and got sick. We were so surprised since she hadn't even had any chemo yet. After her stomach calmed down she wanted to take a walk down to the garden. She got to make some wishes in the ponds. When she was finished in the garden we went down to the gift shop. We wanted to get her a balloon, but when we got down there she decided she didn't want one right now. A man inside the gift shop saw her and gave her a $20 gift card to the gift shop! He told us that if she didn't want to spend it that she could share it with someone else. Nine years ago his son had a brain injury and had to spend a long time in Children's. They were here for a check-up. I cried when he left. I couldn't believe a man whom we have never met or seen before gave Trystan a card to buy what she wanted from the Gift Shop. God does amazing things and has us to cross paths with strangers that will touch our hearts!

We came back up from the gift shop and Trystan was finally ready for chemo. But first we had to take a trip back down to the Heart Station to be sure that all of the chemo hasn't damaged her heart. This is a continuous check they do periodically. She finished down there and we came back up to say good-bye to Daddy and to start the chemo. They premedicated her and it put her to sleep. She slept through the entire treatment. Once she woke up, she's been very quite. I'm not sure she's feeling very well. She didn't get sick during the treatment and it's been a couple of hours and she still hasn't get sick. Hopefully, she will continue to not get sick. I am hoping that tomorrow she will feel well enough to eat.

The picture is of Trystan and her Barbie she got from the prize closet in the clinic.

September 13, 2009

This morning we got up and went to church as a family. Not only were we there but Grandma and Grandpa Watson were able to come as well! After church we came home to eat lunch. The rest of the day we spent preparing for the upcoming week. Packing clothes for the hospital and picking out clothes at home for Alyssa. Please continue to pray for Trystan throughout the week as she receives her second round of treatments.

September 12, 2009

This morning Alyssa and I ran into town to do a little grocery shopping. After lunch we went to Carlyle to their Street Fest. The group of young adults that are being confirmed had a stand there and invited us there to have a picture with them. The profit they make from their stand they are wanting to donate to Trystan. It absolutly touches my heart that these young adults are giving to a little girl whom they don't even know. Thank you for your kindness!

September 11, 2009

We had a good day today! Trystan's cough seems to be getting a little bit better everyday. Thank you all for your continued prayers.

September 10, 2009

Trystan and I took Alyssa to school this morning and again headed to Maryville Quest for labs. She was not at all happy that she had to have blood drawn from her arm instead of a finger stick. Today it took two ladies and myself to get it done. Just before leaving to pick up Alyssa the doctor's office called to let us know what Trystan's counts were. Her hemoglobin is climbing, white blood cells were great, and her platelets have come up. Her platelets are supposed to be at least 75 for chemo and were 70. Since they are showing that they are finally climbing they are figuring they will be well above 75 by Monday. Therefore Monday morning they would like for Trystan to come in to the clinic Monday at 9:30 a.m. for bloodwork. As long as her platelets are above 75 and the rest of her counts remain good, she will be admitted then. It will be a five night six day stay. We should be discharged Saturday late morning early afternoon. Please pray that her platelets would continue to rise and the rest of her counts will stay good.

September 9, 2009

Today seemed to be a good turning point for Trystan. She finally ate pretty well today! Her cough is still there but we think that it's getting better. Even though she's still in chemo her eyebrows, eyelashes, and hair seemed to be growing back! We don't know if it will stick around through the rest of her chemo but for now we're excited for her. We will be going for counts again tomorrow. If all of her counts are good she will be admitted for chemo on Tuesday of next week and be in for five nights and six days.

September 8, 2009

This morning Trystan and I dropped Alyssa off at school and headed to Maryville for counts. Trystan's friend Mary was back at Quest to do her finger stick. She was happy that she was back from her time off from surgery. The finger stick went fine and she bled quite a bit. We got the call from Children's on her counts just before leaving to get Alyssa from school. We were told that her white blood cells were good and to not give a shot today but to go ahead and give her one tomorrow morning. Trystan's hemoglobin was still good as well. However, her platelets have dropped again. They are still not low enough for a transfusion but are too low to receive chemo. Therefore we will not be going in on Thursday for treatment but will have to get counts again then. She is now temporarily scheduled for next week Tuesday if she makes counts. When Tracy asked Trystan if she was happy that she didn't have to go and get chemo on Thursday, she told him that she really just wanted to get them all over with so that she could be done! Amen to that!!

September 7, 2009

We came home from camping today. I think overall the girls really enjoyed themselves even with the rain! We continued with the same routine as yesterday; shot and medications. I am so glad we went ahead and camped this past weekend. It did a lot of good for both the girls as well as for Tracy and I. Trystan seems to be doing really well today. She hasn't coughed very much at all and seems to have a bit more energy as well as an appetite. We will find out tomorrow what her counts are and if they are high enough for chemo. If she does make counts she will be admitted on thursday for chemo and will be released on tuesday of next week.

September 6, 2009

We began our morning again with a shot and medication. She did seem to sleep better than the night before. Whether we had bad weather or not, Trystan's favorite thing to do while camping is just to hang out in the camper watch movies and play inside. I did get her to go out into the open grassy area and Trystan, Alyssa, and Cade played with a playground ball together. She even ate a little bit better than yesterday. We are hoping that her counts are getting better and her body is being able to fight off the bronchitis.

September 5, 2009

This morning we woke up and had to give Trystan her "super hero" shot along with her antibiotic, mucinex, and inhaler. She seemed to eat a little better than yesterday. She is still coughing quite a bit though. We had to spend much of the day in the camper because of the rain, but lucky for me I was prepared for it! I was sure to pack a lot for the girls to do in case of bad weather. Late in the day the weather finally broke and they were able to go outside. Even though Trystan was in her wheelchair, we went for walks and she was able to play out around the camper.

September 4, 2009

We've decided to go camping for the holiday weekend. The camper is a controled environment just like at home plus she will be able to have some fresh air as well. We are hoping that her eating will increase a little over the weekend as well as begin to feel better.

September 3, 2009

Throughout the night last night Trystan cried and expressed that her throat was hurting. Most of the time she was doing it while she was sleeping. Tracy and I decided that maybe she shoud go back to the doctor to have her throat looked at. We were thinking that it might be strep, mouth sores from chemo, or thrush. She wouldn't eat anything for breakfast. After dropping Alyssa off at school this morning we headed to Maryville for counts. She was not at all happy about having to have a needle stuck in the arm instead of a finger stick. We came back home from getting counts and I tried to get her to eat some lunch. She ate very little because her throat was hurting so badly. I had gotten an appointment for her at 2:00 p.m. so we left the house to go into town. The doctor looked into her throat and said that it still just looked like drainage. We are to continue to give her the antibiotic, inhaler, zyrtek, and singulair and to start up with children's mucinex. After the doctor's visit we ran over to the school to pick up Alyssa and Trystan's homework. Children's called to tell us what Trystan's counts were. It was just as we expected her hemoglobin was good, white blood cells and platelets were way too low. We are to continue to give her her "super hero" shots. Her total anc is very low as well. Since she is sick with the bronchitis we have to really watch her to be sure that she doesn't get a fever. Her body really can't fight this infection with her white counts as low as they are. Please continue to pray for our little Trystan.

September 2, 2009

We thought that Trystan was getting better today, but by the end of the day she was complaining that her throat was hurting. She still didn't eat very well today. She has lost so much weight since her surgery. We will be going for counts tomorrow.

September 1, 2009

Today Trystan seemed to be a little better. She didn't get sick at all throughout the day and was able to eat just a little. We have still had to give her her super hero shots and will continue them until her counts are at a safe level. Please pray that her appetite would return and that she would feel better soon.

August 31, 2009

This morning Trystan woke up still not feeling well. I gave her some over the counter cold and cough syrup only for her to get sick a little later. Tracy and I decided that it may be a good idea to take her to the doctor here in town to have her lungs checked. We wanted to be sure that it wasn't going into pneumonia since she isn't able to get up and move around a whole lot. Alyssa woke up feeling better. After dropping Alyssa off at school, Trystan and I headed for Maryville for bloodwork. I called the doctor on the way to Maryville to get an appointment for her. We got back into the car after her blood was drawn and she got sick again. We came back to Greenville to go to the doctor. The doctor checked Trystan over only to let us know that she has bronchitis. We went by and picked up her prescriptions and went home to rest a little before having to go get Alyssa from school. She did get sick again just before leaving to get Alyssa. Trystan hasn't eaten really anything much today. Later this afternoon we received our call about Trystan's counts. Her white counts and platelets have dropped but, hemoglobin is good. But the nurse did say to watch for fevers from the infection. If she were to get a fever we are to call and get her to the hospital immediatly since she doesn't have the white count to fight the infection. Please pray that her appetite returns, the vomitting subsides, the medicines would help clear the bronchitis, and that she doesn't get fever.

August 30, 2009

It was an interesting night. When we got home from the fundraiser Trystan started in with the same cough that Alyssa has had. We got up late this morning and Trystan wanted waffles, bacon, and eggs for breakfast. I made it, she didn't eat much of it, and within fifteen minutes she lost all of it. She didn't eat very well the rest of the day. The coughing and stuffy/runny nose continued as well.

August 29, 2009

Today was a good day for both of our girls. Alyssa was feeling much better even though she is still coughing and Trystan was able to eat today without vomitting. Since they did so well today, we were able to attend the fundraiser at the Highland VFW. We were so surprised when we arrived at five til seven and the parking lot was almost completely full! The turnout was unbelievable! Trystan surprised us when she asked if she could go onto the stage and sing with the band. She told the lead singer what she wanted to sing and they put it together for her. She brought quite a few tears when she got up there and sang "God Loves Me So." After the live auction she wanted to sing with them again and sang "Sweet Home Alabama." The lead singer told Trystan that she was now an official member of their band and he was going to get her a t-shirt with their logo on it.

Tracy, myself, and the girls would like to thank everyone who donated their time and effort to make last night's fundraiser as well as the other fundraisers earlier in the summer huge successes. Also a special thanks to everyone who donated items and food as well as everyone who bought tickets and participated in the auctions. One last thank you to all who continually pray for our family. God is so good and answers prayers everyday!

August 28, 2009

Trystan did a little better today. She didn't vomit at all today, but her appetite still isn't quite right. As the evening went on she is beginning to get a stuffy/runny nose. I hope that she isn't getting a cold. Maybe tomorrow will be better for her.

Alyssa stayed home from school again today. Her nose seems to be a little better but now she is coughing quite a bit and she still wasn't feeling a whole lot better. By the end of the day she had a little bit more energy. Hopefully she will continue to feel better.

We are hoping that the girls feel a little better by tomorrow so that we can take them to the benefit in Highland for a little while.

August 27, 2009

Trystan was pretty sick today. She got sick this morning before going for counts and when we got home. After returning home from getting counts I took Alyssa to the doctor because she still wasn't feeling well. Trystan tried to eat lunch only to lose it later. She is now afraid to eat or drink anything because she is afraid she is going to throw up. I hope that tomorrow is better for her. This evening Alyssa seems to be feeling a little better. I hope that lasts and she continues to feel better.

August 26, 2009

Trystan did pretty well today. She didn't eat breakfast, but ate an early lunch and didn't eat again until suppertime. So I wouldn't say she ate the best but it all stayed down and that's what matters right now. I don't think she ate very well at supper also because of the jaw pain. This last treatment one of the drugs' side effects is jaw pain and constipation. She seems to get both almost every time. I guess I must have worked Trystan too hard today with schoolwork, etc. She fell asleep before 8 p.m. We are scheduled to go to Maryville Quest for counts tomorrow morning.

Alyssa is fighting something. I am hoping it is just a sinus infection. We are going to try to get her into the doctor tomorrow if she wakes up and is still feeling as bad as she was when she went to bed.

August 25, 2009

This morning Trystan got sick, but throughout the day she seemed to do o.k. She didn't eat anything while we were at the hospital. Her last chemo treatment was at about 4 p.m. We were on out way home from the hospital by 5 p.m. Trystan decided on the way home she was hungry and wanted D.Q. hotdog, fries and sweet tea for supper. We went through the drive thru in Greenville and on the way home she got sick again. But she still wanted to eat when she got home. She ate her entire meal and drink and kept it down. Praise God!

August 24, 2009

Trystan at pretty well for breakfast at home this morning before we left. After taking Alyssa to school we headed down for the hospital. We arrived at the clinic for our appointment at 10:00 a.m. When I told the receptionist we were there she said that our appointment had been cancelled. No one had called us to tell us that. She said that we were to go directly over to be admitted and the doctor would see us over there. Trystan ate a good lunch this afternoon as well. Chemo was finally started about 4 p.m. All three drugs were finished by about 5:30 p.m. By about 6:30 p.m. she wanted to eat some soup for supper. Her appetite wasn't really good but she did eat something.

August 23, 2009

Today was a good day. We all went to church as a family this morning. After church we went to eat lunch with Tracy's brother, Tim, Lori, and Cade. Then we came home and the girls played together all day. Trystan knows that tomorrow she has to go to the hospital. She is not at all happy about that. She asked how long she would have to be there and was glad to hear that she would only have to stay one night.