Emma's war on Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis

September Update:

So much has happened in the last 2 months to share. The twins started kindergarten and are loving every. single. thing. about school. Emma completed 7 straight weeks of weekly IV chemo and daily meds. X-rays showed the tumors to be shrinking (YaY!), so as planned, IV chemo was reduced in frequency to every 3 weeks (with daily oral meds continuing). This past Friday was the first IV chemo on the new schedule, and Emma will have a barrage of tests requiring sedation at the end of the month, 27-29th to determine if the cancer remains active. The results will dictate the chemo schedule for the next 10 months. I'll update when more is known. While the treatments have caused some undesired side effects and yucky days, Emma has been a brave little warrior and made the most of every second she feels well.

For almost the same amount of time, Jessica's mother has been hospitalized with significant kidney, pulmonary and cardiac issues. She spent most of the last 2 months in ICU with many scary days, but miraculously was able to move to a rehab facility this week. She has a long road of recovery, but is a steel-willed lady determined to fight like her granddaughter.

Needless to say, this family has endured some unimaginable days and weathered through them truly by the grace of God. And they are so tremendously grateful for all the kind words, thoughtful acts, meals, cookies, treats, prayers and all the love shown each and every day. I too, am so appreciative of every person that has supported them in any way, and have been so deeply touched by all of your generosity. With so much division going on in the world, it is amazing to witness the power of love uniting people. The gratitude this family feels is beyond words, and I thank you for all continued support and prayers.

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This beautiful little lady on the left in her Daddy's arms is Emma Mosteller. She has recently been diagnosed with Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis (LCH) and is beginning treatment at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Emma is 5 years old, and as you can see, is an identical twin to Ella, has an 11 y/o sister (Mallory) and 22 y/o brother (Madison). Emma and her parents, Chris and Jessica Mosteller, are excited about her beginning kindergarten next month. She will also be undergoing IV chemo weekly (initially, and then every 3 weeks once the LCH becomes inactive) and oral chemo/other medications daily throughout the course of treatment for A YEAR.

This family is dear to my heart, as well as to many others, and my hope is that supporting them through this journey in any way possible will help ease some of the strain. All monetary contributions will be given directly to the family to compensate for loss of work, having a sitter with the other children and activities to keep them occupied, grab-n-go meals, and all the other unforeseen incidentals. Your support is so very much appreciated and the family is extremely grateful for all the love and prayers already in process.