Share Your Story

Readers,

I cannot begin to explain the importance of sharing your story! Tonight during our biking/ triking time, we ran into fellow neighborhood dwellers. We have seen this couple and their dogs often walking through our hood. Sawyer, being the extrovert he is, always says hello and we have had pleasant interactions with the neighbors because of it. Tonight was no different for me. After a brief exchange of "hello" and "how ya doin'?" I was given an opportunity to share about Dempsey's leukemia journey (our leukemia journey). The neighbors were shocked. Why? 1. Because Dempsey doesn't look like a kid with cancer and 2. they, like anyone with a heart, think it's absolute shite when a child is handed a card called Cancer. It was a wonderful exchange of stories. Some similar. Some different. Turns out the wife is a nurse. I found out their daughter is a Type 1 diabetic, has hyperthyroid issues, and a plethora of other ailments... at only 30 yrs old. They asked questions. I answered. They assured me, multiple times, that they would pray for Dempsey, and us. What a blessing that is! The husband asked if Dempsey gets any treats and if so what does he like. What a sweet question. I explained that sweets are WAY down on the list because of the effect sugar has on cancer. I also explained that "dessert", in our house, can mean dry roasted salted almonds. *smile* See, dessert doesn't have to mean sweet treats... you CAN make it mean something else. *thumbs up* As we were saying our adieus, the husband told me he was going to get Dempsey some almonds. I was politely emphatic that they be organic and he assured me they would be. I smiled and thanked him profusely.

Such moments are happening more and more in my life because I am sharing our story! No one will know how to help you or pray for you if you don't share your story. People DO want to help. Even if they can't help in tangible, get-your-hand-around-it ways, they will offer to pray. Take them up on that. If they're not pray-ers and instead are positive thought-ers... take them up on that! No matter what you are facing you can use more prayers and positive thoughts. We ALL have struggles. We are all deep-valley-experiencers. We are all hurting in some way. Sure, us Americans are poised and ready to put on our masks of jubilation, self-sufficiency, all-together-ness,  composure, perfection... in reality we are hiding despair, loneliness, brokenness, messiness, failure, and more. We are human. Our family is full of humans. Our friends are human. You know what that means? You're gonna break. You're gonna fail. You're gonna get hurt. You're gonna hurt someone. YOU'RE HUMAN. No offense, but I expect you to fail. No, not at everything or at every turn or even all the time. But at some point. Lord knows I fail... a lot. Shocking, right? Those that know me are shaking their heads going, "Nope, girl I know you fail a whole bunch." And they love me anyway. Just like you fail and I love you anyway. You know what makes me love you? Your shortcomings. Your struggles. Your failings. You know why? Because when I know you have those I can begin to relate to you. If you've got it all together and nothing ever rattles you... it's hard for me to trust you. Just sayin. I don't want perfect people in my life. I want the perfect people FOR my life. See the difference?

I should warn you, this post is gonna get LOOOOOONNNNNNNGGGGGGG...... Go grab some water now or pee or both.

Yesterday and today were full of the NEOLIFE Convention 2016 for me. Jake was with me yesterday but not today. Yesterday started out rough. After we dropped the boys off with my folks I proceeded to direct Jake to the wrong location. No one's failing but my own. I cried the whole way from the wrong location to the right one. How could I have been so stupid? How could I not have planned better and been more accurate? Now we were going to be late. I hate being late. You know what I hate more than being late? Feeling stupid. Boy did I feel stupid! That set the tone for the rest of the day. I felt so awful I couldn't hold Jake's hand because it felt like grace and I just needed to beat myself up for awhile. In reality, I'm STRESSED OUT, exhausted, fragile, reaching a breaking point, bordering on a psychotic episode, frustrated, angry, worried, fearful, tired, lonely, mentally taxed, emotionally drained, did I mention tired? Being the mom/ parent of a CK (cancer kid) is HARD. No, it's not the same upper echelons of hard as someone who is caring for a quadriplegic or a severe cerebral palsy case. It's not even the same kind of hard as caring for someone who is low-functioning autistic. But for us, it is HARD, nonetheless. No, no, no... I'm not trying to compare journeys with anyone! They are all different and we are all tasked with a different hard journey or journeys if that is the case. I'm simply stating that what is HARD for us is just that, hard for us.

Back to the Convention.

FRIDAY
I was quiet. Distant. Reserved. I talked to people but not like I normally talk to people. I didn't go seek people out. I barely made eye contact with those that saw me or sought me out. Why? Simply because I knew I was one hug away from my emotional dam bursting like the Flood was in full effect. Not wanting to look like the basket case I obviously am at a function that is all kinds of fun celebratory moments... I chose to be introverted. It was the right choice for me in the moment.

Jake was nervous about being away from Dempsey so long knowing his counts were low and bordering on the need for a platelet infusion. He's introverted to begin with so the rah-rah-ness of Convention is lost on him and with me being quiet and withdrawn I knew he wasn't comfortable. Being the amazing husband he is, he stayed and made do. I gave him permission to skip Saturday and even encouraged him to do what he felt was best- spending time with our boys since he'll be working six straight days this week. It was the right choice for him for the day.

SATURDAY
I went to Convention alone. I was better suited emotionally, mentally, physically for today and whatever it brought. I wasn't extra-extroverted but I wasn't quiet. I mingled. I chatted. I shared. I cried. I hugged. I laughed. I wrote. I loved. I listened. I learned. I was present. It was wonderful.

I needed my NEOLIFE people. My family. These are strangers who have become family over the years. Each year we add new ones to the family and it just gets better and better. Many of them have been faithfully praying for Dempsey and our family throughout this leukemia journey. I cannot tell you how priceless their prayers and support have been. Some have even blessed Dempsey with products he needs to THRIVE during treatment and beyond. Some have given valuable advice. Others money. I am overwhelmed by their love for me and my family... these dear friends who were strangers just a few years ago. Over the years I have learned their stories because they shared them! They were vulnerable in sharing their valleys and were receptive when we rejoiced with them on their peaks. It's been a most beautiful ebb and flow of emotions and support.

They didn't let me down.

They hugged me. They asked about Dempsey. They cried with me. Men cried with me! They shared their hearts with me. Precious pieces of themselves as offerings to me in my time of _______ [fear, grief, unknowing]. Talking to new moms and praying over their sweet babies protection. Being reminded that God is FOR us and he is WITH us. They prayed for me.

It wasn't all about me though. I got to inquire about THEM. Their struggles. Their successes. Their trials. Their thoughts and feelings. Their families. It was all beautiful and priceless.

So many stories!!!! So many wonderful threads being woven together in the Lord's tapestry. Amen.

Today's surprise? Jake and I earned $200 in FREE PRODUCT. Hello! That was unexpected. Apparently we have been consistent in qualifying as Senior Managers long enough that we won something for it. I love things like this! The products will help us help Dempsey! God did that. Validation.

I could go on and on... and I would if I wasn't so sleepy and wanting to spend time with Jake before drifting off to la-la land.

Suffice it to say, it is IMPERATIVE for you to share your story. You just never know who you'll help or how you'll be helped.


Precious Dempsey moments this evening:
While in his bath, he asked me, with a smile on his face, "Mommy, you want your feet washed?" I said "Why yes, I do." He proceeded to wash my feet.
Fantasia 2000: Pines of Rome- "This is most beautiful song I ever heard." -Dempsey
"Indeed I do" was uttered a few times. Don't even know where he picked that up.

Pray for Dempsey: he has infusion on Monday and a bone marrow biopsy on July 25th.

The Kind Of Day Dreams Are Made Of

Today started as any typical Tuesday at Kenagyville. We woke up, some of us later than others, and did morning things. Breakfast, technology, showers, etc. Jake went off to work only to return a short time later to grab something for work. We're so blessed to live so close to his work.

The boys and I were planning to be stuck at home because Dempsey's numbers are really low and we just can't chance taking him places. Here's a selfie with the Demps.

The boys played together famously. Not a fight or moment of bickering. When there was a disagreement they used their words and worked it out, compromising if necessary. It was beautiful.

Around 11am they both mentioned they would like quesadillas for lunch. I swear, this is their go-to meal. It's easy and nutritious enough. So, I told them I would make them in a little bit and they needed to go drink water in the mean time. Not one protest.

Lots of "Yes, Mom" and "Okay, Mom" spoken today and in grateful and thankful tones. Blessings to my ears and my mama heart.

As I prepared their lunch, I put them to work. I had Sawyer peel and cut bananas. Dempsey then took those banana pieces and put them into baggies so we could freeze them for smoothies or shakes at a later time.

(I wish I could get the video of what Dempsey said to play on here... but I can't. Bugger.)

I mean, for reals, this kid... to say "I did this for God", it melts my heart. He and Sawyer were having a discussion about God. I wish I had stopped to record the conversation because I remember my heart melting but I can't remember the particulars now. However, I KNOW God is working in my kid(s). Precious.

As I was cutting their quesadillas, Sawyer asked if he could have an Izze with lunch (a fizzy fruit drink). I said yes and I pulled it out of the fridge and put it on the counter. Dempsey missed this and when the fridge was open he reached in and pulled out a can of Perrier for Sawyer. With brotherly love, pride, and a smile, he handed it to Sawyer and said "Here ya go Thoya (his lisp, you know)... your burp potion." Sawyer just melted and quickly gestured for me to put the Izze back in the fridge for a later time. I'm tell you... these boys make me melt! Dempsey has such a generous, caring spirit. He loves to help and he loves to DO for others. Precious boy. Sawyer is the same way and I know he has been influencing Dempsey.

After lunch I took the boys over to my parent's house because they were getting cabin fever. It is so hard to be stuck at home and unable to really socialize or explore. Thankfully my parent's house is a safe zone and my folks are willing to take the boys for a few hours. I came home and napped because sleep is illusive for me. It was a splendid siesta.

Jake picked the boys up on his way home from work while I started making dinner. Still the boys played together smashingly. Anything I asked them to, they did. No fussing.

We went bike riding and triking around the neighborhood after dinner to get some exercise. Sawyer and I peeled off of the group to "ride fast" around the hood a bit and then Jake and Sawyer peeled off a bit later and I stayed with Dempsey to finish the second leg of his "to the cul de sac and back". We have some routines and "normal" now. Despite Dempsey's counts being so low, he still seems so strong, energetic, and healthy. We are praising God in all moments and celebrating much harder in the days like today.

After riding the boys did some running in the street between our house and the field (Cal High). I was in the back yard watering our garden. They guys came into the back yard when they were all tuckered out and we had some family time out in the coolness of the late evening. The boys, still playing well together and communicating with perfection.

Then came shower time. Again, it went off without any complaints, frustration, or whining. It was smooth and quick. Lovely. Jake did the oil regimen with Demps while I did dishes. Then they started an episode of Hermie the Common Caterpillar (a Max Lucado creation). I joined them a little bit after it started. Dempsey found himself perched in a nest of blankets, Sawyer on the opposite couch, Jake in the rocker, and me trying not to mess up Dempsey's nest next to him. When the episode was over, Dempsey climbs on my lap to give me love and says "God is with us all the time. We don't have to be afraid of anything because God is with us." I said "You are absolutely right. He IS with us." Dempsey said "I have two fings... my blanket and God. I like having two fings." Oh... geez... slurp my heart up off the floor will ya?! Does it get any more precious than that? This kid has his blanket and God and therefore needs nothing else. Oh to be like a child and only need those two fings to feel secure. Precious.

To top all of this off, as he walks to bed from the living room, he is shooting webbing from his hands like Spider-Man does... complete with sound effects. I die.

Lord, thank you for the miracles that filled this day. I pray we can be filled by what we experienced today and that we can take it forward with us. I pray you always remind us YOU are PRESENT with us and that we need not worry. Worry comes so easily, without end, when your child is struggling. You know that, Lord. You prepared to lose your Son so that through him creation could be restored to a communion with you. How precious. How heart-wrenching. How glorious your plan was. A plan that enables me to say things like "I will praise you in this storm". Lord, forgive me when I don't praise you or thank you for all the good times and when I whine, plead, beg during the tough times. You know my heart, Lord. I pray for my Dempsey, my Sawyer, my Jake, and my support network. All are vital in my life. Help me to have a teachable spirit so that I may grow in wisdom and grace and whatever other characteristics you desire for me. Amen

Rest assured, your prayers are working. They are being heard. Even on the tough days and in my doubting your prayers are being heard. Dempsey is doing well, "all things considered". Please keep praying. Keep thinking about him. Keep sending positive vibes his way. He still has a long journey ahead of him and we're told it gets worse before it gets better. So far, Dempsey is doing GREAT! and we know that is because of your prayers and support in part. You are helping make our part that much easier when you bring meals, gift us with necessities (oils, supplements, Amazon list items). Thank you!!

Unveiling

Hello Dempsey Supporters!!!

First of all... WE LOVE YOU! We would not be making it without your prayers, positive thoughts, and tangible support in the form of money, gifts, meals, etc. You truly bless us to the point of speechlessness. Thank you.

I had mentioned before that I was going to create a website that would SHOW/ TELL you what we are doing to support Dempsey's body through the leukemia journey and the "standard treatment" of chemotherapy and other drugs.  Well, here it is!

CoralKenagy.com

*images courtesy of Brian Jones

Why did I choose "CoralKenagy.com"? Well, I figured if I meet people, introduce myself, and share anything about this site... there is a greater chance they will remember my name and look for it than try to remember me and the name of a site that was another name. I realize quite a few people have a hard time with many names from a single encounter. Plus, I couldn't think of a quippy site name that encapsulated Dempsey. Since this site was from MY perspective, I think it only fitting that it has MY name. Am I right? :-) Also, Dempsey has HIS site... it's the one you keep checking and that I keep linking to on social media. MY site is to help parents of other CKs (Cancer Kids) and not so much about sharing the details of Dempsey's journey. That's what HIS site is for. Capiche?

Prayer Needed

We need you to start praying for Dempsey. His "counts" (the levels of his blood) are low.

Pray for protection over his body.
Pray that his counts go up- significantly.
Pray that he has no negative side effects.
Pray that we can get him strong with nutrition.
Pray that we can start building him up now that he is only receiving one infusion each week for the next two weeks.
Pray for PERFECT RESULTS from his upcoming bone marrow biopsy.
Pray against fevers, chills, infection, diarrhea, nausea, headache, listlessness, lethargy, etc.
Pray for miraculous healing.
Pray for strength for everyone.
Pray for wisdom from doctors.
Pray for wisdom for us.
Pray as you feel led.

Tell Me About Yourself, Dempsey

It's just like um, Sawyer doesn't want to run with me.

How old are you?
Foooouurrr. (4)

What's you full name?
Like in the middle name?
Yes.
Um, Dempsey Alan Kenagy. Like I said. My last name is Alan. Dempsey Alan Kenagy.
That's your middle name.
I said it all.

Why do have that scar on your chest?
Because um they keep um putting it in and out.
What do they put in and out?
The tubie.

Do you know what that's called?
No.
Acc....
Access.
Why are there dots (looking at computer as I type)?
Because I didn't finish typing the word.

I'm tired doing words.

What do you want to do?
The first one is when the TV rests, play wii. Wow, that's TV... oh great, you did it. I fink that's enough. *exhales*

Is there anything you want to tell people who have been praying for you?
Yes. Jacob, Samantha, Levi, and Abby, and their dads and moms... and...
What about them?
They pray.
Yes, they do. Do you want to say anything to them?
No, I fink that's it. I'm done talking. *sits on a box*

There you have it, folks. A little glimpse of "talking" with Dempsey.