Friday, July 27, 2018

Bottoming Out / Pre-School Graduation Day

As we often mention, the community support we've received during the last 8 months has been a perpetual source of love and gratitude.  Today, we would like to give a very special thank you to The Academy of McKay's Mill.  The Class of 2018 is graduating tonight, and we really wish Caroline could be there in her little cap and gown, just like her friends, and just like her brother, when he graduated from The Academy in 2013.  The Academy is where Caroline spent every working weekday since she was 16 weeks old...it was her home away from home, and she loved her teachers and friends just like they were her family.  Other than telling Caroline she had cancer, telling her she couldn't go back to school and see her friends/teachers was the hardest conversation we've had with her.  Although Caroline never went back to school after she was diagnosed, we've never felt like she actually "left."  Our Academy family has been steadfast in their inclusion and support for Caroline - always checking on her, sending cards, videos and even homework!  We were also included in the formal graduation photos, and then were surprised with a special insert for Caroline within the graduation program, which literally brought us to tears.  Despite the fact that Caroline won't be able to formally graduate with her friends, having a picture of her in a little cap and gown, from a place that helped raise her, is truly priceless.  Thank you, Academy of McKay's Mill - we love you all!     




Hospital Update:
Right now, Caroline is having her most difficult stretch since starting the treatment protocol back in November.  She has extreme mucositis through her entire GI tract (worse than during her last transplant), which is causing her to struggle with getting enough oxygen.  She is now on a nasal cannula, which is giving her the oxygen assistance she needs.  The other major issue she's having is blood and intestinal tissue in her stool, also as a result of her GI tract being stripped raw from the high-dose chemo.  Needless to say, it is VERY painful for her; she is on continuous Dilaudid/pain medication (already more than the last transplant), as well as a patient-controlled button, which she needs to use frequently.  The mucositis has also moved into her throat, which causes her so much discomfort that she doesn't want to talk; she is mostly using hand motions and a bell to get our attention.  We expect her to struggle like this -- or worse -- for the next 5-7 days.  She received both red blood and platelet transfusions today to help get her numbers up before we head into [what we expect to be] a very challenging weekend.  Please continue to pray for her comfort and a speedy recovery.



Team Lantz
#carolinestrong
#ftgf

12 comments:

  1. I wish I had words that could ease your burden but I have prayer and we are doing that without ceasing and lifting you up to a most mighty and wonderful God. Keep fighting the good fight. ❤️

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  2. Will continue to pray for you all!! Please let Caroline know that she is a warrior to people that she hasn't even met yet.

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  3. We love you Caroline!!!!!!!!! We have your diploma waiting on you!!!!! Keep fighting sweet girl! Your Academy family loves you so much and you will always be an Academy kid #grow #learn #play

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  4. So sorry Caroline is having such a hard time. She is continuously in our prayers as well as you guys too. We pray tonite for our Heavenly Father to give her body comfort and healing and strength for the both of you. God tells us where two or more gather who believe He is there,so He is definitely with Caroline all the time. Love you guys you are amazing parents.

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  5. You all never leave our hearts and prayers. Amelia asks me every night if Caroline is still at the doctor. Love to you all.

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  6. How touching that Caroline's school included her in graduation with their dedication! That's beautiful! Keeping Caroline and all of you in my continued prayers for God to surround you with faith and comfort! 2 Thessalonians 3:16 Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. God Bless all of you!

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  7. What a beautiful graduation picture. Sending so much love as Caroline and you all go through this horrible time. Hoping for some comfort for her very very soon.

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  8. Margaret - Caroline & your family are in our prayers. We pray for her comfort & relief, while also praying for your continued strength.

    - Jason & Jennifer

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  9. I am praying for Caroline every day. I'm wearing my purple Caroline shirt thinking of her today. She means a lot to me even though I don't really know her.

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    Replies
    1. I taught Christian, her cousin last year and I saw how important she is to him. I care for her as well. :)

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  10. Margaret, I wanted you to know that the Joyful Noise Class at Brentwood United Methodist Church is still faithfully praying for little Caroline. Our hearts are breaking to know how all of you are suffering right now, but we lift her up to the Lord and in his Love, grace, and mercy He is ministering to her and to you. Blessings, Rachel

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