Josilyn's Journey

We have had a rollercoaster ride in the last couple of months. Josilyn had been experiencing increased fatigue, fevers that would come and go and decreased appetite since the end of November. Initially, she was tested for Covid-19 and influenza with labs taken. Her labs were off enough that she was referred to Sanford Pediatric Oncology/Hematology in Fargo where further testing took place including lumbar puncture, bone marrow biopsy and more labs. On January 9, Josilyn was diagnosed with B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia or B-cell ALL.  

     She ended up being hospitalized for almost a week until her fevers subsided and was well enough to head home. During her hospital stay, Josilyn started chemotherapy right away. Her treatment will be done on an outpatient basis through the Roger Maris Cancer Center in Fargo. Josilyn has just finished the induction phase or first round. She will hopefully be starting her second round or consolidation this week. This latest phase lasts about 2 months or 56 days to be exact. Then if everything goes accordingly, she will be on oral chemotherapy medication for the next year and a half. 

     In the course of the last month, Josilyn has required two blood transfusions and one hospital stay due to a fever. She has taken it in all in stride and been incredibly courageous even though there have been times of worry, tears and frustration. We are so thankful for the amazing healthcare team that has been taking care of her throughout this journey along with our family and friends who have helped us out along the way.