Chapter 7

“It’s bad isn’t it.” Bette said. 

“I’m afraid so. All of the tests came back and they all point to Leukemia. We need to schedule a bone marrow biopsy. That needs to be done as soon as possible so that we can determine what type and what stage the leukemia is in.” Tears streamed down Tina’s face. 

“When can we do that?” Bette asked. 

“Tonight David has pulled some strings.” He handed them so information on Leukemia and some prescriptions. “Here is a prescription for an antibiotic and something to keep her relaxed tomorrow.” 

“What do we tell her? How do we tell her that she might die?” Tina sobbed. 

“Children beat the disease everyday. We caught it early and that’s good.” Dr Green walked around the desk. “The oncologist will meet with you in a moment. Her name is Dr. Elizabeth Watson. She is the best pediatric oncologist on the west coast. David has asked her to be involved in the process of everything as she has agreed to include him. As for what to tell her. I would recommend the truth. In the packet is some websites and groups of families with kids who have Leukemia. You might want to take a look at them before.” 

“What should we expect?” Bette asked. 

“The biopsy can be quite painful so Peyton will be sedated, but she’ll be able to go home afterwards as long as there aren’t any complications. Here is a prescription for something for the pain afterwards.”

KNOCK KNOCK

Dr Green opened the door and a white tall dark haired woman walked in.  

“This is Dr Watson.” Dr Green said. 

“I know that what your feeling. I promise I’m going to do everything I can to help Peyton get better.” Dr Watson said. 

Bette and Tina were still in shock. 

“Peyton has Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia or ALL. 60 % of children have this form of leukemia. We will perform two tests tonight. One is a bone marrow biopsy and  the other is a spinal tap.” She explained.

“What do those entail?” Bette asked. 

“During the bone marrow biopsy we will insert a needle into Peyton’s hip and withdraw some bone marrow. Her hip will be sore for the next couple of days. Then we will do the spinal tap. That involves inserting a needle into her spinal cord and collecting some of the fluid. Again she will experience some discomfort afterward but nothing severe.” She explained calmly.