We have had 4 great days at Harry's House so far. It is a beautiful house, and absolute retreat. I cried for about an hour when we arrived here, overwhelmed by the generosity and thoughtfulness of everyone who has contributed to this house. Meanwhile the children ran from room to room checking out all the appointments and reporting back that every bedroom had a TV and DVD player - what a treat!
It has been so good to get away and have a break from 'normal' life. Although it is clear that this retreat has been built with a specific group of people in mind. In one of the kitchen cupboards are the stunning purple plastic gloves, vomit bags and lots of medicine measuring cups and syringes.
Yesterday we went on a family outing to the John Hunter Hospital for Victoria's chemotherapy. The adventure started with all the children watching Victoria's port being accessed, and then watching the containers of blood go up the shoot to the pathology department.
Whilst waiting for the blood test results, we went to see the physiotherapist. Victoria's splint has been hurting in a couple of places so she has not been wearing it for the past week. Not having the splint on makes a huge difference to both Victoria's gait and confidence.
The physio advised that the problem is with the tightening of Victoria's leg muscles most likely due to less activity (ie more resting due to tiredness) and the chemotherapy. So the physio made a boot for each leg for Victoria to wear at night time to give both legs a good stretch.
Victoria thought she would like different colour boots
for each leg .....
for each leg .....
However, we only took the left boot home with us, as the right one didn't quite have the correct stretch position. Next week we will visit the physio again and try the splint on, to see if Victoria's foot and leg are better positioned in it. Possibly the physio will have another attempt at making a night boot for the right leg.
After the night boots were made, we went back to the Day Unit. Victoria's blood test results were good. She was able to have the chemotherapy.
After the treatment we visited the fairy garden and the Starlight Express Room. The girls had a fun time making lots of crafts with the Captain Starlights and volunteers.
After the night boots were made, we went back to the Day Unit. Victoria's blood test results were good. She was able to have the chemotherapy.
After the treatment we visited the fairy garden and the Starlight Express Room. The girls had a fun time making lots of crafts with the Captain Starlights and volunteers.
Captain Starlight gave them each a woollen doll that had been made by some local high school students.
Marshall had fun playing all the electronic gadgets!
All in all it was a very successful hospital visit, with every family member getting more appreciation of what Victoria goes through each week, and the challenges she faces.
A specific prayer point this week is that Victoria's leg muscles will stretch as required with the use of the night boots and the daily stretching regime.
Here is an encouraging scripture I read this week ...
God can do anything, you know - far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us. Ephesians 3v20a The Message
Thank you again for your prayers and continued support as we continue to trust God with Victoria.
No comments:
Post a Comment