FIGHT FOR THE FEARLESS – ROUND 2

On March 2, we took Addison to the urgent care clinic due to lumps on the back of her neck that had been visible most of the winter.  Although we’d been to the doctor numerous times throughout the winter, including earlier in the week when the doctor looked her dad in the eye and boldly stated, “She doesn’t have cancer.  You don’t have to worry about that,” we still thought there was something wrong.

So, after older brother’s morning basketball game, we made another visit (to a different office) for a second opinion.  Blood was collected and, upon receiving the results, the doctor started talking about the blasts in her blood.  He continued by informing me that blasts are found in those with leukemia or lymphoma.  He let me know that a room was ready at the hospital downtown and they were expecting us.

Our world was turned upside down that afternoon.  Two days later Addison was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.  She had a port placed and immediately started treatment.   She has completed induction, consolidation, and interim maintenance phases of treatment.  She is currently in the most difficult phase, called delayed intensification.  Then she will have another interim maintenance phase followed by (at least) 2 years of maintenance treatment.

Her care has consisted of frequent lumbar punctures, numerous different chemos (both oral and through her port), oral steroids, blood pressure medicine and shots.  She’s been the recipient of blood and/or platelets throughout her 6 months of treatment. She’s gained significant weight and lost weight.  She’s been unable to be with her friends/attend daycare or do other activities outside the house for stretches of time.  However, through it all (most days), she has maintained her infectious smile and good attitude.