It's 2011. Imagine being halfway across the world in Africa, doing missionary work, and your daughter gets sick. You are far from modern medicine, and you're told your six-year-old has either mono or leukemia. Then, it turns out she has BOTH.
Next thing Matt DeYoung knew, he, his wife, and all four kids were back in Grand Rapids, Michigan, as Lola battled Pre B Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.
While difficult, the initial treatments went well for Lola. Then, in 2013, she was back in treatment after a CNS relapse. In 2015, after yet another relapse, the DeYoungs began to look at the idea of a bone marrow transplant. Without a suitable donor, it took a mismatched cord blood sample to save her life.
In today's episode, Matt speaks about his role as the primary caregiver for Lola. He moved into her hospital room when his job allowed him to work remotely. He was there for the better part of four years, taking detailed notes and making sure he knew every detail of Lola's treatment. Matt found comfort in writing. And he wasn't alone. He also needed to lean on his wife and other children to contribute and sacrifice. And Matt shares the toll this tool on the whole family and the importance of therapy for all.
Matt says you need to stay positive in the caregiver role, even if that means only focusing on 15 minutes or 24 hours at a time. He also talks about the power of his strong faith, and getting peace from the belief that God was powerful enough to bring complete healing if that was His desire. Whenever you get into a situation where you can't control your outcome, you can either choose faith or despair.
Today, Lola is a healthy, happy teenager who has a very special bond with her dad. Her Facebook page, seen here, tells more of their family's incredible journey. (Posted with the family's permission.) https://www.facebook.com/lolafightscancer/
The information in this podcast should not be construed as medical advice. Please consult with your health care provider regarding your medical decisions and treatment. The listed resources are not intended to be endorsements.
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This season of Marrow Masters is sponsored by the nbmtLINK, Incyte Corporation and The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
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