History

Journal History

Sunday, February 27, 2005 9:00AM CST

As of yesterday, Hillary completed 1 year off treatment for leukemia! We are so thankful for each day that Hillary is further off treatment!

We all went out to dinner last night to celebrate the 1 year mark. Hillary chose her favorite - Italian.

Hillary is doing very well. Her oncology appointments now are once every 3 months instead of the 1 time per month that she has been going. The main thing that Hillary is battling with now is osteopenia (pre-osteoporosis) which is a result of the long term chemo. Her doctor does think that her bones will rebuild themselves. He just isn't sure how long it will take. Hillary deals with back and hip pain daily and usually takes ibuprofen to help. She is undergoing physical therapy which seems to be helping some.

Cancer has been tough and I would never wish it on anyone, but it has been a part of our family for a long time and in many ways always will. Hillary is a beautiful, unselfish young lady whose faith is very deep. Cancer with the 2 years and 4 months of treatment were extremely difficult, but there is much good that has come from it. We have witnessed and been a part of God's miracles and blessings. Hillary has blossomed into the incredible person she is today and has overcome so much in her 14 years. And, we can never thank our family, church, friends, Camp Sunshine, Children's Wish Foundation, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Team in Training, Lighthouse Family Retreat, and so many for the joy and love you have shown our family throughout this. We have been blessed tremendously.

Many times, when cancer hits a family it can tear them apart. But, I can honestly say it has brought our family closer and deepened our faith in God. My husband has been a rock, my best friend, and the best father to Hillary and Sam. And, Sam, has prayed so hard for Hillary. Many times he asked to be by Hillary's side during treatment and in the hospital. It is amazing seeing an 8, 9 and now 10 year old boy who cares so deeply for his sister. Cancer has helped us realize more than ever what truly matters in life , how precious time is, and how precious we are to one another.

If you, your child, or another family member are suffering through this horrible disease, I want to encourage you. Even though we don't understand, God will carry you through this if you allow Him to. Lean on God, cry out to Him, and trust Him and He will shine through these times. Hillary is who she is today, and although I would never wish her through the pain she has experienced, I am thankful for the person she is today and for the beautiful person she is inside and out.

May God bless you immensely,
Cindy

Thursday, December 16, 2004 6:54 PM CST

I apologize for not updating in so long. Hillary is now almost 10 months off-treatmtent and doing very well. Praise God! She continues her monthly checkups with her oncologist unti Feb. 2005. It is such a relief each month when her doctor says her blood counts are normal and that she is doing so well!

Hillary had another bone scan this past Oct. which showed little improvement since the previous one 6 months earlier. Her doctor, however, believes that her bones will begin to rebuild themselves. There just isn't much research on how long it may take.

Hillary is doing well in school. She is in 8th grade and making good grades. This is her first year since 4th grade to have NO CHEMO!

Hillary is helping coach Upwards basketball. The girls are between Kindergarten and 3rd grade. She is absolutely loving it. Hillary is also in band, on the yearbook staff, and just got a part in the school play "Annie".

Hillary is an honored hero for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Team in Training. They are an incredible group of caring people who spend months training to run a full marathon at Walt Disney World in Orlando in Jan. They raise alot of money in doing this for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. They are truly devoting themselves to finding a cure for cancer. Hillary and I will be attending so we can support the team and cheer them on. Too many children, too many adults have fought or are fighting blood-related cancer. If you would like to make a donation, please email me, and I will give you more information.

Hillary's brother, Sam, broke both bones in his shin this past Labor Day. He was in a full leg cast for 3 weeks and then the doctor decided he needed surgery. He had to have an external fixator (a bar almost as long as his shin) with 4 pins going into his bone. He wore that until the beginning of Dec. and then got another cast- this time from only the knee down. We are hopeful that he will get that off before the end of the year.

We are very sad about our friend, Josh. He lives in Cumming, is 11 years old and also has leukemia. He relapsed last year, had a bone marrow transplant this past spring, and relapsed again this past Oct. His battle with leukemia is coming to an end. Our hearts break for his family. But, they remain faithful to God and know that Josh will find healing in heaven. Please pray for them.

Hillary will celebrate her 14th birthday on Christmas Day! HAPPY BIRHTDAY HILLARY!

Thank you so much for your continued prayers and concern for Hillary. Please don't stop praying that she will be in remission forever. And, please, pray for Josh, his parents and sister, and other family and friends who love them dearly.

With Love,
Cindy

Thursday, December 16, 2004 6:54 PM CST

Saturday, June 5, 2004 10:36 AM CDT

Hillary is now 3 months off chemo!!!! She looks great and is feeling great too!

Hillary had her monthly checkup with her oncologist this past week. Her counts looks great! Thank you God! Hillary also met with the endocrinologist about her bone health. The doctor said that Hillary's bone density levels are at the osteoporosis level. She is being treated with maximum doses of calcium, and we hope that with that and being off steroids (part of her chemotherapy) that Hillary's body will begin rebuilding her bones without any other treatment for osteoporosis. They will repeat Hillary's bone scan in October to see if there is improvement. The doctor also found a cataract in one of Hillary's eyes that is also a side effect of steroids. She wants her to see an opthalmologist about that, but thinks that it won't change. These side effects are annoying, but we can deal with these!!!!

Just please, keep praying that Hillary will NEVER EVER relapse! Every month that we get a good report from her oncologist is a relief and one month closer to the day that she will be considered cured! (Most doctors say that 5 years in remission is when they say "Cured!") Hillary has been in remission since day 28 of the day of diagnosis. Her therapy was 2 years, 3 months to keep the cancer from returning. Many kids who relapse either relapse while on maintenance therapy or in the first year after treatment. We just hope and pray that Hillary will never face cancer again!

Thank you for checking in on Hillary! God bless you!

Cindy

Sunday, May 9, 2004 7:05 PM CDT

Hillary is now 2 months off-treatment. She goes for monthly check ups, which she did this past week. It is such a relief and answered prayer when the oncologist tells us, "Hillary is doing great. Her blood counts are good." We just continue to pray that she never ever relapses, and we hold onto that. Of course, the "what ifs" sometimes lurk in the back of our minds, but we hold onto our faith and pray some more!

Hillary's recent bone scan showed diminished bone loss. Her doctor suspects she has osteopenia (a result of the continued use of steroids while on chemo). He is going to repeat the bone scan in about 6 months. We hope and pray that her bones begin to build up calcium and that she does not have to face osteoporosis at such a young age. She is on high doses of calcium. Hillary has had 3 broken ankles over the past year (right ankle twice and the left once). But, her doctor does NOT want her activity limited. She has the ok to do whatever sports or activities she wants. Hillary is thinking about softball this fall and playing basketball this winter. Hillary played softball and soccer until she was diagnosed back in Nov. 2001. Oh, how sweet it will be to see her playing, running, and feeling good again- as it is now!

Our county's Relay for Life is this coming weekend. Hillary will proudly get to walk the Survivor's Walk! Thank you God!

Thank you for your continued prayers. You are a true blessing to us. We know God is hearing and answering our prayers!

With Love,
Cindy

Monday, March 29, 2004 6:02 AM CST

Hillary's off-treatment this past Sunday was just incredible! Even though it was cold and windy, it was a beautiful day. The kids especially had a great time!

We had a combo moonwalk which had the jumping area and then a big slide. It was a lot of fun- I even played in it a while! My body let me know really quickly that I'm not as young as I used to be! Unfortunately Hillary couldn't play in in with her broken ankle. We also had EXTREME hayrides; and when we say EXTREME we mean EXTREME! Hillary said that was her favorite. On one of the first hayrides, the driver accidentally went through a mudhole. Mud went all over the kids- I mean really bad! They loved it. Well, after that, the driver kept (accidentally, of course) driving through the mud holes. When the kids returned, it looked as though they had been playing in mud pits. The mud was caked on them in huge clumps. They loved it! We also had airbrush tatoos, face-painting, snow cones, a popcorn machine, hotdogs, and a cake walk. Most of the adults just stood around and talked or went inside because it was cold. I wonder why they didn't do the EXTREME hayrides?!!!

Hillary had a blast at her party. She very much deserved it after all she has been through! A BIG thank you to all of you who came!

Hillary goes today for her monthly check up with her oncologist and for her follow-up with her orthopedic. Since this is her 3rd ankle break (2 on the right ankle, and now on the left which is/was the "good" one), they are probably going to start physical therapy soon. She had a bone scan last week which we should find out more info on that today. Her brittle bones are likely due to the prolonged use of steroids that was part of her chemo.

Samuel is sick- again. I took him to the urgent health care center yesterday. He has a bad case of strep and both ears are infected. This is now his 3rd round of antibiotics in the past 5 weeks.

Please pray for our friend Josh who recently had a bone marrow transplant. And, please, continue to pray for Hillary- that she NEVER EVER relapses and also for her in how she has to deal with side effects from having almost 2 1/2 years of chemo.

Our church is really going well! We are thrilled to be in our new building! It is just beautiful! We are having many visitors and our attendance has increased which is very exciting.

Thanks again to all of you who keep updated on Hillary and pray for her. We love you!

Cindy

Tuesday, March 23, 2004 2:02 PM CST

Hi Everybody!
Yesterday I had a Dexa scan, which, in case you didn't know, is a bone density test. I had to have it since I've had 3 broken ankles less than 10 months.

Thankfully, I have less than a week (hopefully) until I get my fracture boot off! You'd never believe all the names people call me. To name just a few, there's Cripple, Crip, Hobble, Leadleg, and Hop-along. I don't really mind, though. ; )

Well, I'm at school now and I have to go.

Please continue to pray that my cancer NEVER EVER returns!

Well, that's all Folks!
-Hillary

Friday, March 5, 2004 8:17 PM CST

Bad news, everybody. Well, not too bad; I'm really ready for anything after having cancer and chemotherapy. But anyway, I fractured my ankle AGAIN. It's not the same one I've already broken twice, though. So now the score is Right Ankle 2, Left Ankle 1! Just kidding; at least I hope my ankles aren't having a competition! Oh the joy of casts, crutches, and always having to keep my leg elevated with ice on it. I just can't catch a break. (Well, I guess I can...) Well, at least I have NO CHEMO!!! (If you haven't heard about me finishing treatment, click the "Read Past Journal Entries" link)

Please pray that my ankle will heal SOON and please continue to pray that my cancer NEVER EVER EVER returns EVER!

Coffman Out!
(Ryan Seacrest says that, except obviously he says "Seacrest Out," and it drives me up the wall!)

Love,
Hillary

Monday, March 1, 2004 12:14 AM CST

Well, I have such great news to report! I am just filled with emotion as I type this. Hillary COMPLETED all her chemo pills last week, and had her port taken OUT on Friday! It was out-patient surgery. She is sore, but recovering well.

It feels weird not having to remember to give her chemo pills at night. As a matter of fact, I am still asking her if she took her chemo, but with a smile on my face and a smile in return from her.

I'd like to say that we can put all this behind us, but our entire family is different now- in a good way. I don't think cancer is ever completely behind someone. I don't mean that in a negative way, but being the parent of a child who has HAD (notice, that is past-tense!) cancer has made me and Mark be so much more thankful for each precious day God gives us and to try to truly cherish each and every day and every moment with our children. Well, honestly, we are human and do forget that sometimes, but our love for one another and for Hillary and Samuel has only grown through these hard times. We are so grateful to God who has brought our daughter-our family - through these difficult times over the past 2 years. If there is one thing I can say to those parents who are reading this that have not experienced life-and-death situations with their children is to remind you to reflect daily on your blessings and your children. Don't let menial problems become bigger than they really are, stress you out, etc. Life is too precious and too short. Look at your beautiful children, thank God for them, and focus on the positives. Give them a big hug and kiss every day and tell them you love them even more than that. Well, that's my sermon of the day.

God bless each one of you who are reading this and care about Hillary and our family. Your prayers, love, and support have brought us through this hard time. We love you.

Cindy

P.S. WAY TO GO HILLARY!!!!!!!!! YOUR DAD AND I ARE SOOOO VERY PROUD OF YOU!!!!

Sunday, February 15, 2004 6:39 PM CST

February 4, 2004, Hillary had her LAST IV chemo treatment!!!!! She will continue her chemo pills through Feb. 26 and that will be it!!! We are so excited for this day to come! Chemo has been a part of Hillary's life for over 2 years now, and honestly, it seems kind of unreal that it is really coming to an end. It is such a relief...there's lots of feelings and it's kind of difficult to put them into words! We can never thank you enough for the many prayers for Hillary and for all your support over these past couple of years. You'll never know how much your love and support has meant to our family. But, please, please continue to pray that Hillary's cancer NEVER EVER invades her body again!

Hillary will continue to go to the clinic monthly for checkups for a year, and then the next year is every 3 months, the next every 6 months, and then I think she will go to the Survivor's Clinic. We are so thankful to say that Hillary is a cancer SURVIVOR! This year, Relay for Life takes on a new meaning for Hillary as she is truly a SURVIVOR and has no more chemo!

Please continue to pray for our friend Josh, who will be admitted to the hospital on Feb. 24 and then have a bone marrow transplant on March 3rd.

More good news!! Many of you know that we started a new church in Cumming a little over 3 years ago. We have been meeting in a school during this time, and in 4 weeks, we will be moving into our new church home!!!!! Thank you God! Our first service in our new church will be March 14. We invite all of you who live locally, of course, to join us! Feel free to email me if you have questions!

We love you,

The Coffman Family

Wednesday, December 31, 2003 7:07 AM CST

Well, I am now the proud mother of a teenager! Hillary turned 13 on Christmas day. We celebrated her birthday the week before. She had some (12!) friends over for her party. We had planned on having a campfire, but it was way too windy. But, everyone seemed to have a great time....Hillary certainly did! As I mentioned before, Hillary asked for money for her birthday and decided to donate 1/2 of it to The Lighthouse Retreat. This is the Christian organization that provides a week long seaside retreat for children on chemo AND their families. The founder of Lighthouse, Melinda, was previously an oncology nurse practitioner at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. She had a dream and made it into a reality of being able to provide a relaxing and fun week for the ENTIRE family because she saw how stressful chemo is on everyone. She wanted to also give the families a chance to reconnect and get away from the stresses that affect every family who has a child affected by cancer. Anyway, we were able to go last April during Spring Break. It was truly (other than Hillary's wish trip to Australia) one of the best times we have had together as a family. Hillary received $150 for her birthday from her friends, so she is sending the Lighthouse $75. I'm so proud of her. Check out their website at www.lighthousefamilyretreat.org.

We had a wonderful Christmas. Hillary's favorite gift was a surprise to her - a photo printer. She loves taking pictures with the digital camera she saved up her money for and bought about a year ago, and now she can print those out. Her next favorite gift was a Biosphere Habitat. She plans to use the 1/2 of the money she is keeping to buy her a frog for the habitat. Surely, the frog won't be that much....

Samuel's favorite gift was his Gameboy Advance SP. He also got this big Star Wars Lego ship thing that he has already built!

We truly had a very blessed Christmas. It was also very busy between birthdays- for Hillary and Mark (his was the 23rd) and all the Christmas celebrations.

Hillary goes for her LAST spinal tap this Friday! Ok, I'm not excited about the spinal tap, but it is so wonderful that this is her LAST ONE! I lost count a long time ago of how many she's had....ALOT! Hillary also will get treatment on Friday and then her last treatment will around the beginning of Feb. She will continue taking her chemo meds until Feb. 24th.....which is the LAST DAY of chemo!!!! It has certainly been a long 2 years of treatment. Hillary has been trooper, but it has definitely been hard on her. Please pray for her upcoming treatment and spinal tap that she will bounce back quickly. It usually takes her at least a week to recover from the spinal taps. And, they also put her to sleep when they do them.

We are so grateful that Hillary is reaching the end of treatment, but please, please don't stop praying for her. It is somewhat scary to NOT be on treatment. We desperately hope and pray that cancer NEVER EVER returns to her body.

And, please pray for our friend, Josh, who recently relapsed after being off treatment for a year. He will be having a bone marrow transplant in the next 2-3 months. His one sister is a perfect match- thank you God! But, he definitely has a hard road ahead, so please keep Josh and his family in your prayers. Josh is 11.

I hope you and your family have a very Happy and Blessed New Year!

Cindy

Thursday, November 27, 2003 5:26 PM CST

Hey Everybody! Merry Christmas!

I'm feeling as good as ever. Can't wait 'til Christmas. Guess what?!? I will be 13 on Christmas day! Officially a teenager! I'm so excited!

We received great news about our friend Josh. Then again, how great can it really be considering his cancer just relapsed? Well, it is good if he has to have cancer. There was a 25 percent chance that he and his sister would be bone marrow matches, and they are! That means they can easily give Josh a bone marrow transplant. Praise the Lord; He's answered our prayers!

Please continue to pray for the numerous children and adult who have to suffer through cancer. Nobody deserves cancer, but if they do have to face it, prayer helps make it a little easier.

With love,
Hillary

Saturday, November 8, 2003 6:28 AM CST

Hillary had treatment last Friday, yeah, I know, it stinks to have treatment on Halloween. But, when treatment is every 4 weeks, sometimes it can't be helped. She was actually supposed to have treatment the Wed. before that, but she wanted to change it. Her dad came to her Horizons class to talk about Ethiopia since he went on a mission there a few years ago, and her class is studying Africa. Of course, she didn't want to miss that!

Anyway, for Halloween, Mark took the Red Ninja (Sam) trick or treating around the neighborhood. I thought Hillary would sleep all evening, but then she disappears for a while and comes in as a hippi ready to pass out candy!

Good news- Hillary's ankle is better, and she got the go ahead to take off the fracture boot she's had to wear these past 5 weeks!

We had a little scare last week too. Hillary's oncologist suspected that she has walking pneumonia. He did not do a chest x-ray, but did put her on some strong antibiotics and an inhaler. Hillary is wheezing quite a bit, but thankfully has not had a fever. Also, Hillary's ANC had dropped to 400 (which means if she had gotten a fever, it would be a 5-7 day hospital stay). It has not been that low in over a year- since before she started maintenance therapy. I tried not to worry about it, and her doctor thinks it could be because she is sick. We took her Wed. for a check on her counts, and they are back up. What a relief! She is feeling better now, but still trying to get over this wheezing. She stayed home from school this week, but I think she will be back on Monday.

There is a critical blood & platelet shortage right now. If you can donate, please contact Lynn Smith from the American Red Cross at smithlynn@usa.redcross.org or by phone at (404) 253-5250. You can donate in Hillary's honor. She is alive today because of people whom we will never know who donated blood or platelets. As a matter of fact, I am going to donate platelets later this morning.

Hillary will be 13 next month- on Christmas day! She told me last night she hopes to just get money for her birthday, and that she is going to donate 1/2 of it to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society or the American Cancer Society! She just amazes me!

We are on the countdown for treatments- only 3 treatments/months to go! She has come such a long way! But, please pray with us more than ever that she will never ever have to face cancer again. We are so thankful she is almost done with treatment, but it is a little scary too.

Sincerely,
Cindy

Sunday, October 5, 2003 7:09 AM CDT

I apologize that I haven't updated in so long. Thank you so much to those of you who continue to check and sign the guestbook.

Hillary had treatment and a spinal tap this past Tuesday. She has still not bounced back. She has been having terribly bad headaches. All week, she has just laid around, and for the most part even without the TV on because her head hurt too much to even watch TV. She has suffered this much from a spinal tap in several months. Thankfully, only one more spinal tap and four more treatments (months) to go.

Hillary also broke her ankle again a week ago. She was over at a friend's house playing football on the trampoline! She broke the same ankle, but different break.

School has been going well for Hillary. She works hard in trying to keep up with her classes, but it's now time to slow down. She's been trying to do it all and is just exhausted. I'm going to meet with her teachers next week and ask that her work load be reduced. They are wonderful, and I know they will understand.

Hillary is on the school yearbook staff this year. She is really enjoying that! She has a band concert this Tuesday night. I hope she'll be better and be able to play.

Samuel is doing well in school. We are taking a break from sports this fall. For me, I am loving teaching, but it is overwhelming at times trying to keep up the demands of teaching and taking care of my family.

Please continue to pray for Hillary- that she will recover very soon from the spinal tap, but most importantly that her leukemia will NEVER EVER return.

Sincerely,
Cindy

Saturday, August 23, 2003 8:37 AM CDT

Thank you to all of you who have continued to keep up with Hillary and sign her guestbook, even when I go so long without updating. Sorry about that.

Hillary has started back to school - 7th - grade and Sam is in 3rd grade. They both have wonderful teachers, and school is going well for them. And, I have started back as well. I teach at the same middle school Hillary attends which is so nice.

Hillary is doing so well right now. For the first time in almost 2 years, it feels like life is getting back to *normal*. We are only 2 weeks into it, but Hillary has not missed a day of school, nor had to sleep in due to fatigue from the chemo. (She missed 56 days last year!) She still continues her nightly chemo and goes for treatment again on Sept. 5th. But, she seems to have more energy right now than she's had in 2 years. I can't tell you how good it feels right now to see her full of energy and so happy. She was chosen for the yearbook staff at school and is very excited about that! I know we are only 2 weeks into school, and I also know how quickly things can change - she still has 6 months of treatment to go - but, we are cherishing this time right now. Thank you God!

Sam is at Sibling Weekend at Camp Sunshine right now! This is his first time going. He was so excited. Hillary always talks about how wonderful Camp Sunshine is. She told Sam this would be one of the most fun times he's ever had! It is so wonderful that Camp Sunshine has this time for siblings to get all the attention and fun!

SAM WILL BE 9 ON TUESDAY!!! We had a birthday party for Sam with a few of his friends at the pool last weekend. And, we still have 2 more family parties to go!

Thanks again for your continued prayers for Hillary and for our family. We feel so blessed that Hillary has come such a long way. God is good. It feels so wonderful after almost 2 years of treatment to say that Hillary only has 6 months to go! She will finish treatment in Feb. and we pray desperately that that will be the end of treatment and that she can live the rest of her life CANCER-FREE!

Wednesday, July 16, 2003 7:08 AM CDT

Hillary had treatment (including spinal tap) last week. She is doing fine now. She seemed to recover pretty quickly (for her) from the spinal tap- after a couple of days, she started perking up. Then after a couple of days of feeling better, the steroids kicked in, and she felt rotten from that. But, overall, she seemed to recover quickly.

Hillary went last Friday to have her cast from her broken ankle taken off. Well, they did take it off, but her x-rays showed that it had not yet healed, so they put another cast on. Bummer. Hopefully, this one won't have to stay on more than 2 weeks. And, of course, she had to keep her other cast with the famous signatures on it of RJ Helton and Jeff Foxworthy!

I am starting to work again this fall. (I resigned my teaching job when Hillary was diagnosed in Nov. 2001.) I am very excited about teaching again. I'll be teaching at Liberty Middle which is where Hillary goes and is right next door to Sam's school! I'll be teaching 8th grade algebra. I'm a little nervous about going back to work full-time. I just hope and pray Hillary continues to do well. Thankfully, Mark will be helping out with Hillary (as always) and can be flexible in his job when needed, and my mom is close by and will be able to help out alot as well. But, this year will be so much better than last since Hillary doesn't have to have spinal taps almost every month like last year. She will continue to go to treatment monthly through February, but only has spinal taps in October and January. Then, in Feb., THAT WILL BE HER LAST TREATMENT! We are on the countdown. Just, please pray with us that her cancer NEVER returns!

Please pray for our friends who have both relapsed after bone marrow transplants- Collin and Killian. Their websites are www.collinhuggins.com and www.killianowen.com.

Cindy

THERE IS A DESPERATE SHORTAGE OF PLATELETS. If you can donate, please call your local Red Cross. In the Atlanta area, call Lynn Smith at 404-253-5250 or email her at smithlynn@usa.redcross.org. There are several offices in the Atlanta area, including Alpharetta. Our friend, Killian, just had to go out of state for platelets because of the shortage. Save a life - donate! It is free. You'll never know whose life you'll save.

Sunday, June 22, 2003 2:31 PM CDT
Ok, well there is AWESOME NEWS, GREAT NEWS, and bad :-( news. I'll start with the AWESOME NEWS! As you can see above, Hillary is pictured with RJ Helton- American Idol finalist! RJ happens to be from the same town in which we live, but before now we didn't know him. When Hillary first got sick (before American Idol), RJ's mother sent us the sweetest card. In the card, she told me how much Hillary was in her thoughts and prayers. She also told me that her son, RJ, sings and would sing for Hillary if she wanted him to. In the beginning, we were just in survival mode, and unfortunately I never responded to her offer. Also, Hillary was very sick and in and out of the hospital for the first 9 months. Then, when we saw RJ on American Idol, I instantly knew it was the same RJ! For some reason, in all the whirlwind of intense treatment at that time (I'm sure because of the sincerity of the card), I never forgot her sweet note. Then after seeing RJ on American Idol, I didn't want to then call her up and ask if her famous son would now sing for Hillary. But, I hoped that I would one day get to meet her and thank her, and that Hillary would get to hear RJ sing in person. Well, that has now become a reality! RJ was doing a benefit concert at Lanierland Music Park last night, and Hillary and I went. We got there early, and got great seats near the front. A man was up on stage. I had no idea who he was, but I could tell he worked there. So, I just went up to him and asked if he knew Mrs. Helton because I'd like to meet her. Anyway, I went on to tell him the story. It just so happens that he was the host for the evening! Well, he brought Hillary and me up to the seats on the stage!!!! Before the concert began, we got to go backstage (restroom- yeah, right) because of her injury. Tell you later about that. Well, guess who was standing right there?! You guessed it! RJ!! Hillary whispered to me, "Mom, that's him." She and I were both starstruck and and couldn't say a word except, "Where's the restroom?" RJ directed us and he helped Hillary down the stairs! When we came out, RJ's mom was standing behind him, and I overheard someone say her name. (RJ was talking to someone else.) So, I finally got up the courage to tell her who we were and to thank her for the sweet card she sent Hillary a year and a half ago! Well, don't you know, RJ joined in on the conversation. He and his mom were so sweet!! RJ was the first person to sign Hillary's cast...tell you in a minute about that. Then, DURING the concert, RJ dedicated a song to Hillary that he used to sing to his cousin when she was in the hospital fighting cancer. By this time, Hillary (and I) were way up in the clouds just floating. Then, when he finished the concert, he hugged Hillary and me too as he left stage! I think all the girls in the audience were envious of Hillary. Later, after the concert, he gave Hillary an autographed picture of him with a sweet note saying how he would be praying for her. I also took a couple of pictures...look how green all the girls around are in that picture (above)! :-)

Hillary and I also got to talk to RJ's parents for a while too. They are the kindest family with a BIG heart for the Lord. RJ had been offered a contract with a secular record label, but he declined it. He signed on with a Christian label and will be releasing his CD on November 1st! We will definitely be the first in line to get it! RJ's mom gave me her phone number (no, I'm not posting it on the web), and I look forward to getting to know her better. We're hoping to get together for lunch soon. I'm still just amazed at the love and amount of time RJ and his family showed Hillary. Unfortunately, their neice lost her battle with cancer, but obviously they are so caring and understanding of what we are going through. RJ is not only an INCREDIBLE performer, but he is an incredible person. He'll never really know how much it meant to Hillary for him to be so kind. Our world is a better place because of people like him, and I am so thankful that he professes loudly that he is a Christian!

Ok, now for the GREAT news. We took Hillary to Camp Sunshine today! She has not stopped talking about all the fun she had last year, and has looked forward to going again ever since! I know she is having the BEST time!! But, I miss her already!!! I am so thankful for Camp Sunshine, and all the workers and volunteers who give of themselves so these children can actually be proud they have cancer! I met a girl a couple months ago who is 14 now, but had cancer at age 3. She point blank told me she is glad she had cancer because of Camp Sunsine! (Children who have or have had cancer can go to camp up until age 18.) Camp Sunshine is just incredible!

Now, for the bad news. Hillary broke her ankle last Thursday evening. She was running down the stairs and jumped off the last couple of stairs. I guess she just landed wrong. Yes, we were back in the orthopaedic office after Hillary being released as a patient (since she was a baby) 2 weeks ago for hip dysplasia. Anyway, she loves her patriotic cast - red and blue stripes! But, she is already sick of her crutches! They were fun- the first day. I hate it that she has to be on crutches at camp, but I know they will take good care of her! They have a golf cart they can drive the kids around in who need it. And, even though she can't swim :-(, Camp Sunshine has so many other things Hillary can do! She has to wear her cast for 3 weeks. At least it's not the whole summer!

Oh yeah- more bad news. Jazzy (Hillary's hamster) died. That broke Hillary's heart.

Thank you so much for your continued prayers.

Sincerely,
Cindy

Right now, the American Red Cross is so desperate for platelet donations, that they are waiving what they normally charge for testing. Personally, I am so thankful for all the people who have donated blood or platelets in the past - because those transfusions that Hillary has had while on heavy chemo saved her life. Without the blood and platelets available for her, she would not be here today. The process to give platelets takes less than 2 hours- but is easier than giving blood. They use smaller needles and take only about 2 tablespoons of platelets. They take no red nor white blood cells. And, you can watch a DVD as you give. If you are interested, please contact your local Red Cross. If you are in the Atlanta area, contact Lynn Smith (404-253-5250 or email SmithLynn@usa.redcross.org)at the Red Cross.

Mark and I are so grateful that Hillary is doing so well and no longer needs transfusions, but we know of so many kids from the cancer clinic that do and depend on blood or platelets to live. Will you consider giving of your time to help save someone's life? Right now, I know of several so many kids and adults who need these transfusions. I know many of you hate needles - but, trust me, I've never seen anyone hate it more than these kids on chemo and have to get stuck ALOT. I believe the rewards you will receive will far surpass any little discomfort you may feel.

Also, if you donate platelets, you can get on the bone marrow registry for free. They just take a little blood to do that. With leukemia and other certain cancers, bone marrow transplants are done as a last resort. Unfortunately, many children and adults die because a match is not found. By getting on the registry, you are not committing to be a bone marrow donor- that could be a decision you make if you were ever a match for someone that needed it.

I hope and pray that no one in your family ever has to face cancer, but unfortunately, I know that many of you have already faced it or are facing it with a loved one.

Thursday, June 12, 2003 8:59 AM CDT
Hillary is doing great! She had treatment on Monday -originally scheduled for last Friday but her doctor got sick! Doctors aren't supposed to get sick! She has been going strong since, and I think that she recovered quicker from that treatment than any other! We have been swimming every day this week since then!

WE GOT SOME INCREDIBLE NEWS LAST WEEK! Some of you know about Hillary's past hip problems. In a nutshell, she was born with a dislocated hip, had surgery at age 6 months, spent 3 months in a body cast, and hip surgery again at age 4 with 6 weeks in a body cast. Anyway, she has had to continue with yearly check ups with her orthopaedic since to make sure her hips continue to grow properly. Last week on her yearly checkup, her doctor said that her growth plates in her hip are closing, all is formed correctly, and basically her hip is perfect! HE RELEASED HER AS A PATIENT AND NO LONGER NEEDS TO SEE HER AFTER 12 YEARS OF THIS!!!! I was surprised, shocked, and just cried like a baby when we left his office! Hillary has overcame that battle, and is overcoming her battle with cancer with only has 8 months (of 2 1/2 years) to go with treatment!

She has 8 montly treatments left and 3 spinal taps left. She will have one next month, October, and January and that's it! (We originally thought she would get to go all summer without a spinal, but we misunderstood and she is supposed to have one next month.) Oh well... BUT, I'm proud to say that Hillary is doing great and enjoying her summer! We all are! We feel so blessed!

Thank you for your continued prayers.

Cindy

Monday, June 2, 2003 8:43 PM CDT
Hillary is finally feeling better (although not completely well yet). Last week, she was at the pediatrician on Tuesday, ER Tuesday night, and then back at the clinic again on Thursday for another round of IV antibiotics. Friday was the last day of school, (YEAH!) and Hillary went even though she really wasn't quite up for it. But, her fever was gone by then.

Her Horizons (gifted) class planned a surprise birthday party for one of Hillary's favorite teachers on the last day of school. Mrs. Palmer had mentioned months ago that she had never had a birthday party. Hillary took it upon herself to plan one for her and collect money from the class for a gift for her teacher. Guess what the gift was? A FROG! Mrs. Palmer LOVES frogs- has all kinds of frog stuff - but not a real frog. She had wanted one for a long time! I'm so proud of Hillary for taking it upon herself to plan such a nice party and gift for her teacher!

The last day of school for Hillary was an incredible day for me. I couldn't help but think about how far Hillary has come this past year and how proud I am of her. She missed ALOT of school this year - but last year she missed almost her whole 5th grade year! This year, Hillary was at school whenever possible and also on many days that she really should have stayed home but wanted to go. (She usually missed about a week or so a month after her monthly treatment.) Hillary worked hard and kept up her grades. Thankfully, that comes easily for her. Hillary has enjoyed being in the band and drama club. Her teachers and administration have been so kind, flexible, and understanding. Hillary has kept her faith, been (and still is) an inspiration to so many, and Mark and I couldn't be more proud!

And, of course, Mark and I are so proud of our son, Samuel, as well. He received the "Best Mathematician" award for his class as well as Merit Roll for the entire school year. His math abilities are well beyond second and probably third grade too! He has worked hard and really enjoyed second grade. He made friends so quickly at his new school as well. On the last day of school, I just went and hung out with him and his class. He loves having me there, and I just eat it up when he sits in my lap and wants to be with me in front of his friends! I know that may not last much longer...but I hope it does!

Hillary goes for treatment this week on Friday. She gets Vincristine and Pentamadine through her port, BUT NO SPINAL TAP this time!!!! As a matter of fact, her next spinal tap isn't until August! Many people ask me if it's painful for her, and the answer is no. They do her spinals in day surgery at the hospital and she is completely asleep. But,she often gets terrible spinal headaches and recovery from them is sometimes a week or longer.

Thank you so much for your concern and for praying for our precious daughter. We continue to pray that she will NEVER EVER relapse. Please pray for my friend, Rona, too. Her dad is suffering from cancer and is no longer able to take chemo due to a weak heart.

Cindy

Wednesday, May 28, 2003 11:45 AM CDT
Well, Hillary almost made it through the school year without fever and a visit to the ER! Last night her fever got up to 101.1 so the oncologist on call sent us to the ER. Hillary had to have a blood culture (showed negative) and Rocephin (antibiotic) and fluids through her port. We were at the hospital about 4 1/2 hours...we got home about 3:15 am this morning.

Hillary's counts were higher than they have ever been since chemo started! Her WBC was over 11,000 and her ANC was 10,430. I didn't know what to think about that. I talked to her nurse this morning, and she said that it was fine and was high because her body is fighting off infection. She said that was good that Hillary's immune system is kicking in! Whew! (They like for her ANC to stay between 1000-1500 while on maintenance therapy.) It's hard to believe that only 2 weeks ago, Hillary was neutropenic (ANC of 660) and would have required a 5-7 day hospital stay with fever then. We are very thankful that she was NOT admitted!

Hillary's fever is probably due to a nasty cold she has. She has a terrible sore throat, cough, and her sinuses are all stopped up. But, with a fever, they take no chances and require her to have IV antibiotics to make sure that an infection is not present around her port which could spread rapidly through her bloodstream.

Please pray Hillary will feel better soon! She really wants to be able to go to school....last day is this Friday.

Thanks so much for your prayers and concern! Please sign her guestbook!

Cindy

Thursday, May 22, 2003 11:16 AM CDT
Hillary's counts are back up, and her chemo has been increased to 75 She will have her counts checked again next week. Thankfully, no fever during her low counts (which would have meant a hospital stay for a few days)!

Hillary and I went to Relay for Life Friday night. Mark had a wedding rehearsal and was unable to go to Relay for Life. It was incredible! Hillary was too sick to walk the survivor's walk last year, but she did this year! I couldn't help but to be emotional thinking of how far she has come in her fight against cancer this past 1 1/2 years. Mark and I are so proud of her! She is truly amazing as are all of the survivors! It was so moving as we walked and everyone on the sidelines cheered. I tried not to be emotional, but I just couldn't help it! Hillary has 9 months of treatment left - which seems like a long time, but not really in the course of a 2 1/2 year protocol!

Only a few days of school left! We have no big plans for the summer except to relax, play, swim, and camp. Of course, Hillary will be going to Camp Sunshine which she is so excited about!

Thank you for your continued prayers that Hillary NEVER EVER relapse!

Sincerely,
Cindy

Monday, May 12, 2003 5:35 PM CDT
Hillary went for treatment and spinal tap today. It was a long day. They had accidentally dropped us from the schedule at the clinic AND the hospital. They were very apologetic about it....mistakes happen, but we ended up being there all day. Oh well.

Hillary's counts are low- ANC of 660 (which means she is neutropenic meaning very little ability to fight infection) and WBC 1.64. So they have cut her chemo by 50 percent. She's been on 100 percent chemo for a few months now, but now is back down to 50 percent. As long as it's working, that's ok with me. But, with her ANC so low, if she gets a fever, it will likely result in a 5-7 day hospital stay. We'll pray that does NOT happen!

After today, Hillary will continue with monthly treatments (9 more to go, who's counting?) and daily chemo by pills but she now only has to go every 3 months for spinal taps. That is such a relief. Although the monthly treatments are no piece of cake, hopefully she'll do much better now that she does not have to have the spinals. She won't have to have another one until right before school starts!

Cancer stinks. Please pray for Mark's mother's husband, Jonathon. He had surgery today to have a tumor removed and his shoulder blade as well. Please pray for the Bailey family who lost their husband/father last week due to cancer. He was my best friend's (from middle & high school and college) father. Also, please pray for Killian. He is a 9 year old little boy who has relapsed at least 2 times that I know of. He had a bone marrow transplant in Jan. His donor was his twin brother who was a perfect match, but Killian still relapsed. Now, they are almost out of options. We ran into them at the clinic. There is a new drug that has not even been approved for clinical trials for children at all, but has been tested in a few adults. Anyway, they are trying to get FDA approval to try it on Killian. His mom said another BMT is not an option. They are hoping and praying that Killian will be approved to try the new drug.

It seems like there are more people than ever being affected by cancer. It seems that just in our county that there are new cases diagnosed very often. What is going on?

Please pray with me:
Dear God, Please send us a cure for this dreadful disease. Please bless my precious child as she continues to fight. Please don't allow any cancer cells to return to her body, and if there are any hiding, please destroy those nasty cells while protecting her healthy ones. As West Nile Virus, SARS, and other illnesses and infections are spread, please keep Hillary safe and shielded from these. Thank you for Hillary's continued faith and the inspiration she is to so many of us. Thank you, God, for all the wonderful people who help in this fight - the nurses, doctors, CHOA, Team In Training, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Relay for Life, Camp Sunshine, Tony's Gang, chemo angels, Children's Wish Foundation, the Wunsch Foundation, our churches, community, friends, and family, etc., etc. God, I ask your special blessings for Killian and his family and Jonathon and Mark's mom as they fight this disease as well. And for all our children God who are battling this disease- so many I could never name them all. Although we don't understand Lord, we pray for your peace and strength through this. You are AWESOME! In Jesus' most holy name we pray. Amen.

A special thank you from my heart to all of you who have prayed with me and continue to pray.

Sincerely,

Cindy

Wednesday, May 7, 2003 12:24 AM CDT
Hillary is doing well this week. I went with her class (actually the whole 6th grade at her school) to the Renaissance Festival yesterday. We had a great time! Hillary goes again for treatment and spinal tap on Monday.

Sam went this morning for his post-op appointment. His ear looks great and is healing as it should be! (He had a hole in his ear drum that the doctor took some of Sam's tissue from behind his ear and repaired the hole.)

A year ago this past Monday was "Hillary Coffman Day" at Central Park. Our friends raised money for our family. It was an incredible day of LOADS OF FUN! There were several moonwalks, face-painting, cake walks, games, food, a silent auction. So many people came out- MANY who we didn't even know. So many people and businesses donated their money, time, services, food, etc. We will be forever grateful to every person who helped our family. We have used the money to pay medical expenses, along with our regular bills. God is good, and Mark and I are so thankful for everyone's generosity and love. "Hillary Coffman Day" was truly a day that our family will always treasure. The outpouring of love for Hillary - for us - was amazing!

Thank you for your continued prayers that Hillary will NEVER EVER relapse!

Sincerely,
Cindy

Tuesday, April 29, 2003 10:12 PM CDT
Samuel had his ear surgery today. The doctor did a fat graft something. Last year, Sam had a tube removed from his ear and a patch put on the ear drum. Well, he's had several infections and lots of draining from that ear. The patch didn't take so his ENT referred him to an ear (only) specialist who took fat from behind Sam's ear. He used that fat to patch the hole, hoping that his body will accept his own tissue. Sam's doing fine now- I haven't even needed to give him pain medicine yet. He's home too. He has a couple of internal stitches, covered with steri-strips, behind his ear. But, hopefully this surgery will work. Sam can't swim for 5 weeks, but he'll be in school 4 out of 5 of those weeks so that won't be too bad. I'm so proud of him. We had to be at Egleston Hospital at 8 am. He couldn't eat this morning and he couldn't drink after 7 am. After he took his last sip of Sprite on the way, he never complained once of being thirsty or hungry- and they didn't take him back for surgery until almost noon! It was really sweet when Hillary talked to him yesterday and told him what to expect with the anesthesia.

Hillary is doing well. She has started her own business and is now an entrepreneur. She made up flyers and put around the neighborhood for pet-sitting and/or dog-walking. Well, she now has a regular customer. One of our neighbors has 5 show dogs and wants her to rotate walking the dogs 3 times a week! It's great money for her and exercise for the both of us! It's a 1/2 mile walk to their house, then we walk the dog around the subdivision which is 1.1 miles, then a 1/2 mile home. The walk wears Hillary out, but she makes up for it riding the motorized scooter to and from their house while I have to ride the old-fashioned scooter that you actually have to work at getting it to go!

Hillary goes for her treatment and spinal tap the 2nd week in May. After that, she will continue monthly treatments, but only have to have spinals once every 3 months! That will be easier on her.

I am very excited about my new teaching job for the fall. I'm thrilled to be at Hillary's school and right next door to Sam's! I'll be teaching 8th grade algebra.

Please continue praying for Hillary that her cancer NEVER returns. And please pray that Sam's ear will heal quickly and that this surgery will work. I'd also like to ask for prayers for Jonathon, Mark's mother's husband. They have found cancer in him, but are waiting to see how the doctors recommend treating him.

Cindy

Thursday, April 17, 2003 10:22 AM CDT
We just had an awesome time on the Lighthouse Family Retreat at Grayton Beach, FL last week. As I mentioned before, it is a week long seaside retreat for cancer kids AND their families. It was started in 1999 by an oncology nurse practitioner who had a dream to offer this, free of charge, to families. She saw first hand how often these kids are hospitalized and the frequent trips to the hospital. She also saw what a toll it takes on families dealing with the stress of having a child with cancer. She wanted to offer a time at the beach for families to reconnect and have fun. Check out their website at www.lighthousefamilyretreat.org! The retreat was incredible! We are so grateful to Melinda (the NP who founded it), Mark (who leads singing, beach olympics, etc.), and all the volunteers who cook and clean for us- especially Cathy and Frank who were our "family partners."

Hillary had treatment and a spinal tap on Monday. She is having those terrible spinal headaches (which are made even worse with the steroids) and really not feeling well at all. Hopefully, she will feel better soon and be able to go back to school.

Well, I've got some good news. Yesterday I was offered a teaching job beginning this fall at Liberty Middle School! And, of course, I accepted! I'll be teaching math but I'm not yet sure what grade. This is the school that Hillary attends. Sam's elementary school is right next door, and it's only 5 minutes from our house! I was really hoping to get a job at Liberty. It is such an awesome school! I have subbed there quite a bit this year. The staff and administration are wonderful!!! I know it will be hard to go back to work with Hillary still on treatment, but beginning in June she will only have spinal taps once every three months. She will continue to have monthly chemo treatments, but will be done in Feb.! I'm so blessed to have my mom close by to help me as well.

Please pray hard that Hillary's cancer NEVER EVER returns!

Love,
Cindy

Sunday, April 6, 2003 11:55 PM CDT
Hillary did such a great job in her school play recently! Sorry, I haven't updated with new pictures in a while, but I will add that to my to-do list!

We are FINALLY getting to go on the Lighthouse Family Retreat at Santa Rosa Beach, FL over spring break! We are leaving in a few hours--- I guess I'm just so excited that I can't sleep! We kept trying to go last year, but it just never worked out and Hillary was pretty sick then. Anyway, Lighthouse is a Christian-based organization that provides a seaside retreat for cancer kids AND their families. Everyone we know that has been has absolutely loved it! Check out their website at www.lighthousefamilyretreat.org. I'll never forget how we met Melinda (an oncology nurse who started the Lighthouse) and Mark (he works there). It was just a few days after Hillary had been diagnosed with leukemia. She was having a rotten day that day and did not want any visitors. I happened to be in the hall and noticed a guitar by someone's room. I told Hillary I thought someone may be coming around singing and asked her if she'd like that. She quickly told me "NO!", but I invited them in anyway. It didn't take long at all and she was smiling and enjoying Mark singing and playing the guitar. He has this funny song called "Yoo-Hoo" and had a funny story about it before he sang it. Anyway, I'll never forget how much Mark and Melinda brightened Hillary's day. They also gave her a CD and later sent us info about Lighthouse.

Hillary goes again for treatment and a spinal tap on Monday, April 14th. Please pray all goes well and that she bounces back quickly from it. And, most of all pray that her cancer NEVER EVER returns!

Love,
Cindy

Thursday, March 20, 2003 7:34 AM CST
Thanks so much for your prayers. Hillary's fever never went up again on Sat.! No ER visit!

She is trying to get back in the swing of things and still recover from the crud. The steroids just make her feel awful and she doesn't sleep much at all at night. That makes it really hard to get up the next morning!

Anyway, her school play is this weekend! She is so excited!

Cindy

Saturday, March 15, 2003 10:56 AM CST
After Hillary's treatment on Wednesday, she has been feeling awful. She began running a fever about 4:00 the morning after treatment. Since her counts were high, I knew it was ok to wait and take her to the clinic later that morning. They gave her antibiotics and fluids (she had been throwing up as well) through her port. No fever on Friday, but she was still feeling badly with a terrible cough, headache, joint pains, etc. Now, today she already has a 100.4 temperature. I'm just monitoring her now, but if her fever goes up to 101, then I'll have to call the on-call oncologist and probably take her to the ER. This is the first time she's had a fever since last summer. But, at least now being on maintenance and having higher counts, she probably won't have to be admitted unless something grows in her blood cultures or they suspect an infection in her port. They usually do, however, feel it necessary for her to go to the clinic or ER (after hours) for IV antibiotics through her port when she gets a fever of 101. Please keep her in your prayers. She is already worried about not getting well before her school play that she is in next weekend.

Thank you,
Cindy

Wednesday, March 12, 2003 7:49 AM CST
We have been pretty busy lately, which is a good thing! Hillary has been doing pretty well- her energy level has been better and she's been back to school for full days these past couple of weeks. With that said, she goes for treatment today....but, no spinal tap this time. So, hopefully she will bounce back quickly. She has a terrible cough right now.

Hillary is in the school play coming up on March 21, 22, & 23. (Any of you who are local and would like to come, please email me and I'll send you more info.) She is so excited!

Samuel is playing baseball this spring and has just started practicing with his team.

Today is our 15th wedding anniversary for Mark and me! I love him dearly and am so thankful for my husband!
After so much rain, it is beautiful and sunny here....we have a serious case of SPRING FEVER!!!!

We have been painting and rennovating our NEW (to us) church office this past week. We will begin moving today. It is so exciting to finally have our permanent office, and we will be breaking ground for our church building in a couple of weeks or so!!!! God has and is truly blessing our church! Please pray for our church as we grow, build, and strive to do the work God has called for us to do. And, I ask that you pray for my husband, Mark, as he pastors and leads our congregation.

I have been substituting at Hillary's school most every day that she is doing well. I am trying to get a job teaching for the fall because we need the money and the benefits. I have truly missed teaching, though.

Thanks for your continued prayers for Hillary and our family. Please, pray for Hillary to never ever ever relapse.

Sincerely,

Cindy

Friday, February 21, 2003 1:04 PM CST
Hillary had an absolutely WONDERFUL time on the snow skiing trip. They not only went downhill skiing, they went cross-country skiing, dogsledding, snowmobiling, and tobogganing (?)! She said that the dogsledding was the best part, but that she loved it all! We've got some great pictures, which I'll try to put on the website soon. They also got to tour Lambeau Field, including the players' locker room! They gave them lots of NFL stuff as well. Jerry Wunsch, who used to play for the Seattle Seahawks, and Grant Winstrom of the St. Louis Rams, are awesome. I understand they are the ones who paid for everything including the trip, ski clothes, food, etc. A HUGE THANK YOU TO MR. WUNSCH, MR. WINSTROM, THE WUNSCH FOUNDATION, AND CAMP SUNSHINE!!! AND, OF COURSE TO NURSE DIANE AND JEFF WHO WERE THE CHAPRERONES WHO WENT FROM ATLANTA!

Hillary is recovering pretty quickly from her treatment and spinal tap this week. She went to school today for about a 1/2 day which is probably the quickest she's been back after a spinal tap! She also got her progress report today- all A's except for one 89!!! Mark and I are so proud of her and amazed at how she keeps her grades up when she misses so much school (usually about a week a month). Her teachers have been awesome too in working with her on what she misses!

Thank you so much for your continued prayers and love and concern for Hillary and our family.

Sincerely,

Cindy

Sunday, February 16, 2003 7:20 AM CST
Hillary finally comes home from the snow skiing trip in Wisconsin today! We have all missed her sooooooooo much! It sure has been quiet around here! She has called every day. Yesterday, she sounded pretty tired. She actually sounded like she missed us! She said she wanted to come home, but wanted to stay too! They had been snow-mobiling yesterday! I'll be sure to tell you more details once she is home and fills us in! Her airplane comes in this evening about 10:00.

Hillary goes for treatment and spinal tap on Tuesday. Please pray that all will go well and that she will bounce back quickly. She usually experiences the side effects from the spinal taps for about a week.

Mark's tongue is better; however, he hasn't gotten back all the feeling in it.

Since the kids were out of school this past Thursday and Friday, we took Samuel and his friend, Christopher, camping in the mountains. It was fun and nice to get away for a couple of days.

Thanks so much for your continued prayers for Hillary and our family. Please, don't forget to sign the guestbook!

Love,
Cindy

Thursday, February 6, 2003 7:29 PM CST
Hi. Sorry I haven't updated in a couple of weeks. Hillary is doing well, just pretty fatigued. I am letting her sleep in and go to school late some mornings because she just needs to rest. She doesn't go for treatment again (chemo and spinal tap) until Tues., Feb. 19th. She is looking forward to the upcoming ski trip (she's leaving the 12th) through Camp Sunshine and the Wunsch Foundation. She and 3 other kids and 2 sponsors (1 is a trusted nurse from the clinic) will be flying up to Wisconsin. She has never been that far away from us before, and I really can't believe we are letting her go without us! She is so excited. They provide her ski clothes, food, and everything for the trip.

Hillary will also be interviewed 680 am "The Fan" tomorrow. They are having a radio-thon to raise money for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, and Hillary was asked to share how leukemia has/is affecting her. Tune in at about 10:45 am.

Samuel is doing well too. He brought home the sweetest thing from school. He had to complete "If I had $100...." and he wrote, "I would donate it to the Louceny Compnee." Of course, he was talking about The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. He has such a big heart! Even though he's only 8, he worries about his big sister and prays for her often that her cancer will never come back!

Also, Samuel was tested for the gifted program at school just before Christmas, and we just recently found out that he made it into Horizons! He is so excited about it and loves it! I made the mistake of telling him before hand that the test was really hard and that even Hillary didn't pass it until she was in 4th grade. I just didn't want him to be disappointed if he didn't get in. Well, now that he has passed it in 2nd grade, as soon as he found out he passed, he told Hillary that he was smarter than she is because he passed it the first time and in 2nd grade. She quickly responded that the test was harder when she took it!

My poor hubby. He was playing basketball a week ago, and somehow got elbowed. He was knocked pretty hard and literally almost bit his tongue off. I'm not exaggerating either. I couldn't get him to go to the emergency room, but talked him into going to the doctor the next day. The doctor told him that if he had gone to ER, they would have put in 10-12 stitches! Anyway, his regular doc told him he'd never seen anything like it. He brought another doctor in to see it, then the nurses were coming in one by one asking if they could see, then the office personnel. Apparently, they were pretty fascinated by it. His doctor sent him that day to a specialist where Mark got 2 stitches on the inside, and he glued it down with some kind of gel. Well, it popped open, the doctor glued it down again yesterday, and then it popped open again today. Mark has pretty much been living on shakes and soup for the past week. He can't talk very well either.... Please pray for him that his tongue will heal soon. In the past few months, he's had 3 root canals, his wisdom teeth cut out, and now this!

I've been substituting alot and right now am filling in for a teacher that had surgery. It's tiring, but I'm really enjoying it, and we need the money.

Thanks for your care and concern. Please, please continue to pray that Hillary will NEVER EVER relapse!

Cindy

Friday, January 24, 2003 at 07:42 AM (CST)
Hillary is doing much better! Wednesday was the turning point for her and the spinal headaches FINALLY went away! She would have been able to go back to school on Thursday (after being out since last Thursday), but schools here were closed due to some icy roads. But, she is back today and feeling great!

Brrrrrr....it's so cold here. They said the wind chill right now is below 0 degrees F!

Sam is doing great too....we've all been blessed so far in avoiding the flu that's going around. Maybe that flu shot is working!

Hillary is looking forward to going snow skiing in Wisconsin in Feb. with Camp Sunshine through the Wunsch Foundation. Four children in the Atlanta area were chosen and she was one of them! I can't believe that Mark and I are letting her fly to Wisconsin without us....but one of her favorite nurses from the clinic whom we know and trust will be going with her. Who knows- maybe Mark, Sam and I will visit some of our friends who live in Wisconsin! Hillary is not due for treatment again until she gets back from the trip, so I feel sure she will be doing well then.

Thank you so much for your continued prayers and concern. Please take a second and sign the guestbook so we know you care!

Cindy

Friday, January 24, 2003 at 07:42 AM (CST)
Hillary is doing much better! Wednesday was the turning point for her and the spinal headaches FINALLY went away! She would have been able to go back to school on Thursday (after being out since last Thursday), but schools here were closed due to some icy roads. But, she is back today and feeling great!

Brrrrrr....it's so cold here. They said the wind chill right now is below 0 degrees F!

Sam is doing great too....we've all been blessed so far in avoiding the flu that's going around. Maybe that flu shot is working!

Hillary is looking forward to going snow skiing in Wisconsin in Feb. with Camp Sunshine through the Wunsch Foundation. Four children in the Atlanta area were chosen and she was one of them! I can't believe that Mark and I are letting her fly to Wisconsin without us....but one of her favorite nurses from the clinic whom we know and trust will be going with her. Who knows- maybe Mark, Sam and I will visit some of our friends who live in Wisconsin! Hillary is not due for treatment again until she gets back from the trip, so I feel sure she will be doing well then.

Thank you so much for your continued prayers and concern. Please take a second and sign the guestbook so we know you care!

Cindy

Sunday, January 19, 2003 at 04:16 PM (CST)
UPDATE- WED. JAN.22, 2002
Hillary is still not back at school after last week's treatment. She is still trying to get over those terrible headaches resulting from the spinal tap. They are the kind that mainly hurt when she's up, but usually ok when she is lying flat. She just finished her last day of this month's steroids. She hates the way they make her feel. She tells me she feels so mean inside and other times she just cries. Hopefully, today will be the turning point for her to feel better.

Hillary had treatment this past Thursday- chemo and spinal tap. She did ok, but still hasn't been able to do much. Thankfully, she is not still nauseous, but she has these darn spinal headaches that just don't seem to go away. She wanted to go to church so badly today. We actually went, but she felt horrible, so we left after a few minutes. She also had free tickets to the Atlanta Thrasher's hockey game today, but she wasn't up to going. She was really disappointed, and I was disappointed for her. I wish so badly I could take her pain away. It's days like today that I just have to remind myself that she is getting better, treatment is working, and we have met so many wonderful people because of this. And, Hillary has had many fun things come her way because of this....Australia, Camp Sunshine, Chemo angels- Angel Katie, Angel Margie and Angel Andrea, Tony's Gang, Hillary Coffman Day, etc. etc. Cancer can be a lonely road too. I often feel like there are so few people who understand. Even though it has been over a year now since diagnosis, it is still so hard at times and the pain is still there especially when I have to watch my little girl get treatment and deal with its side effects. Thanks for "listening" and for caring. Sorry to be so down right now.

Please continue to pray that Hillary will forever stay in remission! Please also pray for our friend, Dustin, who is at St. Jude's getting radiation for a brain tumor right now.

Cindy

Sunday, January 12, 2003 at 05:34 PM (CST)
Hillary is doing well and finally getting over her sinus infection. She goes for treatment - chemo and spinal tap on Thursday of this week. We are hoping and praying she'll recover quickly. Tony's Gang gave us tickets for the Atlanta Thrashers hockey game next Sunday, and Hillary really wants to go! Sometimes she bounces back quickly from the spinal taps,and sometimes it can get her down for a week!

Hillary's hair is growing back and looks so good! Above is a current picture of Hillary and her new hamster.

Thanks for your prayers for my dad. After another (he had this done is Sept. too) heart cath and angioplasty, he is at home recovering. His spirits are good. The doctors said he did not have a heart attack this time, but just warning signs. One of the stints they had put in had clogged up, so they had to go in and radiate it and clean it out.

I'd also like to ask your prayers for another child, Dustin Sharp, that has just been diagnosed with a brain tumor. He is 12 and is the son of one of my husband's best friends from his childhood. On Dec. 20th, they found a brain tumor and did surgery on him on Dec. 23rd. He has now been transferred to St. Jude's Hospital in Memphis for 8 weeks of radiation. His prognosis is excellent, but he obviously has alot to go through. Pray for Dustin and his family as they battle this and that the effects of the radiation will be minimal for him.

Sunday, January 05, 2003 at 06:57 PM (CST)
Hillary is doing ok. She is fighting a nasty cold and cough, and has been sleeping ALOT! But, so far no fever nor infection. Hopefully, she won't get a fever, but if she does, we'll have to make a trip to the ER so they can administer antibiotics through her port. At this point, that probably would not mean a hospital admission as it has in the past because her counts are on the high side right now (for her, that is).

Please pray for my dad. He had to go back to the hospital Friday night with heart problems again. They have been doing lots of tests on him, and he will be transferred to St. Joseph's Hospital tomorrow where they will do a heart cath. Dad's spirits are good and he seems to think they won't find anything. I hope and pray he's right, but then I'll still worry what is causing his chest pains, dizziness, and weakness. While he's been on the heart monitor this weekend, the doctor did say that his heart rate has dropped alot a couple of times. I don't know what all that means. And, please pray for my mom to as she is supposed to have surgery to remove the pins and the cast from her broken arm this week. (It was supposed to be tomorrow, but of course, we are re-scheduling that.) So, it sounds like Mom and Dad are going to need me to help take care of them, and I am so blessed to be close to them so I can help out. And, of course, my brother and his wife are near too, and we all find it a priviledge to help our parents whenever we can. They've been so good to us and have always been there for us.

Thanks so much for your prayers for Hillary's continued remission and that her cancer will NEVER EVER return.

Sincerely,
Cindy

Wednesday, January 01, 2003 at 01:18 PM (CST)
PLEASE CHECK OUT THE WEBSITE www.makeachildsmile.org! HILLARY IS ONE OF THE FEATURED CHILDREN FOR JANUARY 2003!

ALSO, HER ARTWORK IS FEATURED FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL 2004 FOR CURE CHILDHOOD CANCER. YOU CAN ORDER ONE AT www.curechildhoodcancer.org for $5. THE MONEY GOES TO A VERY WORTHY CAUSE!

We wish all of you a very happy New Year! God has blessed our family tremendously over this past year. Hillary has come such a long way in her treatment. This time next year, we will be counting the days down until the end of treatment! (She finishes in Feb. 2004.)

Our family had a wonderful Christmas! Hillary's favorite thing she got was her pet hamster she named "Jazzy." It is cute, but does favor a rat... Anyway, Hillary has wanted one for a long time! Sam's favorite present is his Gameboy Advance. For Hillary's birthday this year, she invited Maggie and Riley to go to Q-Zar with us to play lasar tag. It was fun, but I am terrible! The kids loved it! This is the first year Hillary decided not to have a big party! But, of course, we still had 2 separate family parties during our Christmas celebrations.

Hillary's counts right now are a little on the high side (ANC of 1450), so I imagine they will increase her home chemo (pills) up to 100% when she goes back to the clinic in 2 weeks for treatment and spinal tap. She has only been on 75% chemo as they have waited for her counts to build so her body can handle more chemo at a certain level. They like for her ANC (infection fighting ability) to be between 1000-1500. I know it's ideal for Hillary to get 100% chemo, but unfortunately that means increased side-effects for her too. So far, mainly just lots more fatigue as far as home chemo goes.

Over this past year, God has been at work in our family. Although I know He doesn't want my daughter to suffer, I believe her faithfulness is such and inspiration to so many. God can and definitely brings good out of hard times. Hillary has come a long way through this cancer, but please continue to pray with us that she will never ever relapse! My family has also seen God's healing in my grandmother (after doctor's said she wouldn't live through the night a year ago!), my father has recovered from his heart attack and doing well, our church has continued to grow and will hopefully have our own church facility this time next year, our family has grown closer through our hard times, my mom's arm continues to heal after a bad break and surgery a month ago, and so much more

I ask for your prayers for Samuel as he will be having surgery on his ear again probably within the next couple of months. (I know that seems minor compared to what so many are going through, but I do worry about him and want him to be well.) This will be his 3rd surgery on his ear. I also ask you remember Jonathon (Mark's mother's husband) in your prayers as he has a mass in his hip and doctors are still waiting to do more tests before deciding what to do. And please remember our friend, Austin, who is recovering from hepatitis.

HAPPY 2003!!!!

Wednesday, January 01, 2003 at 01:18 PM (CST)
PLEASE CHECK OUT THE WEBSITE www.makeachildsmile.org! HILLARY IS ONE OF THE FEATURED CHILDREN FOR JANUARY 2003!

ALSO, HER ARTWORK IS FEATURED FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL 2004 FOR CURE CHILDHOOD CANCER. YOU CAN ORDER ONE AT www.curechildhoodcancer.org for $5. THE MONEY GOES TO A VERY WORTHY CAUSE!

We wish all of you a very happy New Year! God has blessed our family tremendously over this past year. Hillary has come such a long way in her treatment. This time next year, we will be counting the days down until the end of treatment! (She finishes in Feb. 2004.)

Our family had a wonderful Christmas! Hillary's favorite thing she got was her pet hamster she named "Jazzy." It is cute, but does favor a rat... Anyway, Hillary has wanted one for a long time! Sam's favorite present is his Gameboy Advance. For Hillary's birthday this year, she invited Maggie and Riley to go to Q-Zar with us to play lasar tag. It was fun, but I am terrible! The kids loved it! This is the first year Hillary decided not to have a big party! But, of course, we still had 2 separate family parties during our Christmas celebrations.

Hillary's counts right now are a little on the high side (ANC of 1450), so I imagine they will increase her home chemo (pills) up to 100% when she goes back to the clinic in 2 weeks for treatment and spinal tap. She has only been on 75% chemo as they have waited for her counts to build so her body can handle more chemo at a certain level. They like for her ANC (infection fighting ability) to be between 1000-1500. I know it's ideal for Hillary to get 100% chemo, but unfortunately that means increased side-effects for her too. So far, mainly just lots more fatigue as far as home chemo goes.

Over this past year, God has been at work in our family. Although I know He doesn't want my daughter to suffer, I believe her faithfulness is such and inspiration to so many. God can and definitely brings good out of hard times. Hillary has come a long way through this cancer, but please continue to pray with us that she will never ever relapse! My family has also seen God's healing in my grandmother (after doctor's said she wouldn't live through the night a year ago!), my father has recovered from his heart attack and doing well, our church has continued to grow and will hopefully have our own church facility this time next year, our family has grown closer through our hard times, my mom's arm continues to heal after a bad break and surgery a month ago, and so much more

I ask for your prayers for Samuel as he will be having surgery on his ear again probably within the next couple of months. (I know that seems minor compared to what so many are going through, but I do worry about him and want him to be well.) This will be his 3rd surgery on his ear. I also ask you remember Jonathon (Mark's mother's husband) in your prayers as he has a mass in his hip and doctors are still waiting to do more tests before deciding what to do. And please remember our friend, Austin, who is recovering from hepatitis.

HAPPY 2003!!!!

Saturday, December 21, 2002 at 06:25 AM (CST)

Every year we enjoy so much getting Christmas cards from our friends and family and especially the ones that include pictures of you. We usually send out Christmas cards as well, but are not doing that this year. We also love the Christmas letters we get telling about your family for that year. So, this is our Christmas letter to you:

Dear Friends,

What an incredible year we have had! We have two beautiful children that we love dearly. Yes, our daugter has health struggles, but God is so good, and He has granted us so much happiness and joy. We have learned in the midst of hard times, to seize the moment and find joy.

Hillary, our Christmas child, will be 12 on Christmas Day. It's so hard to believe that she is approaching her teenage years. We are so thankful for the lovely young lady she is. Hillary loves the Lord deeply and is eager to share her faith with others. She loves our church and youth group. She has the biggest heart of any child we know and is wise way beyond her years. In spite of missing so much school, she has maintained all A's in school. She enjoys band in school and plays the saxaphone. She is also excited to have a part in the school play "Up the Down Staircase" which will be in March. Hillary has handled her illness with such grace and style. She is an inspiration to so many people. We are proud to say that she is a one year cancer survivor. She will continue treatment until February 2004.

Samuel is now 8 years old and in the second grade. We are constantly told by others that he is just the sweetest child, and we agree. Sam loves playing baseball and soccer. He enjoys time with his friends and loves having friends over to play. He is making A's in school and his teacher is amazed at his mathematical abilities. His favorite toys are any kind of transformers or Legos. We often think that he will be some kind of engineer some day, but he often says he may become a preacher like his dad. He has a heart for God and is such a blessing to us. He has handled Hillary's illness so well. He is so flexible and understanding of what she is going through. He rarely prays a prayer without asking God to bless his sister.

Mark is a wonderful father, husband, and pastor. He remains faithful and works diligently to reach others for Christ and to expand our ministries at Southside Church. We are all thrilled at our land purchase for our church and hope that we will be in our very own church building this time next year. (We are currently meeting at Vickery Creek Elementary.)

I continue to take care of my family from being a nurse, chaffeur, and all those other things I could name. I love being a mother and wife and am so blessed to have such a wonderful family. With Hillary in school now (most days), I have started substituting at her middle school and am loving it. I hope to teach again this fall.

This past year, our friends and family have just been incredible. The love that has been shown to us during Hillary's battle with leukemia is just amazing. "Hillary Coffman Day" on May 5th is such a precious memory to us of a community coming together to reach out to a little girl to make her feel special and help us financially.

We are also pleased to say that Hillary's artwork was chosen for the month of April for the Cure Childhood Cancer 2003 calendar. If you would like to order one, go to their website at www.curechildhoodcancer.org. They are $5 and the money goes for a wonderful cause.

Thank you to everyone who continues to show their love to us. Thank you for reading this and caring. Please, take a moment to sign Hillary's guestbook because Hillary and all of us treasure each and every entry.

God bless you all. Merry Christmas and have a very happy, joy-filled 2003!

With Much Love,
Mark & Cindy Coffman

Wednesday, December 18, 2002 at 10:46 AM (CST)
Hi everyone. Sorry I haven't updated in a couple of weeks. Hillary goes this afternoon for treatment....but at least she doesn't get a spinal tap this month!! I'm hoping she will bounce back very quickly since she doesn't have the spinal too! But, she begins the dreaded steroids today.... Actually I think the mood swings have started without the steroids. She got upset at school today because someone brought a snake. No, that part didn't upset her- she loves snakes! What bothered her was the rat that person brought with him for the snake's lunch! Hillary couldn't bear to watch another animal get eaten. She is such an animal lover, and she has such a BIG heart!

I wish everyone a very Merry Christmas! Enjoy the holidays and cherish every moment with your loved ones!

Cindy

Thursday, December 05, 2002 at 09:44 AM (CST)
Hillary is doing well this week. Last week, was pretty rough coming off the steroids. Hillary was definitely a bit emotional and irritable. As one mom said of her daughter on steroids, only my child's dog could talk to her. :-) She goes today for count check.

Mark, Hillary, and Samuel were very sweet in celebrating my birthday on Monday. We all went out to Outback Steakhouse, and came home and had cake. I'm trying not to feel old, but no one ever mistakes me for a teenager anymore....as a matter of fact, they haven't done that in years- since my 20's. Oh well...I'm approaching middle age, but still have many years to go before I'll say I'm middle-aged!

My mom's 60th birthday is today! We had special plans for her on Tuesday night, but they fell through because she fell and broke her wrist in 2 places and had to have surgery. Bless her heart. Anyway, we are definitely rescheduling it. I can't wait to tell you about it, but I don't want to spoil the surprise for her!

And, speaking of birthdays, most of you know Hillary's birthday is also Christmas Day! She will be 12! Almost a teenager! And, Mark's birthday is the 23rd....he'll be my age! And, then, my sister-in-law's (Nancy's) birthday is Jan. 2nd. We definitely go broke between birthdays and Christmas in December!

Good news- Hillary got a part in the school play! She is so excited. They are just now starting to practice and the production will be in March.

Samuel is doing well too. He is getting so tall and making all A's in school! He is majorly into playing with any kind of transformer!

Take care,

Cindy

Tuesday, November 26, 2002 at 07:55 AM (CST)
Ok, for all of you confused over the guestbook entries about the toilet, let me explain. Hillary did a presentation about her wish trip to Australia to her classmates. One topic she discussed was ways she saw Australia was different than America. The most interesting thing, apparently, to her classmates, was the Aussie toilets. Australians are really into conserving. So, almost all of their toilets have 2 buttons on top for flushing. One half-shaded button for #1 and a full-shaded second button for #2. Get it? I hope so, because I'm not going into more detail!

Hillary bounced back MUCH more quickly than usual from her spinal tap Sunday. I never gave her the first pain pill (for the terrible spinal headaches), and she was only nauseous the first day! Thank you God! But, they have upped her dosage of steriods, and she is battling the side effects from that which is why she didn't go to school yesterday or today.

Sunday night at youth groups, Hillary shared her testimony. She didn't focus on all her suffering....she focused on keeping the faith during hard times. What a testimony! I am so proud of my daughter! She is definitely an example to me.

I'm thankful for:
* God who brings so many blessings my way, answers prayers, and so much more.
* God loves me in spite of myself.
* My husband, Mark, who is my best friend and the best husband in the entire world!
* Hillary is a 1 year survivor of cancer!
* I have watched my daughter's faith grow tremendously through these hard times. She is such an inspiration to me and many others.
* My son, Samuel, who never forgets to pray for Hillary.
* Samuel hugs and kisses me IN PUBLIC still!
* Southside Church- we've purchased land and will hopefully be building our church home around Spring. But, more importantly, we have an awesome, loving church family.
* My family and friends whom I love dearly.
* My dad's recovery from his recent heart problems.
* Chemo angels- Angel Katie, Angel Margie, and Angel Andrea- who bring so much sunshine to Hillary and our family while dealing with cancer.
* All the other chemo angels who step in and give added joy during really hard times. I could never name you all.
* Tony's Gang which also bring much joy our way.
* ALL-Kids- a parent's email support group.
* The incredible teachers and staff at Liberty Middle that are so understanding and flexible of our situation.
* That both my kids are surrounded by teachers who love God.
* All of you who are reading this because you care.
* The doctors and nurses who help bring healing.
* The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society who helps patients, their families, but more importantly pours money into research so there will soon be a cure for blood-related cancers.
* All the many many prayers for Hillary and our family.
* And, this list could go on and on and on and on....
GOD IS GOOD!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING,
Cindy

Thursday, November 14, 2002 at 10:29 AM (CST)
Well, finally everyone is better at our household. Hillary had a hard time shaking the sinus infection, and it really drug her down, but she is much better now! Mark has recovered from getting his wisdom teeth cut out last week too.

Hillary goes for treatment again on Friday, Nov. 22nd. She has to have a spinal tap and other chemo. Please, pray that she will do better with this spinal tap. The last few have gotten her down for about a week and have caused her to have severe headaches.

School is going well for Hillary. She is really enjoying it! She comes home exhasted, though!

Samuel is doing great too. He brought home his report card last week of all A's! Hillary doesn't get hers for 3 more weeks, though.

If I don't update again before Thanksgiving, I hope everyone has a great holiday! We certainly have sooooo very much to be thankful for!

Thanks for your continued prayers that Hillary will forever stay in remission!

Sincerely,
Cindy

Tuesday, November 05, 2002 at 06:04 AM (CST)
Please pray for Mark today. He has had alot of problems lately with his teeth. He went to the dentist yesterday for another root canal. The dentist said his problems are a result of his wisdom teeth coming in all wrong. Mark was originally scheduled to have them removed (they are impacted)on Dec. 9th, but yesterday the dentist called the oral surgeon and said it could not wait. So, late yesterday afternoon, surgery was scheduled for this morning for Mark. I've heard this is pretty hard on adults. Please pray all goes well and for a quick recovery.

Please pray for Hillary too. She has a terrible sinus infection and has been on the verge of 101 degrees temp. (100.8) in which we then have to take her to the ER for IV antibiotics and possible admission depending on her counts.

On November 7th, a year ago was when Hillary was diagnosed with leukemia. Our lives have changed drastically since then. Hillary has fought hard against cancer, she's had several hospital admissions - 8, I think, she missed almost all of her 5th grade year, she lost her hair, and has had more sticks than most of us will have in a lifetime. It's also obviously had an affect on all of us. I had to resign my teaching position, I can drive to CHOA at Scottish Rite blindfolded, and I can pack a suitcase in 1 minute while sleepwalking in the middle of the night when we have to make a trip to the ER. Hillary, Mark and I can spell chemotherapy medicines such as methotrexate, asparginase, vincristine, and more. Hillary has even corrected a hospital nurse on the correct spelling of asparginase! We've even educated a couple of anesthesiologists on what Kytril is and why Hillary needs it before a spinal tap. Hillary has learned to make herself a full meal during the night when she is starving from the results of steroids. She can explain to anyone what acute lymphoblastic leukemia is, how it affects the red and white blood cells, what the job of those cells are, and more.

I personally have battled alot of depression, but I truly feel that I have finally turned that over to God. Please pray for me that I will continue to leave it at the cross and not let depression control me.

But, in spite of all the hard times over this past year, there has truly been some great times we've had together as a family that we will always treasure. Of course, that includes Hillary's wish trip to Australia. Also at the top of the list is "Hillary Coffman Day" which was this past May 5th. It was an incredible with hundreds of people attending, music, lots of fun games for the kids, great food, a silent auction, and more. So many people and businesses donated items, money, and time to make this possible. And, of course, that wouldn't have happened without the endless hours of planning that went into it from our dear friends.

One of the best parts for Hillary has been her wonderful chemo angels. Angel Katie and Angel Margie send Hillary gifts weekly and Angel Andrea always sends Hillary cards. These ladies are so caring and have put so much time, money, and energy in helping to bring smiles to Hillary during difficult times. You can find out more about chemo angels on the link near the bottom of this page.

Over the past year, our family has grown so much closer. Mark and I are more patient than ever because we know now how piddly things that used to bother us are just that - piddly and not worth it. We have grown closer to the Lord and each other and our children. He has carried us through this and blessed us tremendously. Not a day goes by in which we don't thank God for our children, family, blessings, each other, and more. It also amazes me at how much I've seen Hillary's relationship with God grow and flourish. Samuel has been so understanding of the changes in our lives too. He told me the reason he didn't cry for his flu shot was because he did it for Hillary so she wouldn't get sick.

Hillary has come such a long way in treatment. She is done with the intensive treatment she had for the first 9 months. Although treatment is still hard on her, she does well through it all and feels good most of the time. She is able to go to school most days, but usually does miss about a week during the months she has to have spinal taps. Hillary has about 1 year and 3 months left on treatment.

Hillary has also accumulated numerous hats! But, her hair is now growing back and should not fall out again!

We earnestly ask that you pray that Hillary will forever stay in remission.

Thank all of you who read and keep up with Hillary's progess, pray for us, and care. It means so much to us. And please, don't forget to sign the guestbook.

Sincerely,
Cindy

Tuesday, October 29, 2002 at 08:54 PM (CST)
We are finally adjusting to the 14 hour time difference. But, I'm no longer a morning person!

Hillary has had such a tough time since her spinal tap and other treatment she had last Thursday. Thankfully, her spinal fluid came back clear. But, she is still suffering with terrible headaches. She did not go back to school until today, but only lasted 2 hours. I took her to the clinic. Her doctor has increased her pain meds and wants her to drink alot of caffeine! A prescription for Mountain Dew Code Red! Apparently, caffeine helps to offset the side effects of the spinal taps. Hillary finally perked up some this afternoon and we were able to go to the dedication of the new Cumming City Hall. We were proud to be there with my family. The food was great- it was catered by The Varsity. For those of you who may not be familiar with Atlanta, it's the best, greasiest food in Georgia! And, my dad is feeling much better after his recent angiogram. Thanks so much for your prayers for Dad and Hillary!

Mark and Samuel are doing great. For career day at school, Sam wore his vest and cap from the Australia Zoo. That was about all I could come up with since he didn't tell me until that morning. But, he loved it and was excited to wear his zoo clothes!

Please pray for Hillary tomorrow as she goes for an MRI of her hips and bones. This is just to make sure everything is fine since the steroids can deplete calcium from her bones and cause other problems. ***UPDATE WED. 10/30 - AFTER SPEAKING WITH HILLARY'S ORTHOPAEDIC THIS MORNING, WE HAVE CANCELLED THE MRI. Her symptoms have subsided since the MRI was scheduled a month ago, and her ortho does not think it is related to osteoporosis nor avascular necrosis! (Hillary had been having discomfort in her hip during PE at school. The doc thinks that is was related to her being inactive for so long.) Whew! I definitely don't want to put her through a needless procedure and expose her body to unnecessary radiation.***

Thanks again for all your concern, love, and prayers.

Cindy

Tuesday, October 29, 2002 at 08:54 PM (CST)
We are finally adjusting to the 14 hour time difference. But, I'm no longer a morning person!

Hillary has had such a tough time since her spinal tap and other treatment she had last Thursday. Thankfully, her spinal fluid came back clear. But, she is still suffering with terrible headaches. She did not go back to school until today, but only lasted 2 hours. I took her to the clinic. Her doctor has increased her pain meds and wants her to drink alot of caffeine! A prescription for Mountain Dew Code Red! Apparently, caffeine helps to offset the side effects of the spinal taps. Hillary finally perked up some this afternoon and we were able to go to the dedication of the new Cumming City Hall. We were proud to be there with my family. The food was great- it was catered by The Varsity. For those of you who may not be familiar with Atlanta, it's the best, greasiest food in Georgia! And, my dad is feeling much better after his recent angiogram. Thanks so much for your prayers for Dad and Hillary!

Mark and Samuel are doing great. For career day at school, Sam wore his vest and cap from the Australia Zoo. That was about all I could come up with since he didn't tell me until that morning. But, he loved it and was excited to wear his zoo clothes!

Please pray for Hillary tomorrow as she goes for an MRI of her hips and bones. This is just to make sure everything is fine since the steroids can deplete calcium from her bones and cause other problems. ***UPDATE WED. 10/30 - AFTER SPEAKING WITH HILLARY'S ORTHOPAEDIC THIS MORNING, WE HAVE CANCELLED THE MRI. Her symptoms have subsided since the MRI was scheduled a month ago, and her ortho does not think it is related to osteoporosis nor avascular necrosis! (Hillary had been having discomfort in her hip during PE at school. The doc thinks that is was related to her being inactive for so long.) Whew! I definitely don't want to put her through a needless procedure and expose her body to unnecessary radiation.***

Thanks again for all your concern, love, and prayers.

Cindy

Friday, October 18, 2002 at 11:48 PM (CDT)
G'Day! We had an INCREDIBLE trip to Australia for Hillary's wish trip! It was truly the BEST time together I think our family has ever had!

Well, I'm sure the question in most of your minds is if Hillary got to meet Steve Irwin. I'm sad to say that she didn't. But, she was given a very special tour of the zoo and received many great perks that only special guests get to receive. Once we arrived, Claire and Breeanna, our tour guides, took Hillary and gave her a Crocodile Hunter vest and cap so she would look like a zoo worker. Hillary (no one else) got to hold a koala and pose for a picture! The koala left Hillary a present....poo poo! Hillary felt honored! Hillary got to kiss a dingo and walk a goat. She and Samuel got to get in with Harriet the Tortoise who is 172 years old and about 400 lbs.! Hillary got to hold a HUGE burmese python, and then they wrapped the snake around our whole family! It was heavy! Hillary and Sam got to pet a baby alligator, feed and pet kangaroos, feed a camel, and much more! It was GREAT! Both kids said that was the best part of the trip!

We stayed on the Gold Coast, which we were told is Australia's Hawaii! It was beautiful! The waves were HUGE and nothing like we've ever seen in Florida! After the trip to the zoo, we also went to Dream World and Sea World in Brisbane. Then, we flew to Sydney which was fantastic! The city was breath-taking! While at Sydney, we toured the city, the Blue Mountains (with Garry-the BEST limo driver!)and went on a luncheon harbour cruise. We also visited the Featherdale Wildlife Park where Hillary and Samuel got to hold and cuddle a baby wallaby!

One of the best things was getting to meet Hillary's Australian pen pal, Jessica. They originally met (by emails and letters) because Jessica's mom, Colleen, was given Hillary as a special chemo angel assignment. (Check out the chemo angel web site below.) With Jessica's family, we went on the monorail around the city, the Sky Tower Tour, and they took us to eat at a great pie place called Harry's at Darling Harbour.

We also got a special personal tour of the Opera House. It was breath-taking as well! Thanks Kim and Derek!

The last day in Sydney, we went to the world famous Bondi Beach. Hillary got private surfing lessons! The water was so cold, but she said her wet suit kept her warm although she couldn't feel her hands and feet! She almost got up and probably would have if it hadn't been for high tide coming in. The waves were HUGE and brutal!

So after all that, and literally days on planes, we are exhausted! We all slept on and off most of the night and today after getting home last night.

There's so much more! I will always remember Hillary's smiles and excitement and will try to replace my memories of her hard times on chemo in the past and to come with the memories of a very special once in a lifetime trip we had together as a family. Thanks so much for all your prayers.

CHECK OUT THE NEW PHOTOS FROM OUR TRIP IN HER PHOTO ALBUM!

UPDATE WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2002
Hillary goes for treatment tomorrow and for a spinal tap. Please pray that her spinal fluid is all clear and that she doesn't get those terrible headaches from the spinal.

Thanks so much for your prayers.

Cindy

Friday, October 18, 2002 at 11:48 PM (CDT)
G'Day! We had an INCREDIBLE trip to Australia for Hillary's wish trip! It was truly the BEST time together I think our family has ever had!

Well, I'm sure the question in most of your minds is if Hillary got to meet Steve Irwin. I'm sad to say that she didn't. But, she was given a very special tour of the zoo and received many great perks that only special guests get to receive. Once we arrived, Claire and Breeanna, our tour guides, took Hillary and gave her a Crocodile Hunter vest and cap so she would look like a zoo worker. Hillary (no one else) got to hold a koala and pose for a picture! The koala left Hillary a present....poo poo! Hillary felt honored! Hillary got to kiss a dingo and walk a goat. She and Samuel got to get in with Harriet the Tortoise who is 172 years old and about 400 lbs.! Hillary got to hold a HUGE burmese python, and then they wrapped the snake around our whole family! It was heavy! Hillary and Sam got to pet a baby alligator, feed and pet kangaroos, feed a camel, and much more! It was GREAT! Both kids said that was the best part of the trip!

We stayed on the Gold Coast, which we were told is Australia's Hawaii! It was beautiful! The waves were HUGE and nothing like we've ever seen in Florida! After the trip to the zoo, we also went to Dream World and Sea World in Brisbane. Then, we flew to Sydney which was fantastic! The city was breath-taking! While at Sydney, we toured the city, the Blue Mountains (with Garry-the BEST limo driver!)and went on a luncheon harbour cruise. One of the best things was getting to meet Hillary's Australian pen pal, Jessica. They originally met (by emails and letters) because Jessica's mom, Colleen, was given Hillary as a special chemo angel assignment. (Check out the chemo angel web site below.) With Jessica's family, we went on the monorail around the city, the Sky Tower Tour, and they took us to eat at a great pie place called Harry's at Darling Harbour.

We also got a special personal tour of the Opera House. It was breath-taking as well! Thanks Kim and Derek!

The last day in Sydney, we went to the world famous Bondi Beach. Hillary got private surfing lessons! The water was so cold, but she said her wet suit kept her warm although she couldn't feel her hands and feet! She almost got up and probably would have if it hadn't been for high tide coming in. The waves were HUGE and brutal!

So after all that, and literally days on planes, we are exhausted! We all slept on and off most of the night and today after getting home last night.

There's so much more! I will always remember Hillary's smiles and excitement and will try to replace my memories of her hard times on chemo in the past and to come with the memories of a very special once in a lifetime trip we had together as a family. Thanks so much for all your prayers.

CHECK OUT THE NEW PICTURES ON THE PHOTO ALBUM FROM THE TRIP!
Cindy

Friday, October 18, 2002 at 11:48 PM (CDT)
G'Day! We had an INCREDIBLE trip to Australia for Hillary's wish trip! It was truly the BEST time together I think our family has ever had!

Well, I'm sure the question in most of your minds is if Hillary got to meet Steve Irwin. I'm sad to say that she didn't. But, she was given a very special tour of the zoo and received many great perks that only special guests get to receive. Once we arrived, Claire and Breeanna, our tour guides, took Hillary and gave her a Crocodile Hunter vest and cap so she would look like a zoo worker. Hillary (no one else) got to hold a koala and pose for a picture! The koala left Hillary a present....poo poo! Hillary felt honored! Hillary got to kiss a dingo and walk a goat. She and Samuel got to get in with Harriet the Tortoise who is 172 years old and about 400 lbs.! Hillary got to hold a HUGE burmese python, and then they wrapped the snake around our whole family! It was heavy! Hillary and Sam got to pet a baby alligator, feed and pet kangaroos, feed a camel, and much more! It was GREAT! Both kids said that was the best part of the trip!

We stayed on the Gold Coast, which we were told is Australia's Hawaii! It was beautiful! The waves were HUGE and nothing like we've ever seen in Florida! After the trip to the zoo, we also went to Dream World and Sea World in Brisbane. Then, we flew to Sydney which was fantastic! The city was breath-taking! While at Sydney, we toured the city, the Blue Mountains (with Garry-the BEST limo driver!)and went on a luncheon harbour cruise. One of the best things was getting to meet Hillary's Australian pen pal, Jessica. They originally met (by emails and letters) because Jessica's mom, Colleen, was given Hillary as a special chemo angel assignment. (Check out the chemo angel web site below.) With Jessica's family, we went on the monorail around the city, the Sky Tower Tour, and they took us to eat at a great pie place called Harry's at Darling Harbour.

We also got a special personal tour of the Opera House. It was breath-taking as well! Thanks Kim and Derek!

The last day in Sydney, we went to the world famous Bondi Beach. Hillary got private surfing lessons! The water was so cold, but she said her wet suit kept her warm although she couldn't feel her hands and feet! She almost got up and probably would have if it hadn't been for high tide coming in. The waves were HUGE and brutal!

So after all that, and literally days on planes, we are exhausted! We all slept on and off most of the night and today after getting home last night.

There's so much more! I will always remember Hillary's smiles and excitement and will try to replace my memories of her hard times on chemo in the past and to come with the memories of a very special once in a lifetime trip we had together as a family. Thanks so much for all your prayers.

CHECK OUT THE NEW PICTURES ON THE PHOTO ALBUM FROM THE TRIP!
Cindy

Friday, October 18, 2002 at 11:48 PM (CDT)
G'Day! We had an INCREDIBLE trip to Australia for Hillary's wish trip! It was truly the BEST time together I think our family has ever had!

Well, I'm sure the question in most of your minds is if Hillary got to meet Steve Irwin. I'm sad to say that she didn't. But, she was given a very special tour of the zoo and received many great perks that only special guests get to receive. Once we arrived, Claire and Breeanna, our tour guides, took Hillary and gave her a Crocodile Hunter vest and cap so she would look like a zoo worker. Hillary (no one else) got to hold a koala and pose for a picture! The koala left Hillary a present....poo poo! Hillary felt honored! Hillary got to kiss a dingo and walk a goat. She and Samuel got to get in with Harriet the Tortoise who is 172 years old and about 400 lbs.! Hillary got to hold a HUGE burmese python, and then they wrapped the snake around our whole family! It was heavy! Hillary and Sam got to pet a baby alligator, feed and pet kangaroos, feed a camel, and much more! It was GREAT! Both kids said that was the best part of the trip!

We stayed on the Gold Coast, which we were told is Australia's Hawaii! It was beautiful! The waves were HUGE and nothing like we've ever seen in Florida! After the trip to the zoo, we also went to Dream World and Sea World in Brisbane. Then, we flew to Sydney which was fantastic! The city was breath-taking! While at Sydney, we toured the city, the Blue Mountains (with Garry-the BEST limo driver!)and went on a luncheon harbour cruise. One of the best things was getting to meet Hillary's Australian pen pal, Jessica. They originally met (by emails and letters) because Jessica's mom, Colleen, was given Hillary as a special chemo angel assignment. (Check out the chemo angel web site below.) With Jessica's family, we went on the monorail around the city, the Sky Tower Tour, and they took us to eat at a great pie place called Harry's at Darling Harbour.

We also got a special personal tour of the Opera House. It was breath-taking as well! Thanks Kim and Derek!

The last day in Sydney, we went to the world famous Bondi Beach. Hillary got private surfing lessons! The water was so cold, but she said her wet suit kept her warm although she couldn't feel her hands and feet! She almost got up and probably would have if it hadn't been for high tide coming in. The waves were HUGE and brutal!

So after all that, and literally days on planes, we are exhausted! We all slept on and off most of the night and today after getting home last night.

There's so much more! I will always remember Hillary's smiles and excitement and will try to replace my memories of her hard times on chemo in the past and to come with the memories of a very special once in a lifetime trip we had together as a family. Thanks so much for all your prayers.

CHECK OUT THE NEW PICTURES ON THE PHOTO ALBUM FROM THE TRIP!
Cindy

Sunday, October 06, 2002 at 06:25 AM (CDT)
Today is an exciting day for many reasons. Two years ago today is when Southside Church began. I am so proud of my husband for following God's call and beginning a new work to reach people for Christ. Our church family is so caring, loving and eager to serve. They have BIG hearts and a passion for God. My family has been so blessed not only to have them as a part of our church, but also as friends. The love and support they have shown our family through Hillary's fight against cancer has been/is incredible. We also have some great news to share with our church today! We have found land to purchase for our church and should be closing on it soon! God is good! It is just so awesome to see and be a part of a new work and to watch God bless us so much.

WE ARE LEAVING FOR AUSTRALIA TOMORROW!!!! A limo will pick us up and take us to the airport. We will fly from Atlanta to L.A., and then on to Brisbane, Queensland, Australia! After a few days there, then we will fly to Sydney for a few days. Hillary just can't stop smiling. This is truly a wish come true for her. After all she has been through and continues to go through, she is so deserving of this. I'll be sure to add our Aussie pictures to her website as soon as we get back!

My dad is home from the hospital, and slowly recuperating. Please continue to pray for his recovery.

Please pray for a safe, HEALTHY, fun trip for us. We are so excited!!!

Hugs,

Cindy

Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 08:54 PM (CDT)
Thanks for your prayers for my dad. The vascular surgeon has decided that it's not an aneurism in his leg. The bleeding in the artery (in his upper leg where they did his angioplasty last week) has stopped. He will probably get to go home tomorrow. He is still in alot of pain, and pretty much just has to stay off his leg and take pain medicine. At this point, it looks like he won't have to have surgery.

Samuel is feeling much better, and so far Hillary has stayed well. This is steroid week for her, and it is surely taking a toll on her. She is not sleeping much, but very tired, achy, and irritable. I let her stay home from school today. She finally fell asleep about 5:00am, and I didn't have the heart to awaken her for school.

We are counting down the days for Hillary's wish trip to Australia! By the way, she has a new email address: aussiecrockid@aol.com.

Thanks for your continued prayers. And, please pray for our friend Ashley and her family. She is 5 years old, has leukemia, and is in the hospital fighting for her life right now. She has been in ICU for a while and is expected to be there for at least another month. You can visit her website at www.caringbridge.com/ga/ashley

Australia Bound!
Cindy

Monday, September 30, 2002 at 01:40 PM (CDT)
Well, so much has been going on. First, I'd like to ask for prayers for my father. He had a mild heart attack this past week. The doctor found a major blockage (99%) in 2 places on his main arterty that leads to his heart. He said he was on the verge of a major attack. They did a heart catheter on him, and immediately then did the angioplasty and put 4 stents in to open up the blockages. He came home from the hospital on Friday, but I just found out that he's been admitted again. Mom said that the artery in Dad's leg where they went in to do the angioplasty is bleeding under his skin, and is very sore and inflamed. She took Dad this morning to Dr. Hudson, who admitted him back in the hospital. He was checked by a vascular surgeon, who said it is an aneurism. He thinks it may heal on its own within a few days without surgery. My dad will remain in the hospital until he's better. He is in alot of pain, and they are keeping him on pain meds. I love my dad so much and will always be a daddy's girl. I need him to be healthy. Please pray for my mom too as this is stressful on her too. They have been married 42 years!

Hillary went for treatment on Friday. She breezed through the treatment (no spinal tap this time), but emotionally had an extremely hard time. You'd think after going there so often after almost a year that it would get easier, but so far it hasn't. There is rarely a time I go and not fight back the tears- not just for my own daughter, but for all the children there. Sometimes the tears come despite my efforts to hold back. Cancer is horrible. On a good note, Hillary's counts are back up- whew! She has started again on 25% chemo meds at home. I'm thankful that she is not neutropenic (lack of infection-fighting ability) right before our trip to Australia.

Samuel is sick with fever and stomach virus. He seems to be on the up side, and will hopefully be able to go back to school tomorrow. Please help me pray that Hillary doesn't catch it. That will mean a trip to the ER for IV antibiotics through her port if she gets a fever, but probabaly not an admission since her counts are up. I especially don't want to have to go to the hopsital in Australia.

We are supposed to leave a week from today. I just pray that my dad is much better before then.

Thanks so much for your continued prayers.

Cindy

Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 06:31 PM (CDT)
Hillary went back to the clinic for counts last week. Unfortunately, they are still really low, so she is still not able to take her chemo meds at home. She goes back to the clinic on Friday for treatment which they said she'll get regardless of her counts. I am hoping and praying her counts will come up, and that she'll be feeling great for Australia. We leave in 13 days!

Hillary is feeling ok, just fatigue alot. She is still pushing herself and goes to school. I'd actually prefer her stay home right now with her low counts, but her onc encourages her to go to school and for things to be as normal as possible. I have to admit, I think he is right and that school is just what she needs. She also takes extra precautions at school to avoid germs. She uses the staff restroom and washes her hands very frequently. I have also provided Lysol wipes for all of her classes which any student can use to keep their desks free of germs.

Many of you have asked questions about remission. I ran across a good explanation of it today which I thought I'd share with you. Although Hillary is in clinical remission, it is possible there could be residual inactive cancer cells in her body which I pray to God that there is not. That is why she has to be on chemo for so long. When clinical remission is achieved, only a small sample of the blood is tested. So, for example, if you poured orange juice into a pool, it would spread out and you probably wouldn't be able to see it. Some parts of the pool may not have any traces of OJ at all, while others obviously would. Another explanation I heard was that you could survey 10 people to see if they likes chocolate, and even if they all do, that does not mean that the world likes chocolate. The sample group is just too small to determine that. Many years ago, (1960's) doctors discovered they could get almost all leukemia (A.L.L. type) into remission quickly, but a very large number of them relapsed. That's when they determined that cure rates increased as treatment duration increased.

So that's why I always earnestly ask that you keep praying so hard that Hillary will stay in remission and that her cancer will never ever return.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart! And, please pray for a safe, smooth, fun trip to Australia! Hillary and Samuel have never even flown!

Oh, poor Mark. He had to have an emergency root canal done today. :-( He was awake all last night in terrible pain from a toothache. He has to go back again tomorrow to make sure he doesn't need another root canal! Bless him, he's pitiful. I don't like to see him in pain.

Cindy

Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 07:57 AM (CDT)
Yesterday we went by the corporate office of Children's Wish Foundation. It was so awesome to meet with them and see the pictures on the wall of children meeting George W. Bush, Clinton, the Pope, along with stars such as Celine Deon, Dolly Parton, Alan Jackson, and many more. All this really seems real now!

Our itenierary is as follows: we will fly from Atlanta to LA to Bribane, Australia. There we will stay for a hew days and go to the AUSTRALIA ZOO (hopefully to meet Steve Irwin!), Dream World (an amusement park), and Sea World. Then, we will fly to Sydney where we will be staying on the harbor by the huge bridge and within walking distance to where the Olympics were held. At Sydney, we will tour the city, go on a day cruise, visit the Sydney Aquarium, Koala Park, and tour Blue Mountain.

This will be the trip of a lifetime for Hillary, Samuel, Mark and I. I have a feeling that if you asked Hillary right now if she would rather have cancer and go to Australia OR not have cancer and not go that she would take the cancer. Of course, I'd rather her NOT have the cancer and just PAY to go to Australia!

Hillary also had to go to the clinic yesterday for counts. Even after last time cutting her chemo meds by 50%, her counts are still lower. Her ANC is 390 and WBC 1.25. So they have stopped all chemo meds for now. She goes back to the clinic next week for counts again. Her nurse said this is very common at the beginning of maintenance and that it takes a while to get regulated. But, Hillary is feeling fine. She is loving school. She was chosen to raise and lower the flag each day which is an honor. She is loving band and plays the saxaphone.

Please don't ever stop praying that she will continue to stay in remission. And please, pray that she doesn't get sick while in Australia and have to go to the hospital there. We want her to enjoy her trip to the fullest! Thanks so much for your prayers and God bless you!

Cindy

Monday, September 02, 2002 at 11:15 PM (CDT)
Hillary really had a tough week after her spinal tap and other treatment last Tuesday. She missed the rest of the week of school because her headaches were so severe. Actually, she did go to school on Thursday about 10:45, but only lasted until noon. The headaches are a side effect of the spinal tap. Usually, she recovers much quicker than she did this time. She finally turned the corner Sat. evening, was able to go to church Sun., and she felt good today and enjoyed a laid back day today.

Thankfully, she won't have to have another spinal tap until Oct. after our Australia trip. She goes back to the clinic next week for counts, and then treatment again 2 weeks after that. Her chemo at home has been reduced by 50% because her counts are so low right now.

Thanks for checking in on Hillary. Don't forget to sign the guestbook!

Wednesday, August 28, 2002 at 11:09 AM (CDT)

GREAT NEWS!!!! WE ARE GOING TO AUSTRALIA FOR HILLARY'S WISH TRIP!! For those of you who may not know, every child with a life-threatening illness is eligible to receive a wish. Hillary's wish is to go to Australia Zoo and meet Steve Irwin. We had no idea if Children's Wish Foundation would approve international travel, but they did! They (Children's Wish) will be paying for our immediate family to go to Australia! We are sooooo excited, but dreading the loooooooong plane flight. It looks like we'll be leaving October 7th! The only thing is, though, that they can't guarantee she will be able to meet Steve Irwin. :-( But, I know this trip will be the trip of a lifetime for Hillary and all of us. After all she has been through and continues to go through, she deserves this!

Hillary had a spinal tap and other chemo yesterday. She got really sick after her spinal tap because they didn't give her the anti-nausea medicine she was supposed to get at the hospital. Uggggghh! The anesthesiologist said she had never heard of Kytril, and she never bothered to check any further on it. I didn't push it because Hillary had to go for more treatment at the clinic after the spinal tap, so I thought she'd be ok until then. Boy was I wrong!

Thankfully, Hillary's spinal fluid came back clear. I was so worried yesterday. Although I am so happy she is finally on maintenance, it's scary too knowing that she is getting much less chemo and the possibility of relapse. I do believe she is in God's hand and that He is watching over her. It is hard though. I think part of the reason I was so worried yesterday was that she HAD been doing so well and life seemed to be getting back to *normal*, then we're back at the hospital and clinic again for treatment. Unfortunately, it doesn't seem to get much easier as time goes on for Hillary- she dreads the treatment so badly. As least it is not as often. We do thank God that she is doing as well as she is.

I was shocked that her counts were low yesterday - WBC 1.36 and ANC of 530. They want her ANC to be between 1000-1500. They have cut her dosage of chemo meds by 50% until her counts rebound. I'm just praying she doesn't get fever, because that may mean another hospital admission. Hopefully we won't go there!

Hillary did an AWESOME job on her radio interview (WSB AM 750) with Neil Boortz. They will send us a copy of it on CD and I'll try to download it to her website if possible.
I haven't heard the final totals, but yesterday afternoon, they had raised over $300,000 for the AFLAC cancer center at Children's Healthcare. That is so amazing. I believe that one day the cure rate will be 100%- thanks so much for all of you who help in the fight against cancer.

Sorry so long.

Cindy

Monday, August 19, 2002 at 12:38 PM (CDT)
Guess what? Hillary was chosen to be interviewed on WSB Radio next Monday morning, Aug. 26th at 10:10 am. WSB is having a Care-A-Thon to raise money for the AFLAC cancer centers at Scottish Rite and Egleston. She will be interviewed live by Neil Boortz. Check out www.wsbradio.com or http://www.choa.org/careathon for more info.

Samuel will be 8 years old on Monday, the 26th! He is growing up so quickly!

Both Hillary and Samuel are loving school!

Hillary goes for a spinal tap and other chemo on Tuesday of next week. She is doing so well on maintenance and things seem to be getting back to *normal*.

Please keep praying! God is definitely at work and doing great things in Hillary's life (and ours too)!

Cindy

Wednesday, August 14, 2002 at 05:14 PM (CDT)
Hillary and Samuel are both enjoying their new schools. The teachers and everyone there have been wonderful! Samuel is in 2nd grade and has Mrs. Boling- a dear friend in which I'm thrilled to have as his teacher this year.

Hillary is adjusting well to middle school and her many classes. She is on a great team of teachers who have been very accommodating and made me feel so much at ease that they are going to take care of her and watch her carefully for any side effects from the chemo she might experience.

Hillary had to make and take a "Me Box" to one of her classes today. In it without anyone else's suggestions, she placed several items of importance to her- her frog stuff, artwork, signed Crocodile Hunter poster, etc. But on the way to school, she opened the box and guess what was on top? Her Bible. I am so thankful that she would bring it and that it means that much to her and that she is not ashamed to tell everyone that God is a very important part of her life.

Me? Well, for the first time in a long time, I'm taking both kids to school and am at home alone. OK, well I haven't stayed home much. I've been on the go mostly, but also trying to get some projects done at home- still unpacking, painting, decorating, etc. My sister-in-law is helping me decorate. She is so talented in that area!

Thanks for your continued prayers that Hillary will keep feeling well and NEVER EVER relapse!

Cindy

Monday, August 05, 2002 at 01:01 PM (CDT)
Hillary started long term maintenance a week ago. She is doing very well. Things are starting to seem more normal, but our normal has certainly changed! As it stands now, I think, hope and pray that she will be able to go to school FULL TIME when school starts next week! I just don't know for sure since she just started this phase of treatment. The chemo builds in her system and sometimes we don't see the side effects until a few weeks into a new phase. But, since the chemo doses are lighter, we are hoping she will continue to feel well. She is having some minor side effects- fatigue, body aches, sleeplessness, and hunger (from the steroids), but she is doing so much better than in the past. She only got nauseous one day last week which was on Tuesday after having to take 12 of the methotrexate pills on Monday evening!

Hillary and I went to the dedication service yesterday of the new middle school she will be attending. She is nervous about being in a new school district, but excited too. I have met and talked with the principal and several of the staff there. They are truly bending over backwards to be sure that Hillary is well taken care of. I feel so much more at ease about her going back to school after meeting the principal and many of the staff there.

Hillary's hair is starting to grow back and should NOT fall out again!! YES!!!!! She gets mistaken for a boy probably every time we go somewhere, but she just laughs it off. I tell her she needs to dress in lacy pink....yeah right. Not my tomboy.

Hillary doesn't like to talk about her treatment, and she hates going to the clinic. It seems that it would be better after all these months and especially since she is on maintenance, but last week's visit was probably one of the hardest on her. Not because of anyone's fault; she just didn't want to have her port accessed for treatment.

Hillary told me the other day that she just feels like a normal kid now. Mark and I so desperately want that to continue and for Hillary to feel good. She has gone through so much since she was diagnosed last November. We all have. It is so hard as a mom to watch almost helplessly for your child to go through this. I try not to worry, but it's so difficult. I truly thought I'd feel so much better once Hillary started maintenance. In many ways I do because Hillary is not nearly as sick as she has been, but the fear and worries are still there. And, until there is a 100% cure for cancer, please please don't stop praying that a cure will be found. Too many children and adults are suffering from cancer. Too many have lost their battles, but thankfully, many have overcome cancer. Please continue to pray for Hillary - that she will be able to go to school full time, make friends at her new school, succeed academically (since she basically missed most all of her 5th grade year), that the chemo side effects will be minimal, and most importantly, that she will NEVER EVER RELAPSE! I don't often ask for prayers for myself, but I am now. I don't like to admit the depression I've been under these past several months. I want to give my best to God, my family, and my church. And, if Hillary continues to do well, I'd like to go back to teaching.

I didn't mean for this to be so long. Thanks to all of you for your concern and caring.

Sincerely,

Cindy

Friday, July 26, 2002 at 06:12 PM (CDT)
We got back last night from Florida. Thanks for your prayers....Hillary stayed fever-free!

The Big Stuf Camp was awesome, and Hillary loved it! She made herself keep up with the others, even when I thought she should slow down. But, I'm thrilled she was able to keep up. The camp was incredible, and I know many of the kids' and adults' lives were touched by the worship, drama and messages.

After the camp was over, our family headed to my brother's house in Santa Rosa Beach. The weather was beautiful. We enjoyed the beach and the pool. Samuel, Hillary and Mark completely covered me in sand except for my head. We found a wonderful ice cream shop called "Miss Lucille's Gossip Parlor." It was so quaint with games, couches, a couple of computers, etc. We also enjoyed eating at Fudpuckers (no, not Fudrucker's)in Destin. They had about 80 baby alligators! Oh, Hillary and Samuel had their picture made with a baby alligator in Alvin's. It's mouth was taped shut though!

Hillary starts long term maintenance on Monday. We are hoping and praying she will do well through the next 1 1/2 years of this. She will have monthly visits for chemo at the clinic, but oral (pills) chemo that she will take daily at home. Please pray for her, that she will respond well to the chemo, never relapse, and be able to start school this fall.

Thank you for your continued prayers. PLEASE BE SURE TO SIGN HER GUESTBOOK!!

Cindy

Wednesday, July 17, 2002 at 08:59 AM (CDT)
Hillary went for a spinal tap yesterday which is the beginning of long term maintenance. Her counts are still pretty low (hemoglobin 8.3, ANC 560, platelets 170) so she is not ready to start the rest of her chemo. Her doctor said she would probably be ready when we get back from vacation.

We are leaving Friday for Panama City Beach. We are taking our middle school down for the Big Stuff Christian convention....HILLARY IS MIDDLE SCHOOL NOW! The convention is just for the weekend, but our family is going to stay a few more days and make a vacation out of it. PLEASE PRAY THAT HILLARY DOES NOT GET FEVER WHILE WE ARE THERE. We definitely do not want a hospital stay on vacation!

We are all still getting settled in our new home but it seems that progress is slow. Samuel and Hillary really like it here and are enjoying our subdivision pool!

Take care,
Cindy

Tuesday, July 09, 2002 at 12:40 PM (CDT)
Hillary got to come home from the hospital yesterday. She still has very low counts - ANC is back down to zero, but hopefully with the GCSF meds, all her counts will start rising soon. Thanks to all of you for your prayers and concern. We are so glad to be home. Samuel really misses Hillary when she is away. He made her a surprise chocolate chip cake last night!

Hillary goes Thursday to the clinic for a check up.

Love,

Cindy

Friday, July 05, 2002 at 02:18 PM (CDT)
Hillary was admitted this morning for fever and neutropenia. Her counts have bottomed out - ANC of 0, hemoglobin of 5.9, platelets 13, and WBC of 0.28. We were shocked that her HGB was so low - it hasn't been that low since diagnosis. She is getting a blood transfusion, IV fluids and antiobiotics, and G-CSF (to help boost her counts). She has a terrible cough, but her lungs sound clear.

On a good note, she has finished up this phase of treatment- last chemo was on Tuesday of this week. She is headed to long term maintenance in the next few weeks! As her onc said, hopefully this will be her LAST admission for fever and neutropenia (AND LEUKEMIA!!!)

The CURE (an organization to benefit childhood cancer) has a contest each year. They select artwork from 12 cancer kids in the state of Georgia for their calendar. Hillary got a letter yesterday congratulating her for her artwork being selected for the 2003 CURE calendar! Her artwork will be featured for one month on the calendar along with her photograph. We are so excited for her!

Hopefully this hospital stay will be relatively short. The onc said the earliest she will go home will be Sunday just depending on when her fever leaves and counts start to rise.
Please keep Hillary is your prayers.

Sincerely,

Cindy
cpcoffman@juno.com

Saturday, June 29, 2002 at 10:00 PM (CDT)
Today has been a WONDERFUL day! Finally, Hillary is home from camp- we have missed her soooooo much! She had the best time. That is all she has talked about! I'm going to ask her to write an update and tell you about it! Mark, Samuel, and I are SO GLAD to have Hillary back! Camp Sunshine and everyone there are just wonderful! For those of you who may not know, the camp is staffed with oncologists, nurses and other counselors who volunteer a week during the summer just to help bring sunshine to these children. Hillary had a week of GREAT FUN, thought very little of having to get her ARA-C shots there and actually thought very little of having cancer! I asked her if they talked about it much (being that it's a camp for cancer kids). She said no that her cabin only told each other what their diagnosis was and that was about it. I am so glad she could have a week of fun and think so little of her cancer! I'm going to try to follow her example and enjoy our time together (which I do already) and focus on that and TRY not to think about this cancer thing so much....it's hard, though!

Because Hillary is near the end of delayed intensification (WOO HOO!), her counts are dropping very low. They will probably bottom out in the next couple of days. She goes to the clinic on Monday and may need blood/platelet transfusions. But, I'm so glad her counts didn't drop so low while she was at camp!

We have now moved into our new home. (Hillary picked a good week to be gone!) I apologize for those of you who may not have known we were moving. It all happened so quickly. We had planned on selling/moving last fall and were actually in the beginning process, but then Hillary got sick so we put everything on hold. This past spring, we just decided that if we were going to do it, then the time was right to move during the summer so the kids wouldn't have to change schools in the middle of the school year.

Our house was only on the market a week before we got a FULL price offer with buyer paying closing too! The offer was too good to pass up, so we quickly had to find a house for us. But the worst part is that we didn't have much time at all to clean out/pack up the only house we have ever owned and have been in for over 10 years! But, we now have all our belongings in our new home so it's just a matter of getting unpacked and organized. No rush, though, right?

We are excited to be in this part of the county- closer to where our church is trying to purchase land and someday build. We are thrilled with our home and feel so blessed. I believe it is going to be a home filled with love, new memories, and lots of fun! For Hillary, I believe it will be a place where she can begin to put her cancer behind her and live life as a SURVIVOR, and live a happy "normal" life NOT full of so many treatments as she is soon approaching long term maintenance (LTM). On LTM, she will only have treatments at the clinic once a month and other oral chemo at home for about the next 1 1/2 years.

I'm sorry this is so long.

Cindy

Sunday, June 23, 2002 at 05:07 PM (CDT)
Hillary went to Camp Sunshine today. I took her to Egleston, where she got on the bus heading to Rutledge, GA. They had 2 of the big tour buses packed with cancer kids headed to camp. Hillary was a little bit nervous, but very excited. We got lost - ended up at the airport on the other side of Atlanta, but just barely made it in time for Hillary not to get left. I can still feel the hugs and kisses she gave me before leaving...it's not very often that she will do that in front of people! I hope and pray she feels good and has a great time. She will still get chemo at camp- 6TG and 4 ARA-C shots. She was nauseous yesterday and this morning....I surely hope it goes away and she enjoys herself. Any of you who might like to send her a card at camp, please email me and I'll give you the address there.

UPDATE MONDAY, JUNE 24, 2002
Nurse Kyrie (one of Hillary's favorite nurses) called me today from camp. She said Hillary is having a WONDERFUL time! Hillary got up this morning at 7 am and went fishing. She caught a fish, kissed it (yuck!) and then threw it back. She was also interviewed for the paper...Camp Sunshine paper?...I'll find out more about that when she gets home. Tomorrow, they will do a CBC before starting her ARA-C shots. They are supposed to call me and let me know her counts. I'm hoping she won't need a blood transfusion before she gets home, but if so, she can get it there. They have a full medical staff of an oncologist and several nurses there which is probably the only reason I sent her! Anyway, Mark, Samuel and I miss her like crazy. Saturday seems so long away for her to come home!

CHECK OUT WWW.MYCAMPSUNSHINE.COM AND CLICK ON "CAMP SUNSHINE IN SESSION WEEK 2." We haven't seen Hillary's picture yet, but we're checking daily! AS LAUREL PUT IT, "I love Camp Sunshine and all the people there so much I don't know what I would do if I was never diagnosed with cancer." WOW!

UPDATE TUES. JUNE 25TH
We got a letter from Hillary today! She's having a GREAT time! She asked me to mail her her Billy Gilman CD- she wants to be in the talent show there and sing "Shame on Me." I also talked to her nurse. Her counts are ok now, but falling. Her WBC is 1.2, platelets are 140 and HGB is 9.2. They are going to check her counts again on Thurs. It's possible she may need blood and/or platelets there, but we are hoping she will hold out until she gets home.

Take care,
Cindy
cpcoffman@juno.com

Sunday, June 23, 2002 at 05:07 PM (CDT)
Hillary went to Camp Sunshine today. I took her to Egleston, where she got on the bus heading to Rutledge, GA. They had 2 of the big tour buses packed with cancer kids headed to camp. Hillary was a little bit nervous, but very excited. We got lost - ended up at the airport on the other side of Atlanta, but just barely made it in time for Hillary not to get left. I can still feel the hugs and kisses she gave me before leaving...it's not very often that she will do that in front of people! I hope and pray she feels good and has a great time. She will still get chemo at camp- 6TG and 4 ARA-C shots. She was nauseous yesterday and this morning....I surely hope it goes away and she enjoys herself. Any of you who might like to send her a card at camp, please email me and I'll give you the address there.

UPDATE MONDAY, JUNE 24, 2002
Nurse Kyrie (one of Hillary's favorite nurses) called me today from camp. She said Hillary is having a WONDERFUL time! Hillary got up this morning at 7 am and went fishing. She caught a fish, kissed it (yuck!) and then threw it back. She was also interviewed for the paper...Camp Sunshine paper?...I'll find out more about that when she gets home. Tomorrow, they will do a CBC before starting her ARA-C shots. They are supposed to call me and let me know her counts. I'm hoping she won't need a blood transfusion before she gets home, but if so, she can get it there. They have a full medical staff of an oncologist and several nurses there which is probably the only reason I sent her! Anyway, Mark, Samuel and I miss her like crazy. Saturday seems so long away for her to come home!

CHECK OUT WWW.MYCAMPSUNSHINE.COM AND CLICK ON "CAMP SUNSHINE IN SESSION WEEK 2." We haven't seen Hillary's picture yet, but we're checking daily! AS LAUREL PUT IT, "I love Camp Sunshine and all the people there so much I don't know what I would do if I was never diagnosed with cancer." WOW!

UPDATE TUES. JUNE 25TH
We got a letter from Hillary today! She's having a GREAT time! She asked me to mail her her Billy Gilman CD- she wants to be in the talent show there and sing "Shame on Me." I also talked to her nurse. Her counts are ok now, but falling. Her WBC is 1.2, platelets are 140 and HGB is 9.2. They are going to check her counts again on Thurs. It's possible she may need blood and/or platelets there, but we are hoping she will hold out until she gets home.

Take care,
Cindy
cpcoffman@juno.com

Monday, June 17, 2002 at 08:37 PM (CDT)
Hillary went for her spinal tap today. It went well, and she has felt remarkably well. She goes tomorrow (Tues.) for about 6-8 hours of chemo. I'm worried about her and the side effects of tomorrow's treatment.

Cancer is something I don't think I'll ever just get used to. Today, while at the hospital, as we walked by the day surgery rooms, one woman glanced at us, smiled, and then I watched her smile turn to pity as she realized my child had cancer. I think she was probably anxious about her child's surgery that day- my guess would be ear tubes or something like that, and then she was thankful that it was something minor for her child. She probably thought at that point that "it could always be worse." I know (well not for sure) because I was once of those moms. While my children were at the hospital for other surgeries in the previous years (Hillary had hip surgery and Samuel had sinus surgery), I can remember being one of "those" moms - anxious because my child had to have surgery, but thankful that it was nothing worse. Never did I dream that I would become a CK (cancer kid) mom. Never did I dream that my child would spend years fighting for her life against leukemia. Although Hillary has been fighting this for several months, I don't think I can ever get used to the idea. Sometimes I don't think the pain will ever go away....I'll always worry about the what ifs and never fully relax.

I'm going to try to focus on the scripture above. Pray that God will wrap His loving arms around Hillary, protect her from ever relapsing, and extremely minimize any short or long term side effects from the chemo.

Thanks for your concern and for "listening." It's been a hard day.

Sincerely,
Cindy
cpcoffman@juno.com

Tuesday, June 11, 2002 at 07:15 PM (CDT)
God is truly working in Hillary's life and answering prayers. We can never thank you enough. Hillary went yesterday for a spinal tap. She was completely put to sleep this time at the hospital. She has done much better than usual. Other than sleeping yesterday, and back aches and headaches, she has been better today. So far, she has experienced no nausea. I hope I'm not jinxing that because the last couple of times I did!

Unfortunately, Hillary's counts were STILL too low to do the other chemo. We are so ready for her to get through this phase, recuperate, and head to long term maintenance. She will have to have another spinal tap next week, and we'll try again for the other chemo if her counts are high enough. Dr. Lew wants to make sure Hillary's counts have recovered and pretty high before she begins the last half of delayed intensification since her counts will more than likely bottom out again.

We got Hillary's results from the Stanford 9 standardized test in the mail. When she took it in the spring, she was definitely not up to par. She pushed herself to do the tests that her teacher came to our house and administered since she was unable to go to school then. I was just filled with emotion as I read the results. She was above grade level...as a matter of fact she had a couple of 8th & 9th grade equivalencies, but mostly POST HIGH SCHOOL!!!! I just cried and cried tears of joy. This is a girl who only went to school during 5th grade through Nov. 7th when she was diagnosed and a few times during the month of April. Her teacher tutored her maybe a dozen times when Hillary was up for it. When I showed Mark the results he made the comment that Hillary has just had too many prayers for this chemo to affect her intelligence. Praise God! Hillary still has over 1 1/2 years of treatment left, so please pray with us that the long term side effects will be very minimal. But, most importantly, pray that she will forever stay in remission!

UPDATE June 15, 2002
Hillary goes Monday for another spinal tap. They will put her to sleep for it like they did last time and do it in the hospital. She goes to the clinic on Tuesday for a full day of chemo- cytoxan, pentamadine, and begins the ARA-C shots and 6TG. This treatment will probably make her counts bottom out again in about a week or 2 after she starts it. Please pray that she will be able to go to Camp Sunshine June 23-28. It is going to be so hard on Mark and me, but we know that she will have an incredible time. There are 2 oncology nurses from the clinic going, as well as other nurses and oncs, so we know she'll be well taken care of. Dr. Lew feels that it is very important for Hillary to go.

Cindy

Tuesday, June 04, 2002 at 07:25 AM (CDT)
Hillary got to come home yesterday afternoon from the hospital. Thank you so much for all your prayers. Her fever is gone, but her counts are still very low. Her ANC is 210 and WBC 1.6. Hopefully they will begin rising soon. Her knee (from Friday's fall) is slowly getting better. The doctor said all the IV antibiotics and the topical antibiotics we've been putting on it should keep it from getting infected. She goes back to the clinic on Friday to see if her counts are high enough to begin chemo again on Monday. She will be having a spinal tap in the OR this time, as opposed to the conscious sedation. We are hoping that will help her not get so sick afterwards...the onc thinks maybe the sedation medicines were contributing to that...but it's also more the methotrexate she gets injected into her spinal column that causes her vomiting and nausea. They are also changing her anti-nausea medicine from Zophran to Kytril. I thought Zophran was expensive - 10 for almost $300....the Kytril is almost $1000 for 20 pills!!! Thankfully, we have great insurance that pays it!!

Hillary is planning on going to Camp Sunshine (for cancer kids) in 3 weeks. I know it is going to be awesome for her - pray that she is well enough to go! They have oncologists and nurses that go as well...she can get chemo there, blood if needed, and more. Of course, I will be beside myself, but I know that will be a wonderful experience for her!

I will try to update her pictures soon...I'm anxious to get some pictures on her site from Hillary Coffman Day and her 5th grade graduation.

I hope you all have a great week and enjoy this beautiful weather!!!!

Sunday, June 02, 2002 at 01:41 PM (CDT)
Hillary is still in the hospital. We were hoping she might get to go home today because her fever has not spiked, but the doctor said no because her counts are dropping even lower. He has postponed her Monday's scheduled spinal tap and other chemo for a week since her counts are so low.

Mark and I were so proud of Hillary at her 5th grade graduation Thursday night. She was a little disappointed that she had Merit Roll for the entire school year instead of Honor Roll....I told her that I thought she had accomplished more than any other child there since she has battled leukemia for the past several months, missed most of her school year AND kept good grades! It was so sweet...as she received her certificate of achievement for completing elementary school, the crowd just clapped and clapped for her while Mark and I tried to fight back the tears. She just grinned from ear to ear as she walked across the stage.

Friday, Hillary went to school for the last day cookout for her grade. As soon as she got there, she fell and hurts her knees pretty badly. The doctor said her right knee was the equivalent of a deep burn. One of the side effects to one of the chemo medicines (vincristine) is weak muscles - foot drop in particular which makes it hard to pick up your feet and walk which often causes loss of balance and falls. Hillary enjoyed the picnic and fun activities at school. She stayed until just after lunch, and then slept for the afternoon.

Please continue to pray for Hillary that she'll get better and go home soon. Also, pray for her friends Chase and Benjamin who are in patient too for fever and neutropenia. Ellen- her A.L.L. friend who has been in the hospital for about a month finally got to go home! Thank you God!

Saturday, June 01, 2002 at 10:49 AM (CDT)
Just a quick update to let you know that Hillary was admitted last night for fever and neutropenia. She came in last night about 11:30 p.m., but didn't get to a room until after 5:00 am this morning. Generally, with fever, it is a 5-7 day stay, but possibly less if her fever goes away quickly and counts start to rise. Please keep Hillary in your prayers.

Tuesday, May 28, 2002 at 01:11 PM (CDT)
GOOD NEWS! Hillary went to the clinic today to get her counts checked, and they were high enough NOT to need blood and/or platelet transfusions! She will probably not need any for at least a week. We are looking forward to Fifth Grade Honors Night for the graduates of Cumming Elementary this Thursday night.

Usually, on this site, I list our problems, but today, I've been thinking just how blessed we are. So instead, I'd like to list a few things I'm thankful for.
1) I'm thankful Hillary is doing better than expected so far through this phase of treatment (delayed intensificaion).
2) I'm thankful Hillary has no more of the dreaded leg shots!
3) I'm thankful that I've watched my daughter grow so much closer to the Lord during the most difficult time of her life.
4) I'm thankful Hillary is headed to long term maintenance after this phase of treatment which only means clinic visits once a month (other chemo at home).
5) I'm thankful that although Hillary has missed most of her 5th grade year, she is graduating with honors.
6) I'm thankful for our friends, family, and community who have prayed numerous prayers for our family and shown an incredibible amount of love and support for our family.
7) I'm thankful for our treasured memory of Hillary Coffman Day at Central Park and for all of you who made that day possible and/or participated on that day.
8) I'm thankful that God has blessed us and provided for us when we suddenly had to go from 2 incomes to 1.
9) I'm thankful for the doctors, nurses, and caretakers of those who specialize in helping cancer children.
10) I'm thankful we have one of the best children's hospitals in the country only 30 minutes away.
11) I'm thankful that Mark, Hillary, Samuel and I have only grown closer to one another during the hardest time we've ever faced.
12) I'm thankful that Hillary has done fairly well throughout her treatment.
13) I'm thankful for Mrs. Williams for devoting her time to teaching Hillary at our home.
14) I'm thankful for Mrs. Farnam and the many hospital visits, and taking a day off school in order to spend a day with Hillary during treatment.
15) I'm thankful for all the meals that have been brought to us.
16) I'm thankful for God who continues to give us strength and bless us tremendously.
17) I'm thankful for Southside Church, our church family, who have stood by our side through this.
18) I'm thankful for the shoulders I've had to cry on - especially yours Mark and Kay!
19) I'm thankful for every precious day God gives.
20) I'm thankful for every smile and hug I get from my children and husband.
21) I'm thankful to my mom for helping me keep up with the laudry.
22) I'm thankful for my parents and everyone who has stayed with Hillary and Samuel so I could go grocery shopping or have a night out with Mark.
23) I'm thankful for the Team in Training who are preparing to run the Chicago Marathon in Hillary's honor to raise money for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
24) I'm thankful for you who have taken the time to read this because you care.
25) I'm thankful for everyone who signs Hillary's guestbook to let us know you care!
26) I'm thankful that I have to leave now to go pick up my son from school or this list would go on forever!

Please pray for:
1) Hillary continuing to do well through this phase. She goes on Monday for a spinal tap and other chemo.
2) That a 100% cure will be found for leukemia and all cancers.
3) Dakota (a student at NFMS whose cancer has returned and isn't doing well)and his family.
4) Ellen - a 14 year old girl diagosed with leukemia about 2 months ago. She has been in the hospital since May 2nd with pnuemonia, lost 20 lbs., and is not able to walk now. She did take 5 steps today, and when she's able to take 15, she can go home. This is a special girl that Hillary's doctor asked her to meet when Ellen was diagnosed.
5) Our friend, Harrison, 8 years old who is recovering from surgery.
6) Our friend, Chase, who has a malignant brain tumor. www.caringbridge.com/ga/chasesmiracle
7) That Hillary's cancer will never ever return and that the side effects, both long term and short term will be minimal.
6) Other children with leukemia. See http://www.acor.org/ped-onc/hp/leukpages.html

Friday, May 24, 2002 at 04:50 PM (CDT)
Hillary has had an ok week. She hasn't had any nausea and vomiting! She is on steroids again this week, so she's eating like a horse!! That's ok....I'd much rather her eat! We went to Waffle House the other day. She was asking me if she could order something...I told her to order what she wanted. I was busy looking at the menu and not really paying attention UNTIL the food arrived! The waitress brought Hillary grits, a grilled cheese, bacon, sausage, country ham, AND a waffle. I looked at the waitress with a puzzled look on my face and told her I didn't think we ordered all that....she politely said, "She did" and pointed to Hillary! She ate almost all of it! :-)

Hillary's counts on Monday were low and she is neutropenic right now. The nurse practitioner said that Hillary would probably need blood and/or platelets next week. Hillary goes back on Tuesday to get her counts checked and possible transfusion, but doesn't have treatment next week. We are hoping and praying for no fever because then they will automatically admit her for about a week for IV antibiotics since she is at high risk for infection and can't fight it on her own right now.

The steroids have also affected Hillary's mood - she has said very little these past few days and is chewing her nails like crazy. For those of you who know Hillary, you know how unlike it is for Hillary not to talk much!

Thanks to all of you who continue to pray for Hillary and our family. Please pray the side effects will be minimal on Hillary and that the cancer will never ever return to her body.

Cindy

Friday, May 17, 2002 at 07:50 PM (CDT)
Hi! Sorry I haven't updated lately, but our computer is being fixed. I was having withdrawals, so I finally came to Mark's office to use his computer to check Hillary's site and my email.

Hillary has felt pretty good this week. She went for treatment on Monday, and the shots again on Wed. and today. She was a different child this week getting her shots. She never even screamed! She was just so relaxed! SHE GOT HER LAST ERWINIA(THE PAINFUL LEG SHOTS) TODAY! She is so GLAD about that! She goes back on Monday for more treatment. Her counts are good right now. The main problem is that she is so wired. She did not sleep one wink last night nor Tues. night this week. Wed. night she fell asleep somewhere between 2 am and 6 am. More than likely it's due to the steroids - she was on them last week, off this week, and starts again on Monday.

Hillary was unable to go to Relay for Life last Fri. night. On the way there, we had to turn around and go home because she wasn't feeling well. She was really pushing herself because she wanted to go, but just wasn't up to it. We took Hillary home, and Mark stayed with her. I went back to Relay for Life and got her "SURVIVOR" t-shirt. I pinned on my button with her picture on it and even wore the T-shirt (yes, it was a little tight, oh well). I walked the survivor walk for Hillary because she IS A SURVIVOR, and I'm so proud of her. It was very emotional for me, but no one hardly knew thanks to my sunglasses!

Hillary is a child wise beyond her years and a heart bigger than most of us. She and I went and had lunch together yesterday. As soon as we sat down, Hillary told me that so many great things had happened that probably wouldn't have if she hadn't gotten cancer. I asked what as I swallowed the lump in my throat. She then mentioned how nice so many people had been, her friends, and Hillary Coffman Day. (Mark and I have both told Hillary many times that if we could trade places with her we would.) Hillary then went on to say that she was glad she was the one who got cancer. She was glad it wasn't us, but especially not her brother Samuel. And, even if she could trade places with us, she wouldn't. She was smiling and sincere the whole time she was saying this. Needless to say, the lump in my throat returned, and I had to excuse myself to the ladies' room. Hillary then apologized to me for making me cry! I was just in awe of my 11 year old little girl - how selfless and caring she is. The light of the Lord just shines through her. I have learned so much from her in seeing how much she loves the Lord and strives to live for Him in the midst of all her suffering. But, SHE IS A SURVIVOR!

Please pray for our friend Dakota who has cancer and is not doing well. He is such an inspiration. Cancer stinks, though!

In His Love,
Cindy

SUNDAY, MAY 12, 2002
A BIG HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO ALL THE MOMS OUT THERE! I AM REJOICING BECAUSE I AM SO BLESSED TO HAVE 2 WONDERFUL CHILDREN AND A SUPER MOM THAT I LOVE DEARLY! Moms, you never know what each day will hold, but make the most of every precious moment you have with your children. Give them BIG HUG and treasure every moment. Don't worry about the trivial things. OK, that's my sermon for today. God bless you.

See Hillary's Smile Quilt! It tells alot about her!

Thursday, May 9, 2002
Great news! Hillary's bone marrow and spinal fluid came back clear! Praise God!

Hillary has had a tough week. She had treatment on Monday (BMA, spinal tap, doxorubicin, vincristine, and began Decadron- a steroid). She had to go back to the clinic Tues., today, and goes again on Sat. for the Erwinia shot. Her nausea and vomiting are gone since yesterday and she is eating only a little bit. She has lost 6 pounds this week, but hopefully will start eating ALOT soon since she is on steroids again. She goes back on Monday for the Doxorubicin (the one that makes her so sick and makes her hair fall out - again), Vincristine, and Erwinia shot. She also goes next Wed. and Fri. for the shots. Next week, her counts will probably start dropping drastically.

Relay for Life is tomorrow night, and Hillary really wants to go. She IS a SURVIVOR and wants to participate in the Survivor's Walk. Hopefully, she will be up to it.

We can never thank everyone enough for all the love, support, and prayers you've shown and continue to show our family. God bless you.

Tuesday, May 7, 2002
We haven't yet found out the results of yesterday's bone marrow aspiration (BMA). The more Hillary has the conscious sedation for the spinal tap and BMA, the less effective the sedation is. It was very painful for her, but she was given more versed at the end, so she doesn't remember the BMA, but does remember the spinal tap.
She was very sick last night...unfortunately, the Zophran and Phenergan don't seem to be working as well anymore to control her nausea and vomiting. But, after throwing up, she began telling Mark the Australian slang for vomiting - techni-colored yawn and liquid laugh! At least she can joke about it! She goes back for the Erwinia shots today, Thurs., and Sat. of this week.

Monday, May 6, 2002
"Hillary Coffman Day" at Central Park was awesome! As Jim said in the guestbook, never before or again will there be a day as unique for Hillary and our family as May 5, 2002. The outpouring of love, friendship, concern, and donations was incredible! We can never thank all of you enough. SOOOO many of you came out - family, church family, old friends (some we hadn't seen in years), new friends, teachers and school staff, students, and some of you we didn't even know. Each one of you is very special to our family. THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF OUR HEARTS TO EVERYONE WHO CAME, WORKED, PLANNED, DONATED OR PARTICIPATED IN ANY WAY FOR HILLARY COFFMAN DAY! MAY GOD FLOOD YOU WITH HIS BLESSINGS!

Today, Hillary will begin very intense treatment similar to what she received in the beginning. She will have a bone marrow aspiration and spinal tap today. Please join us in earnestly praying that these tests will be negative and that she never ever relapses. We ask that you pray that the side effects, both immediate and long term will be minimal for her. During this treatment, it is expected that her neutrophil counts bottom out which means that she will have no ability to fight infection.

I don't expect that Hillary will be able to go to school this last month. Treatment will be 1 to 3 times per week. I know so many of you have done so much for her (and us), but please take a moment to encourage Hillary by signing her guestbook or sending a card. She is dreading this treatment so much.

Wednesday, May 01, 2002 at 08:37 PM (CDT)
Hillary is anxiously looking forward to "Hillary Coffman Day" at Central Park on Sunday. We are so thankful she has this to look forward to - she is really dreading beginning treatment again on Monday. Starting next week, she will have treatment 3 times a week for 2 weeks and then once per week after that. On Monday, she will have a spinal tap and bone marrow aspirations. Please pray that the results will be negative and no signs of the cancer.

***ON A MORE POSITIVE NOTE, ADELPHIA TV CALLED AND WANTS TO INTERVIEW HILLARY ON FRIDAY!!! The interview will be aired on channel 4 Friday night at 6:30, 7:30, and 10:30 p.m.

Hillary has had poison ivy all week - mainly on her face. It is finally starting to get better.

We are so grateful to so many of you from area churches, schools, and the community who are busy planning "Hillary Coffman Day" at Central Park on May 5th. Our entire family is looking forward to that day!

Tuesday, April 23, 2002 at 02:40 PM (CDT)
**CLICK ON THE PHOTO ALBUM TO SEE THE ARTICLE ABOUT HILLARY THAT WAS IN THE APRIL 18TH, 2002 EDITION OF THE FORSYTH COUNTY NEWS!

Hillary is really enjoying her short break with no treatment! The next phase of treatment "delayed intensification" is very intense, in which Hillary will be going for treatment 1-3 times per week. She will begin that on May 6th. Whew! She's so happy that it's not before "Hillary Coffman Day" at the park on May 5th.

HILLARY MADE STRAIGHT A'S ON HER REPORT CARD!! ISN'T THAT AWESOME considering she didn't go to school from Nov. until just a few weeks ago! She has been keeping up through the hospital homebound program. Mark and I are so very proud of her! Her only mark other than an A or an E (excellent) was for penmanship. For those of you who have seen Mark's handwriting, I'm sure you understand why Hillary gets that honestly!

Wednesday, April 17, 2002 at 9:57 p.m. (CDT)
HILLARY IS OFF TREATMENT UNTIL MAY 6!!! We are so excited she gets this break.

There is an article about Hillary in this Thursday's edition of the Forsyth County News. I'll put it on the photo album in the next day or two. Yes, I am a proud mom of my courageous daughter!

We are so grateful to so many of you from area churches, Cumming Elementary, and the community who are busy planning "Hillary Coffman Day" at Central Park on May 5th. Our entire family is looking forward to that day! This is the flyer with more information:

Monday, April 08, 2002 at 09:44 AM (CDT)
We hope all of you had a great spring break! We certainly did! We went camping at Unicoi State Park. The weather was beautiful and not a drop of rain. Hillary felt pretty good but was battling a sinus infection. It slowed her down only a little. We got to ride a horse and buggy through the unique town of Helen. Hillary got to sit beside the driver up front and just loved that!

Hillary and Samuel had great time fishing with Mark too! (I tried to fish with them some, but I am a jinx when it comes to fishing!) They met some friends there and had a great time playing in the creek with them. As a matter of fact, Hillary has not played that hard since before she was diagnosed. Her legs are covered with scrapes and bruises from playing so hard....don't tell DFACS - they just might suspect something else!

Hillary and I will be going with the 5th grade at her school to Chattanooga on Wednesday. Her doctor agreed to postpone treatment until Thursday so she would feel well and be able to go and enjoy the trip.

Please pray for Hillary and her upcoming treatment on Thursday. It is so wonderful to see her laughing and having fun....then it's treatment again. Pray that the side effects will be minimal for her. She dreads the painful leg shots most of all.

We are so thankful to all of you who keep updated on Hillary. Your love and support is such a blessing.

Sunday, March 31, 2002 at 08:46 PM (CST)
I hope all of you had a very Happy Easter. Hillary went for treatment on Friday, and ended up in ER with fever Friday night. They gave her IV antibiotics and fluids. They also ran some tests, all of which came back fine. Because Hillary's counts were good, they did not admit her. The oncologist also wanted us to come to ER to make sure there was not an infecion in her port since it had been accessed that day.

Saturday, Hillary perked up and had no fever! She was able to eat some and keep it down. This morning, she got up, felt ok, so we went to church. As soon as we got there, she started throwing up and had to leave. We had prayed for Hillary to be able to go to church. I told her that she did get to go, but that next time we'll be more specific in our prayer and pray that she can stay for the whole service!

Hillary felt better later, thanks to Zophran (anti-nausea chemo med.) and we were able to go to my parents' house for Easter lunch and egg hunt. She came home, went to sleep at 4:30, awakened for a few minutes and went back to bed.

This week is spring break, and we plan to go camping if Hillary is up to it. She loves to camp, and I think it would be very relaxing for her and all of us! Even if it rains, we'll just sit in the camper and play family games!

Thursday, March 28, 2002 at 08:25 AM (CST)
Hillary has had a wonderful week. She has been to school this week (only a 3 day week). The child life specialist from the hospital came to her school and did a program for the 5th grade about leukemia. She did an excellent job. The students had alot of questions which I thought was great.

Hillary goes for treatment tomorrow. She has to have a spinal tap, leg shots, and other chemo. Please pray the spinal tap will not be painful for her as it was last time. The last time she had all that it really got her down for about 4 days. I'm hoping and praying that doesn't happen this time. She really wants to be able to go to church Easter Sunday.

Thank you for your prayers for Hillary and our family.

Sunday, March 24, 2002 at 08:13 PM (CST)
Unfortunately, Hillary was not up to going to the family retreat at Camp Sunshine. I waited until Friday morning to cancel because I had hoped she would feel better. Within minutes of my post Thursday evening of Hillary not getting sick, guess what happened? That's right - I must have jinxed it. She started perking up Friday evening though and felt great Sat. and today. She was able to go to church this morning, and we really had a great service! Afterwards, we had a cookout and egg hunt for the children. Everyone was glad to see Hillary too. She is going to try to go to school some this week.

Hillary's next treatment is Friday. She will have another spinal tap, Vincristine, IV Methotrexate, and the Erwinia leg shots. Please pray that she bounces back fast from her treatment. She really wants to go to church Easter Sunday.

Most importantly, please pray that she never ever relapses. Secondly, pray that the side effects from the chemo will be minimal on her.

Thanks to everyone who visits this site. Please take a moment and sign her guestbook. She treasures each and every entry whether she knows you or not!

Happy Easter!
Cindy

Thursday, March 21, 2002 at 06:11 PM (CST)
Hillary went for treatment yesterday and did so well! So far, no vomiting! She has been nauseous a little bit, but is eating some. The treatment just wiped her out, though. She slept for 3 hours yesterday afternoon, awakened for 1 hour, then slept until 11:30 this morning!

If she is feeling up to it, we are going to Camp Sunshine Family Retreat for Friday night and Saturday day. This is a camp for cancer kids. I think Hillary will love it. As it stands today, she is not up for it, but maybe she will feel much better tomorrow.

Tuesday evening, Hillary went to see Ice Age with her class. She had a great time! I was glad for her to go and keep her mind off treatment for Wed.

This past Sat., Hillary and I had the best day. Hillary was feeling well, and we went shopping for her an Easter outfit. I decided not to make her wear a dress this year, but she picked out really cute red pants and a sleeveless sweater. She and I were both so excited because we agreed on the outfit and found it within minutes of arriving at the mall! We got her a white leather hat to match. Unfortunately, I think we did too much that day because she wasn't able to go to church the next morning. :-( But, we really had a GREAT mother and daughter day on Sat.!

Monday, March 11, 2002 at 05:55 PM (CST)
Hillary went today for her second treatment on interim maintenance. She is doing fairly well, but extremely fatigue. Her foot drop has gotten better, but now she is having other side effects from the Vincristine. She has no reflexes and ptosis (droopy eyes). The NP said sometimes these do not go away until after treatment is completely finished. I was shocked that Hillary is neutropenic now with an ANC of 410 after only 1 IM treatment. Since her counts were so low, they completely omit the IV methotrexate she should have gotten today. At first, I was relieved that she wouldn't get it since that is what made her so sick for 4 days last time, but then I can't help but worry about her NOT getting it. The NP assures us that when her counts are low, that means the chemo is working because no cancerous cells can grow. Since the methotrexate would make her counts even lower and at an even higher risk of infection, that is why she didn't get it today. She did, however, get Pentamadine, Vincristine, and the Erwinia asparginase (the dreaded leg shots) today. The intramuscular shots are the worst, and Hillary hates them. I am so proud of her because she didn't get herself all worked up and worry all day and the night before about the shots.

Tuesday, February 26, 2002 at 12:32 PM (CST)
Hillary began interim maintenance today which she will be on for 8 weeks. She had a spinal tap, IV medications, and the dreaded leg shots. When she has a spinal tap, she goes under a "conscious sedation." She has done well with this in the past, but not today. Normally, she feels little pain and then doesn't remember the procedure. Today, she remembers everything. She was very upset afterwards saying that it was very painful. Next time, we will make SURE she gets more sleepy medicine. She says the leg shots, though, are the worst.

She is having back pain and a lot of foot pain which is probably due to the Vincristine. Foot drop is one of the side effects of the medicine, and if hers gets worse, they will adjust her dosage. With the foot drop, she has difficulty walking and may stumble easily. Please pray it doesn't get worse.

Her doctor thinks this phase of treatment will be somewhat easier on her than what she has had so far. She goes in for treatment every 10 days. Hopefully, her blood counts won't bottom out as they have been.

Most importantly, please pray that her leukemia will never return!

Thursday February 21, 2002 10:36 AM CST
I have some sweet news to share with you today. Today, Hillary went back to school for the first time since she was diagnosed. Her Horizons teacher, Mrs. Case, had called and asked if Hillary could go on a field trip with their class today. Even 2 days ago, we didn't know if Hillary would be up for it. Hillary has not had any chemo since a week ago Tuesday. Her counts are high now and she really began feeling better this week. I agreed to let her go on the field trip, and she absolutely begged me to stay for the rest of the day after that. How could Mark and I say no? Her doctor agrees that she should go to school when she feels up to it and for things to be as normal as possible for her. Emotionally, I am a wreck filled with mixed emotions. Of course, I worry about all the germs, how Hillary is feeling, if someone will say something to hurt her feelings, if she will feel a part of the group after being gone so long, etc. But then, I remember all the love and concern her school, her friends, and even strangers have shown our family. I know that there are many people looking out for her, most importantly, she has God watching over her. This is harder than when she first began kindergarten.

I am thankful that Hillary is doing what she wants to be doing today and feeling good today. I don't know what tomorrow holds, but I am thankful for today.

Hillary begins a new phase of chemo next week, so please keep praying.

Sincerely,
Cindy

Wednesday February 6, 2002 4:41 PM CST
***Check the photo album for a picture of Hillary shaving her dad's head!***

These past couple of days have been very hard on Hillary. Yesterday, she went to the clinic for treatment - PEG asp., VCR, Pentamadine, and blood and platelet transfusions. As Hillary puts it, they loaded her up! Last night, she had an allergic reaction to the PEG asp. shots and we had to take her to the ER. They kept admitted her and gave her benadryl (which didn't help), epinephren, and steroids. Thankfully, she has had no respiratory problems, so they released her this afternoon. As we were beginning to leave the hospital, the welts came back with a vengance, and she was itching like crazy. They decided to keep her a few more hours and increase her dosage of steroids. We are home now, and she is on medicine around the clock. The doctor said she would probably continue to have reaction to the medicine for the next week because the PEG is time release. Please just pray that it doesn't get worse. This was her 6th hospital admission since diagnosis, but who's counting?

Thursday January 31, 2002 7:04 AM CST
FINALLY! The photo album now has a picture of Hillary shaving her dad's head!

These past couple of weeks have been wonderful! The short time Hillary had off treatment after being so sick allowed her counts to build up and for her to feel so much better. We have had so much fun lately. In the past week, we went to see "Snow Dogs" with Hillary's class, out to eat, and have played alot outside. Hillary has been having lots of fun riding her motorized scooter she got for Christmas.

Unfortunately, her counts are beginning to drop again. The doctor said they would probably bottom out again like they did the last time she ended up in the hospital. We are just hoping and praying she doesn't get fever or infection again and have to be hospitalized. The chemo is cumulative in her system, and she is getting very sick at her stomach again.

Our family has just been having a great time together lately. We have learned to truly enjoy our time together, play together and laugh together more than we ever have. Dealing with leukemia is very difficult, yet we are making the most of it.

Sunday January 20, 2002 2:00 PM CST
We just want to thank everyone for your continued prayers and support. So many of you have sent cards, gifts, food, and made donations to the fund for Hillary at the bank. Although many of you did it anonymously, God knows who you are and we ask for His blessings on all of you. From the churches, individuals, secret elves, Cumming Elementary and North Forsyth Middle Schools, and staff at Sawnee EMC who have helped to the sweet little 8 year old boy who insisted he had enough toys and wanted everyone to bring money to help our family instead of birthday gifts for him, we say, "Thank you from the bottom of our hearts."

Tuesday, January 15, 2002
Hillary came home from the hospital today after being in there since last Thursday. We are so glad to be home. Hillary is still running a temperature on and off, but her blood count levels are great right now so they let her come home. She is still not completely well though. The doctor thinks she has the flu. One good thing is that she gets this week off of treatment! Her next treatment will be on Tuesday, Jan. 22nd.

Soon to come on the photo albumn - pictures of Hillary shaving Mark's head! She loved that!

While in the hospital, we met a little girl named Aimee. She is 5 and just diagnosed with leukemia (ALL). Please keep her and her family in your prayers. It makes me so sad to see our precious children suffering with this terrible cancer.

Saturday, January 12, 2002 at 09:07 AM (CST)
Hillary is still in the hospital. She still has fever and her blood counts are very low with an ANC of 0. We don't know yet when she'll go home. Her chest X-ray was clear. The first blood culture from Thursday night was clear. We haven't gotten the results back yet from last night's culture.

She felt pretty good yesterday evening in spite of her fever. She was in pain through the night, but after getting Lortab & Benedryl, she slept much better.

Friday, January 11, 2002 at 10:16 AM (CST)
Hillary was admitted to the hospital last night for fever. They are treating her right now with IV antibiotics and she had another blood transfusion. They have run some tests (blood work and x-ray), but we don't have the results yet. Actually, this morning she seems to be feeling better. We spent about 45 minutes in the school room playing educational games. Go figure - she feels rotten at home and comes to the hospital and feels better! Hopefully, it will continue and she will go home soon. Thanks for your continued prayers.

Wednesday, January 09, 2002 at 06:39 PM (CST)
Hillary went to the clinic today for treatment which included vincristine, pentamodine, and a spinal tap. She has had spinal taps for 4 weeks in a row, but will not have another one for a couple of months. Whew! Lately, it seems as if each day is harder than the previous day. She has been more nauseous and in more pain. Today, she has not eaten at all. She has had a low grade temperature since yesterday. If it reaches 101 degrees, she will be admitted to the hospital. Right now, it is 100.4. Hillary also had an allergic reaction today possibly to one of the medicines she had last week. The doctor is going to try the medicine (PG Asparginase) again in a couple of weeks. If it is that, I just pray that the reaction will be minor, and that they can substitute another medicine that will be just as effective against the cancer. Hillary is neutropenic right now (ANC is 0) which means she has no ability to fight off infection.
Please keep praying.

Tuesday, January 01, 2002 at 03:20 AM (CST)
Happy New Year to all our friends and family! We know this will be a difficult year for Hillary in terms of treatment, but we are praying for a year of healing.

Hillary just finished up her second week of consolidation which is the second phase of her treatment. So far, she's doing pretty good. She did spend the day after Christmas in the hospital getting her fourth blood transfusion since diagnosis. The doctor suspected that she might be hospitalized again this past weekend due to low blood counts and fever, but she wasn't -which we are thankful for! As the medicine builds in her system, her counts drop and the side effects usually increase. But, as her counts drop that means the chemo is working.

Hillary is having a difficult time mentally coping with this rotten disease. She hates the shots, going to the clinic, and getting poked usually a few times a week. She tells us that it gets harder, not easier.

Please keep Hillary in your daily prayers. Pray that the side effects will be minimal, and that, most importantly, this cancer will NEVER EVER return to her body.

Saturday, December 29, 2001 at 07:57 AM (CST)
November 7, 2001 began just like what we thought was any other day. We got up, got Hillary and Samuel off to school and Mark and I to work. Hillary had a doctor's appointment for after school just because she had occasionally run a temperature of about 99 - 100 degrees for about 2 1/2 weeks. (Under 100.4 is not even considered a fever!) During this time, Hillary had been feeling well. She was often tired - but she was playing soccer 3 times a week! When she saw Dr. Metzger, he checked her hemoglobin because she was pale - it was 5.7! Normal is 12-14. He sent us to the ER at Scottish Rite. I didn't ask him very many questions at that time because I had a terrible feeling in my stomach. It wasn't long after Hillary's blood work that we were told the devastating news - that she had cancer. I can't explain the emotions that we all felt and still feel. But, we are fighting this cancer and we are determined to win the fight, with God by our side, and continued prayers from us and from you.

Hillary is such a trooper. Chemotherapy has been difficult for her, but she has kept her faith and fights hard. She is on an intense high risk protocol for treatment for the next 2 1/2 years. She hasn't been able to go back to school yet. We are not yet sure when since chemo affects every child differently.

Hillary just turned 11 on Christmas Day! We think she is so special to be able to share the same birthday with Jesus Christ. We are so thankful that Hillary accepted Christ as her Saviour on Sept. 30, 2001. She has kept her faith through this - she reads her Bible and prays hard. We believe that God has BIG plans in store for her!

For those of you who don't know Hillary well, let us tell you about her. She is an excellent student at school and in the gifted program. She loves to read, play her Gameboy Advance, and ride her scooter. She also plays softball and soccer. She loves to play with her friends. She is active at church and loves the Lord with all her heart. We are so proud of her.

Sincerely,
Cindy & Mark

Saturday, December 29, 2001 at 07:18 AM (CST)
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