End of phase 1

Today was the last day of phase one, which means no more steroids!!!....for a while. Isaiah had his last dose this morning which means he will start to feel less hungry in a few days. It has been very exhausting this past month.  We have had many midnight snacks (meals, truthfully).

3am sandwich with mom

Isaiah's only interest has been food.  He will ask to go for car rides, only to direct me to Nana's, Grandma's or McDonald's in order to satisfy a specific craving.  He has gained over 5 pounds in the last 29 days, which is a lot for a little guy like him.  The doctors have said that it will start to drop off as he continues treatment. 

I was also informed today that his unwillingness to walk is also a result of the steroids which cause pain in the muscles.  I'm so happy that he's finished his steroids and will walk soon!! 

Today, Isaiah had his LP, where he received chemotherapy into his spinal fluid. He also had a bone marrow biopsy to ensure treatment is working.  We will get the results tomorrow. 

Isaiah after the procedure today

Making sure to lay flat for one hour after the procedure to prevent nausea and spinal headache.

Isaiah and Grandma talking about lunch

Since he is off the steroids, his appetite will soon go back to normal so we decided to indulge in a celebratory lunch at McDonald's. 

Isaiah and Uncle Anthony

Phase 2 (Consolodation phase) starts on Wednesday.  Our first month will include taking chemotherapy drugs orally every day and chemotherapy in his spinal fluid every Wednesday.

Good news today is that his ANC is normal.  This means that for the next 4 days (before it plumits after having chemo), we can go to a restaurant and be around people!  I think we will go to Saturday night service to celebrate Mother's Day.  What a gift.  Thank you God!