Kolby went to her weekly doctor's appointment today and as soon as we got there Dr. Kline came right out in the waiting room and told Kolby that there was a 15 year old girl who was just diagnosed with cancer and she was having a really really hard time. He asked Kolby if she would go back and talk to her. Kolby met McKenzie. She is such a darling girl. McKenzie was just diagnosed with brain cancer two weeks ago. She was very quiet and we could tell that she was scared and uncomfortable. She is just beginning to lose her hair and Kolby chatted with her about her experience. Kolby told her about the Wig Cottage and a few web sites with hat hair. McKenzie seemed a little uplifted. Kolby also told her all about her experiences the first few cycles and how much better it does get. Kolby also learned that McKenzie has to have chemo and radiation everyday for 30 days and it really made Kolby appreciate her 21 day cycle. The two were able to get strength from one another. I was really proud of Kolby and her positive attitude while she talked with McKenzie. It was a great experience for both girls. They exchanged cell phone numbers and I sure hope they keep in touch. (I will encourage it! :o)
The only procedure Kolby had to have today was her blood drawn and tested. Again, her numbers came back even lower than last week. Her immune system is at a 0.3. So, no going out into public this week. She should have had a blood transfusion but Kolby opted out of having one again. Dr. Rishid told her that next week if they are low again, she will have no choice. John and I cannot figure out why she doesn't want to have a transfusion, especially when it will make her feel better, have more energy and her numbers will go up. I asked her on the way home and she said because it will take too long. We kind of think she may be scared. Maybe she doesn't really understand what the process really is. She doesn't want to talk about it. So, for now, it's an issue we just leave alone. (It's almost better when the doctor insists!)
Oh, for the good news......she gained 5 pounds over the week. Yay!!!! So, she wanted McDonalds for lunch!
The only procedure Kolby had to have today was her blood drawn and tested. Again, her numbers came back even lower than last week. Her immune system is at a 0.3. So, no going out into public this week. She should have had a blood transfusion but Kolby opted out of having one again. Dr. Rishid told her that next week if they are low again, she will have no choice. John and I cannot figure out why she doesn't want to have a transfusion, especially when it will make her feel better, have more energy and her numbers will go up. I asked her on the way home and she said because it will take too long. We kind of think she may be scared. Maybe she doesn't really understand what the process really is. She doesn't want to talk about it. So, for now, it's an issue we just leave alone. (It's almost better when the doctor insists!)
Oh, for the good news......she gained 5 pounds over the week. Yay!!!! So, she wanted McDonalds for lunch!
I am so happy that she met a new friend and was able to be such a positive light to her. All I could think while reading this is that God is already using her experience to help others. She is a fighter and I can see her helping others during her fight and after she triumphs over this yucky disease. How fortunate for that other young girl to talk to someone her own age going through a similar trial. I will pray for McKenzie too. We have dealt with brain cancer in our family and our friend circle. That is tough too. I am so happy that she gained some weight. That's awesome! Love you guys and so glad to hear she is doing good today. :)
ReplyDeleteI love that she is able to serve even in her situation! That is so great for her and McKenzie.
ReplyDeleteI think it was so great of Kolby to reach out--what a traumatic thing for 15 year old girls to go through. Also, way to eat Kolby! I hope you get a little more strength from it!
ReplyDeleteSee there, you're already so far into your journey back to better health that you're a veteran to others just starting down this road. When you think that you can't do this, just remember that you already are doing it! You're amazing!!
ReplyDeleteSo glad to hear about the weight gain! That really is proof that you've had better days lately. I love McDonald's cheeseburgers! They're such nasty little things but so tasty at the same time. I wonder if they're your favorite too :)
I wish I knew a trick to give your immune system a boost. I'm pretty ignorant to all of the medical procedures you're dealing with but the words "blood transfusion" do seem kinda scary, huh? It's true though that some good 'ole healthy blood would probably make you feel lots better.
By the way, Kaid and I are wearing your "Keeping Kolby" bracelet 24/7. Every time I look down at my hands I wonder how you're doing at that very moment. We're keeping you in our hearts, thoughts and prayers!
Love you girl!
Kolby you are awesome! I don't know how you do it but you are such an example to me. Way to make such a difference to someone else who is struggling! I'm sure just knowing a nice girl like you will be such a comfort to her. We love you Kolby!
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