Preparing for Day 1 of chemo...Today, Charmaine had a tunnel picc line put in her chest for easier access for IV's and drawing blood, then she finally had the spinal tap (a test determining if the leukemia cells have entered the spinal cord and/or the brain). Her first treatment was intrathecal (meaning shot directly into her spinal fluid) called Methotrexate, which was a very quick procedure. She has fought a headache and nausea all day, starting early this morning. Tonite she is beginning chemo which will be given in doses for the next 4 days, and again on the 11th day. Her stay in the hospital is going to be longer than we thought...prob 3+ weeks. But her spirit remains positive...worrying about us and not herself! The chemo drugs if you're interested are: Cytarabine, Vincristine, Daunorubicin, and maybe one more that I didn't get the name of. She is going to be very weak and feeling sick alot, so if you're thinking of visiting her, please call to check...it may not be the best time. Her immune system is being wiped out so she could get sick very easily.

It was kinda tough today for me and dad seeing other chemo patients and realizing what we have ahead...but we can do this!! We know God is with us every step of the way.

Many friends have been asking, "How can we see if we are a bone marrow match?" You can go to www.marrow.org to register and receive a swab kit. The cost is $52 for the kit. If your tissue is a match for anyone on the patient list, they will call you. It's a slim chance that her match will be someone she knows, but it's worth a shot!

Thanks for all the prayers. Nat is with her tonight, so I'm sure she will update soon...

Stefanie