Clara Update

First of all, thank you to those who have been praying for my Goddaughter Clara, and for those who extended the request to other circles. I spoke with Brooke today, and received a much happier update than we had last week. I sent this email to a friend who'd asked for an update, and I'll share it with you now:

I actually just talked to Brooke today- Clara's out of PICU (sidenote: Clara had been sent to the PICU last week when her body could not rid itself of excess fluids. Clara's chemo was put on hold, she was put on dialysis, intibated and heavily sedated in order to give her body a much needed break.) and back on the oncology floor, which is a really good sign. They weaned her off the breathing machine this weekend so she's back to breathing on her own, which is FANTASTIC! We're on Chemo Day 4, and will go to Day 6 before taking an approximately 23 day break. She'll remain in the hospital throughout this time.

Brooke's mom is going home tomorrow, and they'll attempt to settle into more of a routine or schedule during this time. Brooke will stay at the hospital overnight (they have been sleeping at home, which has been good) for the next week or so- until Clara's in more of a sleeping routine. Apparently, she's having some narcotics withdrawls which are messing with her sleeping routines.

So, for now, all good news. I know that last week's scare with her retaining fluids was just one of many bumps in the road, but Brooke has said over and over that they are feeling massive prayers, all the time. They've been able to rest, which is amazing, given the situation, and there are so many other small blessings. Brooke was able to nurse for the first time yesterday in 10 days, I think. This was amazing!!
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Thank you, again, dear friends, for your continued prayers. They ARE making a difference in a very real way. I'll leave you with a picture from Saturday, when Clara woke up for the first time in several days. We've got a long way to go, but THIS is worth praying for: