Naomi's Healing Journey

Happy 9th birthday, Naomi!

2011-11-07T15:22:00.000-08:00

Today is my Naomi's 9th birthday. I will never forget how blessed we are to have her. So many children with Leukemia don't survive. I cherish every moment. On her behalf, I encourage you do make a donation to the Leukemia Research Foundation

Naomi continues to be healthy, happy, strong and defy the odds. Her hair is insanely long, she's become quite a comedian, pianist, singer, athlete and dancer. She has many friends, is having some trouble in school (possibly a side effect of the chemotherapy - we're working on that), and is as sweet and kind as ever.

Happy birthday Naomi!!!

Happy birthday Naomi!

2010-11-07T12:40:00.001-08:00

Naomi is 8 years old today! The toughest little girl in the world! She's a warrior princess, and 5 years after some of the worst news anyone could hear about a child ("SHE HAS LEUKEMIA"), she's a SURVIVOR and sparkling in the world like the angel she is. Of course, she has the support of her super awesome big brother helping her shine : > I love my babiez!!

Disney World via Make-A-Wish

2010-04-11T22:15:00.000-07:00

Last week, Naomi received her wish from Make-A-Wish Foundation to visit Disney World! As a survivor of Leukemia, it was suggested that she wait at least a year beyond being in remission before enjoying her wish so that she could have an optimal experience.

Once the plane landed in Florida, Naomi came skipping down the exit hallway at the airport with a huge grin,

ready to start her adventure.

We left the airport, drove a short distance and checked into the Give Kids the World Village, a magical resort built specifically for children who are or have been dealing with a debilitating disease or health condition. Everything about the village is stunning, from the playful colors on the Wonderland-esque buildings, to the genuine kindness, patience and love displayed by the staff and countless volunteers from around the world. The children were in awe, as were we adults. It's built so that the children who are too sick to enjoy the theme parks can still have a great time. Read all about GKTW on their website.

Photos from the village:

Saturday night was orientation for the parents, and a party for the kids: hula hoops, dancing to music kids like, bowling games, jump ropes, etc. Naomi's mom, Nina, came back from orientation in a daze, utterly overwhelmed with amazement. We did our best to go to bed early despite the excitement, because the days ahead were going to be packed full of fun!

Sunday - Universal Studios. We arrived at the park just before noon (so much for trying to get there early - have you ever tried wrangling 8 people into being out the door early?? Sigh...) Naomi's grandmother had a couple of falls recently, and had to use a wheelchair, but thanks to our being escorted to the FRONT of every line for rides, shows, character photos, etc., she had a great time along with the rest of us. Naomi's brother, Jeremiah, is a ride fanatic. The faster, the more G-forces, the better! We managed to hit almost every ride in BOTH parks and wore ourselves fully out. However, the buzz was strong enough that we stayed up far too late Sunday night. Before falling asleep I noticed that Naomi's face was hot. Uh-oh...Yep. Fever. We gave her some tylenol to cut the fever and prayed for the best. By morning, Naomi said she felt better, so we went forward with our plans.

Monday - Disney Animal Kingdom. This particular Disney park didn't offer an escort to the front of the line, but we were allowed to enter the Fast Pass lanes, which made the wait significantly less than other folks standing in the regular lines, but slowed down our pace enough that we could only see this one park. But we had a blast! We did a safari, rode several rides, and the kids were invited to dance with the cast in the Lion King performance.

We had planned to head back to the village for dinner (3 meals per day per person are provided at the village - gratis), take a nap and then head back to the Magic Kingdom. I've always heard that it's amazing at night. But alas, Naomi was feeling terrible. Nina took her to the clinic and the diagnosis came back: strep throat! That meant that Naomi had to stay in bed all day on Tuesday. Since the fatigue had hit my mother particularly hard (the long flight, sitting all day in a wheel chair, etc.), it was decided that she'd stay at the villa with Naomi while the rest of us went to Disney Hollywood and Epcot. It was fun, but we missed Naomi and mom...

I'm so grateful for the opportunity to witness Naomi's joy in meeting her most beloved characters, being escorted to the front of every line for rides, participating in a theatrical presentation of the Lion King and just having a grand time. I'll never forget the smiles on the kids faces. Magical...

A Miracle at Disneyland

2009-12-16T17:35:00.000-08:00

Naomi enjoyed a fun and full weekend! My sister, in her ingenuity, structured a plan to get 3 foster children (our little "sisters"), herself, her children and our mother a much needed mini-vacation. Given economic realities, in order to fund the trip, nothing short of a miracle was needed. Well, as we all know through Naomi's amazing healing journey, miracles do happen, and apparently in abundance. Thanks to an angel (who wishes to remain anonymous), not only was everyone able to travel to Los Angeles safely, but everyone attended Stevie Wonder's House Full of Toys Concert (the kids were especially excited to see the Jonas Brothers), and then the next morning visit Disneyland (the first time for the foster girls). A series of events led to serendipity of the highest order, and it was a beautiful weekend. Check out these happy faces:

Naomi feels better

2009-09-02T01:29:00.000-07:00

LIVESTRONG!

2009-07-13T14:39:00.000-07:00

Naomi was selected to participate in Lance Armstrong’s LIVESTRONG CHALLENGE event in San Jose. Naomi was one of several childhood cancer survivors being taking around the event course in pedi-cabs. These kids are the stars of the show. They have endured pain and faced mortality in ways that would give the toughest adults pause. Naomi requested that her big brother, 8 year old Jeremiah, and I, her Auntie, ride with her. We jumped and were chauffeured by our gracious pedi-cab rider, Rene. At the children’s request, Rene put on the speed and pedaled as fast as she could! It was a lovely day!

Naomi, Jeremiah and Rene:

You can see video of the pedi-cab ride here:

Starting line for LIVESTRONG San Jose 2009

During LIVESTRONG San Jose 2009

Approaching the finish line for LIVESTRONG San Jose 2009

Finish line for LIVESTRONG San Jose 2009

Today was Naomi’s bi-monthly oncology appointment. Everything went great! She's a healthy kid!

Naomi with her Nurse Practitioner:

Running and running

2009-04-24T23:59:00.000-07:00

The kids participated in a timed race:

Naomi ran 13 laps in 10 min, Jeremiah ran 11 laps in 11 minutes.

Brown belt in the family!

2009-04-23T21:38:00.000-07:00

I do apologize for not keeping up Naomi's blog on a regular basis. The good news is, she's doing great! So well, that we've all (well, at least me) fallen into a pattern of living the normal mundanity of everyday life, healthy children, work that's ever more consistent despite the economy, pleasing weather, shelter, food, all of the bare necessities of life. In other words, things are good...and so the blog suffers. Better that than the stressful impetus to write daily!

In the past few months, Naomi has passed her martial arts exam to receive her brown belt (at 6 years old!!)! Her big brother, Jeremiah, received his black belt (at 8 years old!!), but his mother has yet to email me a photo of him in his uniform...hint, hint...

We're all immensely proud of these tenacious, energetic, brilliant, beautiful children. : >

Blessings to you all!

Naomi the SuperStar!

2009-02-23T20:00:00.000-08:00

My adorable niece Naomi is being featured in advertisements for the Keaton Raphael Memorial Foundation. Check out her beautiful photos on their website:

Keaton Raphael Memorial Foundation

We're all so proud of our little star!

Naomi's new keyboard

2008-11-23T20:09:00.000-08:00

Naomi saw a keyboard in a store today, and bought it so she could be like her auntie...AWWWWWW! I'm biased, but this is the cutest video!

Naomi's 6th birthday!

2008-11-07T21:32:00.000-08:00

Today we celebrated Naomi’s 6th birthday! What a miracle! Naomi is such a strong and amazing child! She is determined to put cancer behind her, and live life as a normal 6-year-old little girl (one with a depth of character and experience that will continue to be an inspiration for children and adults throughout her life). Naomi had a party with her school friends on Friday, a slumber party with her closest cousins on Saturday and a fun filled pool party on Sunday! It was a party weekend!

Naomi's Healing Journey

2008-09-04T13:19:00.000-07:00

Hello friends,

As many of you know, my 5 year old niece Naomi has been receiving chemotherapy treatment for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) since April 28, 2006. ALL is the most common form of childhood cancer, but Naomi is anything but a common child. This petite, yet strong willed, little girl has endured 2 years of regular chemotherapy, blood tests, blood transfusions, spinal taps, toxic medications, hair loss, physical bloating, bracing pain, and a number of other cancer treatment side effects, with grace and patience beyond her years.

We are all extremely grateful for the fact that Naomi is responding well to her cancer treatment (which ends in September 2008!) and is expected to live a normal, healthy life. Naomi's parents realize that they are blessed and want to use their experience as parents of a child with cancer to help other families in the same situation.

Naomi's family has decided to spend the summer of 2008 driving 10,000 miles across the USA in order to raise funds for the Leukemia Research Foundation. Lisa Thompson, a documentary filmmaker noted for her commitment to telling stories of social importance, with emphasis in the area of children's health, will be joining the family and documenting their journey. This fundraiser has the potential to make a huge impact by raising funds for Leukemia research. But it can not happen without YOUR HELP!

Please join Naomi's family in this worthy cause:

1) Visit Naomi's Leukemia Research Foundation web page

2) Make a contribution to the fundraiser TODAY!

3) Forward this information to your friends and family.

Let's help Naomi in her quest to find a cause and cure for Leukemia!

Blessings to you all!

Victoria
Music, art, education, prosperity, well-being, compassion, peace, joy and love!

End of Chemotherapy Party!

2008-07-19T21:20:00.000-07:00

Today is Naomi’s last day of chemotherapy treatment! Friends and family gathered in her family’s backyard to express gratitude for Naomi having endured the past 2 and 1/2 years with more grace, strength and courage that should be possible for such a young child. The sun was bright and the air was hot as the scent of barbeque drifted by in wafts with the occasional much-appreciated breeze. The kids’ karate school came and did a demonstration, and Naomi and a couple of girls from her hula school danced for the crowd of over 50. After the formal activities, all of the kids jumped into the water slide and the jumper. Even this big kid got into the jumper and had a great time!

While Naomi is no longer receiving chemotherapy, and is a true survivor of cancer, she will continue to be examined on a monthly basis to confirm that leukemia remains out of her system. After 5 years of living cancer free, she will officially be declared in remission. Please continue to keep her in your prayers and thoughts.

Thank you to everyone for all of the prayers, contributions, visits, email messages, letters, meals, etc., that have been extended to the family during the diagnosis and treatment of Naomi’s disease. I am humbled and grateful for your kindness, generosity and energy. May you be blessed in all things in every way.

Final "in-hospital" chemotherapy session!

2008-07-03T02:51:00.000-07:00

On Monday, Naomi had her final "in-hospital" chemotherapy session! Just a couple of more weeks of chemotherapy to go! Hallelujah!

NAOMI'S FUNDRAISER FOR LEUKEMIA

2008-06-01T23:04:00.000-07:00

Naomi and her family are doing a major fundraiser for leukemia. Read about it here: Leukemia Research Foundation

NO CANCER!!!!

2008-01-28T14:12:00.000-08:00

I just got confirmation that Naomi's cancer HAS NOT RETURNED!!!! Hallelujah! She's been released from the hospital and is heading home! Thank you for all of your prayers!

Waiting for test results

2008-01-28T13:03:00.001-08:00

Naomi came through the spinal tap like a trooper. She's such a brave little girl. We expect the test results by tomorrow. Please keep her in prayer!

Thank you & God bless!

Naomi has Pneumonia

2008-01-22T19:31:00.000-08:00

Naomi has pneumonia and is being admitted to the hospital for treatment. She doesn't appear to have any symptoms, but tests revealed pneumonia. Please pray that she recover quickly and can return home.

Thank you

Pray for Naomi

2008-01-15T19:38:00.000-08:00

Naomi, has been treated for leukemia since April 2007. To date, the treatment has gone very well, and we’ve been looking forward to a treatment end date of August 2008.

Yesterday, Naomi underwent a spinal tap procedure, performed to confirm that the leukemia cells have not returned. Naomi’s mother, Nina, just called me to inform me that the doctors treating Naomi have found abnormal cells in Naomi’s spinal fluid.

At this time, we do not yet know whether the abnormal cells indicate a recurrence of leukemia. On January 28, 2008, Naomi’s doctors will perform another spinal tap in hopes of identifying exactly what the abnormal cells are. The doctors are 85% sure that the abnormal cells are not leukemia, but they are not 100% sure.

Naomi has been doing extremely well; her energy has been high, she’s been growing, her hair has returned, she’s learning at a normal rate (often one of the side effects of cancer is diminished learning capacity. Naomi has not experienced this). We’ve had every reason to celebrate her healing. We pray that she continues to be healthy and won’t have to endure another course of treatment.

Please take a moment to pray for Naomi. Please pray that the abnormal cells are innocuous and NOT a return of leukemia or indicatory of anything else requiring treatment. Pray that the results were a technical aberration and that the next spinal tap will reveal perfectly normal and healthy cells! All of us appreciate your efforts.

Christmas 2007

2007-12-29T20:32:00.000-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

We’d like to thank:

Cops Care Cancer Foundation
Recreational Opportunities for Cancer Kids (R.O.C.K.)
Lodi Cancer Kids
Lifewind International (Vine House Ministry)
Our Family and friends

for making this Christmas possible for us. Each of the above organizations gave us gifts that helped fulfill our children's Christmas wishes. Amazing! Two weeks before Christmas, we were sure there would be nothing under the tree. Yet God is good and we were blessed abundantly. If you are moved to do so, please make a donation to any or all of the foundations listed above.

Our Christmas was interrupted by a fever scare. After a delicious breakfast with several family members around, Naomi felt hot and her temperature was taken. The thermometer registered a temperature of 102º. Naomi's doctors insist that she be rushed to the emergency room when her temperature goes over 100°, so off we went. We were nervous when we got to the ER, and the nurses were sure she was going to be admitted. Thankfully, they were wrong and she was sent home but with no explanation of the high temp. Naomi has been kept home since Christmas because she still has cold symptoms but the fever has not come back. We will be celebrating our first New Year's Eve together as a family (usually a grandparent babysits so we parents can have a fun night out). We're glad to be staying in!

God bless you all and may 2008 be a year of grace, love, peace, prosperity, joy and love in each of your lives.

Nina, Naomi's mother

Naomi turned 5 Years Old!

2007-11-20T17:39:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Wishland who provides us with four 2-day park hopper tickets to Disneyland.

On Nov. 7 Naomi turned 5 Years Old! PRAISE BE TO THE GOD OF HEAVEN that she is still here and as fun-loving and playful as ever. About 3 months ago, Naomi’s social worker told me about Wishland. We put in our request and it was granted. Thank God for them because we could not have afforded to have such a wonderful celebration for Naomi's birthday without financial help.

Everything worked out perfectly! Jermaine's brother, Ronnie, happened to be in LA for work, so we stayed in his apartment, which was less than 3 blocks from Venice Beach! Conveniently, there were school holidays for both kids November 7th, 8th and 9th! So we saved money on accommodations AND the kids didn't miss any school! God is good!

We had 2 funs days at Disneyland. Naomi was treated like a princess by the Disney Cast Members. We spend our last day at the beach where the Sun came out just for us.

We left LA on Friday afternoon to make it home in time for Jeremiah’s last football game. The Panthers unfortunately lost to the Raiders after our first playoff game. Football had kept us all very busy this season with Jeremiah being the first string lineman and Jermaine being the Teams Head Coach. Even though we’re sad that our team didn’t make it further into the playoffs, we’re happy to have an early break before the holidays.

Thank you for your continued prayers!

Hula Solidarity!

2007-11-18T22:21:00.001-08:00

Naomi (center front, with purple sleeves) had to wear a mask to Hula Class this past weekend. She’s never complained of wearing her mask in the past but since she’s been doing so well for so long (she has not worn the mask since September), she'd grown accustomed to not needing it. She was completely embarrassed about the mask and cried, completely unwilling to dance wearing the mask. I had given up trying to convince her to dance, and was about to leave the school when several of her classmates offered to also wear a mask also to make Naomi more comfortable. Once Naomi saw that she would not be the only student in a mask, she decided to dance and had a great class. I was brought to tears the kindness of ladies of this school.

Naomi is doing great!

2007-10-02T14:13:00.000-07:00

I'm sorry for such a long delay in updating Naomi's blog. She has been very healthy (overall) recently, and enjoying participating in several activities, including martial arts, hula and preparing to be a cheerleader for her brother's football team. Recently, Naomi got to meet the legendary Stevie Wonder (who kindly prayed for her healing..while Naomi slept in her father's arms), had her hair braided (long extensions, which she loves), and celebrated her brother Jeremiah's 7th birthday at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom.

Thank you for all of your prayers and support! Enjoy these photos:

Weekly Blood Draws

2007-08-05T21:03:00.000-07:00

Every Sunday Naomi has got to get her blood drawn to check her levels. Almost always, the lab technicians are amazed at how calm she is. Most of them say she is as well behaved or even more so than some adults. She is such a trooper. I am so proud of how well she copes with things.

Day at the Monterey Bay Aquarium

2007-07-27T20:48:00.000-07:00

On July 27, the Kids and I got to enjoy the Monterey Bay Aquarium for the first time. It’s has been quite a task keeping these two busy all summer long, so at the last minute I decided to drive them and my foster sister Sion to the Aquarium. The biggest hit for the kids was the Jelly Fish. We spent to more time is those exhibits. School Starts up again on the 28th of August so hopefully we can got again.

Girl's Day Out

2007-07-22T20:43:00.000-07:00

Naomi wanted to go swimming with her friends Ariana, Macaya, and Sion at the local swimming club on June 28th. She was really missing big brother Jeremiah, who was away from home for the first time at Camp Okizu. The girl's day out was a great distraction for both of us. The girls had a wonderful time splashing in the pool and drying off in the sun while eating their petit sandwiches.

Karate Tournament

2007-07-21T21:10:00.000-07:00

On the weekend of July 21st, we drove Jeremiah and Naomi to Sacramento for the Central California Regional Karate Competition, where they both received trophies for Form and Weapons demos. Jeremiah showed “Mighty Power” in his Form and Naomi Received honors for “Highest Kicks”. On August 7th, the both passed the testing for higher belts. Jeremiah is now a Lion belt and Naomi has her Yellow belt. They both want to receive their Black Belts one day.

Seeking Documentary Producers

2007-07-10T22:03:00.000-07:00

I am the mother of two very special and wonderful children. On April 28, 2006, life changed for my youngest child when she was diagnosed with Leukemia. Her name is Naomi and she is a bright, outgoing and cheerful little girl, who I know in my heart will survive this disease and live a long life. While I have had struggles with depression and learning to cope with the changes of childhood cancer, I can’t stop wondering “what is our purpose?”

I am compelled to give back and make a difference for other families that must endure the same trauma that we are enduring. Therefore, our family is going to dedicate the entire summer of 2008 to drive 10,000 miles around the county for the purpose of raising $1 million for Leukemia Research. We want to do all we can to help find the cause of this cancer, which will hopefully eradicate it from the list of childhood diseases.
We are looking for a producer who would be interested in documenting our journey. We want someone who will follow us to fund raisers, doctors appointments, daily activities and especially on our 10,000 mile journey.
This would be YOUR project, and you would own it. We are simply the subject. Please call us if you think this is a project that could be interesting to you.

Please contact Victoria if you're interested.

Thank you,

Nina
Naomi's mother

Fiesta Brava Restaurant Fundraiser

2007-06-02T22:00:00.000-07:00

Thank you to the owners of Feista Brava Restaurant in Riverbank, CA. They were so touched by Naomi's Story that they did a fund raiser on their own. They posted pictures of Naomi and cup for donations at the register and their customers generously gave.

Last night they treated Naomi to her favorite Beans and Rice dish and presented her with the money that they'd collected. Naomi asked "Mommy, do they love this baby". She sometimes refers to herself as "this baby". We continue to be humbled by the beauty and love that this journey towards healing has brought to us, and we are ever grateful.

Naomi's Pre-School "Graduation"

2007-06-01T08:08:00.000-07:00

Naomi "graduated" from Pre-School! As I watched little Naomi walk up to her teach to receive her "diploma", Nina, Naomi's mother expressed to me that she was overwhelmed by the joy of the fact that Naomi was able to participate, that her blood counts have been high enough for her to attend school recently, and that she looks as healthy as any other child. It is truly a miracle! Additionally, Naomi was recently tested for placement into Kindergarten. Not only is Naomi ready for Kindergarten, but she tested as equivalent to a 6 year old child! Naomi is only 4.5 years old! And remember, she missed well over half of the school year, and still tested that high (thanks to Nina's diligence in home schooling Naomi)!

Please continue to keep Naomi in your prayers.

Thank you,

Victoria

Naomi's ANC is up again!

2007-05-07T22:32:00.000-07:00

AMAZINGLY GOOD NEWS! Naomi’s ANC is 2300!! Her ANC was as low as 10 merely 5 weeks ago.

Naomi has passed her 1 year anniversary of her diagnosis. She, and all of us, thank you for your continued support and prayers. Naomi looks healthy, laughs heartily and is well on the road to recovery. It's been a tough year, but Naomi is doing well despite the adversity!

Only 16 more months to go!

Naomi meets Dolphins!

2007-04-10T19:05:00.000-07:00

Today, Naomi spent the day playing with Dolphins! I recently met a wonderful new friend, Erin Hanahoe, who works as a Marine Mammal Supervisor for Six Flags Discovery Kingdom (formerly Marine World). Once I found out what she does for a living, I asked if we could set up a day for Naomi (and the rest of us…I was as excited as the kids) to meet dolphins. Erin made it happen! We watched the incredible dolphins perform in a show and then met several up close in the Dolphin Encounter area. They were so cute! All of us were spell bound. It was a day to remember. Thankfully, Naomi was in good health (a miracle since she had just recently been confined to the hospital with low blood counts), and Jeremiah was out of school for Spring Break! Here are some photos and footage from the day:

Dolphin Day 1

Dolphin Day 2

Dolphin Day 3

Dolphin Day 4

Dolphin Day 5

Dolphin Day 6

Dolphin Day 7

Naomi is severly neutropenic

2007-03-27T20:48:00.000-07:00

Hello friends,

Naomi's got the flu, but is on anti-biotics to fight it. Her blood count is down to a dangerously low 10, yes TEN, at the moment (see this previous blog for details on ANC: http://naomiheal.blogspot.com/2007/02/naomi-update.html and this wiki on Neutropenia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neutropenia). It essentially means that her body has no ability to fight off infections. Please continue to pray for her, specifically that her ANC rises above 500 so that her chemotherapy treatments can resume. 500 is the minimum for her to receive chemotherapy. 2,000 is normal.

Although Naomi appears to be healthy (she's eating decently, has good energy, and isn't coughing or sneezing much), the fact is that exposure to the slightest infection could be serious. Please refrain from any visiting at this time. She can not be exposed to any type of infectious droplets from other people.

Thank you and bless you all!

Victoria

Real Life Fitness Test

2007-03-16T20:22:00.000-07:00

I recently had an opportunity to test my level of fitness in a real life context. On Monday, March 12, Naomi was scheduled to have a chemotherapy session. Since I had the day off, I decided to accompany Naomi and her mother (my sister) Nina to the appointment. I needed to be on campus anyway to take care of some business on the other side of the campus. After Naomi was admitted, I left to take care of my business. I walked about a mile to the other side of the campus (at least I think it was a mile...it took about 20 minutes walking at a brisk pace), had my appointment, and then walked back to the hospital. While I was returning, Nina called me and asked me to meet them in front of Neiman Marcus at the Stanford Mall so we could go find breakfast. Naomi's IV had been inserted, and we had time to burn while waiting for the blood tests that would confirm if she was healthy enough to receive chemotherapy that day. Once I met up with them, I noticed that Naomi's hand was covered with blood. Apparently, something was wrong with how her IV had been inserted and blood was leaking. Nina decided that we needed to rush Naomi back to the hospital, which was about 1/4 mile away. Unfortunately, I'd been suffering from the flu, and absolutely didn't want to expose my germs to Naomi (I'd been wearing a mask around her). So, in order to get Naomi back to the hospital as quickly as possible, I decided to hand my purse and jacket to Nina, slung Naomi onto my back and sprinted as quickly as I could back to the hospital just in case the bleeding was as bad as it looked.

I held onto Naomi's legs and instructed her to use the non-injured arm to wrap my neck so she could hold on and off we went. I can honestly say that despite the compromised respiratory system (cough & sinus infection), having already walked around 2 miles, running with a 35 lb child on my back, (and oh, did I mention that I hadn't eaten anything at all that morning?), I arrived at the clinic without being winded at all! I was covered, and I mean covered, in sweat, but my breathing was not excessively heavy, and I was able to talk to the nurses as they addressed the bleeding (it looked much worse than it was). Thanks to Mani, Steven and Maya at Ice Chamber Athletic Performance Training for pushing me to my limit every week. At least I know now that if needed, I can rise to the occasion!

Naomi had her chemotherapy and has been healthy enough to attend preschool and play with some friends! Hallelujah! : >

Naomi's aunt,

Victoria

Removal of the PORT Catheter

2007-02-27T00:54:00.000-08:00

Naomi had surgery today to remove the PORT catheter from her chest. I went with Naomi and Nina, her mom, to the hospital. We arrived at 7am, where the staff was waiting for us. The anesthesiologists offered Naomi a mask which had been imbued with a watermelon scent, so that she could be sedated without needle pricking. Naomi was very pleased with that. The doctors took Naomi into the OR and completed the procedure with no problems! Naomi slept for just under 30 minutes after the procedure. Nurses on staff took various measurements of Naomi's vital signs and granted their approval for her to be discharged. Naomi spent the rest of her day hanging out with me and her mom, full of the usual spunk and energy you'd expect from a healthy 4 year old. It was a beautiful sight!

Victoria

Naomi going into surgery on Monday 2/26/07

2007-02-20T23:21:00.000-08:00

On Monday Feb. 12 , during what should have been a “regular” chemo visit, Naomi’s PORT Catheter began to leaking into her Left Shoulder, causing her tremendous pain. The PORT Catheter, or central line, is a catheter placed in a large vein that supplies the circulatory system. A central line is needed for insertion of medications and blood products, and to provide a site where blood samples can be easily taken without pain to the child. Since Naomi’s PORT has begun leaking, it is no longer functional for her remaining 20 months of chemotherapy. Her doctors have scheduled the Line to be removed from her chest on February 26th. Please keep all of us in prayer at this time.

Thank you,

Nina

Naomi update

2007-02-03T18:02:00.001-08:00

Naomi’s ANC (white blood count) has been rather low again for the past 3 weeks. In order to receive her standard dosage of chemotherapy, her ANC must be over 750, however Naomi’s ANC has been hovering around 500, which means her immune system is badly suppressed and could be easily compromised if exposed to illness, viruses, etc. Rather than skip the dosage altogether, Naomi’s doctors have been administering half doses. Ideally, to fight the cancer, Naomi should be receiving full doses. The doctors have no idea why her ANC is so low. Please pray that her numbers elevate again.

Other than a low ANC, Naomi is doing quite well. She has been enjoying Hula and Karate lessons, and spending her days at home with her mother, Nina. Nina has been working with Naomi on a preschool curriculum for about an hour per day. The family is looking into programs which provide in home instruction for up to 2 hours per day with a professional instructor. There are programs on the city, county and state level that provide such services for sick children.

On a happy note, Naomi is so excited about her hair returning that she’s taken it upon herself to style her hair. Earlier this week, she poured 1/2 of a bottle of hair oil onto her hair, and just yesterday she followed it up with 1/2 of a bottle of hair gel. Maybe we have a future stylist in the family!

Here are photos of Naomi in Hula class:

New photo of Naomi

2006-12-26T22:16:00.000-08:00

Isn't she beautiful?

Christmas for Naomi

2006-12-26T19:05:00.000-08:00

Naomi had a beautiful Christmas. On Christmas Eve, Naomi, Jeremiah and their dad Jermaine went to a party with Jermaine's family. Naomi's mom, Nina was sick with the flu and stayed home. My mom and I (Nina's mother and sister) decided to stay in and help Nina prepare the house for the holiday. Once the kids returned home, Jermaine put on some music, and despite the late hour (nearly 11pm), but kids had enough energy to give us a dance performance. They had a great time, and so did we!

The kids slept late on Christmas morning. Jermaine made breakfast for everyone (pancakes, biscuits, eggs, sausage, bacon, hash browns, etc.), and we all filled our bellies, and expressed our gratitude to him for doing the work, and to God for allowing us to all be together on such a lovely day. We then moved on to the living room where the children opened gifts.

So far, it sounds like a typical American Christmas, no? Well, it was truly extraordinary because the fact that there were gifts at all is miraculous.

Upon Naomi's diagnosis, Nina had to quit her job and take on the role of Naomi's full time caretaker. Jermaine has been working hard as the sole breadwinner, but given the cost of living in Northern California, it's a challenge to run a household on a single income. NIna and Jermaine were faced with the fact that they just couldn't afford to buy gifts this Christmas.

The Alves family donated a beautiful Christmas tree. Johanna Alves ran in the NIke Women's Marathon on behalf of raising money for the Leukemia/Lymphoma society. Johanna ran and completed the marathon (kudos to Johanna) on behalf of Naomi. Read all about Johanna on the Team in Training web site: Johanna Alves. So, the familiy had a beautiful tree, but no gifts.

Enter a wonderful charitable organization, the Kelsi Austin Lowe Foundation. The goal of this foundation is to provide emotional and financial assistance to families with seriously ill children in the Central Valley of California. Thanks to generous donations from the Kelsi Austin Lowe Foundation, Naomi and Jeremiah were able to open an abundance of gifts, including toys, educational materials and clothing. The foundation also provided the family with some basic household needs. Thanks to the Kelsi Austin Lowe Foundation, the family's prayers were answered. Please visit the Kelsi Austin Lowe Foundation website, and read all about this wonderful organization, and the child it's named for: Kelsi Austin Lowe, a beautiful, heroic, and amazing child who died in 2002 from the same form of Leukemia that Naomi is fighting, Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Kelsi's parents turned their devastating loss into an opportunity to provide aid, solace, and relief to parents and child enduring the challege of serious illnees. Please make a tax-deductible donation to this worthy cause.

Here are some photos of Naomi on Christmas Day. Enjoy!

I hope you all had a beautiful, warm, joyous Christmas, filled with love, kindness, happiness and good cheer!

Have a safe, fun and Happy New Year!

Naomi update

2006-12-20T09:48:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since I've posted on Naomi's blog. Over the course of the past month, Naomi has continued to receive her chemotherapy treatments. She doesn't have to go to the hospital as often in this phase, but the drugs still take their toll on her physically and greatly affect her disposition. She is often very moody, prone to anger and frustration, all of which are certainly understandable. I can't begin to imagein what she has to deal with. She is such an amazing little girl, a wonder to see as she battles this disease.

Thank you for your continued prayers and support.

Merry Christmas!

Victoria

Cold Stone Creamery Fundraiser

2006-11-15T20:57:00.000-08:00

The fundraiser was a great success! There was a steady stream of family, friends and strangers who came into the Emeryville Cold Stone Creamery location on October 21, 2006. The staff and management at Cold Stone were wonderfully gracious, energetic and supportive. We extend our gratitude to Dave, Ed, Tammy and all of the staff that worked the fundraiser.

Thank you to everyone who came and bought ice cream and shared your kindness, compassion and love with Naomi and the rest of the family. Special thanks to everyone who signed up for the Bone Marrow Registry. 30 new people are now on the list! As you can see from the photos, it was a beautiful day.

God bless you all!

Naomi's family

FUNDRAISER for NAOMI

2006-10-21T13:00:00.000-07:00

FUNDRAISER for NAOMI
Sat, October 21, 2006 1-4pm

Cold Stone Creamery
5609 Bay Street
(across from Barnes & Noble)
Emeryville, CA 94608
510.428.9655

Cold Stone Creamery is donating 20% of sales during this fundraiser to Naomi's family! Please join us in this fundraiser for Naomi!

If you can't make it to the fundraiser, but would like to make a donation, please contact me for details: Victoria

Naomi needs glasses

2006-10-05T17:49:00.000-07:00

Naomi's optomitrist confirmed today that she is very far sighted and suffers from astigmatism. She will need to wear glasses while awake in order to prevent further damage to her eyes. Fortunately, children with far sighted vision often recover partially or fully as they age. Please continue to pray for our little Naomi.

Naomi is beginning to experience severe hair loss as a result of the strong chemotherapy she is receiving. Please take the time to leave her positive comments, and if you see her, please remind her of how beautiful she truly is.

Thank you & God bless!

Update 9/21/06

2006-09-22T16:20:00.000-07:00

We started week 2 (of 6 weeks) today. Naomi did very well. I started off this week with concerns about her PORT catheter. A friend of Jermaine's fell while holding Naomi on Sunday and knock her PORT out of alignment. I was very nervous, praying that she would not have to undergo another 3 hour surgery to have it adjusted. Thank God it was OK and she could still receive her Chemo through it.

I've included some photos from her chemo treatment so you can get a sense of what Naomi's experience is. As you can see, I always set Naomi up with a favorite Movie and make her as confortable as she can be. Today Naomi wanted to stay in her new stroller (a gift we received on Tuesday, 9/19/06).

After the nurse starts the machine, we just wait for it to adminster all the chemo into her PORT, which is located on her chest. Naomi is so brave. She never cries anymore when the nurses access her PORT. There was a two year old boy in the room next door crying his eyes out as the nurse tried to access his PORT. Naomi walked over to his bed and held her shirt up so he could see her connection and the little boy stopped crying. Naomi is so sweet. The boy's father thanked Naomi for helping.

After chemo Naomi was in such high sprits that we went to the hospital play room where she completed this beautiful painting.

Please come visit us! We are starting to get pretty bored here. Naomi's Chemo appointments are on Thursdays (for now) and the best days for visits are Tuesday and Wednesday. Yesterday we were delighted to have a visit from my aunt Debra.

Also please continue for strength in Naomi's organs. We are approching the dangerous week #4 where most children have a significant drop in health. The chemo may have to be stopped and there is potential that she may need to be hospitalized. We're praying that this will not be the case for us and she will sail right through to week 5 and 6 where chemo will be given everyday.

Bless God,
Nina

Naomi meets the 49ers!

2006-09-18T22:29:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, 9/17/06, Naomi's family received tickets to see the 49ers play the St. Louis Rams. They had a great time, although Jeremiah found the cheerleaders more interesting (he's such a flirt already). Naomi slept during the game. LOL They all got the biggest thrill in meeting the players after the game here are some pictures from our exciting day.

Naomi, Jeremiah and Manny Lawson

Naomi, Jeremiah and Tony Wragge

Naomi, Jeremiah and Justin Smiley

Naomi, Jeremiah and Bryant Young

Nina, Naomi, Jeremiah and Anthony Adams

Nina, Naomi, Jeremiah and Anthony Adams

Jeremiah flirts with Katherine (we think she's a cheerleader)

Naomi and Auntie Tiffany

Naomi and Grandma

Update 9/14/06

2006-09-15T18:10:00.001-07:00

UPDATE: On Thursday, 9/14/06 Naomi began Delayed Intensification Maintenance. For this 56-day portion of Naomi's chemotherapy she and I will stay near the hospital at the recommendation of her doctors. Unfortunately, today we had a rough start. Naomi and I stayed up last night until 2:30am and woke this morning at 6:30am. The goal or purpose was to exhaust her so that she would sleep through her spinal tap procedure. Normally she would go to the APU where an anesthetist would put her to sleep, but they had open appointments and considering her hypoglycemia, we couldn't go on the waiting list (which requires fasting until an opening comes available. Hypoglycemic patients require food intake every 4-6 hours). Naomi fought me and the nurses during the spinal tap procedure and ended up with some bruses on her shoulder from the nurse trying to immobilize her. She is scheduled in the APU for the next spinal tap but if her ANC numbers drop again, she will have to forfet the appointment again, thereby leaving us faced with the option of putting her on the waiting list or trying to immobilize her again.

This phase is broken into a series of 3 weeks. Naomi will receive chemotherapy once per week, and will receive steroids for the first 21 days. Week 4 is for recovery from the intensity of the drugs but is also the most dangerous week, 90% of patients end up being hospitalized during this week as the body taken off the steroids and makes the necessary adjustments. If she is hospitalized, cheomthropy will stop untill she recovers. During weeks 5 and 6, Naomi will need to get chemotherapy at the hosiptal everyday. Finally, during weeks 7 and 8 she will be off all medication and be allowed to return home.

PRAISE REPORT: Naomi had an echocardiogram of her heart on Tuesday and the report came back as normal and healthly!!!

PRAYER REQUESTS: Please keep us lifted up in your prayers. The family separation we must endure is hard on all of us.

Until later, may the Lord bless you,

Nina

Camp Okizu

2006-09-05T00:21:00.000-07:00

Naomi had a great Labor Day weekend! She, her brother and her parents went to Camp Okizu near Lake Oroville, CA. Here is Nina's account of the trip:

Camp Okizu was created by Larry Bell, who wanted to create a special place for children with cancer to go and experience camping. Mr. Bell took a $3.8 million loan and built a beautiful camp site on 500 acres of land. He pays for the $1.2 million in operating expenses per year to keep the camp going. Additionally, Mr. Bell does not charge any family to come to the camp. Mr Bell depends on donations and volunteers to act as counselors. On our weekend we had several Oncologists and Register Nurses available for medical assistance and to answer our questions.

We arrived on Friday and immediately started making friends. Jeremiah was taken off by a 5 year girl named Samantha, who was also the sibling of a Leukemia patient. Naomi made friend with two other Leukemia girls, both 3 years olds: Little Mimi and Ella (seen in the picture with Naomi).

Our days where full of activities. In the mornings, the parents met in support groups while the children where divided by age into small groups. Jermaine and I learned a lot about how to manage our sick child and our healthily child during Naomi's Chemotherapy.

After the sessions we had lunch/nap time. The afternoon was filled with a list of activities. On day one, we stayed in the craft room because it was too hot to be outside. On day two, Jeremiah and Jermaine went fishing and to archery while Naomi took a nap. After her nap, I made Ice Cream with a Red Ice Cream Ball that had to be shaken for 20 minutes. I tried rolling it on the ground to ease the pressure on my arms. That Ball got heavy!

After ice cream, we all went to the ropes course and got to fly through the trees. Naomi took two turns first with me, then with Jermaine. Jeremiah went twice by himself. On his 2nd trip through the trees, Jeremiah got daring and let go of the rope to fly more freely. After our flights Jeremiah and I climbed up some trees to reach a cat walk in the air. I made it across the first log, but Jeremiah gave up at about 20 feet above. We had fun dropping to the ground and swinging back and forth. After the ropes course, all four of us played flag football with other campers. Jermaine was on the opposite team as me and the kids, and he led his team to the first victory.

In the evening, we had smores on the first night and a party the second night during which the entire camp created a nice song by beating tubes. The party lasted until 10pm. During the party, we also played "Mafia" with 20 other campers. Jermaine and I where both "killed" early in the game. Our main purpose for going to camp Okizu was to check it out before we allowed Jeremiah to go to the Sibs Camp (camp for the siblings of cancer patients) on his own. Jeremiah is excited; he made a lot of friends and looks forward to going back.

For more information about Camp Okizu or to make a donation go to Camp Okizu

Photos of the trip:

The Cabins where the family stayed

Naomi having fun

Nina and Naomi making Ice Cream

Naomi eating home made Ice Cream

Naomi saying goodbye to her new friend, Ella

Possible heart problem

2006-08-31T17:26:00.000-07:00

Naomi was experiencing a bad cough and fever this week, so Nina took her to the emergency room. Naomi's pediatrician recommended a chest x-ray to rule out pneumonia, and in the x-ray it appeared that Namoi's heart is enlarged, which could be a sign of heart damage. The chemotherapy drugs that Naomi has been taking could be responsible for the enlargement, but happily her pediatrician found that there were no other symptoms or signs of heart problems, such as water in the lungs, irregular heartbeat, etc. Naomi will be undergoing and Echo-Cardiogram on September 12 to rule out a heart problem. Please continue your prayers!

Naomi nearly goes into Anaphylactic Shock

2006-08-04T12:01:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, 8/2/06, was very scary. During her normal weekly Cheomtheopy, Naomi recieved her 4th dose of 'PEG Asparaginase'. There was no reaction from the previous doses of this medication but on this occasion she began to go into anaphylactic shock, causing a code blue alert to be sent out in the hospital. Code blue is a high priority alert to the hospital staff announcing that someone is dangerously near death and all hands need to be readily available to assist.

Within seconds after the alert, Naomi's room started being filled with doctors, nurse practitioners, and other emergency medical professionals. During the episode, all of Naomi's soft tissue began to swell including her lips, throat and eyes, while all her organs began to shut down on their own to protect her body. The doctors quickly gave her benadryl, cortisone, prednisone steroid, and a epinephrine injection to stop the effects of the PEG Asparaginase. Naomi is still in the danger zone for the first 48 hours following this event. We spent the last 24 hours in the hospital and the next few day we will stay nearby in case of another violent allergic reaction.

The dilemma we are facing after this episode is that Naomi is scheduled to receive one more dose of PEG Asparaginase on August 23rd. This will be her last dose. We are told that we can either 1) refuse this dose, 2) pre-medicate her before she receives the PEG, or 3) switch to the L-Asparaginase, which is a different type of Asparaginase that is not approved by the FDA. We are unsure of which direction to take and the doctors are leaving it up to us to decide with little guidance at this time. We're still waiting to talk with Naomi's Attending physician Dr. Gary Dahl about his opinion on all this.

Please continue to pray for our precious little Naomi.

Naomi goes to Chuck E. Cheese's Restaurant

2006-08-02T02:09:00.000-07:00

Naomi and Jeremiah posing with Chuck E. Cheese and Helen Henny

Oh what a beautiful morning! This morning, Tuesday, August 1, 2006, Naomi had her wish to visit her favorite restaurant granted. Because of her illness (Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia), Naomi can't be exposed to groups of children or be in environments which likely have high levels of germs, bacteria and viruses. Chuck E Cheese's Restaurant, which appeals especially to young children, would normally be off limits for obvious reasons. Before her diagnosis, Naomi's parents made a trip to the local Chuck E. Cheese's Restaurant every Monday as a family outing. Chuck E. Cheese's Restaurant became a favorite destination for Naomi, and she truly missed being able to go and enjoy herself. Nina, Naomi's mother, contacted the management at the local Modesto Chuck E. Cheese's Restaurant and explained Naomi's condition and situation. She was pleasantly surprised when the management at Chuck E. Cheese's Restaurant offered to open the restaurant early for Naomi's use! Their staff stayed late Monday night cleaning the facility, making sure that everything was hygenic and sterile, perfect for Naomi to visit and have a great time.

Naomi posing with Helen Henny

When we arrived this morning, we were greeted with great fanfare and joyous smiles by the entire staff, including characters Chuck E. Cheese and Helen Henny. Incredibly, the person playing Helen had actually flown in from Los Angeles specifically to make Naomi's visit extra special. Needless to say, Naomi was stunned and speechless, as were we all. Naomi took several photos with everyone, and both she and her brother Jeremiah were given cups filled with tokens for all of the games and rides. Over the course of the next three hours we all had a great time!

Naomi's favorite game was the Sponge Bob game, where the challenge was to land a token precisely on a square. After only a few attempts, Naomi landed on the square with the highest possible points and we all erupted with praise and applause! Her favorite ride was a roller coaster similator. This ride included videos of 4 famous rollercoasters from across the USA. Naomi threw her hands in the air and squealed with delight as she rode.

Naomi and Jeremiah on the rollercoaster simulator

Naomi and Helen Henny on the rollercoaster simulator

Jeremiah's favorite game was air hockey, where he not only beat Naomi, but also his mother and myself! It was rather humbling to be beaten by a 5 year old, but he's faster and stronger than you'd think! His favorite ride was a thrill ride simulator. It was more intense than the rollercoaster simulator, but similar in concept. Jeremiah insisted that we all take turns riding with him, including Chuck E. Cheese, who graciously fulfilled the 5 year old's request. Jeremiah giggled as we each feigned terror while on the ride.

Jeremiah and Chuck E. Cheese on the thrill ride simulator

Helen Henny trying to help Naomi beat Jeremiah in air hockey

Jeremiah beating his mother, Nina, in air hockey

Naomi preparing to race her aunt, Victoria, in water pistol game

In addition to being gracious, kind, considerate hosts, the Chuck E. Cheese's Restaurant staff also provided us with drinks, freshly baked pizza and salad. They danced and sang for us, and made sure we lacked for nothing. We extend our utmost thanks, gratitude and blessings to everyone involved in what Jeremiah proclaimed on behalf of his sister “the best day of our lives”.

Special thanks to:
Edwin Barahona, General Manager
Wendy Lopez, Manager
Loretta Bell-Read, Manager
Nichole Campos, Manager
Martin Olivera, Chuck E. Cheese character
Jennifer Chrisman, Helen Henny character
Breanna Owens
Jennifer Granados
Claudia Valencia
Melody Tambasan
Kelvin Almazan
Lareyna Baldez
Heather Silva
Natassia Baldez
Vince Archibeque
Marissa Montenegro
Anndreana Palmore
Jason Sain
Kevin Le
Cindy Corpuz
Jasmine Blacks-Wheeler
CEC Entertainment. Inc.

God bless you all!

Naomi goes to Preschool

2006-08-01T15:52:00.000-07:00

After waiting for her ANC to go up, Naomi got her wish to visit her old Pre-School last Friday, 7/28/06. As soon as she walked in the door she was greeted with a cheerful welcome from all her old friends. Naomi was very happy to see all her old buddies: Katie, Hailey, Riley, Emily, Courtney and Joe, each of whom took turns playing their favorite games with her. She gave hugs to all her classmates and her favorite teacher Mrs. Scrugs before leaving. Several other teachers popped their heads into the class to say hello to the little celebrity of the hour. Naomi had been asking nearly everyday to go back to school and last Friday she got her wish. As we got back into the car, Naomi quickly asked to return to class again soon. Being the bargaining mom that I am, I told her that if she eats all of her green foods for three dinners she can go back. She won the bargain last night.

Nina

Naomi’s ANC is up!

2006-07-26T09:50:00.000-07:00

GOOD NEWS! Naomi’s ANC is 2196!! Her ANC was as low as 200 less than 2 weeks ago. Thank you for your continued prayers!

We are having another garage sale Aug. 4th and 5th, this will be our last this year. If the heat is over 100, though, we WON'T be having it! lol

Please pray for Naomi and her friend Dayssi

2006-07-25T17:06:00.000-07:00

Naomi has made a very good friend in the person of Dayssi, another little girl with the same form of Leukemia as Naomi. Dayssi is 2 years old and has been diagnosed with pneumonia. Pnemonia is a dangerous illness for a person in normal health. For a child with leukemia, it is especially dangerous. Dayssi has been in the hospital for 4 days. Naomi has been coughing for the past 2 days. Please pray that Dayssi recovers quickly and that Naomi doesn't also get pneumonia. You can also visit Dayssi's weblog: Dayssi

Thank you!

Naomi eats "Green Food"

2006-07-12T21:56:00.000-07:00

I got a phone call this evening from Nina, Naomi's mom. Naomi wouldn't eat her dinner (she's been very resistant especially to eating healthy foods lately), and Nina, my mom, Jermaine and Jeremiah were hoping that I could influence her to eat.

A little background: last week when I visited Naomi, Nina told me that she refused to eat green foods. Naomi usually has to wear a mask in public to avoid exposure to germs and viruses, and she's aware of why. So I told her that eating green foods would help her body to "fight the germs". I told her in elaborate, animated detail how her body would benefit from green foods and become stronger and stronger, thereby more able to fight the germs. She believed me and started eating some salad. I cheered her on joyously.

Naomi remembered my "green food" narrative when I saw her on the 4th of July, and proudly showed me that she will eat green food.

Tonight, Nina was trying to get Naomi to eat some broccoli and zucchini and she wouldn't eat it at all. She just kept crying. So they called me. I very gently asked Naomi to remind me of what I told her about green foods. She said in a tiny voice: "they fight the germs". I told her "yes they do!" and asked her to at least try to eat one piece of green food. She did. I then played fanfare music on the piano in celebration of her trying. That started things rolling! Naomi proceeded to eat several pieces of broccoli and even tried the zucchini, each time followed by more fanfare! As she started slowing down, I made up short little songs to encourage her to finish her plate. Jeremiah then contributed his own song improvisations, which were just adorable. In sum, Naomi listened to our serenading, and ate her dinner, her "green foods" in particular! Now, that's cause for celebration! : )

Victoria

Naomi update 7/12/06

2006-07-12T15:29:00.000-07:00

Friends and Family:

Naomi's appointment this week was not great. Her white counts (Neutrophils) have dropped for the 3rd week. They should be at least 750 for her to receive her treatment. This week it is down to 200, and she therefore is dangerously vulnerable to illness. Her doctor said if counts are not up by next week they will be doing another bone marrow test to determine what is going on. Hopefully the Leukemia has not returned. Nina said it very scary because she shows no signs of being sickly. They gave them no idea as to how to raise the levels.

I am sort of drained at the moment. I just received the news and I am just prayerful. We appreciate your interceding for us.

Lita

Naomi update 7/10/06

2006-07-10T11:36:00.000-07:00

Hello friends and family:

Naomi went to Ronald McDonald on Tuesday for treatment on Wednesday, however she could not get treatment because her blood levels were too low-"Neutrophils". They sent her home. They will be returning on Tuesday this week for treatment Wednesday with hopes that she will be able to receive the treatment as scheduled.

The difficulty right now is to get her to eat good foods. Her eating is sporadic. They are going to start juicing.

Thanks for the meals, gifts, eMails, phone calls and prayers.

Blessings for a wonderful day. You are the best!

Lita

FYI, Naomi is not laying around sick. She's fighting with her brother and playing,etc.

Naomi update 7/3/06

2006-07-03T23:14:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends and Family:

Wanted to update you on the sale. It went well. Nina's mom was here for the weekend and so we hand plenty of help. Friday was much better than Saturday, but Praise God for ALL of it.

Naomi is playing along and doing well. Nina and Jermaine have a good grip on the procedures for the Hypoglycemia and Naomi is responding well. She did not cry anymore with the finger prick. Please keep praying for her little body.

Thanks so much.

Lita

Naomi quote

2006-06-30T22:45:00.000-07:00

As said to Grandmother Shirley after almost having a major tantrum (worsened by the chemotherapy drugs):

"Smiling is good for your blood. Frowning is bad for your blood."

Wise 3 year old!

Update 6/30/06

2006-06-30T19:55:00.000-07:00

Hello folks,

Naomi is home after much poking and prodding. She's smiling. We need extra hands to help Nina with the Yard Sale she has been trying to have. It's been hard to plan with her erratic schedule. "All her plans are subject to change without notice". She is planning to have yard sale to clean out her garage from reorganizing the kids rooms and the house and to give them some extra funds to work with. The sale is tomorrow, Saturday, July 1 from 7AM til 2PM. If anyone can help we would greatly appreciate it.

The doctors are testing Naomi for a rare disease that may cause the hypoglycemia she's currently experiencing, but this will also determine if it is also caused by the Chemo. Pray also for Jeremiah, this will be a long process for him. Jermaine does spend a lot of time with him and Nina is doing her best to meet everyone's needs.

We appreciate any help you can give.

Thanks much.
Lita

Naomi update 6/27/06

2006-06-27T15:27:00.000-07:00

Prayer partners:

Naomi made it to Stanford, Praise God. She is Hypglycemic and Nina and Jermaine (J&N) were trained on how to finger prick Naomi twice a day. It may have been brought on by Chemo, they really can't say. She was admitted when they arrived and they released her Monday pm. She also has a Urine Infection and is being treated for that.They stayed at Ronald McDonald House overnight and she was schedule to have Chemo treatment on Tuesday.

On Tuesday AM, Nina checked her glucose and it was really low again and Naomi was readmitted to the hospital, however the hospital was full so they are in a room at the clinic awaiting a room. She is on IV's and had her treatment this AM. They also said she was anemic and they have begun a blood transfusion that will take 1:45minutes. Pray that the Lord's Almighty hand would protect her organs and her mind. Also that her second phase would stablize. Nina really needs your prayers for God to give her the PEACE that surpasses ALL understanding according to His will in Christ Jesus.
Your prayers mean more than we can say. Thank you, thank you.

Lita
May the Lord bless your day with a smile.

More tough times for Naomi

2006-06-26T16:15:00.000-07:00

Hey all:

Naomi's treatment appeared to go well on Tuesday. They ran an MRI before treatment in hope to determine why she had problems walking and having back pain after the last spinal tap with the Chemo. The MRI was negative and labs were good so they proceeded with treatment and kept her overnight in the hospital for observation. She was released to go home the next day and she was walking.

However, just today, Sunday she awakened at 4am needing to go potty and she couldn't, she was complaining of pain and later that AM began to have dry heaves. By 11AM Nina had her at the ER per Stanfords instructions. They ran labs and it showed she had a bad urine infection, normal is 0-5 and hers was 195. Her hemoglobins showed that she was anemic. Her glucose was low at the time. They had her on IVs. Unfortunately the staff did not direct them as what to do, so Nina sent Jermaine out to get a milk shake to raise her glucose levels...it appeared to work. By 3pm Sunday, Stanford ordered her to be Ambulanced back to Stanford. Nina phoned us, Bree and I went to the hospital. The nurses ran routine checks to assure that Naomi was ready for transport. It is 7:15pm, she had a slight temp of 99.2, her bp was good, but her glucose levels were CRITICALLY HIGH! This was frightening. Even the nurse couldn't contain the look on her face (she was a mom with a 2 year old, nice lady) They wanted to run CBC, but they didn't. I don't know why. She did get transported, in good spirits, she's such a sweet little trooper.

Preliminary thoughts are, (without Oncologist report) is that there is an infection and that she will be in the hospital for the week. She is suppose to have her treatment on Wednesday anyway. So please pray for the doctors good judgment, knowledge, wisdom and guidance as to the treatment and determine why the 2nd phase of her treatment is not going well.

Nina and Jermaine really need you continued prayers, it really is a day by day thing. It's been a bumpy road. Nina especially is tired, can't sleep, needs to get soooooo much paperwork done, but can't get it done if she's not home for more than a few days. She's STRESSED badly. "Paperwork isn't anything anyone else can do."
Properties haven't sold, no offers. Jermaine goes back to work July 2. Jeremiah is with us and will be between our home and Nina's mom will come down and stay over there place with him also.

Thanks for all your support in prayer. Hang in there with us through this journey and see how God's Almighty hand will carry us and answer your prayers and ours.

Blessings,
Lita (Naomi's grandmother)

Mall walking with Naomi

2006-06-22T01:01:00.000-07:00

Today, after having endured a long day of various complications regarding Naomi’s chemotherapy treatment, Nina (Naomi’s mom) invited me to come have dinner with them and one of my other sisters near the hospital. We went and had giant burritos at a bustling shop in San Mateo, and then drove back to the Stanford Mall for night window shopping. Because of the chemotherapy drugs, Naomi can’t be exposed to direct sunshine for an extended period of time. Nina thought it would be good for Naomi to walk around in the warm night air, viewing the beautiful shops since it was such a beautiful night. We walked around for nearly an hour, ooh-ing and ah-ing at the beautiful jewelry in the Tiffany’s window, at the lovely dresses and shoes displayed in various shops, from Louis Vuitton to William Sonoma to BCBG. What was hilarious, is that Naomi was quite partial to a particular pair of pink Prada sun glasses. Her taste is refined already! It was lovely to watch her running around the outdoor mall, with a huge smile on her face, pointing to the windows and declaring what she wanted to see each of us adults wear with which accessories. She was so happy to be outside! Despite a rough start, in the end, Naomi had a very good day! : )

Naomi on 6/13/06

2006-06-13T16:46:00.000-07:00

Naomi in her new pink dress. Notice the lovely pink fingernails too!

Naomi actually had a tough day today. She underwent another spinal tap procedure, and was given a chemotherapy medication which affects her mood. So between the residual pain from the spinal tap, and the chemo drugs, she was very irritable today, but we all did everything we could to make her feel better, and finally elicited some beautiful smiles! : )

Unfortunately, later in the day, Naomi was still experiencing a great deal of pain as a result of the spinal tap, and had to be rushed back to Stanford. Please pray for her pain to be alleviated.

More good news!

2006-06-05T20:07:00.000-07:00

Naomi came through her PORT Line insertion surgery with no complications! This will make the administering of her chemotherapy medications much less taxing on her little body.

At her last blood test, Naomi's doctors declared her officially in remission! Her blood is nearly equivalent to that of a normal, healthy child! Here are the stats (that, unfortunately I can't explain):

WBC: up to 2.7
Hemoglobin: 10.4
Platelets: 153
And best of all:
NEUT/ANC: 2,236 (she was at 153.2 weeks ago)

Thank you all for your prayers

Thank you for your Prayers

2006-06-05T20:00:00.000-07:00

This is a message from Naomi's parents, Nina and Jermaine:

God is good and he has heard and is answering the prayers we have sent up for Naomi. Naomi's healing journey will take the following path:

Phase 1: Induction: 4 weeks of intensive chemotherapy intended to remove all visible signs of leukemia
Phase 2: First Consolidation: 19 weeks of chemotherapy, followed by Second Consolidation (which lasts) 47 to 55 weeks) of chemotherapy, intended to remove hidden leukemia
Phase 3: Maintenance: 43 to 50 weeks of chemotherapy intended to prevent leukemia from coming back
(Total duration of Chemotherapy is approximately 2.5 years)

We are thankful that Naomi has completed Phase 1 and will start Phase 2 on June 7th, 2006. For this phase she will have to go to Stanford once a week for all her Chemo appointments.

FAMILY NEEDS:
For those who are able:
1. We will need help with meals and household duties.

2. Jeremiah is growing very fast and we need Boys Summer clothes size 10 to 12 and summer shoes size 3. Naomi need summer dresses (4T), shoes (9) and hats; she wants to feel pretty even without her hair.

3. Jeremiah and Naomi can not share a room any longer, therefore we will need
a. Bedroom Furniture, Dressers, bookshelves and small desks
b. Electrical and carpenter help to move phone lines and set up a new wall
c. Decorators and painters to help us decorate the kids rooms (Jeremiah loves Sponge-Bob, Naomi loves Dora and the Disney Princesses)

4. Please continue to pray for
a. Naomi’s healing, and the strengthening of her organs so they will not fail her during this long Chemotherapy.
b. The sale of our other two properties.
c. Our Marriage, because of the tremendous stress we are under.
d. Nina for depression
e. Jermaine for strength
f. Jeremiah for patience and understanding
g. Housing for our weekly visits to Palo Alto

Again, thank you for your many prayers and to those who have helped us financially. We pray that Good will protect and bless all of you.

The Purdy Family

Naomi improves and paints!

2006-05-22T23:40:00.000-07:00

Today we received some great news about Naomi's healing process! According to a nurse, her "Platelets are up to 111, Hemoglobin up to 12.1, and Absolute Neutrophil Count up to 800. Her marrow is recovering very nicely"! I'm not sure what all that means exactly, but Naomi's mom tells me that it's all good stuff that means her healing is happening and that she's less prone to infection.

She had another dose of chemotherapy today and is scheduled for her PORT procedure surgery as well as another dose of chemotherapy on Monday.

Naomi is painting just about everyday. Nina says that she's enjoying it tremendously and is doing a great job. She's painting with watercolors and acrylics, on paper and on canvas. For those of us who know Naomi's mom Nina, this is no surprise. Nina was an award winning artist in various mediums as a a child and it appears that Naomi has gotten that trait!

Naomi's parents are considering relocating to the Bay Area. Since it's a fact that Naomi will need treatment for the next 3 years at Stanford, they're coming to terms with the extreme commute from Modesto. If anyone knows of someone looking to sell a home before it goes to market, please let me know and I'll pass the word on to them.

Naomi has a fun day cooking waffles

2006-05-19T15:07:00.000-07:00

A professional chef came and taught the children how to make waffles on a Mickey Mouse waffles Iron. At first Naomi didn't want to participate, but gradually the chef won her over:

Naomi cooks

My mom, aunt Debra and I all went to visit Naomi after having visited my aunt Lorraine in another hospital. She had what appears to have been a stroke, but the doctors aren't sure. Please pray for her too.

Naomi had good energy and was affectionate during our visit after she finished her cooking class. The chemo drugs can make the children irritable and anti-social, so it's always a blessing to experience Naomi as she normally is. The effects of the chemo drugs are starting to become obvious in other ways: her face is swelling and her hair is thinning. As these things happen to her, I will only publish photos of Naomi with her and her parent's permission. But I will continue to write about Naomi as she progresses through her healing process. Thank you all again for your compassion, prayers and love. I am ever humbled by and grateful to you all!

0% Leukemia!

2006-05-18T12:46:00.000-07:00

On Monday, May 15, 2006, Naomi had a bone marrow test and a biopsy. The procedure was fast, and she came through easily. The results came in very quickly, and the doctors told us that Naomi now has 0% Leukemia in her bone marrow! The blood cells are very young, early stage new blood cells, and currently these blood cells have no leukemia. At her original diagnosis, on April 27, 2006, Naomi was 94% Leukemic. At her next bone marrow test, taken after the start of chemotherapy, Naomi was 46% leukemic. Now she's 0% leukemic! The doctors are now waiting to see if the new blood cells develop into mature blood cells which will remain non-leukemic. If she remains at 0% until the next bone marrow test, Naomi will be officially declared in remission.

On May 29, 2006, Naomi will undergo another surgical procedure. This will be to insert a PORT Line into Naomi's chest. Children with cancer often need frequent IV (Intraveneous) medications, fluids, transfusion and/or blood tests. As opposed to pricking the each several times per day for these treatments and procedures, some children benefit from a more permanent type of IV line. The PORT line is this type.

The port is a small flexible tube that tunnels under the skin into the neck and enters a large vein near the heart. A surgeon places the port when the patient is under general anesthesia. Instead of exiting through the skin, the tube connects to a small, round quarter-sized chamber that rests just under the skin. The port chamber is about one-half inch thick. To access the port, a special needle is used to puncture through the skin and the top of the port, allowing IV medicine to then be given and/or blood samples taken. This needle is changed once a week. You may apply a topical anesthetic to the skin one hour before the needle is placed in order to decrease any discomfort when the skin is punctured. The needle is removed when IV access is not needed. The port can be felt through the skin but is not seen. It does not need a bandage (dressing) and needs no special care when the needle is out.

The family would love visitors if anyone has free time. Just call ahead, and please don't come if you have a cold, fever, flu or anything else that could affect Naomi's compromised immune system. And if you happen to bring a meal with you, all the better! : )

Tough day for Naomi

2006-05-13T15:04:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a tough day for Naomi. She was complaining about having a hard time going to the bathroom. So, assuming it was a bladder infection, the doctors inserted a catheter. As it turned out, Naomi didn't have an infection, which is good, but to have dealt with the pain of the catheter! Poor baby! And then on top of that, while the nurse was cleaning her PICC line tube (a surgically implanted line that goes from her upper arm to her heart for taking blood samples and giving chemo drugs - see this PICC Line article) was accidentally pulled out about 5 cm because Naomi jerked her arm while laying on the table. Now she has to have another surgical procedure to reinsert the PICC Line. Ugh! We were going to try and take Nina and my mom to an area restaurant for Mother's Day, but now we don't know if we can. At least it wasn't a bladder infection, so Naomi doesn't have to worry about being confined to the hospital again.

In any case, she looks better lately. I spent Thursday afternoon with her and her normal color is back and she seems to have grown slightly (maybe that's my imagination! lol) And she says she feels better. She's such a little trooper...

Test results yield great news!

2006-05-09T16:56:00.000-07:00

Naomi's parents met with the nurse practitioner this morning and it's all good news! God has blessed Naomi!

1) Naomi's blood counts are way up. Her hemoglobin is at 14.6, which means she does NOT need another blood transfusion.
2) Her platelets are average, but better than they were at her last transfusion.
3) Her white blood count is up.
4) Her neutroblasts are 492.7, which means she has a lower chance for infection. Normal is over 1,500. She was at 240 at diagnosis.
5) Her bone marrow test revealed that her blast (immature white blood cells) percentage is down from 94% to 46%. Normal is less than 5%. The doctors were hoping for a single digit percentage of blasts in her bone marrow. But it's significantly better.
6) MOST IMPORANTLY, the chromosome test from St. Jude's Children's Hospital came in. According to that test Naomi is officially categorized as low risk for a Leukemia relapse! The base line number for low risk needs to be over 50, and Naomi is 204!

Thanks to these positive results, Naomi can go home for a few days! She returns to the hospital again on Friday for more blood tests. This coming Monday she will have another spinal tap and bone marrow test to see if there has been any further improvement.

Thank you to everyone for all your prayers!

Naomi on 5/4/06

2006-05-08T16:25:00.000-07:00

Naomi feels better!

Naomi peek-a-boo

Naomi has a good day

2006-05-08T15:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I went to visit with Naomi and her family. For the first time in several weeks, she seemed like her usual self! She was sweet, chatty, affectionate and loving. She held my hands, gave me kisses and hugs, sat on my lap as she colored in her Dora the Explorer coloring book. We sat outside in the gorgeous sunshine filled day and spent some wonderful quality time together. Her brother, Jeremiah, ran around the play yard while Naomi and I sat, making us laugh at his hilarious antics. I don't know who had a better time! Me or the kids!

Chemo gets harsher

2006-05-07T07:51:00.000-07:00

Naomi had her 4th blood transfusion yesterday, and she also had a 2nd vincristine injection. This is the medicine that will cause her hair to thin and her jaw to hurt. Thank you for all of your prayers!

Photos of Naomi

2006-05-06T12:21:00.001-07:00

Check out these photos of Naomi, her brother and her parents. She's obviously feeling much better! Thank you for your prayers!

Photos of Naomi

Vitals and 2nd Spinal Tap

2006-05-06T10:26:00.001-07:00

As of Wednesday, May 3, 2006, Naomi was taken off of the heart monitor because her vitals signs (heart rate, oxygen intake, blood pressure, etc.) were considered to be within normal range again. She had another spinal tap yesterday, May 5, 2006, in order to deliver a particular dose of chemotherapy. She had an easier time with the anesthesia with this procedure. God is answering prayers!

The family got housing!

2006-05-03T15:39:00.000-07:00

Thank you so much for your prayers! It's all taken care of now!

Family needs housing

2006-05-02T15:38:00.000-07:00

Nina and Jermaine are looking for housing for the month of May. Naomi's doctors have decided that Naomi should be kept at Stanford for the entire first month of her chemotherapy. Since Naomi will be kept in the hospital, they will need housing close to the Stanford campus. Ideally, it will be furnished and close enough for easy access to the hospital. They've already been put on the list at Ronald McDonald house, but there is no room at the moment. Please pass along this message and let me know if you know of any options for them. Thank you!

Insertion of the PICC line

2006-05-01T11:07:00.000-07:00

Naomi was supposed to go into surgery for insertion of a PICC line this morning at 11am, but they discovered that she will first need a plalette blood transfusion before they can begin.

Both the transfusion and PICC line insertion went well (after some trouble - the doctors attempted to find a good vein 4 times), but the steroids in the chemo drugs have caused her heart rate to go down to a level that causes the doctors concern. Normal for a 3 year old would be over 120 BPM. During the PICC line insertion, her heart rate dropped to 48 BPM, causing the surgery to last 3 hours.

Currently her heart is stabilizing around 65 BPM, but unless her body moderates itself to a more normal heart rate, she may have to receive cardiac and high blood presure medication in addition to the chemotherapy. Naomi is already suffering side effects from the chemotherapy. She has several sores in her mouth, making it very painful to eat.

Please keep praying for Naomi

Help the family

2006-05-01T09:49:00.000-07:00

If you would like to help the parents defray the costs associated with Naomi's hospital stay which are not covered by insurance (long distance travel to and from the hospital, eating, etc), feel free to send gift cards and certificates Naomi's parents are both extremely stressed and could use gift cards from local grocery stores:

Andronicos is across the street from the hospital, but very pricey; Trader Joe's and Safeway are a short drive away and more cost effective.

They can also use coupons for local restaurants, gas cards, etc. They will be very grateful! Please contact me for details: Victoria

Video Messages for Naomi

2006-04-29T19:47:00.000-07:00

Message from Mama & Jeremiah

Message from Grandpa

Message from Grandma

Message from Mama Lita

Message from Papa

Message from Victoria

Message from Tiffany

Message from Loraine

Message from Clinton

Message from Debra

Message from William

Message from Carla

Message from Torri

Message from Maisha

Message from Maurice

Message from Rosalyn

Message from Eric (and Papa)

Message from Shionda

Message from Ron & Maggie

Message from Sabrina

Message from Blaique

Message from Dr. Tibur

Message from Nurse Sam

Message from Jeremiah

Naomi talks about Dora

Naomi's diagnosis

2006-04-29T13:04:00.000-07:00

Hello friends,

I have created this blog to track the progress of my niece's healing. Her name is Naomi and she is 3 years old.

THE DISEASE
On Friday, April 28, 2006, doctor's confirmed that Naomi has Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). ALL is the most common form of cancer in children. It is a disease in which there is an uncontrolled production of abnormal white blood cells, called lymphoblasts (or blasts). These blasts crowd out the normal cells in the bone marrow and spread into the blood stream and sometimes to other parts of the body.

For the past several months, Naomi had been complaining about her legs hurting. No one had any idea that it was more than "growing pains", a cry for attention, or some other equally innocuous ailment. Her parents had taken her to see her pediatrician several times, but nothing was ever discovered. She was given all manner of tests for broken bones, strained muscles, etc., but no one suspected it was anything more. However, over the course of the last 2 weeks, we'd all noticed that she was consistently cranky, whined nearly constantly, and that her coloring was significantly paler than normal. On Tuesday, April 25, she began complaining of pain to an even greater degree. By Thursday morning, April 27, she could not walk and was rushed to the emergency room. At this point, doctors took additional blood tests which yielded results which were very different from all the previous testing and it was decided that she should be immediately admitted to Stanford.

The treatment of ALL consists of several phases, all of which are very important. In the first phase (called Induction) treatment is given to remove all visible signs of leukemia so that normal blood cells can return. In the middle phases (Consolidation, Interim Maintenance, and Delayed Intensification) treatment is given to remove any of the remaining leukemia cells. In the final phase (Maintenance), treatment is given to keep the leukemia from coming back (remission).

Disease remission is when al of the leukemia seems to have disappeared. About 80-90% of children are usually cured of ALL, however if the cancer comes back (relapse), there is less chance for a cure.

Because of her age, the number of blasts she currently has in her blood and the type of leukemia, Naomi is considered low to standard risk, which means her chances for a full recovery are high. At then end of Induction therapy (the first phase), her risk for relapse will be determined, depending upon her response to treatment. The fact that there is no leukemia present in her spinal fluid gives additional hope for a full recovery.

The chemotherapy drugs used cause unwanted side effects, including: nausea, vomiting, hair loss and low blood cell counts (which can cause Naomi to feel tired and weak, not be able to fight off infections, and bleed or bruise easily). The side effects are usually reversible when the medications are stopped.

Naomi will receive treatment for the next 3 years. She started chemotherapy this morning. Within 2 hours after her first treatment today, she began walking around and acting like herself! (Well, she is a little cranky, but that's understandable). In any case, it seems like a small miracle...the first of many, I'm sure!

Here are some articles about the disease:

Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

NAOMI

Naomi was born on the birthday of my grandmother, Mary Alice: 11/7/02. Mary Alice passed away on 6/19/02, and as an homage, Naomi was given Mary Alice as her middle names. In many ways, Naomi reminds us all of her great-grandmother: she's very petite, but strong willed; exceptionally bright and loving. Naomi is a beautiful little girl and we all look forward to watching her blossom into a beautiful woman.

Naomi's favorite color is pink. She is a HUGE fan of Dora the Explorer, loves to play with dogs, bubbles and her toys, and is crazy about her big brother Jeremiah. She loves to visit the Exploratorium and enjoys hands on kids activities. She knows that she is a PRINCESS!

Her parents, Nina and Jermaine, are wonderful and focused on providing her the best treatment and care possible. I'm very proud of them both for their rapid response and absolute insistence that Naomi be cared for by only the top medical professionals available. The medical staff at Lucile Packard Children's Hospital have been exemplary. I am fully confident that they have Naomi's healing and full recovery as their goal.

YOU
Naomi has received hundreds of messages of prayer, well wishes and positive energy. The response has been tremendous and incredibly humbling. I thank each and every one of you for your kindness, consideration, compassion and love. Please continue to keep Naomi in your thoughts and prayers, and feel free to check in on this blog anytime you'd like for updates on her healing journey. I have complete faith that she will once again be the healthy, happy, vibrant Naomi we all know and love!

Thankfully, Naomi's treatment is being covered by Jermaine's insurance (at least up to $1 Million...hopefully the treatment won't go higher than that, but it could). But if you would like to donate to Leukemia research, please follow the links below:

Make a charitable donation
Donate Blood
Join the Bone Marrow Registry

Thank you from the bottom of my heart. God bless you all!

Victoria