An Unexpected U-Turn

Since our last post things have been eventful in a good way. Most people I talk to have realized that no news is good news; when we’re not posting frequently it’s usually a sign that Liam is doing well. A few days after my last post, Liam came home from the hospital. While he had some underlying gut issues going on, he was steadily improving and started Phase 3 of treatment this past Monday.

Last night though, things shifted and Liam couldn’t stop vomiting. After some time, and when all that was coming out was bile, it was time to page the on-call oncologist. He requested that we come to the ER immediately.

Following a CT scan, Liam has two new issues going on. First is pneumatosis of the intestines, a “rare complication for children with leukemia.” From my layman’s understanding this is essentially air trapped in intestinal wall. This could be benign or a serious thing which requires surgical intervention. Right now they don’t see a need for surgery but that may change.

Liam also has pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). This could be related or a separate issue. Both issues are consistent with his vomiting and abdominal pain.

As I write this, Liam is trying to fall back asleep in our ER room. He’s getting admitted to the hospital soon. I’ll find out more later once I meet with his oncologist.

Please pray for Liam and us as we’re presented with more rare complications compounded on all the other rare things Liam has going on.

The pictures below are from the day after we got home from the hospital 10ish days ago. Liam could not get enough of the snow. It was a joy to witness.