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MRI Results
By Natalie | January 16, 2009 at 7:27 am
Annette has had a pretty good day yesterday. Her temperature was a little high in the morning before the MRI, but then afterward it was running low, just over 95, so we had to bundle her up to bring it back up. Weird. She felt a lot better, though, which was great. We saw lots of great smiles. Even the doctors got to see some.
The results of the MRI are not good. There is re-growth in the area where the tumor was in her brain. It’s not as much as before, but still a lot considering it’s only been a few weeks. There is also a “questionable” area in the front of her brain. Unfortunately, those tumors aren’t the most concerning part. The tumor on her spine has grown further up, basically covering the bottom half of her spine now. They said if it gets much higher it could start to affect her breathing, so something needs to be done quickly. Chemo is going to take too long, and it’s too extensive an area for surgery, so all we have left is more radiation, which we’re starting today. The problem with radiation is that the parts of her spine that are radiated won’t continue to grow if she’s given enough dose to possibly work well. Having the bottom half of her spine stay the size of a three-month-old’s is obviously not going to be a long-term plan, so she’ll be given a lower dose in hopes that we can buy enough time for the chemo to have a chance to do something.
We know that ATRT is very aggressive, so while this isn’t a complete shock, it is very discouraging to already be dealing with such setbacks. We’ll also do the intrathecal chemo (through the ommaya reservoir into her spinal fluid) when we get back from radiation (at Touro) and start IV chemo after that. She’ll have another MRI in about a month to see what effect it will have. That seems like a really long time from now.
Thank you for praying for us today, as I know so many of you already have.
Topics: Uncategorized | 43 Comments »
Dear Natalie, Kirk & Family
I’m so sorry about the MRI results, but I’m praying for a miracle that will stop the regrowth in the brain and the spreading of the tumor on her spine. I know it has to be discouraging but Our God is a powerful God and he knows what the plans are for sweet Annette. In His own time will he allow us to know the plans. Praying for all of you to have hope, faith, peace and strength to face each day as it dawns.
Everyone is still and will continue to pray for Annette, Grant, Natalie, Kirk and all the grandparents, etc. We are all here for you, all you have to do is just let us know what you need.
Thanks for continuing to update us, even when you don’t feel like it, we appreciate the time you take to keep us there with you.
Keep looking up! God has something wonderful planned for Annette.
Love,
Posted by: Arleen V. Richards on January 16th, 2009 at 7:40 amClarence & Arleen
I am so sorry to hear about your setback. I too, will be praying for a miracle, and that you and your family has the strength to face and overcome what lies ahead. I know that God lives and that he loves each and every one of us. Your example is a great testimony to us all. There are thousands of strangers–including myself–who are praying for you and your sweet baby daily. Know that the world has your family wrapped around their hearts.
Posted by: Jana Mathews on January 16th, 2009 at 8:22 amLifting you up in prayer. May God give you whatever you need, minute by minute, to face the day. You are loved and we are grateful for the updates.
Posted by: Cindi White on January 16th, 2009 at 8:24 amMay all of you feel GOD’S loving arms wrapped around you. We are with you in thought and prayer.
Posted by: alice on January 16th, 2009 at 8:34 amIt is such a blessing to all that you are able to share all of this with us-the ups and downs, the setbacks and victories. Thank-you so much for this great act of kindness.
Praying so much for you guys right now and as always. Know how much we are thinking about you and praying for complete healing. So sorry to hear the newest discoveries.
Holly
Posted by: Holly Watson on January 16th, 2009 at 8:37 amYou all are always in our thoughts, our hearts, and of course, in our prayers.
Posted by: Robbie Maxwell on January 16th, 2009 at 8:41 amSo sorry to hear this news, We wish there was something we could do but for now we will just continue to pray.
Posted by: Kendra Haralson on January 16th, 2009 at 8:46 amWe love you.
K
So often I come to check your posts and start
Posted by: Dwain and Iris on January 16th, 2009 at 8:50 ama message to you…then I think, what else can I
say…your other friends express my concerns daily. But, today, I must tell you that we love
you, check on you often and continue to pray daily
for Annette and those who love and care for her.
Although we have never met, our family has gone through the same struggles as you, and I want you to know that I am admiring you all from afar. More importantly, I am storming the heavens for you, that you feel God’s comfort as you walk this road. I lerned that we’ll never know, until we get to heaven ourselves, why or how God picks these special angels to endoure so much, but He has a plan. I pray you can continue to trust and I know that even though it may not feel this way, God is holding you all in the palm of His hand. Thank you for being such an example of Jesus’ acceptance of his cross, as we all pray to help you carry yours.
Posted by: Betsy on January 16th, 2009 at 9:02 amI am praying…for wisdom, peace, guidance. I don’t have words to express my heartache for you ! I love you, and will not cease in praying!
Posted by: wendy vogel on January 16th, 2009 at 9:03 amI am so sorry about Annettes results but our God is awesome and Annette is a sweet little Angel here on earth. I am also praying for that miracle too! Glad you got to see lots of smiles and praying for many more! May God continue to bless all of you and give you strength and hope in the days to come.
Posted by: Melanie Rome on January 16th, 2009 at 9:03 amMy prayers for Annette and your family continue. Only God knows what lies ahead, but I know he hears all the prayers.
Posted by: Diana James on January 16th, 2009 at 9:09 amStill praying daily for a miracle. Miracles do happen! Hope is still alive!!
Dawn
Posted by: Dawn Vazquez on January 16th, 2009 at 9:24 amMy prayers our for your whole family. We continue to pray for Annette every second of the day. We love yall.
Billy,JoAnn and Layla Chandler
Posted by: JoAnn Chandler on January 16th, 2009 at 9:26 amOh Natalie, we are praying SO HARD for a miracle healing for sweet Annette!
Thanking God for the blessing of her smile!
Posted by: Tara on January 16th, 2009 at 9:31 amI’m so sad. =( I am praying that the month brings great news as the treatments will be effective and have little negative effect on her. Waiting a month does indeed seem so far away and I am praying that your spirit is not axious and you can continue to enjoy those smiles until next months test results are done. I lift up Kirk as the man of his family. I can’t imagine as a man who is naturally born to provide and protect his family, how this must effective him from day to day. I pray for you as a mother who aches to take away every pain from her child and the frusterations you deal with not being able to do what comes naturally to you. I pray for Grant that he may have an understanding beyond his years, a joy straight from God and patience to understand what he cannot. May blessing be poured out on the wonderful family and friends who help you from day to day. May the God who comforts, restores, and shows mercy overflow in every moment of your day and in the days to come. I can not begin to understand your needs to the extent in which they are, but I extend my love and time in prayer to your sweet blessing from God, baby Annette. May God grant her body rest and comfort today. May the treatment be effective and may God’s hand continue to be mighty in her life as it already has proven to be.
Posted by: Jennifer Phillips on January 16th, 2009 at 9:51 amIt is in the Holy and Powerful name of Jesus that I pray!
Amen
GOD DO WHAT YOU DO! We praise you for the answers we’ve received and the answers we will. You are on the throne and in control. You understand what Kirk and Nat are going through and I pray you will reveal your awesomeness to them which each attack from the deceiver of doubt.
Psalm 91 He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”
Although we don’t always know why everything happens here on earth, we know that our trust in God is good.
Praying that you will have all that you need from our Heavenly Father to make it through today and your tomorrows.
Posted by: Pamela C. on January 16th, 2009 at 10:04 amWe are so sorry to hear the latest news. We are continually lifting you all up in prayers and asking for you to be surrounded with knowledgable doctors and love.
Jason and Rebecca
Posted by: Rebecca O'Kelley on January 16th, 2009 at 10:27 amKirk and Natalie, My heart just aches for you all on hearing this news. I will be praying for all of you, that you will have the strength and courage to face each setback that comes and thank God for the victories and the smiles.
Posted by: Marsha Brooks on January 16th, 2009 at 10:34 amOh, Natalie. This is not what I wanted to read today. I can imagine it was FAR from what you wanted to hear. I am so sorry. SO SORRY. Kiss, kiss, kiss and hug, hug, hug her!!! We are praying so hard for you all . . . . we will keep the faith and keep checking for updates. We love you all!!!
Posted by: Leslie Powell on January 16th, 2009 at 10:39 amDear Natalie, Krik and Family!
This breaks my heart to hear about the growth of the tumor on her spine. I am still as well as all the others praying for a miracle in her little body. God is a God of Miracles so I am believing in one.. Or lots! It sounds like she is a real sweetie… I hate that she is having to go through all this. Praying for Grant to as he probably doesnt understand alot but sending lots of encouragement your way!
God Bless,
Posted by: Melody on January 16th, 2009 at 11:46 amI cannot imagine what a crushing blow it must be to have to endure a trial like this twice in one lifetime. I trust that the God of all comfort will hold you all in His hands as you look to Him. I know that must be how you all have made it this far with so much Grace. You’re in my thoughts and prayers.
Posted by: Britiney on January 16th, 2009 at 11:49 amDear Natalie and Kirk,
Posted by: Jamie Abe on January 16th, 2009 at 12:27 pmI have written to you once before, I have just been following your postings on Annette.I was sorry to read the results of the MRI, I’m sure it can be a little discouraging. I don’t know a lot about your family, only what you guys have posted here. However, there is something I would like to talk to you guys about, though I don’t know if commenting about is the best way to do it. I will be willing to leave my email for you guys to contact me if you would. I have been praying for you everyday and asking for comfort,knowledge and strength for your family. I pray you are receiving those. If you would like to contact me, my email:
jamiel.abe@gmail.com
Thank you for keeping us all update on Annette. She seems to be growing quite a large family all pulling for her recovery.
God Bless, Jamie
There are lots of things that happen on this earth that I find difficult to hold in tension with my faith in a good God. What’s happening to your baby is one of them. I don’t claim to understand it, though my natural tendency is to ask why. I do know that during the times when I feel angry with God or confused about him or even begin to doubt him, he is there. After all, why would I be so upset with someone if I didn’t believe in him? (: I don’t know how you reconcile what you’ve been through with both your sweet daughters, but I pray that you continue to find a way to do so. In holding on to your faith, you are holding on to great hope that ULTIMATELY won’t disappoint. I pray for comfort for precious Annette and peace deep within for her parents and brother.
–Kelley in GA
Posted by: Kelley Land on January 16th, 2009 at 12:45 pmI am so blown away at this latest discovery from the MRI. You guys are never far from my mind and in my prayers all the time.
Posted by: Jessica Foster on January 16th, 2009 at 1:37 pmI an so sorry to hear the results of Annette’s MRI. AT/RT is relentless but not hopeless. I pray that all the treatments that are being used will show positive results.
Brave Will’s grandma
Posted by: Linda Hladun on January 16th, 2009 at 1:38 pmhttp://www.bravewill.com
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/bravewill
Don’t have any awesome words of encouragement, but please know I’m praying for you guys constantly.
Posted by: Ashley on January 16th, 2009 at 2:56 pmI am so sorry to hear this latest news. I find myself speachless but wanted to write to let you know that we are still praying constantly for all of you.
Posted by: Debbie Tillman on January 16th, 2009 at 3:44 pmBob, Debbie, Ashley and Ben
We continue to pray for all of you. May God comfort you and give you His peace.David and Nicole
Posted by: David and Nicole Yohn on January 16th, 2009 at 4:02 pmLean on God and not on our own understanding…he has a plan. Love you guys. You have many prayers being lifted up for you.
Posted by: Vyanca Wallace on January 16th, 2009 at 4:24 pmI know you do not know me but I am from Smyrna and heard about your story through friends. Know that there are so many of us that are praying for your family and your sweet baby girl, Annette. May God be with you and your family.
Posted by: Tonya on January 16th, 2009 at 4:44 pmWe love you and continue to pray for you. I intend to find Grant a doctor’s kit soon so there will be no question about where his stethoscope is. Call if you need anything. We will be in and out (much of the time at Crossroads) this weekend, but have cells. Ken and Jeanie
Posted by: Mary Jean Southerland on January 16th, 2009 at 4:55 pmAlways thinking about you and your family and the awesome example you set for others for Christ through this experience. Through this cold weather snap you are surrounded throughout by so many warm prayers and hugs.
Posted by: Todd and Roslyn on January 16th, 2009 at 5:21 pmI am so sorry about the MRI results. I just can’t wrap my brain around why this is happening to your sweet sweet baby girl. I will continue to pray for your family.
Posted by: Lori on January 16th, 2009 at 7:00 pmI can’t imagine why this is happening again! God’s ways are not ours, and He has a divine plan that we will know in His time. I pray to witness a divine miracle, so we can give Him all the glory, honor, and praise and be a witness to all the doctors, nurses, and others who see it that healing came from no other source, but God. Continuing to pray…
Posted by: Margaret Hickman on January 16th, 2009 at 7:16 pmWe are devestated with you to hear of today’s results, however, just know that countless numbers of people, both known and unknown, are lifting up little Annette and her family all hours of the day. We pray God’s strength will be poured out on you and your family as you go through each day. Know that you all are SOOOOOOO LOVED.!!!!!!!
In HIS HOLY NAME we pray.
Bill and Bev
Posted by: Bill & Beverly Gwynn on January 16th, 2009 at 8:27 pmI am so sorry to hear the latest results from the MRI. I will continue to lift Annette in prayer. I have also asked my faculty and staff at South Grant to keep your family in their prayers.
Posted by: Shana Delrie on January 16th, 2009 at 8:29 pmContinuing to lift you all up in prayer.
Posted by: Teresa Camp on January 16th, 2009 at 8:33 pmPrayers and love are trippled right now for you all. Love, Betty & George Rigby
Posted by: Betty Rigby on January 16th, 2009 at 9:11 pmWe check your website and keep you 4 in our prayers. We pray for healing, comfort, and peace for all of you. It sounds as if you may have a doctor in the future with Grant. I know you must be tired and anxious, but remember that we have an awesome God who can do anything.
Posted by: Liz & AD on January 17th, 2009 at 8:31 amWe love you,
Liz & AD
We are continually lifting your family in prayer.
Posted by: Brenda Cribb on January 17th, 2009 at 9:34 amI am so sorry to hear about what is happening. I will hope, pray and think of you and your family and your beautiful girl often. I have a 3 month old myself, and cannot imagine what you all must be going through. I wish there was something I could do to help.
Posted by: Lisa @ Crazy Adventures in Parenting on January 17th, 2009 at 12:54 pmPlease know we are praying for you constantly.
Posted by: Ashley Brooks on January 17th, 2009 at 6:59 pm