Tuesday, July 26, 2005

Sixth induction phase - Day 24 - Hearing loss

Jonathan went for his audiology exam on Monday (yesterday).  Gabby called me after the exam to tell me that Jonathan's hearing loss in the upper frequencies have begun.  Some of the side effects include speech impediment so that words such as the letter s is not said or used anymore.  We now have to monitor how he speaks so we can take corrective action as soon as possible.

When I first heard the news - it hit me like a ton of bricks.  I don't know why.  Maybe it was because it was news that I didn't not expect.  I read all these stories about NB (neuroblastoma) patients and a lot of them having the cancer come back - that I'm wondering is this just a way to prolong someone's life that will be just full of suffering and pain?

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

Walter,

Don't give up hope! There are always setbacks in life. When the time comes, God will help you make the right decision, but for now, try everything you can, exactly as you have been doing. Remember, we are all praying for you and the family. It's okay to have the thoughts you're having, though. There's a lot to think about and work through. Just remember, God isn't finished working here, even if we don't know the outcome. Love to all.

Anonymous said...

Walter--I am in such awe and admiration of your strength. How gut wrenching to feel torn between the empathy your feel for your son's pain and your instinct as a father to ensure he lives the longest, fullest life he possibly can. Whatever the side effects of his treatment may be, you and Gabrielle are such a wonderful team--he will feel special, strong, empowered, and above all, loved--because of the way you cherish and protect him. Hold on to true stories of hope and triumph and follow your heart--you are giving him the best care you can by loving him the best way you know how.

--Liz

Anonymous said...

Dear Walter,

Despite the setback, please continue to pray and trust in the Lord. He is the one on whom our lives depend. I pray that He will continue to give you physical and emotional strength (and Gabby too) to walk this trying journey. Jonathan has been walking this journey bravely and admirably. We all pray for his recovery. He is a determined, strong little guy, and God will protect him. Remember, we cannot question God's action, but we can pray and hope for positive results. We have heard the saying that "God knows best", so take care Walter, and may God guide you and protect your family and bless you all abundantly. Sometimes we ask "why me, God" but then only God knows that answer. Keep your faith, keep strong, and show Jonathan, as you all continue to do, that you love him, and are all strong for him, even when he is at his lowest.

Remember, so many of us are praying and rallying for Jonathan and your family, so collectively, we (family, friends, well-wishers, our prayer groups,) are a powerful force! So be strong, Walter, be positive.... we are here for you! Remember, God loves you all!

Love you all,

Auntie Ann (Uncle Jerry, Melissa, Ingrid, Deanna and ttheir families)