Starting week 3 of treatment

This is a picture of the IGIV infusion process. Notice the short tether to the pole. This is a challenge because she wants to walk around or be held much of the time. (She is wearing the rubber gloves the nurses wear.)


We head back to the hospital in the morning for the third drug Rituximab. This is a chemo drug that specifically targets and destroys the b-cells. Normally, b-cells are less than 1% in a normal person's spinal fluid; Annabelle's are 8%. This is the marker that told the doctor that something is misfiring in her immune system. By eliminating the b-cells, the doctor hopes that the new b-cells that slowly begin to come back (in 6-9 months) will not be confused and attack her brain cells.

This drug has concerned me the most. However, the doctor in Illinois said that this is the drug that will treat the cause of her OMS. The two drugs she is on now are only treating the symptoms. So, as with every decision so far, we are learning to trust more completely the One who created our precious little girl and has allowed this condition in her life.

If the 7-8 hour infusion goes well, we will get to come home tomorrow night. Please pray for:
- her sleep - she woke up 4 times last night and 1-2 times the couple nights before.
- her body to handle the drug well.
- patience for us through the long infusion and possible side effects.
- protection from germs while in the hospital.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path." Prov. 3:5,6