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Celtic Radio Community > Kirk and Chapel > Dear Praying Friends


Posted by: haynes9 18-Oct-2007, 10:05 PM
I am going to reprint this letter as it was sent to me. Adam and Jenny Travis are missionaries to India. They are currently raising support. Their oldest little daughter, Esther Joy, has been diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer. The letter speaks for itself. My heart is broken for this family, but they have tremendous faith. I will send updates on this thread as I receive them. I have a couple now, but I will wait until folks have a chance to read this before I update.

Take care, Gang, and thanks for praying for this precious little girl.

Dear Praying Friends,

As many of you have already heard through email or phone calls, our oldest daughter, Esther Joy, has been diagnosed with Stage 4 Cancer. Stage 4 means that the Cancer has infiltrated her bone marrow, which allows the cancer cells to be easily spread through her whole body, by her blood stream. The main location of the cancer is a large tumor that runs along her backbone, from the about the top of her kidneys down into her lower pelvis. The tumor encases her aorta and other blood vessels in the pelvis area making it impossible to surgically remove it. Additional scans confirm that there are other areas in her arms and legs and vertebrae as well.

She began chemotherapy early Friday morning. This is the first of six chemotherapy treatments, each treatment consisting of 72hrs of IV Chemotherapy with two to three weeks of recovery time. After five treatments she will have a surgery to remove what can be removed of the tumor. Then she will have one more treatment to finish off the chemotherapy. Once she is finished with the chemotherapy she will need to have a bone marrow transplant. The doctors hope to be able to use a healthy sample of her own bone marrow for the transplant. The transplant itself will require a large dose of chemotherapy to kill off her current bone marrow before they transplant the new.

After the transplant she will need radiation treatments to kill off the remaining areas of cancer. This whole process will take nearly a year to complete.

Our deputation will be changing somewhat as we go through this process. I will be driving to meetings by myself when I am able, while Jennifer and the kids stay at home with her parents in Tulsa.

Our greatest need right now is prayer. The doctors say statistically patients with Stage 4 Cancer have about a 20% chance of surviving. Pray also for our family that we might grow in faith and trust in the Lord as we fight this battle. Thank you so much for your outpouring of love and prayer already. Our home church Southeast Baptist Church in Tulsa is setting up an account to receive any monetary gifts people may desire to send. Their address and phone number is :

Southeast Baptist Church
1402 S. Memorial Drive
Tulsa, Oklahoma 74112
(918) 836-6617
mailto: [email protected]

We will keep you posted on Esther’s progress.

In His Loving Hand,
Adam and Jennifer Travis - India

Posted by: haynes9 19-Oct-2007, 07:31 AM
Here is an update I received yesterday on Esther Joy Travis.

Please continue to pray for Esther Joy.

Here is a quick update concerning Esther Joy: she has been off chemo for a few days now and she is responding well. Tomorrow, she will go for a scan to see where the cancer is and how it is responding. She is moving around a little and she was even able to sit in her mother's lap. Her hair has not fallen out yet, but she has lost a little of it. The hospital wanted her to cut it off to make it easier, but that was very bothersome to Esther Joy as she "did not want to look like a boy." She is still nauseated and does not want to eat yet. One of the side effects of the chemo is dry skin, so they have been rubbing her down with lotion. Also, on the positive side, the fluid in her body is draining and her weight is only two to three pounds above normal. However, her white-blood-cell count, on a one-five scale (with 5 being normal), is now only two and is expected to bottom out soon. At that point, even a common cold would be dangerous to her as she will basically have no immune system. Also, please pray about her transportation back to Oklahoma when the time is right. The cost of medevac is extremely high, but there is one group that has offered to fly her back at cost. However, there are still complications that will need to be worked out.

In Christ,

Pastor Mick
mailto:[email protected]

BIRTHDAY HELP
PS Please help send birthday cards to Esther Joy. She will be five years old on October 26. Please do not wait until that day, the sooner the better. We will take them up every couple of days as they come in. We received a box with cards in it this morning and she will receive them tonight. She is a little girl and likes things that little girls like, but especially ponies and horses.

Posted by: stoirmeil 19-Oct-2007, 10:11 AM
Mark, has anyone suggested to the pastor or the family that they set up posting on the CaringBridge website that Rob McGrady and his family used for Aaron? It really seemed to tie a lot of far-flung people together for prayer, news and well-wishing.

Posted by: haynes9 19-Oct-2007, 06:42 PM
QUOTE (stoirmeil @ 19-Oct-2007, 10:11 AM)
Mark, has anyone suggested to the pastor or the family that they set up posting on the CaringBridge website that Rob McGrady and his family used for Aaron? It really seemed to tie a lot of far-flung people together for prayer, news and well-wishing.

Thanks, Stormy. To be honest, I had not thought of that, but I guarantee you I will let them know about that great site. Thanks again!

Posted by: haynes9 19-Oct-2007, 09:16 PM
Another update from Esther's dad.

Dear Praying Friends,

I want to start out by conveying my family's appreciation for the great outpouring of love that you have shown toward my Daughter and Family. We have received countless calls, emails, cards and gifts, each one representing prayers of intercession on Esther's behalf. Thank you so very much.

Esther is now in what they call the 'maintenance' part of her first treatment. This is when the negative effects of the Chemotherapy begin to manifest themselves. The doctors expect a dramatic decline in her immune system along with other physical side effects such as losing hair, nausea, and sores in the mouth. Chemotherapy targets the fast replicating cells in the body, so along with the cancer cells; the hair follicles, and the lining of the digestive system are also effected.

As of this morning Esther's white blood count was at a zero which means she has no immune system to speak of. It will most likely take around two weeks for that count to come back to normal. Esther has very little appetite. If this persists she may have to be placed on a feeding tube. We don't want that to happen. She also has the signs of what they call mucictitus, which is where the mouth and digestive track begin to produce mucus that can make her very nauseated. Please pray specifically that her white blood count will rise quickly and that she will regain her appetite and that she will not develop mucictitus.

We will continue to keep you posted on Esther's Condition. God's Grace is very tangible.

In His Mighty Hands,

Adam and Jennifer Travis & Family

Posted by: ogdenmusic 19-Oct-2007, 09:38 PM
Alright Mark, the prayer warriors are praying for the Travis family and Esther. May the power of prayer strenghten them and help them with each passing day and hour.

Posted by: Gwynhwyvar 23-Oct-2007, 08:45 PM
Mark

I have had a busy past few days and just read the post about little Esther Joy. I would love to have my four year olds at school to make cards to send to her for her birthday - I even have a little girl inmy class that shares the same birthday with her and will also be 5 . I will send a package of cards tomorrow to the address in Tulsa. I hope that will be ok? Thanks for the updates and please keep us posted. I will put them on my prayer chain at my church.
Blessings, Jennie

Posted by: haynes9 29-Oct-2007, 07:17 AM
I got this update on Esther Travis yesterday. I will add updates as I get them. Thanks for praying!

Dear Praying Friends,

Today is Esther's 20th day in the hospital, and Lord willing this
will be the last week she has to stay here in Cleveland. This
morning showed that her white blood cell count was rising, which is
a good sign that she will be allowed to be released in the near
future. The side effects of the chemotherapy are very evident. She
lost all of her hair this last week. We will not have any news of
the effectiveness of her first treatment until we get back home.

Many have asked us if we have any needs and we can honestly say
that our greatest need right now is prayer, not only for Esther,
but for the changes that are going to have to take place in the
lives of our children, family and our deputation. We do have a need
for selling our rv and purchasing a smaller vehicle that I can
complete deputation in.

Once again thank you for the outpouring of love and gifts, and just
like Moses had to restrain the children of Israel from giving as
they brought more supplies than were needed for the building of the
tabernacle, so I have to say, Thank you but we just can't receive
anymore toys or gifts, our cup runneth over! If you do desire to
send a monetary gift or card please contact our home church,

Southeast Baptist Church
1402 S. Memorial Drive
Tulsa, OK
74112

(918) 836-6617


The Lord bless you all, and I will keep you updated.
Sustained By His Mercy and Grace,
Adam and Jennifer Travis

Posted by: Nova Scotian 29-Oct-2007, 08:07 AM
The Travis family will be in my prayers! Keep up with the updates. thumbs_up.gif

Posted by: Gwynhwyvar 01-Nov-2007, 09:04 PM
Just to let you know - I had my class of four/five year olds make some cards and we sent them to her home church. ONe little girl in my class has the same birthday that Esther Joy has - they both turned 5! I told them about her and this same little girl has a friend that is facing cancer too. She has become Esther Joy's little prayer warrior - not letting us forget to pray for her sevearl times a day!
It is such a privilege to teach in a Christian School where I can do that without being chastised!

Posted by: haynes9 07-Nov-2007, 05:02 PM
Good news on little Esther Travis. She is now back home in Tulsa and the results so far have been encouraging. Here is the letter passed on to me from her parents.

Update on Esther Joy Travis
Dear Praying Friends,

We have wonderful news. After one round of chemo Esther's tumor has shrunk dramatically! This is very encouraging news. She begins her second round of Chemo today. Lord willing the side effects of the chemo will not be as drastic as the first round. Please pray that the cancer will continue to respond to the treatment and that her immune system will remain strong.

Thank you all for your prayer and support. We cannot thank you enough.

In His Loving Hands,

Adam and Jennifer Travis- India


Posted by: ogdenmusic 08-Nov-2007, 12:17 AM
Great news to hear!! Prays that God continues HIS good work and healing.

Posted by: Gwynhwyvar 12-Nov-2007, 04:04 PM
Mark - many thanks for the update on little Esther Joy Travis. I have my kids at school praying for her, my ladies monthly circle Bible study, my church and family praying for her and her family. That is wonderful news to hear. I will pass this good news on to everyone who is praying for her.
We serve a mighty God!

Have a blessed week.
Jennie

Posted by: haynes9 03-Dec-2007, 08:03 AM
Here is updated information on little Esther Travis. Her folks have a Caringbridge site for her now, so it will be much easier to get the latest updates. Thanks for praying!

Esther Joy Travis website
--------------------------------------------------------
Dear Friends and Family,

I created a CaringBridge site to keep you up to date on Esther Joy
Travis. CaringBridge is a nonprofit organization that helps friends
and families stay connected.

You can visit Esther Joy's CaringBridge site at
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/estherjoy.

If your e-mail program does not allow you to click on the above
link, just copy and paste the address into your web browser's
address (or URL) location.

Please visit our CaringBridge site anytime. You can use the site to
check in on Esther Joy, read the journal entries and send us
messages by signing our guestbook. When you register with
CaringBridge and sign our guestbook, you will automatically receive
e-mail notifications each time our journal is updated. Or, you can
subscribe to receive these notifications even before you sign the
guestbook. (Of course, you can unsubscribe from these e-mail
updates at any time.)

We will have the results from Esther's bone marrow test by the time
we admit her for her third round of Chemo this coming Tuesday.

In His Hand,
Adam & Jennifer Travis - India

Posted by: sisterknight 03-Dec-2007, 08:18 AM
isn't it amazing what the power of prayer and loving thoughts can do???the prayers will continue on my end as well

vik

Posted by: ogdenmusic 04-Dec-2007, 08:36 AM
Mark, thanks for the link. May God continue to bless and do HIS great work.

Posted by: haynes9 29-Dec-2007, 05:38 PM
Here's the latest update on Esther Joy from Caringbridge.

Thank you for all the notes you left us. I am so sorry we have not updated till now. Esther finished her third chemo and for the first time had NO serious side affects! Previously she would end up back in the hospital on high morphine doses a couple days after finishing the chemo - Praise the Lord none of that this time! It has been the month for blood transfusions (apx. 2 a week) and we did have a new twist this month, or should I say Esther did. Her abdominal biopsy incision opened on the inside forming a 3 inch hernia. We had to wait a week for her white blood count to recover before they could operate, due to risk of infection and inability to heal. Thursday morning her counts were up, they gave her another blood transfusion, platelets, and took her in to surgery. The surgeon expected to have to put mesh in but he didn't. He said her abdominal muscles were strong and there was no adhesions. Praise the Lord she came through strong. Last night she wasn't feeling to good but today she is feeling much better. Her eardrum also ruptured for no aperent reason this month. Pray that her ear drum and incision will heal with no complications.

What a blessing! We were all able to be together for Christmas. Esther spent the night before excitedly getting costumes together and preparing to direct her siblings in the first Travis children's Christmas play privatly put on for mommy and daddy. Christmas evening we hosted a Christmas Party on the oncology floor for the families in the hospital and any others that could come. There was a great turn out. Every one received the Gospel and families were ministered to.

Posted by: haynes9 11-Jan-2008, 08:12 PM
Here's an update from today (1-11-2008) on Esther Joy! Thaks for praying!

It has been a busy couple of weeks. Sunday night we went down to Oklahoma City to get ready for the Esther's stem cell harvest. We spent the night at the Ronald Mcdonald House about a half mile from the OU Childrens Hospital where Esther was to have surgery and where she will go for her bone marrow transplant and recovery. We admitted her to the Hospital at 600 am to get her ready for surgery. She had a "small" catheter placed in the femoral artery of her right leg. After recovery we went up to her room in the transplant unit to wait for EMSA to come andpick her up to take here to the Oklahoma Blood Institute for her stem cell spin-off. Unfortuanately EMSA was to busy so we had to be postponed to Tuesday morning. Early Tuesday morning EMSA came and took us over to OBI. The spin-off took about 4 hours. We went back again Wednesday we went for another 2 hours. Praise the Lord we got more than enough stem cells for her transplant. Thursday morning we came back up to Tulsa and started round 4 on her Chemotherapy. These meds are the same they used on the 1st and 2nd rounds which gave her fairly severe side effects. Esther has had "bounce off the walls" energy the last couple of days which has been very encouraging.

Posted by: John Clements 12-Jan-2008, 08:58 AM
QUOTE (haynes9 @ 11-Jan-2008, 09:12 PM)
Here's an update from today (1-11-2008) on Esther Joy! Thaks for praying!

It has been a busy couple of weeks. Sunday night we went down to Oklahoma City to get ready for the Esther's stem cell harvest. We spent the night at the Ronald Mcdonald House about a half mile from the OU Childrens Hospital where Esther was to have surgery and where she will go for her bone marrow transplant and recovery. We admitted her to the Hospital at 600 am to get her ready for surgery. She had a "small" catheter placed in the femoral artery of her right leg. After recovery we went up to her room in the transplant unit to wait for EMSA to come andpick her up to take here to the Oklahoma Blood Institute for her stem cell spin-off. Unfortuanately EMSA was to busy so we had to be postponed to Tuesday morning. Early Tuesday morning EMSA came and took us over to OBI. The spin-off took about 4 hours. We went back again Wednesday we went for another 2 hours. Praise the Lord we got more than enough stem cells for her transplant. Thursday morning we came back up to Tulsa and started round 4 on her Chemotherapy. These meds are the same they used on the 1st and 2nd rounds which gave her fairly severe side effects. Esther has had "bounce off the walls" energy the last couple of days which has been very encouraging.

If thinking is praying, then I've been praying for Esther's recovery.

Posted by: stevenpd 12-Jan-2008, 10:31 AM
QUOTE (John Clements @ 12-Jan-2008, 07:58 AM)
QUOTE (haynes9 @ 11-Jan-2008, 09:12 PM)
Here's an update from today (1-11-2008) on Esther Joy! Thaks for praying!

It has been a busy couple of weeks. Sunday night we went down to Oklahoma City to get ready for the Esther's stem cell harvest. We spent the night at the Ronald Mcdonald House about a half mile from the OU Childrens Hospital where Esther was to have surgery and where she will go for her bone marrow transplant and recovery. We admitted her to the Hospital at 600 am to get her ready for surgery. She had a "small" catheter placed in the femoral artery of her right leg. After recovery we went up to her room in the transplant unit to wait for EMSA to come andpick her up to take here to the Oklahoma Blood Institute for her stem cell spin-off. Unfortuanately EMSA was to busy so we had to be postponed to Tuesday morning. Early Tuesday morning EMSA came and took us over to OBI. The spin-off took about 4 hours. We went back again Wednesday we went for another 2 hours. Praise the Lord we got more than enough stem cells for her transplant. Thursday morning we came back up to Tulsa and started round 4 on her Chemotherapy. These meds are the same they used on the 1st and 2nd rounds which gave her fairly severe side effects. Esther has had "bounce off the walls" energy the last couple of days which has been very encouraging.

If thinking is praying, then I've been praying for Esther recovery.

Positive energy is always helpful.

Posted by: gaberlunzie 12-Jan-2008, 03:41 PM
One can "pray" in many different ways; like stevenpd said, it's positive energy and this always helps.
Mark, thank you for the update; I keep praying.

Posted by: Rindy 12-Jan-2008, 04:40 PM
My prayers and thoughts are with all of you at this difficult time. Keep us posted when you can.

Slainte

Posted by: Gwynhwyvar 02-Feb-2008, 06:02 AM
Mark,

Missed seeing you around in the posts.

I am so thankful to God for the power of prayer and what it is doing in Esther Joy's little life. My class at school continues to pray for her - especially the little girl that shares the same birthday with her. Thanks for keeping us posted. We continue to pray.

Posted by: haynes9 09-Feb-2008, 06:04 PM
Here's another update from CaringBridge on Esther Joy. Thanks for praying for this good family.

January was a very busy month with Esther's treatments. After a successful stem cell harvest in Oklahoma City, Esther went back for her fourth chemo round. This went well, but two days after she finished she came down with an unexplained fever. We spent the next week in the hospital just monitoring her condition and giving her IV antibiotics and antfunguls. She was energetic and playful the whole time and we still don't know what caused the fever. The doctor's did a CT scan that showed the initial tumour has resolved itself down to 2 pingpong sized masses in her pelvis. They say that they should be able to remove both of those with the surgery that will be scheduled in a few weeks.

This last week Esther had her fifth round of Chemo and was released from the hospital yesterday. The meds they used on this cycle make her depressed. When I talked to Jennifer this morning she said Esther was not feeling very good. I am now traveling, so Jennifer doesn't have web access so I will update the site as I get the news from home. Thank you so much for your continued prayers and messages, it truly is an encouragement.


Posted by: haynes9 01-Mar-2008, 01:28 AM
Here's some good news on Esther Joy's progress. Thanks for praying and keep it up! The following is from CaringBridge.

What can we say but God is Faithful. Esther went into surgery yesterday to remove what they could of the tumor. The surgery lasted about 2 hours. The surgeon was able to remove all of the tumor. The tumor itself was nothing more than dead tissue; the chemo had done its job. They sent the remains to pathology and we are still waiting on the final results, but the surgeon is very optimistic that all they will find is dead cancer cells. Praise the LORD!!!

Esther is still in pain from the surgery itself, but we hope to leave the hospital this weekend. She may even be able to start round 6 of her chemo treatments next week. That will be the last treatment prior to the transplant itself which will involve a lethal dose of chemotherapy to kill off her current bone marrow and then the infusion of her own stem cells.

This was a major victory this week but we still have many more battles ahead before complete victory. Thank you so much for your prayers and encouraging notes.

Posted by: Rindy 01-Mar-2008, 10:59 AM
haynes, thank you for keep us updated. You and yours are still in my thoughts and prayers. Hang in there.

Slainte

Posted by: Gwynhwyvar 01-Mar-2008, 06:48 PM
Mark - thanks so much for the update on Esther Joy. My class is still praying for her daily. The little girl in my class that has the same birthday refers to Esther Joy as her friend her mother told me. We'll keep praying. God is definitely faithful, merciful, and compassionate. We serve an awesome God.

Posted by: Siobhan Blues 06-Mar-2008, 03:44 PM
Oh my, what that child has had to endure... I sure am praying that she will be healed from this terrible disease. It took my father-in-law four years ago and is slowly claiming the life of my mother-in-law right now so I know what a formidable enemy it is.

Bless her and her family, Father....


S.

Posted by: haynes9 10-Mar-2008, 09:00 PM
Here is the latest update on Esther Joy Travis from her parents via CaringBridge. Thanks for praying!!

Yesterday Esther finished her last round of chemo before her transplant. The pathology report came back with the great news that there were no viable cancer cells present in the tumor. Esther has been in great spirits and has been healing rapidly from her surgery. We would ask that you pray that she doesn't get sick during the next couple of weeks so we won't have to the visit the hospital anymore until her transplant.

We have been able to reunite the rest of the kids with Esther. It has really uplifted her spirits and she has reassumed the job of being big sister gladly. Pray that we will be able to find a way to keep them around her during her transplant. It will be such an encouragement if she can have them around consistently during that time.

The transplant itself will require a mega dose of chemo to kill off her current bone marrow (each cycle of chemo makes it harder for her current bone marrow to do its job) and then an IV infusion of Esther's stem cells that were harvested back in January. She will then be in a closed unit for around a month while her system recovers. She will have essential no immune system during this time so she will be very susceptible to getting sick. This will be the most critical phase of her treatment. For this reason visitors will be restricted to healthy family members and healthy close friends. All of this should begin in about three weeks. Thank you for your continued prayers.

Posted by: Gwynhwyvar 18-Mar-2008, 07:08 PM
Mark - again, thank you for the updates. My class is still praying for her.

Posted by: FamhairCloiche 19-Mar-2008, 06:28 AM
Reading thread has broken my heart, but at the same time, Esther Joy's perserverence and the evidence of the Lord's healing hand have given me strength and hope. Even just this morning her trials have been a ministry to my heart. I will add her to my prayers immediately. Especially since she's practically my neighbor.

Posted by: haynes9 27-Mar-2008, 10:40 PM
I just got this update off the CaringBridge site. Esther Joy's treatment is entering a very serious and delicate stage. Sure appreciate the prayers and good wishes everyone has sent to this little girl. I have never met her or her parents, but all I talk to who do know them indicate that this family is the real deal. They are certainly worthy of our prayers.

Well we have finally gotten to what I consider the most critical phase of Esther's treatment protocol. We drove down to Oklahoma City yesterday to start with some preparatory treatment before the transplant. Esther's red blood count was low so she was admitted to the transplant unit today to get her transfusion and continue the preparatory treatment that will, Lord willing, help her from getting as sick as she goes through the massive doses of chemo that she will receive in the next few days. Her schedule will look something like this: 3 days of preparatory treatment, 4 days of chemotherapy, 2 days of rest, the Transplant also known as the Rescue ( 20 -40 minute IV infusion of her stem cells), then an unknown number of days of recovery. I will be updating the website regularly during this time. Her doctor said that once we start the chemo part of the transplant that we cannot stop even if she develops a fever during this time. In essence this is a one shot go. I will not be going back out on the road until we know that the transplant has been a success and Esther is recovered. Thank you for your prayers.

Posted by: haynes9 19-Apr-2008, 10:18 AM
It's been a while, but I just got this update this morning on Esther Joy Travis. Thanks for praying for this little girl. I know that if any of us was in this situation, w would want folks to be praying for us. Take care!

We received wonderful news yesterday on Esther's condition. As most of you heard, Esther had unexpected severe damage to her liver because of the chemotherapy she received with her stem cell transplant. For the last week Esther was in ICU battling the effects of liver failure. On Wednesday she had a liver biopsy to see if she had any viable liver left. The only other option for her recovery if she did not have some liver function was a liver transplant which because of her diagnosis as a cancer patient she is most likely not qualified for. The results of the biopsy came back yesterday and showed she had living liver tissue. Praise the Lord! The liver is the only organ in the body which can regenerate itself. Hopefully with time Esther's liver will heal. There is nothing that can be done to treat the liver but to help manage the side effects of liver failure until her liver heals. Needless to say she still has a long way to go before she is well, but praise the Lord for the hope we do have.

Thank you for praying

Posted by: Gwynhwyvar 29-Apr-2008, 07:05 PM
Mark - like I said previously, thanks so much for the updates. I have been trying to get on to Caringbridge, but for some odd reason I can't. Anyway, my class at school is still praying for her daily. To me it is amazing what a little body can take. I just read over all the posts and am truly in awe of the holy and awesome God we serve. Please give this precious family our regards and let them know that there are a whole host of saints in Smyrna, GA that are praying for Esther Joy on a daily basis. May God richly bless everyone involved with this precious little girl.

Posted by: haynes9 07-May-2008, 12:39 AM
I don't have any more recent updates, but here is a photo of Esther. Hope this comes out well.

Posted by: John Clements 07-May-2008, 08:41 AM
QUOTE (haynes9 @ 07-May-2008, 01:39 AM)
I don't have any more recent updates, but here is a photo of Esther. Hope this comes out well.


Seeing the above picture, I hope my tears help.

JC

Posted by: haynes9 07-May-2008, 08:53 AM
QUOTE (John Clements @ 07-May-2008, 07:41 AM)

Seeing the above picture, I hope my tears help.

JC

You're a good man, John! Appreciate your thoughts for this little one. I'll send you a PM soon. I've really been out of pocket lately. Take care!

Posted by: Nova Scotian 07-May-2008, 09:58 AM
QUOTE (haynes9 @ 07-May-2008, 09:53 AM)
QUOTE (John Clements @ 07-May-2008, 07:41 AM)

Seeing the above picture, I hope my tears help.

JC

You're a good man, John! Appreciate your thoughts for this little one. I'll send you a PM soon. I've really been out of pocket lately. Take care!

Bless her heart!

Posted by: Gwynhwyvar 18-May-2008, 02:41 PM
Mark

Many thanks for keeping us all updated on little Ester Joy's conditoin and progress. As I have stated several times, my class has been praying for her. We are headed into the last week of school. I am passing along the Caring Bridge info. as well as the Celtic Radio info. to any of my parents/children that would like to keep up with her progress.

Again, thanks and our prayers are with you and your family and with Ester Joy and her family.

Posted by: haynes9 14-Jun-2008, 08:29 PM
I just got this update on Esther Joy's condition today. This is the first update in a long time and it is very encouraging. Thanks to everyone who has continued to pray for this little sweetheart. I will continue to post any new information I get.


I apologize for not updating the webpage for a long time. We have just been swamped. It is truly amazing how quickly a month can pass, especially with our departure for India coming up in less than four months. We want to thank everyone for the attention you have given to us through your prayers over this last month. Your intercessory on our behalf was evident in both the safe delivery of our son Joshua and in the good reports of Esther’s latest scan.
Joshua James Travis was safely born on May 17th, weighing 11 lbs 6 ozs and was 23 inches long!

Esther Joy had a series of scans at the beginning of the month to see if she had any active cancer remaining in her body. The scans took place every morning for three days and Esther had to stay still from 30 mins to an hour at a time, depending on the scan, a tall order for a energetic five year old. The scans showed she has no detectable cancer in her system at this time! Esther’s tender heart for the Lord showed through when she told me she wanted to make sure the nurse doing her scans knew the Lord and gave her a DVD presentation of the gospel that we sometimes use to share the gospel. It is wonderful to see the Lord working in the lives of our children. Esther has started a 21 day preventative treatment therapy. This is not a chemotherapy treatment praise the Lord. She will have some follow up scans in August. We have also almost completly changed our diet for better nutrition. I think we are all feeling better thanks to that. Thank you for your continued prayers.

Jennifer was in labour for about an hour and a half and has recovered wonderfully. God’s hand was very evident in both her and Joshua’s safe delivery. Praise the Lord!

Posted by: Gwynhwyvar 16-Jun-2008, 08:06 AM
Mark

Thanks for the update! All I can say is WOW! What an awesome God we serve!

Posted by: Rindy 16-Jun-2008, 10:23 AM
Thanks for the update on Esther Joy. My prayers are with all of you.

Slainte

Posted by: Nova Scotian 19-Jun-2008, 02:55 PM
AMEN!

Posted by: haynes9 18-Oct-2008, 08:28 AM
Here is another update on Esther Joy Travis. This is probably the last one, and for good reasons! She and her family are now in India preparing to do missionary work. Thanks to everyone who prayed for this little sweetheart!
Have a great day!

Dear praying Friends,

As many of you and many of have guessed, we are in India now. Esther's make a wish trip was a blast. She had a great time at Sea world and Disney land. We are getting settled here in north India. We had a CT scan done a couple of weeks ago and everything came back clear so far. We will hopefully have our own internet connection soon. It will make things a lot easier.

Posted by: ogdenmusic 18-Oct-2008, 02:22 PM
What a great update!!! Thanks again for sharing.

Posted by: haynes9 08-Jan-2009, 12:40 PM
I just got this notification on Esther Joy Travis. Just to update you, the family is now in India doing missionary work. The bad news (from our finite point of view) is that it seems that Esther's cancer has returned. The following is the posting from Esther's mom, Jennifer.

BTW, good to be back! I have been away from the forums for so long it's not even funny. Trust everyone is well and having a wonderful 2009. Take care!

Well, we arrived in Delhi safely (did not have any of our belongings stolen or any of the 5 kids kidnapped while we were sleeping, it was an over night train)and the day we are to get the big results we got a call from our vet. Esther's doggy Dozer died and later I went to pick up the results. YES, believe it or not thats how we had to find out, NO Dr. conversation just open the envelope and use your own two eyes. The cancer is back. The paper showed light up spots on both sides of her bladder and in 3 of the lymph nodes in that area. The MIBG took us the rest of the week to complete and it just confirmed the PET scan. She also got a PIC line placed for treatment. From there we flew to Nepal to be with her Aunt and Uncle and cousins. As soon as we arrived and picked up her Fedx box of meds we had sent from the States we started her 21 days of intravenous DMSO treatments. We all had a great Christmas, flew in to host USA company, and as soon as they left some of us( not Esther) got really sick, we are just coming out of that. Her 21 days are finishing that means it is time to return to Delhi and get another PET scan to see if we have been able to do any damage to the cancer! Sunday night Esther and Daddy leave for Delhi, Tues. is the scan. Will let you know as soon as we can.

Love Jennifer

Posted by: Rindy 09-Jan-2009, 02:44 PM
Hi haynes glad your back. It has been awhile. Thank you for the update on Ester. So sad that her cancer has returned. So sad about her dog as well. They will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Slainte

Posted by: stoirmeil 12-Jan-2009, 08:34 PM
Thanks for the update, haynes. My thoughts and wishes go out to Esther for strength, for cheer and patience, for joy in small, ordinary lovely things day by day, and for resting in serene confidence in God's love and her family's.

Posted by: haynes9 16-Jan-2009, 10:57 PM
Just got another update tonight. Humanly speaking, things don't look very good. Thanks to all of you and think of and pray for this little girl. I am grieved for the challenges her parents must be facing at this time. Please continue to pray for little Esther Joy. The update from Caringbridge follows:

We are truly sorry that we have to report that Esther's Cancer has returned and is progressing very rapidly. We had a series of tests run in December, just before Christmas that showed the cancer was beginning to grow again. At that time it looked like we might be able to operate, remove the cancer and treat her with radiation therapy, here in India. The surgery was scheduled for the the 2nd week in January. Esther and I went back to Delhi for the surgery this last week, but the follow up scan prior to surgery showed that the cancer had started growing in some of her bones as well, which means that most likely her cancer is also in her bone marrow. This makes surgery an inadequate solution, since the cancer is not confined to one location. It looks like chemotherapy is the only option we have at this point. While India does have cancer treatment centers, they cannot give the same standard of care that is available in the states. In addition, since Esther had life threatening complications due to the chemo used in her stem cell transplant, her Doctor here recommended we take her back to the states.

I think it would be good for me to explain that Esther's cancer has a very low cure rate. Majority of the children that we know who have had this particular type of cancer do not live very long after they relapse, since the cancer developes a resistance to chemotherapy drugs. We should know fairly quickly after she begins treatment again, if the cancer has become resistant to the chemo or not. Because of the way the cancer appears to be spreading we are coming home immediately. We have every intention of returning to India and resuming the work which God has called us to just as soon as we can. We are still going to maintain our residence here in India for the time being. We have had some good seeds planted here and some exciting things were beginning to take place. We are looking to the Lord for His guidance and wisdom.

We apologize for any delay in communication that has taken place over the last few weeks. Things don't always work as efficiently over here, as we would like them to. We will be leaving from Varanasi tomorrow and reaching Tulsa on Monday at 10:30pm. on United. God Bless you and thank you for your prayers and support.

Posted by: haynes9 03-Feb-2009, 04:11 PM
I was really sorry to get this report today on Esther Joy. The following is from CaringBridge from Esther's mother and dad. Please keep praying for this little girl.

We finally are at a point where we can give some real information about Esther's condition. We had all the kids tested for a match for a Stem Cell Donation for another stem cell transplant like she had last April. unfortunately none of the kids were a match for her which closes the doors on the possibility of a transplant from someone other than herself. The medical risk of a transplant from a donor other than a sibling is just too great. Today we started an oral chemo called VP-16 and will be combining that with a drug called Accutane which has the ability to mature her malignant cancer cells into a non- malignant form. We are praying that this will reduce her tumors down where they can be removed surgically and perhaps see if she could have another transplant of her own stem cells. Targeted radiation therapy might also be used to help shrink the tumor down. All of these treatments however run the risk of sending her into liver failure like she experienced back in April. Her body has already been through alot and she is just more prone to having more difficulty in handling the treatments, than she was before.

As of the last week Esther has been having a lot of pain in her right leg. Apparently the tumor in her pelvis is beginning to push on some of the major nerves in that area. We are able to control the pain right now with Tylenol/ Codeine. Except for the times when she starts to really hurt, her spirits are up. Her favorite saying right now is "God is with me from the Beginning to the End." Her faith is a great encouragement to Jennifer and I.

Posted by: valpal59 04-Feb-2009, 02:03 PM
Haynes9,
Thank you for the update. My heart goes out to this family. Our thoughts and prayers are with them.

Val

Posted by: haynes9 24-Feb-2009, 05:16 PM
Just makes the heart ache. Here is the latest update on Esther Joy Travis from CaringBridge. Please keep praying.

Esther has been doing very well since we last updated the journal. If you didn;t know about her situation you would think she was perfectly healthy, running around, riding her scooter and doing all the things a six year old likes to do including horseback riding. Someone has "given" a real pony to Esther. His name is Gordon and is really a small horse not a pony. Esther's only responsibility is to ride him as much as she wants to. It's a great deal. People's generosity toward our family is overwhelming and we truly thank you all for making a bitter experience somewhat sweeter by your love.

Esther had to go into the hospital yesterday as a routine precaution since she was running a temp with the cold she got this week. The doctor decided to run a ct scan on her just to see why her leg has been hurting her more than it had been. They wanted to rule out the possibility of a fracture since the cancer is also in her pelvis bones. The scan revealed that the cancer has doubled in size since her last scan. Evidently the oral chemo has not been effective. This brings us back to step one in treating her cancer. We are researching to see if we have other options. Esther is back home and planning to go ride Gordan.

Posted by: haynes9 05-Mar-2009, 07:51 PM
Esther Joy is having surgery tomorrow. Here s the latest from CaringBridge on her condition. Thanks for praying for this little girl.

Yesterday we met with a surgeon to discuss the possibility of "debulking" Esther's tumor. He said it would be possible and that he should be able to remove a large portion of it. Over the last week Esther has been having a increasing amount of pain in her pelvis area. She is now on 6 mg of morphine every six hours along with Tylenol with codeine. The combination takes care of the majority of the pain, but leaves her a little lethargic. We have been looking into a study trial at the Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia and may be taking Esther up there after her surgery. Esther's surgery is scheduled for tomorrow morning at 9 :45. Please pray for her during that time. Thank you.

Posted by: Rindy 07-Mar-2009, 08:34 PM
haynes9 have you heard any news on Esther Joy since her sugery? She and her family have been in my thoughts and prayers.

Slainte

Posted by: haynes9 07-Mar-2009, 08:39 PM
QUOTE (Rindy @ 07-Mar-2009, 07:34 PM)
haynes9 have you heard any news on Esther Joy since her sugery? She and her family have been in my thoughts and prayers.

Slainte

Hey Rindy. I just got this report today. Seems to be good news, but it's way too early to tell. Thanks for praying for this little sweetheart.

Esther successfully underwent surgery today to "debulk" her tumor in preparation for continued treatment, that is supposed to start in the next three weeks or so. The surgeon said he was able to take out around 60 to 70 percent of the mass. Some of the tumor looked necrotic, which means the chemo she had been on was working , but apparently was not able to outpace the rate at which the tumor was growing. She is currently resting. They are controlling her pain with morphine at the present. Thanks for your thoughts and prayers.

Posted by: Rindy 08-Mar-2009, 12:53 PM
Thanks for keeping us updated. Your welcome for the prayers. I feel so bad for her and her family. They've been through so much.

Slainte

Posted by: stoirmeil 08-Mar-2009, 01:51 PM
This little doll is really fighting hard and not giving up; you have to admire her spirit and especially her ability to keep enjoying the things she loves in spite of the pain. My sincerest wishes for her continued progress in overcoming her illness, and for comfort and wisdom for her family and her caregivers.

Posted by: haynes9 13-Mar-2009, 01:01 PM
Boy, this is a tough update. We need to keep praying for Esther Joy and her family. This is hard to read, but we need to keep this situation updated.

Thank you so much for your prayers! The last 5 days have been very hard. The tumor is attacking some of the nerves in Esther's pelvis. She has been screaming all morning and just now gave out due to sheer exhaustion and they also doubled her morphine. We are trying to get this pain under control as soon as possible, so we can leave for CHOPS (Children's Hospital of Penn.) for MIBG therapy. As far as a cure this treatment is our last and the Dr. K said, "looks like a good choice for Esther".Our consult is on the 18 we have tickets to fly up Tues. Along with getting Esther out of the hospital in time and on the plane, we still have not heard back from the insurance. If they don't call today or Monday approving the out of state treatment, well we won't be going. We appreciate all your prayers for these matters. Esther's going for sedation to finish her scans.

In His Hands, Jennifer

Posted by: haynes9 18-Mar-2009, 10:29 PM
Please keep praying for Esther Joy. This is tough. Here is the latest update from CaringBridge.

We made it to Philly! Ten minutes after we were in the air leaving Tulsa a high fever hit Esther. This morning when we came in for the consultation it was back. The nurse could not get blood out of Esther's line. They did an X-ray, discovered a kink at the end that reaches her heart. The very famous Neuroblastoma doctor we came to see said the line needed to be pulled, she should be admitted, and a 24 hour round of antibiotics given. We would need to look at postponing tomarrows plane tickets till later on in the day. In the mean time her labs came back.--- Her creatinine levels are alarmingly high and every thing else that has to do with the function of her kidneys is elevated. Something has all of a suddenly gone wrong with Esther's kidnys. The doctors have spent the day and will probably spend most of the night trying to figure out WHY and BALANCE HER SYSTEM. I don't now exactly but, doesn't the Lord know just when and where to have us? CHOPS (Children's Hospital of Philadelphia) is one of the very most renown children's hospitals in the U.S. Thank you for your prayers.

In His Hands, Jennifer

Posted by: Rindy 19-Mar-2009, 08:26 AM
Oh no haynes. I am so saddened by this. I hope they get her kidneys to normal quickly. This poor girl and family have been through so much. More thoughts and prayers going out.

Slainte

Posted by: BarbarianSwede 19-Mar-2009, 09:22 AM
Prayers to her and her familiy. She has weighed heavily in my prayers. Here is to a successful recover! thumbs_up.gif

Posted by: sisterknight 19-Mar-2009, 11:10 AM
this prayer warrior will keep her in mind and will pass this on to my prayer circle

sis

Posted by: haynes9 19-Mar-2009, 11:34 AM
Thanks to everyone who has prayed and is praying. It looks like, humanly speaking, it's almost over. Here is what I just received from CaringBridge.

It is with a heavy heart and wet eyes that we wright you today. The MRI done in the night was read by the main Dr.s this morning. She told us that She is very sorry, Esther is full of tumor. Without her kidneys working there is nothing they can do but try and get us home as soon as possible before she passes. She said it is a matter of hours. "Passes" is the only word the medical field knows to use, but we have the wonderful privilege of knowing, that is true! She will be passing from death unto life, and then Esther will really be living in the state that God intended us to be able to lived in. - Because he died for us we CAN live.

We and the Doctors are now trying to get a transport to fly Esther in her condition home to her hospital in Tulsa as soon as possible so we can be together as a family when God carries her home.

In His Loving Hands, Jennifer Travis

Esther would want me to wright her statement for you. "Whether we win or loose, give God the glory."

Posted by: Rindy 19-Mar-2009, 12:23 PM
Thanks for posting this haynes. I feel so bad for the family. This has to be a terrible time. Ester will be relieved of her pain soon then. Let us know will you haynes? My prayers are with them all.

Posted by: stevenpd 19-Mar-2009, 12:39 PM
I lift up my eyes to the hills- Where does my help come from?
My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.
He will not let your foot slip -
He who watches over you will not slumber;
Indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.
The LORD watches over you
The LORD is your shade at your right hand;
The sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night.
The LORD will keep you from all harm -
He will watch over your life;
The LORD will watch over your coming and going
Both now and forevermore.
Psalm 121

Posted by: Lady-of-Avalon 19-Mar-2009, 12:55 PM
QUOTE (haynes9 @ 19-Mar-2009, 12:34 PM)
Thanks to everyone who has prayed and is praying. It looks like, humanly speaking, it's almost over. Here is what I just received from CaringBridge.

It is with a heavy heart and wet eyes that we wright you today. The MRI done in the night was read by the main Dr.s this morning. She told us that She is very sorry, Esther is full of tumor. Without her kidneys working there is nothing they can do but try and get us home as soon as possible before she passes. She said it is a matter of hours. "Passes" is the only word the medical field knows to use, but we have the wonderful privilege of knowing, that is true! She will be passing from death unto life, and then Esther will really be living in the state that God intended us to be able to lived in. - Because he died for us we CAN live.

We and the Doctors are now trying to get a transport to fly Esther in her condition home to her hospital in Tulsa as soon as possible so we can be together as a family when God carries her home.

In His Loving Hands, Jennifer Travis

Esther would want me to wright her statement for you. "Whether we win or loose, give God the glory."

Haynes9,

Though I no longer practice any religion whatsoever...I know in my heart that there is a power somewhere and I only pray that God or who ever is there has mercy on her little soul and puts an end to this unecessary suffering of a human being.

No child deserve to suffer in my eyes as they are the most innocent cherubs in this world.

My thoughts and prayers are with the family and I wish them courage and I know that in their beliefs they will find guidance and serenity to go through this dark time.

LOA

Posted by: haynes9 19-Mar-2009, 05:05 PM
Thanks everyone for all your kind words and thoughts toward this little girl. And yes, Rindy, I will definitely keep everyone up to date on things as they develop.

I just got this off of CaringBridge, so little Esther Joy and her parents are in the air as we speak. They want to get her back to Tulsa so she can be surrounded by family as she goes Home. Please continue your prayers and kind thoughts. Lord bless!

The flight worked out, we are on our way home. We leave PA. at 5:30pm and should arrive at Saint Francis Childrens around 9:30 tonight. Thank you for all your loving notes.

In His Loving Hands, Jennifer

Posted by: haynes9 20-Mar-2009, 10:47 AM
Latest update on Esther Joy. This little one has courage. May our sweet LORD continue to hold her hand.

We are home. Her kidneys are still not working. We are doing some radiation to see if that might help things. Her doctor says at the current chemical build up she probably only be with us for about 2 or 3 more days. She is at peace, knows that her kidneys are not working right, and that if they don't start she will be going home to be with Jesus soon. She said " I want to go!" with a smile.

In His Gracious Hands, Jennifer, Adam, Esther, Jonathan, Deborah, Caleb, and Joshua

Posted by: stoirmeil 20-Mar-2009, 12:40 PM
She already knows, and in such serenity, what we only see from a distance. What else can anyone say? A good journey and a soft landing in the arms of love to this brave little girl, and comfort to her family.

Posted by: haynes9 21-Mar-2009, 03:23 PM
She's still fighting. Amazing little girl.

The doctors now say it could be a week, because Esther is such a fighter! Esther is a little weaker today but still trying to tell others about Jesus. A family who lost there child to cancer came to visit us today. A few minutes after I reminded Esther who she was. Esther turned and ask her "Do you know Jesus, I was thinking". Gwen said, yes sweety we know Jesus and I ask her "what was it you were thinking"? Drowsily she said, "I just didn't know if they knew Jesus yet".

In His Hands, Jennifer

Posted by: haynes9 25-Mar-2009, 11:53 AM
Here is the latest on Esther Joy from CaringBridge.

Her kidneys are working better, but the last 2 days have been more painful. Thank you for the meals and snacks you have brought us.

Please also remember Monique Smittick and Caycen Tacket in your prayers. Monique is Esther's best cancer friend. She and Caycen have relapsed for the 3rd time and are resistant to the treatments.

I know many of you are now interested in ministering to cancer kids and their families. This morning I was reflecting back over what reaches the kids the most. Volunteering to do things on your hospitals pediatric oncology floor like, puppets on Tuesdays, Christmas party for those inpatient on Christmas (warm meal, presents, for the parents - "When God and cancer meet" available at your local Christian book store, The Hope DVD by Mars Hill Productions, gingerbread nativity or house activity), a nice family dinner twice a month. If you are a beautician volunteering your time once or twice a month to cut parents hair that have been inside the hospital all month or photography to celebrate that new time in life where bald is beautiful, just ask to speak with your Child life specialist or start your own Child life program in your hospital. I hope these ideas help. May God bless as you are Christ's hands to these children and families.

In His Loving Arms, Jennifer

Posted by: haynes9 29-Mar-2009, 12:48 PM
This sweet little angel just won't give up! Prognosis is still not good, but there is still hope. Here is the latest on Esther Joy Travis from CaringBridge.

BIG NEWS! I have been holding on to it for a couple days to make sure it is true. ESTHER HAS FOOLED THE MEDICAL PROFESSION FOR THE SECOND TIME!!!!!!! This time last year she was in ICU dying of Liver failure, a week later she walked away recovered, this year Kidney failure with hours left to live and a week later she has recovered! The radiation they are zapping this big tumor with will end Friday. It will be two weeks until they will rescan. Lord willing we will resume the Philly clinical trial we were working on. Due to the amount of tumor I don't think they expect us to get there, we'll see. All things are possible with GOD. In His Hands, Jennifer

Posted by: valpal59 29-Mar-2009, 05:56 PM
Thanks for the update Haynes9. We continue to send prayers to this brave little girl and her family.

Val

Posted by: haynes9 10-Apr-2009, 10:08 PM
Just got a new update on Esther Joy. What a roller coaster these folks are going through!

Dear Friends,

We have been able to have some really good days with Esther at home. She has gotten to ride Gourdon and we were able to take a very small ie short family vacation the day before yesterday. Esther is having to get platlets every other day now. This is either because of the radiation therapy she received or because her bone marrow is just not able to keep up with her body's demand for blood. Adam and Esther went into the hospital on Wednesday because she acted liked she needed a blood transfusion. She did need a transfusion and since she was admitted her upper legs bones have really started hurting, where she needs bone pain medicine to make her comfortable now. She will hopefully be able to go home from the hospital tomorrow.

We got the results back from her MRI. The MRI showed that she now has more cancer in her liver as well as at least two places in her lungs. This is not good news for the possibility of getting her MIBG therapy up in Philidelphia. If the doctors in Philidelphia determine that she has too much cancer in her liver they won't be able to do the treatment. The MIBG treatment is radiation that attaches directly to the cancer cells, the radiation also has some effect on the healthy cells around it. The liver cells are very sensitive to radiation so if there is too much cancer in the liver the radiation could kill the healthy cells also, which could be fatal. Outside of this treatment there is only one other chemotherapy treatment that could potentially reduce the cancer in the liver so she could continue with the MIBG therapy. They say,without treatment Esther probably has just a few weeks left but as we all know GOD knows! We truly appreciate your continued prayers for Esther and us as we have to make some critical decisions in the next few days. - Esther says, thank you for praying for me and Keep Fighting!

The Travis Family

Posted by: haynes9 27-Apr-2009, 10:53 PM
Truly a trying time for Esther Joy's family. Most likely, according to the following post in CaringBridge, the next post we get will be about Esther's home going. Please keep the family in prayer. Thanks to all who have been faithful to pray.

Hello, friends and family. Thank you for praying for Esther. I am sorry we have kept you wondering. I have not been able to update till now. Adam and I are Esther's full time nurses now, we went home on Hospice Friday. Little sleep, lots of meds, enjoying and making the most of our good hours together as a family is what we have been doing. Esther's last trip to the KJM barn was to jump one of the school's ponies, that was last Monday. She had of course, pain in the saddle but thoroughly enjoyed it thanks to Pie, a trainer from Pagosa Springs, CO. Her lack of strength and energy has her confined to her wheel chair, the couch, our bed, and our picnic mat. We got her out every chance we had last week to enjoy the beautiful balmy weather. She side walk chalked with her brothers and sister laying on her tummy with pillows under her, I painted her fingernails out there, Daddy topped of the day with bringing the surprise of pizza to our picnic. She ate a whole piece!
We would appreciate your prayers for her stomach. She prays all the time "Lord please help me not throw up!" A CT scan was done last week that showed her small bowel was almost occluded by tumor. She barely takes 1-2 bites a day but gastric juices continue to fill the stomach so when it reaches its capacity it empties the wrong way. Her anti-nausea meds cant stop that. The MRI came back showing that her liver is almost full of tumor. Where her lungs on the last scan showed one spot on each, it now looks like pop corn all over each of her lungs. There is also tumor filling the cavity between her ribs and lungs, and tumor pressing on things in her pelvis. Her bone marrow is so invaded that she still needs platelets every day and blood every three to four. This locks her out of all clinical trials or chemos, for treatment her platelets would have to remain at 50,000 for at least 7 day without transplants. Her platelets were 8,000 today that is a critical level, they transfuse at 20,000. What I am saying is there is no way to eradicate or stop this cancer now. Please pray for her eye sight. It is coming and going and blurry at times, this is frustrating to Esther as she rubs to try and clear them. Also you can pray that her awake moments (which have became fewer) will be painless enjoyable ones. For Esther's dignity and to maximize our time together this will be our last update for a while. We will let you know when she is no longer hurting. Please do not send flowers now or later she would rather you gave that money to a missionary or, as a church or family take dinner to the hurting families at your local Ronald MacDonald house in honor of Esther. Thank you for all your love and prayers.

For Him Who Saves and Keeps Us, Jesus Christ our Lord

Adam and Jennifer

Posted by: stevenpd 27-Apr-2009, 11:09 PM
My thoughts and continued prayers to Ester and her family.


Posted by: haynes9 27-Apr-2009, 11:36 PM
Thanks so much, Steven. It helps. I know the family and little Esther appreciate it as well. Lord bless.

Posted by: valpal59 28-Apr-2009, 09:13 AM
Our continued thoughts and prayers to Esther and her family.

Val

Posted by: haynes9 10-May-2009, 01:28 AM
It's finally over Esther Joy Travis is with the Lord. Thanks to all of you who prayed for this brave young lady. Here is the word from her family via CaringBridge. I will post this on a separate thread to amke sure everyone gets the word. Continue to pray for her parents, Adam and Jennifer, and her siblings. Lord bless.


Esther entered into
the Joy of her Lord, from death unto life eternal at 4:25pm Saturday, May 9, 2009.

Touches of grace : (things Esther said over this last week)

1. 4-30-09 Thursday morning she woke up and wanted to eat Adam remembers that prayer, She was so grateful to eat! Daddy asked her if she had seen Jesus. Esther said YES and Adam askedwhen. Esther said,"While I was praying for my food I saw Him in my heart". Adam went on to ask if He said anything and she said, "He said I will be with you." Anxious that she was going to go Adam asked "Is he with you now?" She replied,"He is always in my heart Daddy! He said I WILL be with you." Adam is still laughing about how silly his question was. =)

2. 4-30-09 We were watching a movie but she wasn't really watching so I asked her what she was thinking about she replied" I was thinking about how special Jesus is". I said, Yes, He is special, what special thing where you thinking about? She said" How strong He is".

3. 5-3-09 Sunday Adam walked the kids over to Sunday school and came back to help me with Esther. When she realized he was back she said, "Daddy you can go". He explained he was staying to help me with her and I ask, do you want Daddy to go? Esther nodded and said "Yes, I want you to go teach the Indians about Jesus".

4. 5-3-09 That night we had taken her into the hospital for platlets and two red cell transfusions. She sat up with a smile and wanted to hug me I will always remember those little boney arms with her pick line brace squeasing my neck as she spoke the words I love you mommy for the last time.
I was headed to get her meds a little later and she muttered "Don't worry about me mommy, Jesus will be with me."

5. 5-8-09 For fun when Daddy wiped an eyelash off her cheek he asked what she wished for. Esther said (what we would later know was her real last conversation) "I wish to go to heaven".

6. 5-9-09 After a hard night and morning we were able at 2:30 to get her pain finally to subside. We fell asleep stretched out by her. The Lord sent a total stranger to wake us up (a man from Southwood Baptist Church, who said they had taken up a collection for us and had been praying for us) as Adam started to visit with him I realized Esther was taking her last few breathes. I called Adam he excused himself and we along with her two older siblings Jonathan and Deborah were able to be with her as she took her last. The Lord answered our prayer to both be with her as she passed on.

Viewing will be Monday at Freeman & Harris - (918) 749-3333 , 3333 E. 41st, Tulsa, OK 74135.
The Funeral on Tuesday morning 10:00am at Southeast Baptist Church - (918) 836-6617, 1402 S. Memorial Dr. , Tulsa, OK. 74112[SIZE=14]

Posted by: Lady-of-Avalon 10-May-2009, 05:06 AM
Haynes9,

I know that maybe it'll shock you and some by what I am about to say but it's not meant to be mean...but I am not sorry for Esther...on the contrary...her horrible suffering has finally ended and now she is at peace and not suffering anymore...

SHE IS FREE from it all finally...though sometimes it angers me and question myself about God and His infinite Love...I still don't understand the purpose for a child to suffer like she did and for so long...yes some will say it's make see and appreciate what we have...but I don't need to see a child suffer to see it.

Now she is a bright star in the Universe and will watch over her family for eternity and I will pray for her and her family for them to find peace and comfort.

LOA (Plse do not be offended by my statement)

Posted by: haynes9 10-May-2009, 06:29 AM
QUOTE (Lady-of-Avalon @ 10-May-2009, 04:06 AM)
Haynes9,

I know that maybe it'll shock you and some by what I am about to say but it's not meant to be mean...but I am not sorry for Esther...on the contrary...her horrible suffering has finally ended and now she is at peace and not suffering anymore...

SHE IS FREE from it all finally...though sometimes it angers me and question myself about God and His infinite Love...I still don't understand the purpose for a child to suffer like she did and for so long...yes some will say it's make see and appreciate what we have...but I don't need to see a child suffer to see it.

Now she is a bright star in the Universe and will watch over her family for eternity and I will pray for her and her family for them to find peace and comfort.

LOA (Plse do not be offended by my statement)

Not shocked at all. As a matter of fact, I agree with you. Her suffering is over. It is those of us left behind that have to "pick up the pieces," so to speak.

When I deal with things like this as a preacher, I, too, often wonder why. I don't understand why the suffering. Rather than give some weighted theological answer, I have to trust in the wisdom of my Father. I'm the first to admit that I don't "get it." I'm sure glad He does. I suppose there will be lots of questions answered in eternity.

No offense taken at all, LOA. Thank you for your kind heart and prayers for the Travis family. Lord bless!

Posted by: Rindy 10-May-2009, 05:58 PM
Hi haynes9 thanks for posting this about Ester. Even though we know it's coming it a shock.
She definitely worked her way into heaven along with the family and friends who went through all of this with her. I don't understand it all either, I am at the point I don't question it anymore. Bless you haynes9 for keeping us updated on all of this. My condolences going out to all of the family and friends at this time.

Slainte

Posted by: valpal59 11-May-2009, 08:03 AM
Rob & I send our condolences to Esther's family and friends.

Val

Posted by: Patch 11-May-2009, 11:26 AM
You have my deepest sympathy. The passing of ones child is about as hard as it gets. You will continue in my prayers.

Slàinte,    

Patch    

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