Update 8/25

There wasn't a whole lot to report yesterday, THANK YOU GOD.  It was a wonderful break from the constant poking and testing and probing.

In the last couple days, the biggest news to report is that the MIBG scan (the nuclear one) came back negative.  That means that the cancer is not present anywhere else in Imogen's body!  It's great news, and confirms that the tumor is localized.  We're still awaiting the results of the bone marrow biopsy, but the docs say it's overkill once the MIBG scan results are in.  So, amen and thanks for your prayers!

Since then, Imogen has been eating and drinking more– as have mom and dad– and has been having fun feeding fish and playing.

Highlights:
Imogen took her first bath in the shower since her surgery.  She was a total champ.

Every child diagnosed with cancer is eligible for a wish from the Make-A-Wish foundation, so we're working with Imm on what she wants. We told the social worker that if she wishes for a new Honda Odyssey, then mommy might have had something to do with it.  I see mouse ears in our future.

A sweet thing they do for kids is Beads of Courage, a necklace they make during their treatment. Every time Imogen undergoes any sort of treatment–from pokes to chemo to changing bandages–she gets a different color bead for her necklace.

It's amazing to see how much she's already gone through, and sobering to think of how long the necklace will get before we're done.

Pics from the weekend:

We have been overwhelmed with kindness and offers of food and service. Thank you all, it has made this experience much more joyful.  Pray for us as we begin chemotherapy tomorrow morning and as we   make ready to go home.  We're still not sure how much of Imogen's walking ability has returned, so if anyone has a spare child's wheelchair, we may need one.

Tammy and I got a crash course for what to expect, so pray for four things as we come to your mind:
1. That the cancer would disappear completely.
2. That Imogen's reaction to the chemo will be the best in history. No vomiting, no nausea.
3. That Imogen's recovery from her back surgery will continue to progress. It's been excellent so far.
4. That our adjustment back to home life will be joyful and smooth.