John had an MRI today in an effort to figure out what’s causing the headaches. The Doctors are trying to rule out everything else before they concentrate on the ATRA he’s receiving. They are feeling quite strong that he is suffering from ATRA Syndrome which is common. This will cause the headaches and fever that John is having. The trick here is that ATRA is the primary treatment for APML, John’s type of leukemia…so he needs to take it. Once they confirm that it is in fact the syndrome, they will likely take him off the ATRA for a period of five days to rid his body of some of this chemical. After that time he will begin taking the ATRA once again. Many times the side affects will not return after a break of this type. Sometimes they need to do the break more than once before the side affects stop. We’ll just have to wait and see how John responds.

On Christmas Day he still had a high fever…as high as 102, and the headaches continued. He was only able to be alert and talk with his family for about 3 hours because simply doesn’t feel well. He did get a visit from “Santa” during the early morning hours of Christmas day. Actually it was a nurse that brought around presents to all the kids who are in over Christmas. Some of the presents were a little juvenile for John, but they will pass them on to others who can use them.

John Sr. became sick Christmas night and had to come back home. He’s feeling a little better today. He will work on Thursday and return to Indy after work with Janna. He’s planning to stay through next Wednesday. Lorena is in Indy today. Continue to pray for John, his headaches and fever, and for his continued treatment. Also, remember the family as they travel back and forth and try to sleep there in the hospital. We’ll keep you posted…keep praying!