Kayla, So Far Away

This is a photo of Kayla that I took last fall when she was out here visiting us.
She lives in Edmonton. We could drive there in a day, if we went nonstop. I really feel a need to be close to her right now. But even if I could get out there, I couldnt see her anyways. She is in isolation. Only her mom and dad are allowed in, and they have to scrub, gown, glove and mask. The chemo has knocked her white cell count out of existance, her hemoglobin is really low and her platelets are down, causing nosebleeds. Also her potasium is low causing heart palpatation and fainting spells. So they gave her a blood transfusion. Hopefully that will help. She is on tons of antibiotics. She has now got a feeding tube going in through her nose as she has lost over 10% of her body weight. She has put 3 pounds back on since they put that in place. She is still nauseated and vomits a couple times a day. I know she has spirit and will pull through this, because she is determined. They have scheduled surgery for August 2nd, five days before her 16th birthday. Almost a month later than anticipated. Partly because of her cell count etc. They want her to build some strength again. Also one of the surgeons is going on vacation and that is the soonest he will be back. I cant imagine going away when you know a childs life is at stake. But I guess if they never thought about themselves, doctors might never get a break!
What surgery? They werent able to slow the tumor growth and her knee is totally eaten away. So sadly, she will be having her leg removed.

It is such a dreadful thing for anyone, let alone a 15 year old girl. I thank everyone who has been keeping Kayla in your thoughts and prayers. I ask that you continue to do so. She needs support now more than ever. I will send her copies of my comments so she can see the ammount of people who are rooting for her.

Thanks for stopping by.