Monday, September 17, 2012

Look for the “Silver Lining” . . . .

After being at home for just over 8 days, Michalla’s blood counts increased to the point where the doctors needed to start chemotherapy on her again, which meant being admitted to the hospital to begin a 30-40 day inpatient process.  Last Friday, Michalla and Teri made their way back to their “home away from home” to begin this process.

First, an EKG needed to be performed to check the condition of her heart before administering more chemotherapy.  This is a standard test that is performed before another round of chemo begins, as damage to the heart is a possible side-effect and they want to keep everything in check.  What was discovered next is something they never imagined.  As several doctors stood around puzzled – they knew it wasn’t the results the doctors were looking for.  It is uncertain the extent – but Michalla’s heart has definitely been damaged by the chemotherapy and they were not able to begin the new series on Friday as anticipated.  It’s almost like one problem was traded for another and is very discouraging.  They can’t not do chemotherapy though, they just need to figure out the direction they are going to go.

Michalla remains in the hospital and is being medicated and monitored for her heart and followed closely.  She will have another EKG done tomorrow (Tuesday) to see if it has improved since finding the damage on Friday.  At that point, the doctors will determine when they will start the next round of chemo.

You may be asking, “Where does the silver lining title of this post come in?  None of this is really very good news and what could the silver lining be?"  I Googled "silver lining” and its meaning and here is some information that it brought up:  “Every cloud has a silver lining means that you should never feel hopeless because difficult times always lead to better days, every difficult situation has a bright side.”  Another definition was: “Difficult times are like dark clouds that pass overhead and block the sun. When we look more closely at the edges of every cloud we can see the sun shining there like a silver lining.

So – this is the silver lining . . . . . You may all be aware that Megan (Michalla’s sister) is getting married this Thursday (September 20th).  Because the 2nd round of chemo hasn’t been started yet and likely won’t be started until after Wednesday, the doctors have agreed to allow Michalla to attend the wedding on Thursday.  As Teri stated, Michalla was in tears and they were definitely tears of joy because this is something she has deeply desired.  There have actually been a lot of family members and friends fasting and praying that this small miracle would come to pass.  Though this is a difficult time and new challenges have presented themselves (heart problems), by looking closely at the edges of the cloud, the sun is shining brightly and Michalla (and the rest of us) are allowed to see the silver lining.

We continue to pray for Michalla and the rest of the Beardall family.  We hope you can feel the hand of the Lord and see how your lives are being blessed and will continue to be blessed as your faith and testimonies are strengthened.

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

Welcome Home Michalla!!!

Let's keep it short and sweet.....We want to spread the GOOD NEWS that Michalla is coming home today!!

Her white blood count has increased rapidly allowing her to come home.  It is unknown how long she will be home before going back to the hospital for her 2nd round of chemo - continued lab work and her body will determine that.  In the interest of her health and recovery, she will NOT be able to have any visitors.  Please continue to remember her in your prayers.

A special "thank you" to all those who came at a moments notice to help sanitize the Beardall's home for her return!!

Monday, August 27, 2012


 Friends from Smart
   Cookie, Running for
        Michalla
 

Friday, August 24, 2012

Love is Delicious

 
Fun little treat that Cambri made with her friend Courtney.  Right now, anything having to do with love or hearts makes us think of Michalla, as demonstrated by Cambri.  (heart shaped ice cube)

Door Sign

If you know Michalla, you know how much hair and hairstyling means to her.  The day we decided to shave her head was the toughest so far.  This was a sign the nurses put on the door for visitors. 

A picture is worth a thousand words

 
Tender-hearted Cambri showing her love and concern for Michalla

Today's gaol............ Faith

There is a big white board in Michalla's room where the nurses write medicines, etc. There is a spot for "today's goals."  Michalla's little sister wrote her name (Faith) under "today's goals."  I thought it was very fitting.