Patient in Affliction

Romans 12:12.  There's a reason this verse spoke to me at the beginning of this journey.  Over the last 7 months, we have experienced the highs and lows that are part of the healing process. The good days remind us to be joyful in hope.  The not-so-good days remind us to be patient in affliction.  Every day reminds us to be faithful in prayer.

I must admit our family has really been tested on the "patient in affliction" part the last couple of weeks.  Medications that are excellent in leukemia treatment can really wreak havoc on the body.  Weakened bones led to a fractured leg requiring scheduled medications to manage the pain, a walking boot for increased mobility around the house, and a wheelchair for longer times out and about.  A sudden fever with no other symptoms led to a 9-day hospital stay.  A temperature that stayed relatively normal during the day yet spiked each night resulted in multiple blood cultures and other markers being run.  Each test came back clear, yet although Paige was considered clinically healthy, the persistent fever was a cause for concern--and reason enough to remain hospitalized until it broke.

Our family of 4 was separated for more than a week--another test of patience.  Paige and Mom adjusting to the close quarters of a hospital room.  Jeremy and Boyce together at home and at work.  We managed a few short visits when time allowed, but it just wasn't enough.  I guess absence really does make the heart grow fonder--because these siblings really missed each other.  Of course, you wouldn't know it seeing their interactions our first night back at home. :)

Yes...we made it home today!  Paige was able to go 2 nights in a row with normal temperature readings---BIG praises to God!   We came home to finish the course of antibiotics and allow more comfortable resting and recovery before chemo treatment resumes on Thursday.  I thought we might break out in a happy dance--but Paige wasn't stable enough with that boot, so we opted for prayers of thanksgiving once we made it to the car.  Many prayers of thanksgiving as God continues to heal this girl.

Times get tough, and this journey is not an easy one--not by a long shot, but our family is doing our best to live out Romans 12:12 every day of this journey.  Joyful.  Patient.  Faithful.

But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.   Romans 8:25