Update as of 11:55PM (written for Jon and Gretchen)

Hi everyone it's me Giselle again, here is a message from Jon and Gretchen. I am typing this up verbatim and so here goes. "We are overwhelmed with all the events that have been happening. The administration of different medications, obtaining blood samples, and the task of replacing the intravenous line has been very difficult to watch. Vincristine, allopurinol, zantac, miripenam, dexamethasone, and miralax are the names of some of the medications. Today there were 6 different times that he was poked and prodded for blood and/or to replace an IV. Each time laboratory samples are needed 3 people have to hold him down from moving. Now the doctors are warning that any secondary infection can be detrimental because Griffin's immune system is suppressed or weakened from the chemotherapy." Gretchen continues to say, "So we are happy for all the support from family and friends, but for right now we are putting a stop to all the visitors to the hospital."

Tomorrow's plan is to have a PICC (Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter) line placed to allow an access for easier administration of medications, obtain blood draws, and to decrease discomfort that Griffin endures with each and every needle stick. The downside to the PICC line is the high risk for infection. In addition, during the induction phase of the chemotherapy, Griffin is at higher risk of developing infections which can be life-threatening.

Jon and Gretchen are now in the planning process to bring Griffin home and are paining to make the decision to keep Griffin quarantined. This is a most probable possibility since Griffin's brothers and sister (Everest, Hudson and Kailey) all have the sniffles. Jon and Gretchen are looking forward to when the whole family can be together along with extended family and friends (Jon and Gretchen and social gatherings; they go hand-in-hand:) but most likely when Griffin's blood counts have improved.

While typing this entry I see the pain and heartache that Jon and Gretchen are experiencing as they make these decisions. They do not want to offend anyone but feel that this is the best decision for Griffin.

Gretchen also requested that I post a special present that was left for Griffin from his Kuya Everest and Nicholas (Everest's classmate). Gretchen and Jon found this on their dining room table. They have not been able to spend as much quality time with Everest, Hudson, and Kailey while Griffin has been in the hospital. Jon and Gretchen have been at Griffin's bedside since day one. The care of Everest, Hudson and Kailey has been placed in the hands of the Grandparents (Marita, Aida, and John). So when Jon and Gretchen do go home to quickly shower, change clothes, and regroup their thoughts the kids are at school during the day or sleeping during the late night hours. Finding this art work waiting for them makes them want to get back to their home and family as soon as possible. That is all for now, more to come tomorrow, so check back later and leave your comments for Jon and Gretchen. Please continue to pray for Griffin and his family. Pray that God will provide them with the wisdom to make the right decisions and the strength to endure the path that has been laid out.