Neal and I arrived at the University of Chicago Mitchell Hospital this morning. Neal had his blood drawn, went to admitting and then down to out patient surgery to have his Hickman catheter put in. That is the line where his chemo, meds, and cells will be administered. We had to wait for his room to be ready so we didn’t get here until about 4:30. Neal will be able to rest tonight and get his chemo starting in the morning.
We are encouraged to decorate the room, since he’ll be spending so much time in it! So, we’ve put up a poster the kids made Neal for Christmas of various pictures of our family. Neal also received word yesterday that our friend in Zambia lead a group of pastors there in prayer for him. We felt humbled and overwhelmed knowing people all over the world are praying for Neal. They sent this picture showing them praying. Kimberly, your picture is up also!
If you want to send Neal cards:
University of Chicago Bernard Mitchell Hospital
6NW Neal Smith
5841 S. Maryland Ave. MC 6041
Chicago, IL 60637-1470
More tomorrow,
Trish
PS Today is Day -8. They count backward until his transplant day. Transplant day is Day 0 and then goes up.
Neal and Trish, we are encouraged that so many are keeping you in their prayers. It is our daily prayer that all goes well for you during this time. We thank you for the address!!
Love, Uncle Keith and Aunt Gene