Since chemotherapy compromises the immune system, the window of opportunity for visiting Kyrie is nearly closed. Her chemo regime significantly decreases her white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets, which leaves her extremely vulnerable to becoming sick at the slightest germ. Platelets help our blood to clot when we have a cut or scrape; Red blood cells help deliver oxygen to tissues, and the white blood cells, well, we should all be thankful we have those guys. White blood cells are like our internal immune system's army; they identify and eliminate pathogens (bacteria, viruses, fungi, etc.) either by attacking or by engulfing and then killing microorganisms. And pathogens are everywhere.
We come in contact with millions of microscopic bacteria, viruses and general cooties everday, and it's our skin, hair, mucus, immune system, etc. that keep most of those airborne and contact germs from really getting us. Think about how many tiny germs are on our fridge handles, door knobs, keyboards, cell phones, purses or at our schools, shopping malls and grocery stores. Ever step into a public restroom? What's on your shoes?
In the next five to 10 days, Kyrie's immune system will hit a new low. So, even when they go home in a few days, Jordan & Lacie are asking that people refrain from physical visits and contact. One of the most incredible things about love, prayer and care is that you can still feel it even if you're on the other side of the planet.
Without the opportunity to visit with them in person, commenting on this site is more useful now than ever.
New photos to come in the next few days.
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3 comments:
My husband and I have really been praying hard for your family. We are going to be passing through Wichita on our way out of town Monday morning and were thinking we would come visit you all. I saw the post this morning and realize the extent to which Kyrie's immune system is compromised; we definitely don't want her around any "bugs". If you all are still at Wesley Monday morning, Dave and I would love to come pray with Lacie and Jordan in the hopital lobby or something?!? If you are not up for that we completely understand. We would just love to lift you up in person and meet the faces we have been praying for!! But like Megan said we can pray and care for you guys from miles away!! Please let me know what you think. You have been on our hearts.
Kristi and Dave Swob (kswob@everestkc.net)
I don't know if you've ever heard the song "Held", by Natalie Grant. It's a beautiful song and the lyrics have lifted me up so many times. So, I wanted to share them with you. The chorus says, "This is what it means to be held. How it feels, when the sacred it TORN from life and we SURVIVE. This is what it is to be loved and to know that the promise was that when everything fell, we'd be HELD.
You and your sweet baby girl are being held...held in the hearts of many people that you'll never know, held constantly in the minds of those who love you, held up in prayer to the Great Physician, and held in the mighty arms of the ONE who will never let you go. Our prayers are for Kyrie's complete healing. My prayer today is for your family to feel the love that is being earnestly sent your way. You are never alone...you have a mighty band of prayer warriors who are on the frontlines...
Megan, thank you for this blog...it is informational, yes, but also inspiring. Not that I'm at all suprised that the Megan I know and love could once again inspire me to be a better person. I just want you to know that this has been a source of personal spiritual growth for me. Thanks.
I love you all.
Jordan, give that baby a gentle squeeze for me.
Melissa
Hi, Kristi!
What a wonderful thought to stop by while passing though Wichita! So kind. However, if she feels well enough today and tonight, Kyrie may go home tomorrow! Let's hope, anyway. Thank you for even considering a visit. That's tremendous.
And Melissa ... You don't know how many times you've inspired me--your abundant strength, support and faith not only have been your gifts over the years to me, but now gifts to Jordan, Lacie & Kyrie, too. Simply amazing.
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