The end of 2022 brought its share of surprises! I can hardly believe we are already in 2023! To be honest, I thought we would be in the transplant stage by 2023, but we are still waiting on her iron numbers to get to a desirable number.

JC did have surgery shortly before Christmas to install a port. There were some minor hiccups with the surgery on the day of surgery; however, everything came out good in the days following. Her port was successfully installed and is working properly, and she is finally back to herself. Specific prayers we have in regards to the port is that it makes appointments less stressful for JC. Her anxiety for appointments is at an all time high, and it is heartbreaking to see. The port will allow for easier access and less needle sticks overall.

JC’s iron numbers continue on the downward trend, but in a very slow progression. We are at about 3 1/2 months into the chelation therapy. At the beginning of chelation therapy, they told us it was a 3-6 month process. Specific prayers for her iron numbers to continue on the downward trend are much appreciated as well as prayers that her need for blood transfusions would be reduced.

We continue to seek God’s guidance for wisdom and understanding in making the right choices for JC. We are so very thankful for the providers that have been working hard to provide the best care for JC. We continue to pray that wisdom and direction would be given to them as well. It is hard for me to explain the kindness that her nurses, doctors, and social workers have given to JC. They have met her where she is at and have been patient, caring, and they have gone way above their job requirements to help her at each appointment. We remain so very thankful that God has been carrying us through.

We were very fortunate to have a good Christmas with family. We were also able to steal away some time for our little family of 4 over New Years! With the new year, I am reminded of verse that says God’s mercies are new every morning. I am thankful to serve a God who grants mercy again and again. He is a God who sees us and loves us. May your new year be filled with blessings!