Bennett being a proud big brotherUnfortunately, Carter's body reacts the same every chemo cycle and everything becomes very predictable. Carter was irritable yesterday and today (days 17 and 18 of his 21 day cycle- like clockwork). He just wanted to be held, and we kept taking his temperature expecting a fever to appear. This evening it happened. Matt immediately went and took a shower and packed a bag, knowing he and Carter will be heading to the ER and then to the oncology floor for a few days. We called the doctor to tell him Carter has a fever and we are going to the ER. He said Carter's blood work results from this morning showed his ANC is zero. This too is fairly predictable by now.
Carter had thrown up this morning and we had to give him a couple of his meds twice. Then, as we were putting him in the car this evening to go to the hospital, we gave him his meds. He vomited right away, all over himself and the carseat. We had to take him out, clean him up, clean the car up and re-give his meds. Luckily, Auntie (my sister) had come over to stay with Davis and Bennett while I took Matt and Carter to the ER. So, she was able to help out with the other boys during this ordeal. And no matter how many times we've gone through this, it doesn't make it any easier to say goodbye to your crying baby boy as he goes into the ER yelling, "Mama, hold you!"
Shoot, was hoping you would avoid the ER this round. Hopefully he will be home soon so you can hold your little boy. THinking of you all as always.
ReplyDeleteGina
Gosh darn it! At least Carter is following the same pattern so it is not as scary but just heartbreaking when he is crying. Hang on Kara you are almost there...carving pumpkins, lighting a fire and having some chili. Hang on! We are all still with you in spirit and there is hardly a day that goes by that someone doesn't ask me how Carter is doing. He will get through this and then all will be right in the Kipp world. Big hugs...LOVE Bennett with his big smile holding his baby brother. Precious...xoxo Cindy and John
ReplyDeleteTry to think that you are nearing the end of this cycle. I am continually amazed by your strength and preserverence. You all are such an inspiration to stay strong, be positive, and live in the moment. While we cannot imagine the terror, struggle, and heartbreak your family has been through these last months, know that Carter's fight has changed my life and caused me to really reevaluate how I approach life in general. I truly admire you. Good luck and hang in there.
ReplyDeleteNikki Crary
CWL is still keeping you all before God's throne of grace. Praying the nausea goes away quickly and the ANC levels return to their healthy levels. Praying the remaining rounds of chemo go smoother in the mighty name of Jesus. Hugs
ReplyDeleteMust be so hard to be away from carter or for matt to be away from you guys. Any way you look at it times like what you are going through now SUCK! Hopefully carter will pull through quickly, and what is "normal" and what has become the normal pattern will start to change and it will be full of good things that aren't as hard VERY SOON! Sending you guys love and prayers as always. Hope you get some repreive and some good, heart happy times with bennett and davis over the next couple of days.
ReplyDeleteLove,
Courtney Norton
This absolutely brings tears to my eyes and makes it very difficult to say stay strong when it is impossible to do. I can't imagine how difficult that was for you Kara and of course also for Matt and Carter not feeling well and heading back to the hospital for another stay. Thankfully your sister was over and hopefully this fever will pass quickly. I am sending many prayers and hugs your way. Hopefully you were able to visit them today at CHOC and hold Carter also. Good luck with everything...
ReplyDeleteLove, Shelley H.
I can't imagine what your heart feels as he is telling you that....my is breaking for you. Carter is nearing the end of his chemo and I hope that he has a speedy recovery and doesn't stay long in the hospital. My prayers and thoughts are with you!
ReplyDeleteLove,
Brooke