A Double Homecoming

Please forgive me for not posting this earlier as it’s been a very busy couple of days. The GOOD NEWS is both Jamie and Joshua were discharge from separate hospitals this past Monday night!

Jamie came home a week after starting her latest round of chemo treatment. She was originally supposed to be discharged last Friday, but due to a daily injection needed to help her blood levels bounce back, she was forced to stay over the weekend. While in itself a bummer, we were reminded that God works in mysterious ways when that Friday night she started running a fever. Had this occurred over the weekend while at home, she would have needed to return to the hospital immediately. A fever had always been a very possible side effect, so the doctor’s weren’t extraordinarily concerned about it, but stressed she needed to be monitored closely over the weekend.

So far this week, she’s doing “okay”. She’s still really tired, slightly nauseas, and her blood hasn’t quite returned to where it needs to be. Once again, an expected side effect of chemo; it takes longer to rebound after each treatment. However, as per my personal, non-medical observations, I think she’s doing a *little* better. I’ve managed to get a few smiles out of her today, which I’ve missed greatly.

Joshua is doing absolutely awesome! He was such a well behaved and quiet baby while in the NICU, but now that he’s home his true colors are showing. He’s a noisy little guy and Monday night was not good for Daddy’s sleep. I think I was able to maybe get 2 hours of sleep total. Jake, who’s been sleeping in our room since Jamie’s in his bed (it’s lower and easier for her to get in and out) was out like a log — I have no idea how he does it.

And speaking of Jake, he’s actually doing pretty well adjusting to his new little brother. I’ve caught him singing “rock-a-bye baby” to Joshua a few times.

Last night wasn’t bad. I only had to get up once around 3am or so to feed him. He’s so alert when he’s awake. He loves to look around and take in his new world. Very cool, but I wish he’d choose a time other than 3am to take the tour.

I asked Jamie if there was anything she wanted me to include in this update. She wanted to make sure I thanked everyone for their continued prayers and support. It’ll probably be a little while before she’s ready for visitors, both phone and in-person, but she wants everyone to know that she’s very touched and appreciative of all the gifts, cards, and well-wishes she’s received.

Personally, I can’t begin to imagine having to go through something like this alone. So many have extended their hands to assist us, and while we have not had the need to reach out to each one, it’s comforting to know that the help and support is there if and when we will need it. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you!

With the birth of Joshua, our family is now complete. I’m one proud husband and dad who is exceptionally happy to finally have the entire family under one roof… even if only for a little while.

Related posts:

1. Why Joshua?
2. Baby and Chemo #7
3. When the Rain Falls…
4. Because I think I can do a quick update…
5. Now It’s Tuesday

Tags: Jamie, Joshua, Leukemia