JOY

It is amazing how quickly things can change. I was sitting in church this morning (I'm visiting Mom, so it means church attendance) literally crying because I was so upset that my dear friend Jean was still in the hospital fighting leukemia and it looked like she would continue to be there for a while. I mentioned her as a prayer concern during joys and concerns time and couldn't stop myself from crying as I updated people on how she was doing. When I talked to her on Friday her white blood count was low and it looked like she would have to stay in the hospital for another few weeks. It was discouraging and upsetting and it really got me down to think that she was only suppose to have initially been in the hospital for a month and it had already been nearly 6 weeks. I spent all of church thinking about her and trying (unsuccessfully) to hold back more tears.

Then I got home and the world changed! I logged on to Facebook and Jean's status said that after 39 days in the hospital she was going home tomorrow! I immediately called the hospital and spoke to her and Michael and it is true - she's going home! She has had an incredible turn around in the last 24 hours or so. She is off all her IVs and is eating on her own and her white blood count is up to a level where they feel comfortable letting her go home. I can't believe it!!! The change in the last 2 days is remarkable! Hearing that she gets to go home is truly the best news I've ever heard in my life. I am filled with joy!! I know she still has a long road of recovery ahead, including chemo and return trips to the hospital for the next 9 months, but I have hope again and I know she is going to beat this and be okay. Please continue to keep her in your thoughts and prayers as we hope beyond hope that this is the start of her truly getting better.

Now I can't wait to visit her on Thursday AT HOME!!!!