Things have been a little slow around here lately, I know. This is due in part to the holidays, but of late, there is a much more serious reason for my absence. I hesitated to write this, but there’s no other way to explain it than to just say it.
Last week, my daughter was diagnosed with leukemia.
It’s still hard to write that word. It’s even harder to say it out loud, because it feels like that will make it more real. But as much as I wish I could turn back time and change the diagnosis or deny it altogether, this is what we’re facing. Every time we think about what her tiny body is doing to her, it breaks our heart a little bit more. This is pretty close to my worst nightmare come true.
But my husband and I are saying many thanks to God that her diagnosis is the more common form of childhood leukemia, A.L.L., which comes with a 85-90% cure rate. We believe with everything in us that she is in that 90%, but we know there’s still a long road ahead of us, even if she goes into remission today.
Thankfully, she’s not in any pain, other than a little soreness from a recent procedure. And since she’s 4, she doesn’t quite understand all of what’s happening. But she is in good spirits, and that helps us cope more than we realized it would. It also helps that she is in such a great hospital, specifically for children. They have done a great job making what is already a scary time a lot easier and more fun for her, and by extension, a lot easier for us.
All we ask is for your prayers, love and support in this trying time. I know God is in the miracle business, and we believe with everything in us that we will see his power firsthand. We’re just praying for one of those miracles and for healing NOW.
What makes this situation even more trying for us is that we have no health insurance. And given that my husband lost his job a few months ago and I’m self-employed, we are really in a bad position to handle this. I don’t want to think about that part of it either, but the reality is that eventually, all of this treatment has to be paid for somehow. It’s hard to even think about it, since our first priority is getting our daughter well. We’re kicking ourselves because we are so ill-prepared to do so.
I am writing this today in part to allow my mind to focus on just one task, at least for a short time, but also to let you know what’s going on around here. In the immediate future, I will keep GYD going with some guest posts, and I will post whenever my mind and nerves allow me to do so. Writing here is an escape for me, so I definitely want to continue doing it.
I just want to thank you in advance for your support and prayers, because we’ll definitely need them — especially our princess.
NOTE: A friend and fellow Elevenmom, Jenn from Frugal Upstate, started a chip-in campaign to help us with my daughter’s medical costs. My bloggy buddies from the Green Moms Carnival have also stepped up with a Twitter/Facebook campaign to help us try to cover our costs. Feel free to donate if you feel so inclined. You can go directly to the chip-in page if you would like, or donate via the Green Your Decor support page. Know that your support would help us out tremendously, and we would be forever grateful to you for it. The original donation page had expired, but I’ve had people express interest in still being able to help, so this links to the new ChipIn page.
UPDATES
It just occurred to me how unlikely it is that anyone but me is reading through all these comments, so I’ll add my updates here instead of in the comments section. And it’s all good news!
We learned from one of my daughter’s doctors last week that she is officially in remission! So what does this mean going forward? Well, she will still have to continue treatment for a total of 2 years, since the goal of chemo is to push the disease into remission within the first month — with all treatment thereafter considered to be “maintenance” to make sure it doesn’t return. However, the fact that she has responded so well so soon means there’s an even greater chance that she will beat this completely!
Also, we recently found out that she has been approved for Peachcare, which is the state-run insurance program for kids in Georgia. I’m not sure yet exactly how much they will cover, what co-pays or deductibles will be, etc. but that takes a giant weight off our shoulders going forward! We still have to cover some bills, but we are relieved that we won’t have to worry about whether or not our inability to pay will affect her being able to get treated in the future. Especially once we started getting the first round of bills from the hospital. All I can say is I can’t wait for the public option to become a reality. Never should financial ruin be a concern when a loved one is facing a serious illness.
But through all this, all I can say is that God is good, and he answers prayers! Thanks everyone for your support! Don’t stop praying, because the fight isn’t over yet, but we’re well on our way! Just be sure to thank him for what he has done thus far! 
LATEST UPDATE
Click here to read how Ja’Naya has been doing more recently!
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I’m Jennae Petersen, and I’m a lot of things. A mother, a graphic artist, a connosieur of beautiful interiors and a purveyor of all things design. Green Your Decor was borne of frustration in my attempts to find eco-friendly housewares that were also beautiful, and inspiration to do something to reduce my own carbon footprint and help others do the same in a beautiful way.
{ 83 comments… read them below or add one }
I donated as fast as I could. (Under Helga) It isn’t much but hopefully all those Green Moms out there will rally and raise enough. My heart goes out to you. Blessing and prayers for your daughter and family.
Hugs, Dee.
First time visitor.
God IS great and can heal all. May he rest His hands over your daughter and kill ALL cancer cells. May He give you the strength and guidance as you journey this difficult road. Making a donation……
Jennae, I’m not quite sure what to say other than I’m sorry. I pray your family gets through this and becomes even stronger.
Oh Jennae! My heart breaks for what you, your husband, and most especially your beautiful little girl must be going through! I know, although you will be facing many challenges ahead, you will certainly not be facing them alone. I suspect there are good many of us you have reached through your blog and twitter, who will do everything we can to lend support.
Still sending tons of prayers your direction J – I know she’s in the 90% and I know that this will be challenging, but you will rise to the occasion. You always have.
(((((hug)))))
My deepest sympathies Jennae. As you said God IS in the miracle business and I will hold onto that promise along with you and your family. Sending many prayers your way.
While medical troubles are never good news, you have been able to find a positive edge to it (because she has a more curable type). I wish you all the love & luck in dealing with this unexpected diagnosis. Know that you are in my heart & mind.
Jennae,
I know how you struggled to write this post, and it turned out beautifully (not that you should even wonder about that, but I know how conscientious you are about your writing and your blog).
Please know that the power of prayer is real and you have many friends rallying around you and your family. You just take care of yourself as much as you can right now.
Best,
Lynn
My heart aches for you. You just get that little girl better!
We too are without insurance currently and my daughter has something where she gets flare ups and needs medicine and medical attention to treat it. It’s the most stressful thing in the world not to have insurance for your children when they are sick. It makes me feel alone and lost.
Are you able to go to the state for assistance? We are in the middle of getting my kids on the state health insurance, which is proving harder to do but it’s my only hope right now.
I will be praying for you and your sweet little girl! HUGS! From one mom to another!
Sarah
I am sending positive energy your way along with one hell of a virtual hug.
I like her smile & her odds!
Keep positive!
When I saw the “L” word, tears instantly started to fall. Jennae, I am so sorry this is happening to your little girl, but I have faith that she will fight it. Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers. Let me/us know what you need.
I hope your daughter’s prognoses keep getting better and better. And crossing my fingers that we all can afford health care in the near future.
-Jennae
I’m so, so, so sorry to hear that this is happening to your dear sweet girl. I will do my best to share your story with others and hopefully together, we can all come together and help you through this (financially).
I too have no insurance and am battling with CKD (stage 3) so I know the burden that is brought forth (financially). My prayers are with you in this trying time.
I can say this though; f your daughter’s anything like her mommy, she’ll get through this!
You’re a wonderful woman & I’m proud to be a long follower of your blog.
-Barb
God is a healer, that’s why His word says by His stripes we ARE healed. Are is used in the present tense. Don’t ever think you are alone!!!! Love you, your big sister…….Missy
Oh Jeannae… my heart goes out to you. Have you looked into COBRA coverage? (http://www.dol.gov/ebsa/faqs/faq_consumer_cobra.HTML) According to the web site you have 60 days to decide. Maybe it isn’t too late? I will be keeping a good thought!
Jennae,
Just wanted you to know I’m praying for you and your “mini-me”. Trust God to provide all the resources you need for her care and her healing. And as far as this goes “We’re kicking ourselves because we are so ill-prepared to do so.” Don’t waste an ounce of energy with feelings of guilt. You can’t go back to yesterday, the past is over, so just focus on health and healing and it will be. I’m praying and spreading the word.
Blessings,
Erika
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, especially your beautiful little girl. As a mother I know that must be the hardest thing you’ve ever heard. I’ll pray for a speedy recovery. She will be in the 90%.
Hello Jennae -
I knew something was up because your posts and tweets have been infrequent! I am so sorry to hear about your daughter and wish for a speedy recovery.
My thoughts go out to your family for strength and guidance.
Best regards!
Angela
Jennae,
I will keep your beautiful baby and your family in my prayers. Take care.
Sincerely, Shavon
Oh Jennae, I was so shocked to read this! Please know you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I pray that you find the strength and courage that you need to get through this.
Jennae,
My thoughts are with you and your family. The pictures and videos you have featured with your daughter shows that she has an incredible spirit. That and your faith will get you through this most difficult time. Being a Canadian, health insurance is something I take for granted and I am always rocked by stories like yours. God bless you and your little girl. You are in my prayers.
-Chris
Keep the faith and keep smiling and keep writing and keep making a difference. Love to you and your family!
Karen from Ohio
Jennae,
Although God knows how heavy your heart is right now, try and remember the joy every day and take it and run with it. I will be saying prayers for you and yours to endure during this intense time. The power of positivity is no joke so even when its down and dirty, remember that a smile helps the heart tremendously….hang in there mama.
My best, Lynn
Just read this and donated and will post so others can as well. You give so much to others and your little girl is just precious. If you’d like us to send cards or anything else, please let us know where.
Hang in there Jennae and remember to take care of yourself as you go through this.
Warmly,
Lynn C
jennae,
i’m so sorry to hear this, but i know you and your daughter will be strong and you will all get through this.
sending positive thoughts your way, and lots of hugs.
xo,
amy
Glory and triumph will be yours Jennae! You have my faith and prayers for your little girl’s renewed health and wellness. Stay strong, be encouraged because you are in GREAT hands!
I am believing with you that God is going to allow her to be healthy and free of this. My brother had the rare form of luekemia when he was 18 months old, he is now almost 16 and in perfect health which I know your beautiful daughter will be too.
I came here from the Organic Baby Resource Facebook page. Although i don’t know you, it struck be because I had ALL when I was 16, and although I have no idea what advice to offer you financially I would like to offer my support. Please feel free to send me an e-mail if you ever want to talk to a survivor to gain hope.
Jennae- My most sincere blessings and wishes for wellness and all goodness with your daughter’s health. This brings tears to my eyes and beyond disbelief, all I can ever think is that yes, God is at hand here and something wonderful that we can’t imagine is emerging.
So much light and love to you and yours Jennae. Healing is NOW! And so it is. AMEN!
In brightness,
Amy
You and your family will be in my thoughts. I believe in miracles. She’s lucky to have you as her momma!
Your family is in my prayers. I had a very good friend who had childhood leukemia and now she is 40 years old and a grown child. Your daughter will be fine.
Been following you on Twitter for a long time and so sorry to hear this news. Sending you lots of positive thoughts and prayers (and a small contribution too). Stay strong and think good thoughts
Please send me an email if you’re interested in having your family’s story on News10. We may be able to rally some help!
Best,
Anne Makovec
I’ll be praying for your daughter, Jennae. So sorry to hear about the diagnosis but I am encouraged by your heart attitude! You have such a beautiful family- loved the photos!
God’s grace is amazing and I’m sending up prayers for you all right now. Thinking of you.
Jennae I am so sorry! Thank you for sharing this so that those who follow your work can help support in whatever way they can. I am praying for you, your husband and your daughter – and also our health care system so that you can focus on supporting her through this, and not the costs involved. Will see what I can do to spread the word and help you keep the faith!
So sorry for her illness. Thank goodness she at least has the better form of it if she has to have it.
Will add you all to my prayer list.
Oh, Jenae, she is BEE-YOO-TEE-FULL! I made a teeny (but heartfelt) donation, and I am keeping you all in my thoughts. Sending love your way from one of the green moms.
Jennae, I was so shocked to read this. We will be sending good thoughts and wishes your way. Children are often far easier to insure through state programs than are adults, particularly if they have a health condition. Hospital social workers should be able to help you get some information on possible assistance, and depending on where you live, dialing 211 may connect you with a local information and referral service that can help you get some leads. If you try to apply for a state program for her and you have ANY trouble at all, contact your legislators’ offices immediately and ask for help, it’s their job to help their constituents navigate those systems.
I know the money isn’t your greatest concern, obviously, but if there’s something out there that can help it’s better to get the wheels turning as early as possible. Let me know if you have any questions or if there’s any way I can help. My professional background is in health and human services.
Oh my goodness! I am so sorry. ((HUGS))
Hi Jennae
I was saddened to hear your news. I just wanted to stop in and let you know you are all in our thoughts and prayers as your daughter recovers back to health. I hope your financial stress is lessened by each donation…as this seems the best way to help out right now. God bless.
Hopefully all the good will and prayers flowing your way will make an impact on your lives. I blogged about Ja’Naya – not many people see my blog, but every little bit counts, right?
You and your family are in my prayers. God is able to do exceedingly and abundantly above all we can ask or think.
Jennae,
My prayers are with you and your family. These will be trying times ahead, but lift all of your burdens up to God. You guys are believers and God won’t let you down. I will light a pray candle for her right next to Annisa’s.
I will pray for you all every day and night and also add you to our church prayer list.
May God Bless you all and keep you and protect your baby girl princess.
XO, your sister in Christ,
Beth AKA THE PLUS SIZE MOMMY
Stay strong and positive. Sending you thoughts, love and prayers …
Hugs & Smiles,
Wifey
I’ve never visited your blog before but another blog I read told us about your story. I donated a few dollars to help ease your worries of money. We’ll all help you out!
My family sends our love, thoughts, and prayers during this trying time.
I’m sorry to hear about your daughter’s recent diagnosis. Have you checked into your state’s SCHIP program for children under 19? I have a child with a chronic health condition and she is covered under this program in the state we live in. The social worker at the hospital that you are going to will have more info or you can Google. Wishing you strength in the days ahead.
I found your site through younghouselove.com, and I’ve never commented here before, but I just wanted to say my thoughts and prayers are with you. I’m so sorry you have to deal with this, but have faith in God. He does work miracles.
I work in my Congressman’s district office, and our job is constituent service. You should call your US Congressman or Senator’s local office (not the one in Washington, DC). They will be able to at least exhaust every pathway to find some health insurance for your precious little girl.
I hope this information helps you.
My heart goes out to you! I do believe in miracles, and I believe in helping people. Even though I never met you or even read your blog :0) ( I will now!) I donated as fast as I could. Keep your chin up!!!!
Have you tried calling St. Jude Children’s Hospital in Memphis? They treat children with this type of cancer regardless of ability to pay or insurance coverage.
Keeping you and your precious one in my prayers!
Came from The Blogrollers to show some love and support your way.
xoxo
You and your family are in my prayers. I know that your daughter will recover.
Stay Strong!
Hugs and Mocha,
Stesha
I saw a Tweet about this post on Young House Love and I wanted to pop over and say that this stranger is thinking of you, your family and your little girl. I have Faith that she is in the 90% too and will keep her in my prayers.
My prayers go out to your family! I posted on my site and hope some of my readers or sponsors can help.
A friend just left me this comment: Call 1-800-ACS-2345 the American Cancer Society might be able to give them some organization names that can help financially.
Tell your doctor you want a referral to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Families DON’T PAY. They take insurance if you have it but families w/out insurance are never asked to pay. They will pay for transportation for your daughter & one parent and they’ll pay for your housing & food while you’re in Memphis getting treatment. I worked at St. Jude for almost 9 years. All you need is a doctor recommendation.
I had another comment that might help: Please make sure she reaches out to the local chapter of the Leukemia & Lypmphoma Society…there’s alot they can do for her & resources they can help her w/, not to mention emotional support she’ll need. She may’ve already done this, but if she hasn’t, please let her know they are there for her too. Caveat: This should NOT stop people from donating directly to her cause. She’ll need every penny she can get for this fight. But that’s why LLS is there & they’ll help her in some way…Link to GA Chapter site: http://www.teamintraining.org/ga/
What a precious girl. I pray that she stay strong during this time- I know she will pull through with peace and grace.
Just wanted to let you know that I used to babysit for a family who had a 4 year old who was diagnosed with leukemia while I worked for them. He is 14 now and absolutely fine. It wasn’t a fun time for them obviously, but all he really remembers about it is they let him play video games while he was in the hospital. I will think good thoughts for your family
Just making sure my comment posted: http://www.cms.hhs.gov/home/chip.asp – here is the link to the prgrm.
hebrews 11:1 now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
lean on your faith because our God is a mighty God! keeping you, your beautiful daughter and your family in prayer…
Hey Guys,
I just came across your site on a marketing forum because someone was using it as a good example of what you can do with the “Thesis” theme.
Then I saw this post about your daughter.
And having 3 kids of my own (3 and a half, 2 and a half, and 7 months) I couldn’t resist helping you guys out. So I sent a little something to ya through ChipIn.
It’s also a bit ironic that I am seeing this because I just finished spending almost 6 hours at the hospital with our 7 month old because he was persistently running a high fever for 4 days straight. (103-105.1 at any given time)
So when we took him to our pediatrician they told us to take him to the emergency room where through the span of 6 hours took his blood and left the iv in his vein in case he needed any medicine, took xrays of him, and then to top it off they had to take a urine sample using a catheter.
Although we are not in the situation you guys find yourself in, I can however relate to the fear and worry that you may be experiencing right now.
Just hang tight and have faith that she will get through this in perfect condition and live a long prosperous and abundant life, blessing you with beautiful grand children.
All The Best,
Jason Dinner
My thoughts, prayers & chants are with you and your family, Jennae.
Oh Jennae, I am so very sorry to read this news. My heart is breaking for you and your family. Will be praying for you and your sweet daughter. Two little things: If you need any help connecting with experts at Seattle Children’s Hospital, just say the word–my husband is an administrator there and can plug you right in (my neighbor also happens to be a pediatric oncologist). I know you’re far from Seattle, but if you wanted to tap the experts there, we’d be happy to help. Also, are you still running your design business? Need some work? If so, I will try and send some your way from folks I know. (If you have time.) Big hug to you and your daughter. Will be praying for you daily. Love, Sarah
I haven’t visited in a ling time and am very sorry to read this. Please know that a lot of people are thinking of you and are wishing you strength.
Sincerely,
Dagmar
Jennae,
I will be sending loving, healing, happy thoughts and prayers your way.
Amy
My prayers are with you and your family. I have posted the widget on my blog also. God is still in control!
Dear Jennae,
I don’t know what to say other than I hope and pray for your daughter’s speedy recovery. And of course I will ChipIn and place a note on my own blog encouraging my readers to donate to help you too.
Please stay strong.
- Aaron
First, I just want to thank everyone who has come here and shown their support for my family. We appreciate it more than you know. Really. We will be forever grateful to you for lending us your love and prayers, and also for donating in our time of need. We are working with a social worker from the hospital who is helping us get in contact with agencies and organizations that can help us. We’ve pulled our daughter out of school because the continued chemo will drop her blood counts and make her immune system weak, but all things considered, she is doing incredibly well and handling all of this like a champ. She’s a tough little cookie — I can tell you that firsthand.
But I have another reason for writing today. We just heard from one of my daughter’s doctors that she is officially in remission! So what does this mean going forward? Well, she will still have to continue treatment for a total of 2 years, since the goal of chemo is to push the disease into remission within the first month — with all treatment thereafter considered to be “maintenance” to make sure it doesn’t return. However, the fact that she has responded so well so soon means there’s an even greater chance that she will beat this completely!
All I can say is that God is good, and he answers prayers! Thanks everyone for your support! Don’t stop praying, because the fight isn’t over yet, but we’re well on our way! Just be sure to thank him for what he has done thus far
I’ve got that little cutie pie on my prayer list and have posted your chip in badge on the blog. I’m also always happy to do a guest post- just drop me an email.
Thinking of you!
Kristen
I am relieved/happy/anxious that your family is doing well. Your daughter, and family, are just adorable. She looks like a fighter! Your family will continue to be in my thoughts through the healing process.
Best wishes!
I’m not sure how I found you but I’m so glad I did!
I’ll definitely keep your beautiful family in my prayers and will check your updates.
I’ve made a donation as well as added your donation widget to both of my blogs. I hope it helps
Best wishes
Great to hear that news! I hope things continue to progress well!
I am so sorry to hear that you and your family are going through this! You are in my thoughts.
I am coming from D.A.M.E through MyBrownBaby to show you some love and support. You and your family are in my prayers and may the Almighty be with you. Keep the torch of hope still lit.
God Bless You All. Will Pray for your family
So wonderful to read that she’s in remission! I’m so happy for you all and will continue to keep you in my thoughts.
Hugs,
Amy
Sending thoughts & prayers your way!
Your daughter is so beautiful! Stay positive, focus on her future healing AND your future earnings and CLAIM IT everyday!
Continued prayers for you and your family, Jannae! I see your husband\’s face in your daughter\’s face, and she reminds me of my 4 year old too! I know that with your \"bigger picture\" mentality, and your knowledge that God did not put her in this situation to suffer, but to become stronger from this situation, that you and your family will look back at this time and say, \"Thank you, God, for seeing us through it!\" Your pretty li\’l pumpkin will serve as an inspiration for parents and children dealing with lukemia for years to come, I\’m sure. Thanks for the update, by the way!