Really appreciating the people here in Beijing
We are quickly approaching stem cell treatment #2, which will take place on Tuesday, October 30th. So far, we are noticing some slight changes but do not want to comment at this point in time ... until we are certain they are related to the treatments. Shawna's tone seems to have been lessened. However, today, she was extremely tense again.
We are just going along with the flow here now and waiting in anticipation of the results from the stem cell treatments. We know that the results most likely will subtle and probably will not be realized until we have returned back home, but the prospect is just so exciting. We have something to look forward to! After watching Shawna for almost 4 years make only slight progress with each passing year, it has been very discouraging. Now, to know that the stem cells are in her body helping to speed up her own body's healing, we have a renewed hope for her and our future!
I will be sure to post any definite changes as soon as I am sure; I wouldn't want any readers to be given any false hopes for this procedure. Traveling to China is, for us, the best move we could make for Shawna; we had no other hope.
On a lighter side, I would have to recommend China for a place to travel. Our friend, Christina Smith, came to visit again last night and she brought along her friend, William, who wanted to meet Shawna and us. I cannot believe how friendly and caring Chinese people are. William helped Gary with directions to a golf course ... Gary, Gary II, and Jeremy plan to go golfing Saturday morning. After seeing how far it was, William offered to have a friend of his drive them to the golf course, wait for them, and then drive them back to the hospital. Gary refused to allow him to call his friend; that is just plain asking too much, in our opinion. We are genuinely touched by the concern and generosity here ... incredible! We feel very welcome by everyone, which makes this trip much easier to handle.
Have to run for now ... keep up the prayers, Shawna needs them.
Patty Smith · October 25, 2007 11:21 AM
Hi, Glad to hear things are getting better & easier than in the begining. It sounds like the Chinese people are wonderful. Tell Shawna we Love her & are waiting for her & you all to return home. As far as stem cell #2 treatment please let us know how Shawna does LOVE & PRAYERS The Smiths
butch wedderien · October 26, 2007 2:00 AM
The same here. I get home late from work every night, about 12:30PM and spend about a half hour talking to Rochelle and then go down stairs and get on the computer. The first place I go is to the icon that Rochelle set up for me so that I can see what is going on with Shanna. I wish your family well over there and at home. Like I said, looking forward to the day that she comes up my driveway again. I know you are in good hands, you got Gary Sr. and Gary II with you. I don't think I can say anything more, you got two great men and a beautiful daughter with you. Oh by the way tell Aunt Shanna that Alexis is finally potty trained. I think. Love your family, goodbuy. Butch
Lia Mack · October 26, 2007 5:16 AM
Do more videos ;)
You guys look great, Shawna looks good too :) Sending prayers your way for treatment #2.