Good news!

I mentioned my cousin's daughter, Carly, here and here. Doctors found a tumor on her kidney last summer. Her mom sent this e-mail tonight, and I asked permission to post it here. Thanks to all of you for praying and asking about her! I included the pictures that Erin mentions, but not the video. Sorry.

We wanted to share with you the best news we have received in quite some time! Carly visited Children’s yesterday for an abdominal sonogram, chest x-ray and CT scan. It was a very long day, but around 5 p.m. we were called by our nurse and told that all of the scans were negative. Carly shows no signs of “disease” in her body and is HEALTHY again! We were thrilled to hear the great news and had been so nervous to learn if the chemotherapy had been successful. Our prayers have been answered and Carly is doing wonderful!



We completed chemo on the 22nd of December and were unfortunately admitted to Children’s on Christmas Day for a fever and high blood counts. After a few rounds of antibiotics, we were released in the afternoon of the 26th. We have since been waiting for yesterday’s arrival. We now are waiting to hear back from the nurse regarding the scheduling for the minor surgery to remove the broviac catheter. It is an in and out procedure, although they will put her to sleep. Carly cannot wait for this to happen, so she can truly enjoy her baths.



To celebrate the terrific news, we have rescheduled our vacation from last August and will be visiting Mickey Mouse beginning March 8th through the 15th. The kids are all so excited and are counting down the days.



Carly has enjoyed her special time with her grandmothers, but is definitely looking forward to returning to her preschool. She is excited to reunite with her friends and be back with her teachers, Ms. Fay and Ms. Sarah.



I have attached a few recent pictures. The first picture is of Carly at her last chemo treatment. The next is with her wonderful doctors, Dr. Leslie Doros and Dr. Jeffrey Dome (head Oncologist for Wilm’s tumors). The last picture is Carly with her proud parents! I have attached an adorable video of Carly sharing the news. Sorry about the large file!



Again, we cannot thank everyone enough for all of your prayers, support, friendship, encouragement, and love. Although the days following August 5th have been challenging, you have all made the journey one that we will never forget!



With all of our love and appreciation,
Doug, Erin, Matthew, Rachel and Carly Rae