When you wish upon a star...

After being home just long enough to almost catch up on laundry and gather together for Sunday, Davis had a Sunday night fever that automatically buys us an ER visit and admission to the unit. Each weekend trip through the ER is a risk and a long journey. After an eventful day of primary, sacrament at home, visiting graves for Memorial Day, home teaching, homework, and packing, we started to settle in when the symptoms began.

We managed the usual comfort measures, ice packs, cool shower and a wet cloth on the forehead for a couple of hours. Temperature readings every 15 minutes steadily rising to reach the maximum level before we are required to go to the ER, took us until 3am. As I gathered Emmi into the car to travel she woke up and began her usual pleasant chatting. While driving, she excitedly announces that she had seen a shooting star and made a wish. I asked her what it was, and she quietly reminds me that if she tells it won't come true. I reassure her that it's always okay to share with mom's. To this she whispers, "but NOT brothers!" again reassuring her "yes, but brother's on their way to the hospital are okay!" Her tender little 3 am voice replies that she had wished for Davis to feel better because she loves him so much.

I had a moment and wished that I could be five again!

It has been an extra emotional few days for our family. We had to make the decision to sell our boat. This may seem like an obvious item to sell, however,it defines our family togetherness to some extent, and will be an emotional sacrifice. It has been an activity loved by all ages. It brings together a 17 year old all the way to a five year old. Jeff and the three kids were able to head out for one more opportunity in the boat for Monday. This outing was both looked forward to for the fun, as well as dreaded for leaving Davis at home.
More and more we realize just how precious life is moment to moment. The ability
to handle these changes and uncertainty in life is definitely spread out down
the ages. Jeff is such an amazing hard worker and continues to lead us through
this most recent storm as he tries to build up for the next rainy day. Each child within their little life experiences. Courtney is celebrating turning 18 and graduating this weekend. Life is full of friends, fun, the few last minute tests to be taken, mixed with being pseudo-mom all in one. Ryan has made the most of the scattered parenting the past few months and enjoys being social. Ben and his tough exterior, mask within a tender heart full of uncertainty and homesickness. Emmi flits and floats from house to house, thinking life is a party...Again, I have a moment that being five sounds pretty good... Back to reality. Does anyone have any tricks to relieve the aging stress lines or sleep creases across ones face created by hunching over a hospital bed and dozing off?

We will keep you posted upon the happenings and when we will hopefully be
returning home!

Sleepless in Salt Lake City

After ten amazing days of being outpatient, Davis' symptoms once again required an overnight stay for blood and platelets. We began with the usual, unusual routine. It was a series of delays right from the start last night. His central line kept bleeding and needed redressing, which caused delays in infusions. We changed the pre-medications to hopefully keep Davis from having a reaction. The first bag of platelets had only been infusing 8 minutes when he began with a severe reaction. As people rush around and his breathing becomes more and more difficult, time seems to slow. The eye contact of a child struggling to get enough air pierces your very soul. What an incredibly helpless feeling as a parent.

As I stand back to get out of the way, my heart melts as he just fixes his eyes on mine for reassurance.

Platelet infusion stopped, medications pushed to hopefully reverse the symptoms of the reaction. As we maintain the gaze of security, and after a while, his breathing begins to loosen and he can talk. A few hours later, we start again. Thankfully, the rest of the night was reaction-free. Once again Davis' patience astounds as he tries to sleep between the medications and frequent vital signs. He quietly takes care of any "minor" inconveniences. He calmly asks for tissues to spit the the blood clots from his mouth. He independently unplugs from the tubes and walls to walk around.

His obedient nature draws you in to feel of his spirit.

Our room this time had an incredible view of the valley and I
stared all night into the beautiful city lights...ahhh the night life.

Then 18 hours, three bags of blood, one bag of platelets, two blueberry bagels with strawberry cream cheese, three bowls of cereal and one chocolate milk later, we are on our way home!

Thank you for the anonymous,generous gift of cereal. He loves the large and yummy selection.
Thank you for the continued thoughtful gifts that provide him with many smiles, laughs and things to do.

We love you all...known and anonymous.
Until next time

Home again, home again, jiggity jig!

Each visit to the specialists and to draw labs is filled with the anticipation of staying in the hospital or coming back to monitor at home. Once again, labs went down slightly. They still remain within transfusion level, however, Davis is remaining stable(that is of course a relative term for all walks of life...emotional, financial, physical etc. etc. etc.) okay back to the matter at hand.

We had a little moment today to meet a girl that has acquired aplastic anemia within the past two years that was visiting the hospital for a check-up. The darling little 7 year old, was in awe at Davis' 6 foot frame sitting on the exam bed. The little girl did not say much, but the mom and I exchanged brief words and glances. I felt her spirit and we understood one another.

We are getting closer to a therapeutic level for the medication, and will retest on Friday. He is experiencing more side effects, especially in the night, from the meds now, however, continues to amaze me with his endurance and attitude.

The words to adequately describe this incredible boy is nothing short of
Christlike patience.

His calm, even in the waves of feeling ill, often leaves me speechless.

I feel his strength when he puts his arm over my shoulders for support as we go from lounge chair, to bed, to couch in attempts to find him comfort in the night.

I often wonder who is supporting whom.

I usually sit for a moment in the car before entering my house as if to gather enough stability and strength to fulfill all my roles that will inevitably swarm upon entering. A few rare times in the past, maybe after a lunch out with friends or a wonderfully relaxing massage, I have even considered pulling back out feeling as if my cup was not quite full enough to brave dinner, laundry, school work, or the dreaded 4:30- 6:30 time frame! My heart now, is again overwhelmed each time I pull in the drive way. This emotion is however, one of pure privilege at the many roles that await me behind the doors. Do not misunderstand ...I still say a prayer, take a deep cleansing breath and say out loud with a deep sense of gratitude...

...There's no place like home.

GOOD CLEAN FUN!

A Day at the Car Wash!

What more could a boy want than to know how loved he is by his peers. Thanks to all those that braved the not-so-beautiful May weather to lift Davis' spirits.

You couldn't see it, but behind the mask

was that loving Davis grin!

We were overwhelmed by the support. This photo only shows a handful of the amazing KJH students that gave their Saturday for Davis.

Thank you to all the parents that helped coordinated these efforts, and baked goodies. We cannot possibly know everyone involved...but if we did we would hug you all.

All our love and gratitude, Davis and Family

Pity-Party, 30-minute power nap and perseverance!

For those of you that know me, you know I am always up for a party… Well, I hosted myself an all out pity-party tonight. Complete with full-blown body wrenching crying. Outside the rain poured down, and within me the raw heartache of fear, out of control…took control. My strength to fight back the questions of the unknown has been at the surface for days, maybe weeks. The fight raged within to balance faith with being a mortal being.
For a moment I wished the world of financial, physical and emotional worries would just cease so that I could concentrate on caring for Davis and my family.

Over the years there have been many moments in life that we have felt the sting of poor health. This has for sure been one of our family’s areas of trials. Especially felt the past four years as we have made it through numerous cat scans, MRI’s, surgeries, gluten intolerance, knee, back and neck problems, broken bones, etc.
I have always vowed that I would not let the drain of chronic issues overpower the love of life and willingness to endure well.

When you reach the end of your rope, tie a knot, hang on and swing!

As I fall to my knees to plead for the strength needed to handle tomorrow, my heart is so heavy with the worries of the world. No worries seem as important as caring for Davis, however, none- the-less need to be tended to as well. My neck begins to heat up with the anxiety of so many unknowns. Tension fills my body. I am sure there are a few more gray hairs on my head and stress lines on my face, as I bury my head in the pillow. I audibly giggle at the thought of Heavenly Father watching me actually think about gray hair and wrinkles right now.

Pity-Party over.

I recall a moment in the temple this past month. As I sat, exhausted from the past few weeks, and looking around at the comfy chairs and couches, I just wanted to take a nap. I imagined asking Heavenly Father if he could just take over and allow me the indulgence of a 30-minute power nap. Then, I would be good to go. I read thoughts and scriptures that buoy me up. Along the way the spirit reminded me that I can and needed to rely on the Lord to take over and fill in the gaps created from my weaknesses.

I remember the sentiment “be still and know that I am God.”

My heart pounds and tears begin to fade. I give in to the encircling peace found in being still. Although the other problems have not been solved, I find strength in my ability to persevere.

Sitting on the fence!

Once again Davis had labs today to determine the next course of action. We are sitting on the fence with his levels. The doctors are balancing needing transfusions with not wanting to give too many. The levels did drop slightly, so for now we will continue to watch. We are grateful for five days home in a row.

His energy level continues to be low, however, his determination to do everything in his power to beat this thing is incredible. He needs to keep his lungs clear and muscles moving to prevent any other complications. At first his mind thought he wanted to go shoot some hoops...but his body wasn't cooperating, so he willed himself to take a walk around the block today.

Thank you for the continued rootbeer floats, treats, service, yard work, emails and prayers. We will keep you posted.

All our love

May 20, 2010-Chin-up!

With bags packed, we headed to PCMC for labs and follow-up. The many drugs that Davis is now taking at home need to reach a therapeutic level. They were not at that level as of today and doses and meds were altered. (We are so excited that the pills that smell and taste like skunk were increased!)

His blood levels did not go up...however, they did not go down! So for today and much to Davis' happiness, we did not need blood or platelets and we came back home. Bags once again placed by the door for the next venture.

Coming home is always an mental boost. Davis was able to conference-in on a KJH officer meeting today and eat fairly well. The emotional isolation was offset for today to feel like he was involved in something...and for that we are grateful.

Davis and I have been loving listening to John Bytheway talks on our drive to and from the hospital. You would think it depressing to hear talks of adversity with emotions so raw. However, it is so incredible to listen to Davis comment, "Wow, that one would be hard."

It reconfirms in my heart the valiant young man he is becoming.

We realize in this life that without the bad we would not be quite as grateful for the good. I am personally working on the weakness to love the process of the bad to reach the benefits of the good. In my heart I know I see growth at the end. I would somehow like to bottle that growth for the insecure fearful moments in life. I pray intently for the strength to endure with grace, that I may feel of the promises from my Heavenly Father. Adversity at any age opens your heart to the pangs of empathy and the tender mercies of God.

Our thought for the day:

I prayed for strength...God gave me difficulty.
I prayed for wisdom...God gave me problems to solve.
I prayed for prosperity...God gave me intellect and muscles to work with.
I prayed for courage...God gave me danger to conquer.
I prayed for favors...God gave me opportunities.
I prayed for love...God gave me people to help.

I received nothing I prayed for, but everything I needed.

Remember to Breathe!

Remember to Breathe!

At times of challenge in life when you seem to be numb due to the pure exhaustion of worry, doubt, and fear, other senses are acutely alert.

Time seems to slow as emotions of the true importance of life are able to infiltrate your very being.

The smells of each hallway and hospital sterility permeate the air. The sounds of crying and laughter can be heard at every corner. The sight of loving embraces and gentle smiles that calm and reassure.

One of my favorite quotes comes from a book called “A Heart Like His,” stating:

"There isn’t anyone you can’t love once you know their story."

This thought often reminds me to have a constant Christlike love for people. Walking through life I often observe individuals and stop to ask what is their story? What brought them to this point in time of their lives? This observation is strongly available as day in and day out I walked the halls of a children’s hospital. The “regulars” or “long-termers” start up needed support conversations. The café staff begins to recognize you. Maybe because you are in the same wash and wear clothes that you were in the night before! Everyone recognizes new concern and hope in a Father’s face or in a mother’s expression. It is easy to determine the parents of the residents of the hospital. Parents are often seen in pajamas, with belonging bags over shoulders and dark circles under their eyes. They are seen engaging in emotional phone conversations in a corner of a hall or lobby. Glazed over stares of parents in auto-mode . . . fighting to physically, emotionally and spiritually survive.

Outside, I step into an often complained about cold day in May, feeling renewed gratitude for the crisp fresh air and rain.

INSTEAD OF LEARNING TO WAIT OUT THE STORM,
WE SHOULD TRY TO LEARN TO DANCE IN THE RAIN

I remember to breathe.

I push back a pang of sadness and guilt that I am able to leave and walk outside at will, and Davis cannot. Then the gentle peace of a moment reminds me that the positive attitude that I can maintain within myself is a gift I can offer to Davis. This thought renews my diligence and endurance and allows me to take that moment and return to what lies ahead with strength and hope.

Gayle

May 14, 2010-Homeward Bound!

Treatment day number four complete!

Seven days ago, I was sleeping in my own bed on a beautiful Mother's Day. Today, my fold-out chair bed and I are still trying to bond. Wow, what a week. Davis has made it through the first round of immunosuppressive drug therapy. The waves of emotions and reactions have come and gone over the past four days. After the last dose yesterday, we were able to go outside for 10 minutes to see and feel the first sunshine for him in seven days. The window blinds have been broken all week. He truly appreciated the blue sky and warmth of the sun!

He had a little set back last night again with a reaction, however, seems to be recovering this morning. We are hoping to come home today for awhile.

-Homeward Bound-

Realizing of course that often our plan is not our own, here is the current plan of action; We will go home today with his central line, a medication schedule that they endearingly call a "road map" due to the need for great navigation, a home health schedule, continued decreased immunity precautions, a good appetite for homemade food, a renewed love for home and family and a smile.

The length of time needed for recovery is very broad and not really known due to the rare nature of being a "one" in a million kid! He will be on some medications for a year or more and others will hopefully leave our journey sooner than later.

PS After many requests, and with some help, I have created a blog! Yes, Yes, I know you say, you go girl! I am hoping to have all of the updates and add some photos by later today. So "STAY TUNED"

PS Thanks for the great service and support we have received again this week. We hope you know how blessed we feel to be surrounded by such faith and love.

All our love,
The Cox Crew

May 14, 2010 Pushing Buttons!

Hi everyone,

There are mixed reviews for the past few days. We will get the not-so-good out of the way first. Although treatment was delayed a day due to the fever, we were able to start on Wed. The initial treatment went ok. He had some reactions and another fever episode. On Thursday, they were able to adjust the pre-meds and give him other medication for comfort. Thursday was much better.

As a matter of interest...at about 1 am last night,had so much energy, at least a 3 that he was able to play video games and carry on great conversation. He also figured out all the buttons on his new large bed. He gave the nurse a laugh as he set the bed at the maximum height, which is about 4 feet off the ground! The lovable, mischievous, familiar GRIN was so welcome, even at 1 am. She quickly put up the sides all around. We are definitely cheap entertainment!

-Blueberry bagels with strawberry cream cheese-

Treatment number three out of four this week is scheduled for today. We are thankful it is Friday. He got a semi-warm shower this morning and breakfast. I think he is trying to set the hospital record for most blueberry bagels with strawberry cream cheese eaten by one person in a weeks stay.

Hospital BINGO!

Facebook and texts!

Thanks to all those that helped us make it through this week. It is such a blessing to feel of all the love. Thanks for the weeding of the yard and the garden planting, dog sitting and especially the child care, while Jeff was out of town and I was at the hospital.

Happy weekend to all,
Davis and FAM

May 13, 2010, at 7:28 AM, Minutes Turn to Hours and Hours Turn to Days

You would think that in the hospital loads of "extra" sitting, project and sleeping time would be all yours. It is amazing when the hours in the day are so long and the night hours even longer, how the days just keep coming. The constant goings-on of the day actually leave little time to accomplish tasks, however, ample time to think. Helping a purely exhausted boy take our daily walk of 50 feet, brushing teeth with a sponge to prevent gum bleeds, ordering just the right food(there is something tender about spoon feeding a loved one when they cannot muster up the energy),taking pills, taking vital signs, readjusting pillows for needed comfort, talking of care with each new doctor or nurse that enter our world. In these moments it is easy to sink in the issues, traumas and "small stuff" of life. There are also quiet moments to enjoy the simple joys. Although the window does not open, I breath in the freshness of a new day.

Being fever free on Tuesday allowed to begin the drug therapy on Wednesday midday. He seemed to initially respond in a fairly positive manner, as the treatment began. He had the blessing of being able to sleep much of the day, well, in between the constant checking and rechecking around him. I find myself often sitting, just watching him breathe. He is pale, however, each time he wakes he greets me with that smile of his that cannot be broken.

Unfortunately,began with another fever around 7 pm. This time the fever lasted a very tense four hours. These fevers are very difficult on Davis. He fights through the pain of a headache, chills, shaking and the annoyance of multiple ice packs and cool cloths covering his body. Thankfully, the fever broke and the night brought a good five hours of needed sleep.

SIMPLE JOY of the DAY: Being one of the tallest..and I am pretty sure having more hair on his legs than most of the patients around here, the bed was a little small. With the leg cramps and the need to stretch, they found a longer bed last night. Just finishing the last of his fever, in rolls this bed. The simple joy of his smile. It is amazing what just a glimmer of hope can do for the spirits. It was like Christmas morning as he eagerly anticipated stretching out and sleeping.

All our love,
Us

-Patience-

Everyone is so anxious to hear how Davis did with his first day of treatment, however, due to a dangerously high fever in the night, we had to postpone today's treatment. He is now maintaining his temperature and the hope is that if it remains under control, we can begin Wednesday.

Until tomorrow,

Gayle

May 14, 2010

Strength Beyond Measure and All You Can Eat

Davis continues to amaze all the doctors and nurses with his strength and maturity to handle all these situations. He made it through the placement of the central line this morning with flying reports. He did well with the anesthesia and was awake and hungry immediately. Primary has a room service policy that was created for boys like Davis...Order anything you want and as much as you want, for no extra cost (that is still to be seen!) I tried to convince him that it is just like being on a cruise...he did NOT buy that one! We looked forward together for a moment at the thought of an actual cruise buffet that did not require a rolling IV pole as a travel partner.

The plan is to recover today, maintain levels and begin the immunosuppressive drug therapy first thing Tuesday morning.

-The strength of Youth-

Thanks to the teacher’s quorum for their fast and visit on Sunday. I was filled with the spirit to see the strength and genuine concern from a stunning group of boys in white shirts and ties. Thanks for your reports on all the happenings for Davis. He especially loved the report that the girls were missing him!

-Gratitude and love-

Thanks to all of our kind neighbors that allow my other kids to wander in and out of your homes. It is hard to be away day after day and I am grateful for all the reassurance that they are being cared for...and fed. You are amazing.

What more can I say about family. We are so blessed to have everyone pull together in love.

I will update whenever I have a moment this week.

Come what may...and endure it well!

All my love,
Gayle

May 9th 2010-Mother’s Day Moments

Hello everyone,

I am attempting to send this email from our hospital room. Here it goes.Please be patient with my often rushed spelling and grammar!

After three 2 hour long bloody noses over the weekend, Davis' body was in need of some help and we were admitted Sunday evening. After two blood transfusions and three platelet transfusions with one major scary reaction, we seem to now be under "control"!


I had a great Mother's Day with all my babies, complete with a traditional omelet in bed and cards galore. Davis and I then spent a tender Mother's Day night together. My heart melted as he said "Happy Mother's Day" with a questioning tone from under his mask and bloody nose. I couldn't help but feel in awe at the privilege of being a mom. I often feel the responsibility, helplessness and pure joy of motherhood all in one breath. This challenge has brought many emotions to the surface for me. I realize how often I rely on my Heavenly Father to take some of the load, especially when it comes to the care of my children. I value the privilege of being a mom beyond words and pray for that to continue.

ice and pressure before going to the ER.

*BEST LAB NEWS YET!*

The major test that we have been waiting and praying for came back today as negative. Thank you for all your prayers. The road ahead is long and uncertain, however, that one would have been certain and difficult.

May 3, 2010-A Good Day Full of Gifts and Love

Hi there,

We headed to PCMC today with overnight bags in the car for labs and potential transfusions of platelets and blood. Much to our absolute surprise,Davis did not need either today. His platelets, although lowered, were not transfusion worthy today. The Hct which is the red blood level had jumped 2 points from 22 to 24. Yes, still low you may say, however,Davis smiled as he heard the numbers. He is now an expert on the levels he can personally be at to go home!

We will see the eye specialists tomorrow for treatment on his eyes. We will receive tests results on Friday, and then he is scheduled for treatment beginning Monday morning.

So with that news today, and the very generous gift he received from "anonymous" friends (YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE), his spirits are up! The gift was a very needed mental boost.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

Happy Day!
The Coxes

April 2010-A Few Ups and Downs

Dear Family and Friends,

After our update yesterday, we have several other happenings to report. One of the tests that we have been waiting on prior to treatment was sent to the lab under that wrong code. The test was resent today. Unfortunately, it takes 10 days to receive results. Thus we cannot begin treatment quite yet.

On the flip side...Davis remained fever free for 24 hours and with the red blood, platelets and antibiotics on board, we came home. We will continue with the same regimen as the past month to hopefully keep him symptom free...and emotionally sound. Thank you again for all the treats, texts, books, games, dinners, and allowing the other kids to hang out at your homes etc. We are so blessed.

I am gratefully overwhelmed with all the love and support. After our report yesterday of no sibling bone marrow match, we had several offers to donate on his behalf. Believe me, as we sit here with all 7 of us with the same blood type, it is extremely difficult to watch random blood being infused. However, after diligently asking every specialist and transplant member, we cannot designate bone marrow or blood to be given to Davis. The process that is needed for transfusion takes time and is expensive, and they do not do it any more with family. Everyone can still donate to help the blood bank, however, it is not guaranteed to reach Davis. I would also say that if you can do so, a donation is a great service to those in need...those just like Davis.

April 2010-Resilience-

Hello again,

I have decided that Davis' new middle name is resilience! He experienced some vision problems yesterday that landed us back in the ER at PCMC. After a Cat Scan that cleared any bleeding into his brain, he was seen by an ophthalmologist who said that he did have bleeding in the vision part of his right eye, and some partial bleeding into his left eye. Hoping that the cause of this new symptom was low platelets and finding that his platelets had dropped to 1,000 and red blood was low as well, we were admitted over night and transfused with two bags of platelets and one bag of red blood cells.

The word resilience comes from working around the annoyance of viewing the Jazz loss through one eye, and trying to eat with altered depth perception. As well as being pre-medicated with medication to avoid having a reaction to the platelets and the blood only to have a reaction of restless leg syndrome from that very medication. Go figure. So his legs wanted to jump and run and his head could only sit still.

His spirits are lifted with every call, card, text, treat, and beating me one-eyed at Connect-Four! With his semi-Schwarzenegger glasses...To his friends at school..."I'LL BE BACK!!""We are home for now on the same precautions...and a few extras. We will keep you posted!

Thanks again for all the continued care and calls.

Coxes

Davis and the FAM

Faith Hope and Prayers

Dear Family and Friends,

Davis is doing a bit better now after an eventful night last night and a full day today. He developed a fever last night which admitted him back into PCMC early this morning for IV antibiotics. After a few days of spontaneous bleeding and low energy, he also received platelets and red blood transfusions today. He had a bad reaction to the platelets this time. They were able to calm his violent shaking and tremors with medication. His red blood transfusion went well. After both transfusions, his pain diminished and his energy level increased from "0.5" to "3" on a 10 point scale. He went from being flat on his back to wanting to put on a mask and walk the halls in no time!

We received some disappointing news today that we do not have a sibling match for a bone marrow transplant. With this news, the plan is to get him over the current infection causing the fever and then begin treatment right away with strong medications that will hopefully spark his own bone marrow back into action. This will all begin to take place in the next week or so.

Thank you again to all of you for your love and prayers. We appreciate you so much!

Love,
Davis and the Cox Crew

April19 2010-No more Braces!

New happenings to report on Davis....

THE BRACES ARE OFF!

What a happy day for this 14 year old boy. We had to cancel getting them off three weeks ago and did not know if it would be able to happen due to all the risks. His platelets droped again over the weekend, so they gave him another transfusion of platelets this morning to boost for the braces procedure. He is also currently on a heavy duty antibiotic for infection with his lack of immune system.

So with both of those issues under control (and I use that term loosely) we worked with the orthodontist to gently remove the braces. He did great, minimal bleeding...great smile and is now enjoying ARBY's with his new mouth!

As you know we are taking this one day at a time and continue to wait for certain results. We will keep you posted. For now, all the games, texts and treats have been greatly appreciated and as for TODAY... IT WAS A GREAT DAY! We will take it!

All our love.

April 10, 2010-Calm under pressure-Charming under anesthesia!

Hello all,

Thank you so very much for your prayers and support for Davis. After yesterday and the great news of No Leukemia, we are still getting mixed lab results.
Davis did amazing through the bone marrow biopsy and was entertaining to the O.R. staff during the procedure. They commented how much they liked him as a patient.

The first platelet transfusion went well and he is a trooper. Besides an hour long bloody nose and a few extra pokes, he remains in good spirits. We are home for a few days with strict precautions until we get the results early next week. We were hoping to lift the no visitors today, (he is so eager to see friends and get to school and ball) however, his labs this morning are much lower as far as his immune system is concerned. Therefore, he cannot have any visitors in the house at this time. He can still get texts and would love to hear from anyone.

We will not have the results of the biopsy until Tues. or Wed. of next week. We will let you all know when we have any new information.

Thank you again for all your prayers, love and support,
Coxes

April 14, 2010-Aplastic Anemia

We received the news today that Davis has Aplastic anemia. This means that there has been damage to his bone marrow. Primary Children's has taken more blood tests today to determine a few more aspects of this disease that will help us make decisions on how best to treat Davis. These tests will be back in a week or so. The ultimate hope is that if it is a virus, somehow Davis' immune system will strengthen and platelets will begin to be made without intensive treatment.

Davis is able to go out and get fresh air, however, we still cannot have visitors inside close quarters or visit crowded places. So if you see him out walking please say HI!

Thank you again for all your prayers and thoughts...treats and games etc. The results of fasting and prayers have been felt throughout this experience in little blessings along the way!

Much Love,

The Coxes

April 06, 2010- Tests and more tests

Just a quick update on Davis for this week. The most recent lab test today did not go the direction that we had hoped. His platelet count has dropped along with his white blood cells. With this news, we are watching him even more closely and need to be very careful in exposing him to any illness. He will not be able to fight it very well. We are happy to see anyone as long as you feel that you are healthy. Besides being bored and bummed at this years "Spring Break" activities, and the fact that he cannot get his braces off as planned, he is still feeling okay.

The plan is to keep him safe and retest on Monday to see if his white blood cells go up so then he can carefully attend school. We will see the specialists at Primary for more extensive testing and treatment options one week from Thursday.

Thanks again,
Coxes

April 1, 2010-Hello Family and Friends

We have been watching Davis for the past week with his health. He has had some issues with bruising and petechiae. In the past twenty-four hours his platelet count (the part of your blood that helps you clot) has dropped to a dangerously low level. We have seen our pediatrician as well as specialists at Primary Children's. After a scare for what is very serious, the specialists at Primary are fairly confident that it is not being caused by Leukemia. We will watch Davis' platelet levels and re-take labs every Wed for awhile.

He is remaining positive despite being put in a bubble and grounded from sports or any rough play, or even getting a nosebleed. Also, included is NOT taking the stairs four at a time and having exercise ball wars with Ryan and Ben. Someone has told him to "milk it for all it's worth!" We will remind him not to let it go to his head! We are asking for any calm and yet exciting spring break activities...puzzles anyone?

petechaie!

-Tender Moments-

Thanks to all of you for your loving support. We have had some tender moments in the past few days with our family and realize how blessed we are to have one another. It is very humbling to walk through the halls of Primary Children's and especially sit in the oncology unit. We are grateful for the news that we received today and will pray that the healthyDavis we know will fight and generate new platelets without any further help.

We love you all,

Coxes

SOMEWHEREinTIME

Testing the waters for the CoxCrewSomewhereintime blog!

I have been prompted by many friends, family and some new acquaintances to begin a blog at this time in my life. The outreach of support and concern for Davis and our family has been amazing. My thoughts swirl every day in reaction to the current trials we face with Davis' health as well as maintaining the current norm for the rest of my children, and anticipation for the future.

This blog is a bit overwhelming to start. Where do I begin to express the emotions of life, as a release to me, a source of information for the many caring requests and a written legacy of sorts for our family? AND what to call the blog that isn’t already taken. It’s a bit of a trial and error to find a simple name.

So here it is CoxCrewSomewhereinTime!

We are now eight weeks into the latest life-altering event for our family. I try to discern if I feel comfort that this is not the first major health issue to impact our lives and we have survived, or fear at the realization that it for certain will not be the last. Each day a new adventure or challenge presents, I often wonder in amazement how we made it through the last...but we DID!