Madelaine's temperature was 38.2 at 6:30 yesterday morning. On advice of the hospital, we gave her some Calpol to reduce her temperature. An hour later, we checked again and her temperature was still 38.2. After calling the Childrens Day Clinic at St James' , we were advised to take her in for the staff there to check her out.
Once there, it was clear that her health was declining; her temperature was infact increasing rapidly and her blood pressure was low. She was sleeping all the time. I think she slept most of the day yesterday. Her neutrophils had decreased to 0.11 from 1.63 over a few days.
She was seen by several doctors who expressed concern. Geoff Shenton, Madelaine's Consultant, was (as always) extremely calming and supportive. He informed me that Madelaine's health was unstable and she may need the support of the Intensive Care Unit. He told me that he and the Team would make sure that Madelaine would recieve the best of care. To be honest, I hung on his every word.
At that time, I was in bits; feeling scared and vulnerable. Geoff has a wonderfully calming way about him and I believe in every word he tells me.
Madelaine was indeed very poorly and all I wanted was to scoop her up and make her better.
Obviously............I can't.
It was decided that Madelaine should be monitored and treated within Ward 10 at St James'.
She recieved antibiotics and fluids. Her chemotherapy has been ceased for a time in order to allow her neutrophils to recreate themselves.
A day later, her temperature has settled down, she is eating, drinking, talking, watching her DVD's and drawing pictures and is like different child. I know she is still poorly, but being with her today has warmed my heart and I feel so much more reassured that she is getting better.
The staff have performed several tests that we are waiting results from to allow us to understand the infection she has.
I am so thankful for the amazing people who have been involved in her care at St James' Hospital. I am very reassured to know that she is recieving the very best of care and support with her treatment.
We are not sure how long she will be in the hospital. I guess it will all depend on how she is over the next couple of days.
So lets hope and pray .........
xx
Madelaine's Journey With Leukaemia
Welcome to 'Madelaine's Journey with Leukaemia'.
This is a site about my Daughter, Madelaine.
Madelaine was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia when she was 14 months old.
The purpose of this site has many facets. Firstly, we (Mummy and Daddy aka Lisa Howe and David Armistead) find it therapeutic to look back on her journey through her illness. We believe she will get better with every breath in our bodies and we want her to read this in her adulthood and wonder what all the fuss was about!
It is for our families and close friends in the hope that they too may have a deeper understanding of her illness and also the issues surrounding it. Also, other parents that find themselves with seriously ill children may find some comfort knowing that they are not on their own. We are are all on this journey together.
Mostly, this is for Madelaine.
One day she will read this and realise her parents have gone mad.........
And she will know how much she is loved..
Dave and I would like to also thank everyone who has supported us throughout Madelaine's illness.
Many people have asked what they can do to help us. Well, we have created a fundraising page on behalf of Madelaine and ourselves with proceeds going to the Candlelighters Trust. The Trust help children with cancer and their families. They have helped us. Unfortunately, there will always be children with cancer and there will always be a need for Candlelighters. So if you want to help, please donate and click on http://www.justgiving.com/madelaineeve
Also, Madelaine and children like her rely on the availability of blood. Madelaine has had many blood transfusions. So if you don't already, please give blood if you can.
And please continue to say your prayers.
Thank you. x
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