Some days I just don't understand......

How can we remain positive when it seems like things aren't going in the right direction for Bella's health? When we began this journey a little over 3 years ago, we never imagined the list of different diagnoses and treatments she would be enduring. It doesn't matter how many times you're told your child tested positive for something or has been diagnosed with something new, it NEVER GETS EASIER! Today Bella was diagnosed with a 2nd form of arthritis called Psoriatic Arthritis. Her doctor had been talking about it being a possibility but we needed to see a Dermatologist to be certain. Today it became official. Today we got a little more discouraged. So what does this mean for Bella? They will change her treatment plan. Next week will be her final infusion at the hospital (her and I will miss the nurses so much) and she will be switched to a biologic medicine that will be in shot form every 2 weeks (No, Bella is not happy about this at all). We must first take a class on administering the shot because it is a little different than the shot she currently gets. She will remain on the weekly dose of chemotherapy as well. Bella absolutely hates getting these shots and actually tried to convince her doctor to allow her to try bi-monthly infusions instead. I was proud of Bella for speaking up about her own healthcare. But of course the doctor said it wasn't a good plan of action and she needed to try the route that has been proven to work best. Her GI doctor also told us that her biopsies showed signs of Chrone's disease and she had to have genetic testing done last week to help make a final decision on diagnosis. We are anxiously awaiting the results of that test. But, her Rheumatologist told us today that the new medication can help with Chrone's disease too. So maybe the new medication change is meant to be, maybe that can be our silver lining? I just hope that the change brings a little more life back to Bella. She has been in a lot of pain the past month or so and quite fatigued and not herself. So, hopefully the insurance will approve this medication change and she can begin her new treatments mid November. Let's hope that the changes will help improve Bella's overall health. :) So, what can you do to help out? Come run or walk @ the Jingle Bell Run Harrisburg on December 10th to help raise money to find a cure for Arthritis! Join Team Bella Mia & friends to help Bella raise money & awareness for Arthritis! If you can't join us, a donation would be greatly appreciated! Bella got her 1st goal in Field Hockey this week!!!