Friday, March 2, 2018

100 Days by the Numbers...

Today marks 100 days since Caroline was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma.  We aptly spent the day in the Vanderbilt clinic, even though we were just there yesterday because Caroline was spiking a fever this morning.  A bunch of tests and an IV antibiotic later, we are headed home. 

We've recorded pretty much every detail of this journey, so here are some stats to date:

46 Pokes (port access/shots)
29 Overnights at the hospital
21 IV antibiotic infusions
17 Chemo treatments
15 Clinic visits
11 X-Rays
9 Blood transfusions
3 Platelet transfusions

Surgeries/Sedation, Biopsies, CT Scans, MRI, MIBG Scan, EKG, Echo-cardiogram, Stem Cell Harvest, ER Visits...

Countless blood panels, urine screens, vital sign checks, bags of fluid...

Hair loss.

Isolation.

Syringes, bottles, and bags of medicine.

Waiting.  So.much.waiting.

Packing bags.  Unpacking bags.  Loading the car.  Unloading the car.

The last 100 days have been a living hell...with no end in sight any time soon.  It is the hardest thing we've ever had to do.  This road is long, and one we wish no family ever had to face.

BUT, on this already long and windy road, we have witnessed more generosity, kindness, thoughtfulness, community, friendship, prayers, and love to truly last us a lifetime.  Our hearts have grown, and we are forever changed.  We will happily be paying this forward for the rest of our lives.

Thank you for walking with us through this journey...we can't imagine doing it without you all.

And most importantly, Caroline is happy, strong-spirited, and inspiring our family every day!!!

Love and more love,
The Lantz Family
#carolinestrong
#ftgf

Literally waiting for the phone to ring with the CT Scan results on 11/24/17 (diagnosis day).

So much packing and unpacking for each hospital visit!

Hanging in there...

6 comments:

  1. Always praying daily for you! Yes, a living hell, but once you are getting through with God on your side, taking each step and each trial with you. He never promised us a life free of suffering, but did promise is one that is full joy and he is and will give you that. You guys have a rockstar daughter and a rockstar son. And I’m always praying that God would give the parents of these rockstar children the energy to persevere as you are.

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  2. I work for CDR Associates out of NC. I have been following your Caring Bridge site ever since the company shared the information. As a mother of 3, I cannot begin to imagine what you all are going through. However, with following Caroline’s story, it is very evident the amount of strength you all have. Please know that I am praying for your sweet girl daily. She’s got this!

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  3. Seeing all of that stats in what should be a simplified list broke my heart. Remembering your posts, so many times that I held my breath, and every time--willed my love and energy to your family. Love, light, energy, peace and fierceness to your hearts and Sweet Caroline. A special hug to Andrew as well.

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  4. The smiles and never ending joy Caroline brings changes the world in ways that cannot be spoken. Thank you for allowing us to support you all in any and all ways possible through this challenging journey. Endless prayers continue, as well as endless thanks to all those wonderful medical professionals at Vanderbilt.

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  5. Sending so much love and continuous prayers.❤️

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  6. Praying for you and Caroline. Thank you for your note this morning. You are an amazing mama and know that your Sunday spin family is now on this journey with you! Huge hugs! Elizabeth

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