Surgery Update

So, our appointment with Dr. Sanford (neurosurgeon) is Monday, August 18th at noon. He'll evaluate Ivee and see if he thinks the surgery is necessary. If we all agree it is, then Ivee will be admitted to Le Bonheur Hospital in Memphis on that Wednesday to do labs and prep her for surgery that Thursday, August 21st. She'll be in ICU that night and then recovering in a room for 2 to 3 days. So, we would be gone for at least 1 full week if this takes place.
That is all I know for now. Please, pray that the doctors don't find this surgery necessary, and that they believe Ivee will continue to progress on her own. But, in the end, God's will be done in her life and ours.

The Latest News

I'm quite tired, and not really up for long explanations, but I wanted to make everyone aware of Ivee's latest news. Dr. Merchant and I talked on Friday. There is some concern about scar tissue or a cyst near Ivee's brain stem that is causing the CSF (or brain fluid) to not drain properly. This is putting pressure on that area. After we stated some concerns with her balance, he wanted to review this finding with the neurosurgery (and others) board there. They are in agreement that this could be causing balance problems for Ivee. The "pockets" (as they are called) that can develop after a surgery like Ivee's is not uncommon, but they usually form in a place that causes no problems. After speaking with Dr. Samford (the neurosurgeon), he said in 5,000 surgeries he and his partner have performed, there have only been 3 other cases where they have performed a surgery to help children with this. The other 3 have been successful, and after 3 to 6 weeks, those children were able to walk.
So, as it stands right now, sometime in the weeks to come, Ivee and Mommy will travel back to Memphis. Dr. Samford (n-surgeon) will evaluate her and her MRIs. If he feels that surgery would definitely help Ivee, he is willing to do it. If he thinks it is a slim chance of helping, then he won't do it. Then, of course depending on the odds, Em and I have the final decision on this.
This would not be a "major" surgeries, that is in comparison to tumor removal, but it would mean opening up the back of her head again. This means another painful surgery and tough recovery for her (and for mom and dad).
So, Em and I are praying what any parent would pray. That the Lord would just see fit to make her all better. Em and I just don't want to go through this again, but we do want what is best for Ivee. So, even though my prayers may be for this "cup to be passed," I still want the Lord's will to be done in our lives!
I will keep you informed of the dates and more details as they become clear to us. You are all wonderful to keep with us, and as always, we covet your prayers.

Final Update from St. Jude

So, it has been a pretty good week of news. Ivee's MRI came back clear. There is a little concern that the CSF in her brain (the spinal fluid) may be causing some pressure on the brain affecting her balance. This has been a concern for us in consideration of her problems with standing unassisted and walking. But, good news other wise. We decided to leave Ivee's port in due to some discussions we had with Ivee's nurse and nurse practitioner, so we didn't have surgery today. We decided that since the port makes accessing her veins easier (due to the fact that she is so chunky and young) she should just keep it. It doesn't pose a problem for her, and if the port is flushed correctly every month, there is No chance of infection, unlike a central line (outer port). She has many of those, as many of you know since you have been following her life and our story.
So, thank you for the prayers! We really appreciate everything you do for us.
Hope, Emmett, and the kids.

Update From St. Jude

So far, our trip and stay has been great. On the way up, we visited Tony and Mel's (Harmans) new church in Meridian. We had a great time there, and got to sing with Tony and his new choir members.
We have had a safe trip up. The engine light came on "again" but it is just a sensor that we can wait to have fixed until we get home.
We met with her therapist here yesterday. They say she is doing great, esp. in comparison to where she was last time we were here. Today, she had her endocrine system test. We'll know the results of this tomorrow. Also today, she had her throat scope with Dr. Thompson...GREAT NEWS. Before, Dr. Thompson feared and prepared us for the fact that Ivee's right vocal chord would probably never regain function. BUT, today the scope revealed that her right vocal chord, though weak, is moving! So, he is predicting that she will make a full recovery! To God be the glory! Ivee is such a miracle! What a testimony she is and looks like will continue to be.
We still have three days ahead. Here is what you can be praying for.
Wednesday: Auditory Brainstem test, to check her hearing and our meeting with Dr. Merchant (Ivee's radiation oncology doctor)
Thursday: MRI and spinal tap
Friday: Surgery to remove her port.
God bless you and continue to pray!

Catching Up

Well, Ivee has been quite the busy lately: learning to climb EVERYTHING! The couch, the stairs, the chairs, the table! All of it. And getting into every cabinet and pulling up on everything. It's like she just woke up one day and said, "Today is the day I do it all!"
Emmett is on vacation this week, so we'll be taking some time to do somethings with the older kids. They have not had much fun time in the last year and half. They need some daddy time. We leave with Ivee to go to St. Jude next week. Pray that we have a safe trip and that all goes well. Britt will spend the week with my parents and niece and Ethan will be at the Harman's house.
That is what is going on for now. Until next time..

A Full Week

"I'M A SURVIVOR"

The family spent last Saturday morning volunteering for "Ride Yellow" to raise money for the Lance Armstrong Cancer Foundation. It is bike ride that has taken place in Bay Minette for a few years now. Ivee, our inspiration of course, is wearing her "I'm a survivor" tag. They had a great turn out. Em and I donated and volunteered in honor of Ivee, and in memory of Jennifer Busby and Jody Caraway. We are still fighting for a cure and better treatments. The kids had a good time helping, as you can see below with Ethan's smile!

Sunday, Father's Day was great. It was my friend and long time boss, Tony's, last Sunday leading Faith Family in worship. We ended the day with the choir singing the national anthem at Hank Aaron Stadium, the home of the Bay Bears. Ivee didn't enjoy the heat at first, but as the sun was setting behind us, she found her "love" of the game.

Here is Ivee and papaw enjoying the game.

Next, Ivee got the chance to try the water pad in Bay Minette in her first swimsuit ever. Mommy wrapped her gbutton up really well in bandages and saran wrap so that it would stay dry. I was a little scared it may not work, but when I unwrapped her it was as dry as a whistle!

She had so much fun that when it was time for her to get out and dry off she was NOT HAPPY. She wanted to continue to play with Brittney and Ethan. It figures that the kid who loves water and bathes is the one who can't have them! Oh well, mommy found a way. Unfortunately tagederms (the bandages that cover wounds and medical stuff) cost too much money and are not covered by insurance, so we can't go play or take a bath everyday. A shame isn't it! SO, we all enjoy these moments that come so few times.

Thanks for checking in. Life is still busy here, but all is well. We will be leaving for St. Jude on Sunday, July 6th. We'll be gone a whole week with a ton of test and procedures. If I don't update before then keep us in your prayers.

Been a while...

It has been a while since I have blogged. There is not much new going on with the Foley's. Em has a motorcycle now, for those who don't know. It is helping with the gas prices. Luckily, he hasn't been rained on yet. Ivee has had diarrhea for two days, but we have kept her hydrated. Good thing she can't throw-up, cause she has tried often. The kids are enjoying a break from school. We'll start up again after we return from St. Jude in July. I did well on my yard sale. Craigslist is working well for me too. No bites lately, but still trying.
NOW, for my south beach diet friends and those who just want to eat healthier, I have a recipe for you. I made it last night, and the kids and Em loved he. He couldn't believe something that good could be healthy for you. So, I am going to share. (Ange and Cathy, you'll love it). I have modified it a bit to work for us, and you can do the same as well.

Harvest Grain N' Nut Pancakes

In one bowl mix the following
3/4 cup Quaker Oats (not instant)
(important: grind oats in a blender or food processor until fine, like flour)
3/4 cup whole wheat flour (not enriched)
1/3 cup all purpose flour (not bleached or enriched)
2 tsps baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
Mix dry ingredients together. Set aside.

In another bowl mix the following
1 1/4 cups buttermilk
1/3 cup milk (fat free or 1%)
1/4 cup olive oil (or canola)
2 eggs
1/4 cup Splenda or raw sugar (you can use reg. sugar if you are not dieting or on a health trip)
Mix with electric mixer until smooth.
Combine dry ingredients with wet ingredients. Then add...
3 tablespoons finely chopped blanched almonds
3 tablespoons finely chopped walnuts
I put mine in the chopper to make them real fine.

Ladle 1/3 cup of the batter onto the hot skillet (set on medium to medium/low and spray with cooking spray). Cook the pancakes for 1 to 3 minutes per side or until brown.

I had to lower my griddle and cook longer to make sure they got cooked all the way through. Makes a thick, delicious and healthy pancake. Use sugar free syrup! Makes a great breakfast or supper!
Makes about 12 pancakes.
You can also freeze these after they cool. To reheat, just put a stack in the microwave on high for 1 to 2 minutes.

Hope you all enjoy, and if I find any more yummy recipes, I'll be sure to share.

This weekend

We are having a huge yard sale/ antique furniture sale this weekend at the house. I've posted mostly on this on our other website (to the right). I am getting rid of ALOT of nice clothes (mostly mine). If any ladies need any size 14 and some 16 size clothing, then come by and look. Also getting rid of some of the kids clothing (mostly Ivee and Brittney). Em and Ethan will have some. I am praying that we can do well this weekend with getting some of the furniture sold! We shall see what God has in store for us. Praying for a nice, beautiful day.

The Malpas boys are doing better! Austin will be discharged soon, but Drew has a longer recovery. He already had 4 transfusions in 3 days! He is lethargic, and depressed, but he will make it through! God is faithful! Hope all of you are well.

Oh, I need to post some new pics.

Here is Ivee being Oh So SILLY in a tin bucket that she loves to pull out from underneath the stairs in the living room!

And I was growing my hair out for locks of love. This past week I decided it was time to lose it! I had cut it before Ivee's cancer was discovered in '06, so I have been growing it out for about 1 1/2 years. I only trim it myself, cause frankly, I just don't care and it is faster and cheaper to do it yourself. Well, I did let someone cut a "style" for me after this time. So, here are pics of my "once every year and half or so" haircut. Take it all in, cause it won't happen again for a long time :)

News and Updates

They have taken Drew Malpas to UAB, and are testing his brother for E Coli as well. Things are stable for now. Thanks for praying.
Next Saturday the 31st from 6am to 4pm Em and I are having a yard sale and antique furniture sale. I have posted some pics on my other blogspot, so take a look. I'll have alot of miscellaneous stuff, s clothing, baby clothing and much, much more baby stuff, some men's clothing, and alot more. Well have the crib, walker, boppy, stroller, a twin headboard and rail, chairs and the stuff on my other blog out. If your interested in something before I put it out, let me know!

Prayer Request

If you would, please remember 4 year old Drew Malpas, and mom Melody and dad Kevin, in your prayers. He was admitted to Mobile Infirmary Saturday. They diagnosed him with E Coli which is extremely serious in children. His intestines are in serious condition and his kidneys are not functioning properly. Drew's mom Melody taught with Emmett at Robertsdale, and we have kept in touch with them through Upward Basketball and aquaintances.

My New Blog

I updated my new blog today. The Link is over to the right. For those of you interested, or if you know someone who is, visit it to see what I have on ebay right now. I'll be doing more to the site later, letting you see items before I put them on ebay. I'm excited and I hope you out there who love antiques, furniture and more will enjoy this site. I've posted the link below for now also, thanks.
www.uniquemeantiques.blogspot.com.

Picture Update

Here are some pics. I'm catching up over the past few weeks.

Here is Ivee with her "t-bone". She licked all over it. It was quite yummy I suppose.

Can't you tell by that look on her face. Yum, Yum!

Here she is with one of her favorite toys, or should I say Ethan's. She loves this light saber. I guess she has Star Wars fever already at the young age of 2. With her daddy, that is no surprise.

Mommy and daddy got her a little tikes play castle. She likes it, and has already had a tumble from it. The tumble was caused from attitude though.

Here she is at her party. We covered her g-button really well and allowed her to go on the water pad with her sister and friends. She really liked it. Here she is with Britt, Ashlynn, and Sara.

Here is a big motley crew of them. Ethan, Ashlynn, and Sara. Then Abigail, Brittney, Ivee, Olivia, and Ella. They had a great time, and the weather was kind to our outing.
Then, it was cake time. She had a great time digging through it with her fingers and throwing it to the ground for the ants. Thanks to Diane for making her the cutest Fishy "Nemo" cake.

Then she opened her presents. She enjoyed diggin the paper and stuff out of the bags. Finally, we all said bye-bye. This was such a good pic of her and my friend Diane. I told Ivee to say cheese and she hammed it up for the camera. She's my sister as a child all over again.
This is from Sunday morning. Anna spent the night, and on the way to church they all were passed out. So early in the morning. Glad I had my camera!

A long weekend

Well, it was a long, but fun, weekend! Ivee's party was great, and I appreciate everyone who came to celebrate it with us. (And those who tried, but a flat tire got in the way!) I will post some pics asap, promise.
Ivee had a swallow test today, and even though it was with a speech therapist we have never had before, I saw improvement. And, based on what I told her of the previous test, she seemed to agree with me and what I saw happen today. Ivee, however, did not cooperate. We did manage to get some down her throat, and even with the crying, I didn't see her aspirate once! She seemed to swallow without having much difficulty. It made Em and I very happy, and makes us want to push really hard to get her the right therapy. Early Childhood Intervention is nice and they give great advice, but I believe that if Ivee had the right treatment a few days a week, we would see dramatic improvement. So, that was good.
Tomorrow, our niece, Erin, graduates from Daphne. We are proud of her. Em will go to graduation. I think Ivee needs to stay home, so I will be there in spirit. Erin's softball team from Daphne is also in the state finals, so the fam is going to travel to Montgomery this Friday and Saturday to support her and the team there. Pray all goes well, and that the kids will be on their best behavior while there. Ivee hasn't been outside for long periods of time, so we are praying that she will do well.
Well, Em and I are undergoing a new "hobby/business." We are selling on ebay, and trying our hand at selling antique furniture. I plan on perhaps starting a "blog" to display these items so that people who are interested can view them and the prices there. So far, the furniture on ebay hasn't sold. So, if anyone out there is interested, or knows someone who is, in antique furniture or ideas, I'll start that soon (perhaps). Look for a link on my blog to it. I'll need a cute name for it, so I need to get the wheels a turnin'.
Take care and talk at you all soon. I promise to post the bday pics SOON!

Ivee's Birthday

ANNOUNCING IVEE'S BIRTHDAY PARTY!

Em and I want to invite anyone who wants to come to Ivee's birthday party!

It will be at the Bay Minette Park

There is a playground/fort and water pad, so kids bring your swimsuit.

It will be Saturday, May 10th from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm

I'll have some cake there and some other stuff, but I can't promise I'll have enough since I am opening this up to anyone who wants to come. If you would like, you can bring a bag of chips or something, but you do not have to feel obligated.

Below are the directions to the park in Bay Minette (I hope they are correct), and we hope to all see you there. Any questions, comment or email me.

(Please, do not feel obligated to bring Ivee any gifts. We just want to celebrate her life with you!)

In case there is to be bad weather, watch my blog. I will let you know if we will cancel, or move it. Thanks, and we can't wait to celebrate with you.

A Little Dramatic Fun

The kids had a blast last Thursday doing the homeschool drama program. They (to me) were the highlight of the night. First Anna and Brittney (along with Heather and Christina) did "Poor Unfortunate Souls" from "The Little Mermaid." I had coached and directed the kids skits, and I think this one was so good. Anna really shined as Ursela, and for anyone who knows her in real life, Anna is very quiet and reserved. BUT, on the stage, she is crazy. (Except during rehearsals. You have to drag it out of her. Below is my favorite picture from that scene.

(From Left to Right) Eels: Heather and Christina, Ariel: Brittney, Ursela: Anna

Next and the last "act" of the night. Ethan, Britt and Anna did "Huma Huma" from High School Musical 2. It was so awesome and totally unexpected. I am going to try to download some video sometime, cause you have to see it to believe it! The kids were crazy. Ethan was the fish prince, as you can see. Brittney played Sharpay and Anna was Ryan. They used props and everything. It was so fun. I really enjoyed working on all this with the kids. Theatre is just a calling I suppose. I'm just glad my kids and their friends enjoy doing it as well!

I am sadden to announce that little Avery I spoke of last week had her home going on Saturday. The day before, another little , Mira, from our ependymoma support group also went home on Friday. So, I believe that went Avery approached those golden gates on Saturday, Mira and other children were there to great her! It really burdens my heart and makes me ache when this happens. I told Emmett that I just don't think I can follow any more children's stories. It's just too hard, but God reminded me that this journey is not a easy one. He never intended for it to be, but what we do with his message and what we do with his grace and mercy is what it is all about. I cannot physically be there for these families, but my thoughts, prayers, and heart can be with them. And my words can encourage, build, and witness to them. So today I will share my pray online for them.
Good Lord...Sweet Jesus. My heart is burdened for your children. The pain of losing a little one is unbearable I am sure. But Lord your will is good and perfect. Nothing is out of your hands. So, I give my heart to your will, and wish for my words to exhort your glory and your majesty. May you ease the pain and ache of Avery's and Mira's mommy and daddy. May the find rest in the arms of the Savior of our souls. May they seek you earnestly, not trying to understand, but excepting that your ways are higher than our ways. May their life sing praises to you in their time of struggle! And Lord may they know you in their soul. May your Spirit speak truth to them and give them peace. The peace that passes understanding. You are good and mercy endures forever. Amen
Thank you to all my support. Don't forget my Ivee in your prayers. My heart is still burdened for my little . I pray that she will physically improve everyday. The reality is that God does hear my prayers, even when they are selfish! He has what is best in mind. I pray that we make the right decisions concerning Ivee, Brittney and Ethan everyday!

The week comes to an end

It has been a long week, but I am glad to see Friday today! The kids had there drama play last night, and it was fun for all. They are exhausted this morning, so I am allowing them to sleep in a little. I have some pics and some video. I will down load all that later at sometime.
Right now I ask for prayer. A little internet friend of ours is not doing well. I ask that you lift Avery Ann and her family up in prayer to our Lord. She has taken a turn for the worse, and the doctors are doing all they can. Her parents are tired and she is exhausted. She has gone downhill for quite a while now, but this past week has just taken a nose dive. If you would like to see what is going on with her, her link is to the right or just type in www.averyann.net. Thank you and I know that the family would covet your prayers.
It has been quite hard for me to see two precious babies pass away over the last few months, and now my heartbreaks as I read that Avery, without a miracle, may be leaving soon as well. I just can't and don't want to imagine it.
But, the mind cannot thrive or dwell in such places. I long for Ivee to be "normal" everyday, BUT I rejoice that I can hug, kiss and play with her. Even her whinny crying on some occasions is music to my ears :)
So, I am blessed, and I thank God for everyday with ALL my children!

Pictures on the Update

Here are some pics. This one is from the conference I spoke about in my last post. Enjoy

Here are (from Left to Right) Melissa, Me (Hope), Angela and Cathy. These are my "girls." Some of my biggest support out there. We had a great time in Gatlinburg. I told them that we all need to go every year and visit a different state. So, we have about 46 left. We'll fit them all in by the time we are 82 to 90 :)
I gave Ivee a small piece of chocolate. Here's what happen to it.
The kids like the park. Ivee loves the slides and swings. She is anxious to do it all herself.
Tonight she was so tired. She didn't take a good nap today. About 4:00 pm I put her in her bed. She cried and cried, then I heard silence. After 3 or 4 minutes I went to check on her. She was standing up with her arms crossed over the railing and her head down. She was asleep STANDING UP! I should have snapped a pic, but I felt so sorry for her. Later she woke up and Em put her on the living room floor. She went right back to sleep. Here is the close up and below the pan out. How do they sleep like that?

Well, I have attempted to update the blog a few times, and each time it didn't save. Hopefully all will go well this time. I just returned from the "Women of Joy" conference in Gatlinburg, TN. Em and my dad keep the kids for me. It's a relief to know that you can leave your kids with your husband and know that all will be well while you are gone. I am a very blessed wife and mom. I had a wonderful time. It was a joy to spend my time with my friends Melissa, Ange and Cathy. It was a much needed time away from the stresses of our normal lives, and a great bonding time.
The conference was good. I had never personally "heard" Kay Arthur. I suppose many would put her on a type of "pedestal." But, what I enjoyed so much about her is that she was just so like the rest of us, and down to earth, and just burdened for this country. She was just in alignment with the things of God concerning where our nation should be, and why we aren't there any longer. The other two speakers were just so funny (and so was Kay many times). Liz Curtis Higgins was one speaker, who is by trade a Christian-fiction historical novelist. She was just so entertaining. And we ended with Sylvia Harney on Sunday. Just a funny lady with a great testimony. She is that person who has anything and everything happen to her. Like one of the those people who you can't believe had all that happen to them in life, cause no one has that many stories that can be true.
Jeremy Camp was in concert Saturday night, and we just loved his time with us. It was like walking in on someones "jam" session and just talking to him on the couch. Except, he was the one doing all the talking.
So, all is well at the Foley's. Ivee will have another swallow study soon, within' the next few weeks. We are praying for a great report. Her second birthday is in just 3 weeks. I can't believe it.
I have to go now. Homeschool is SCREAMING at me.

Back from Florida

We had a great time in Jacksonville. Unfortunately, all three of my kids are sick. Brittney hasn't felt well since Sunday, and it has progressed. Ethan woke up with an ear ache and hurting in his legs. Ivee was fussy all day yesterday, didn't sleep well last night, and woke up with diarrhea. So they are all going to the doctor this afternoon. So, needless to stay, it is a little yucky around the Foley house today. Below are some pics from Saturday. We all drove down to Orlando and went to Seaworld for the day. Everyone enjoyed it.

Here we are as we entered the park.
Here is a whale from the Shamu show.
Here is part of our Motley Crew in the Artic Expedition Exhibit.
The flowers were beautiful. Seaworld has a beautiful campus.
There were two mommies and babies at the killer whale show. Ivee adored this part. I'll post some more pics of her enjoying them later.