Day +23
I think the igloo is becoming a Bedouin tent! When I woke up this morning it was so lovely and warm under the duvet, I must admit I was reluctant to move. I did brace myself though, for the icy shower ( which didn't disappoint) and headed up to find out about the nights' 'goings on'. Ella and Daddy were awake and Ella reminded me straight away that we needed the TV on, for the 'Little Princess'. We threw Daddy into his cold shower and Ella settled down to file her nails. ( UNBELIEVABLY). By the time the 'on call' doctor arrived to see Ella we had filed and polished fingers and toes.
Obviously he was surprised, but really pleased, to find Ella looking so bright after the poorly day of yesterday. She even managed to overcome her shyness and have a little chat. He had been well primed by Dr Wynn, who actually phoned him from home as we were talking, so he knew exactly Dr Wynn's expectations and treatment for today. That has gone ahead as planned, without any hitches. The treatment is basically keeping up with the TPN to give calories, along with all the other drugs.......too many to mention. In fact Andrea told us the other day that Ella has 18hrs of intravenous drugs in every 24hrs. Incredible!
The main order of this weekend is for Ella to rest, sleep, cuddle, rest, watch a video maybe, sleep, chat, cuddle, watch us do something, cuddle, give us all directions from her throne and sleep etc. We have managed to do that, I think.
Whilst I got to grips with spring cleaning the Sylvanian village, Ella and Daddy set about decorating a picture frame. Needless to say ten minutes into the job they both succumbed to the zzzzzzzzzzzzzzz's and the first snooze began.
We tried 2 videos before settling on Scooby Doo. When Daddy left to go home Ella and I watched the end, which led us very nicely up the the arrival back of Mummy.
Before Sally went home one of the 'to'do' things was to bring back some Baby Annabelle outfits. Well, a chest of three drawers has arrived back, with enough clothes in them to take Annabelle, and all her mates, on a world tour. We'd better get an early start tomorrow!
At the moment Ella is asleep and we are watching the celebrity dancing programme, trying to keep our chuckles under control. The Dirty Dancing sequence brought back hysterical memories for Sally and I, as we remembered one raucous night when she and I danced the final scene up and down my front room, until we needed oxygen.
Anyway back to tonight, we are finishing early and hoping that Ella manages a peaceful night, which she really deserves. As well half hourly obs, the machines are bleeping and flashing continually. How she rests through any of it is a miracle, but that is what she is, our little miracle.
Night night and lots of love to everyone.
Ella, Sally and Annette.xxx

Day +21 and +22

Hi to everyone. First of all we are sorry we didn't manage a blog last night.......blame Max. He took us all to the 'pub' for his birthday tea and that was that. More about that later.

Thursday started in a hectic way. Earlier in the morning Mr Wynn had told us that Ella would need to have an ultra sound scan on her tummy, and later in the morning go down to theatre for a gastroscope and biopsy. First came the scan, for which we went under our own steam, with a procession along the corridor. We were no sooner back but we were called to theatre, procession number two. During all this, Ella was a complete star and only murmured when she couldn't see Sally. In fact, when it was all over she didn't even have her compulsory sleep and instead was wondering where her tea and toast was.

Later in the afternoon Rachael and the gang arrived for Ella to join in the birthday boy boys' big day. Only Sam could come in though. Max was really upset and had to be surgically removed from the unit by John. Time to go to the 'pub' whilst Daddy stayed with Ella. We had a lovely teatime treat, and it was a good break for Sally and I. Whilst we were out Ella had a few sips of soup with Daddy.

We started today, Friday, with Ella opting to get out of bed and join Sally on the bed/settee. She was almost so quick about it I hardly had time to unplug her lines. (This is the first time Ella has been out of bed for over a week now.) Mr Wynn arrived and said he was pleased with Ella, although there are concerns as to why her tummy is still upset. He did say however that she could have very light diet. We discussed food again and Ella chose mushroom soup (9.30am). Just a few teaspoons full was plenty.

Janet arrived to make some super acrylic window decorations with Ella and Rosie, and Simon brought us some new DVD's, thanks once again Simon, then time just ran away with us again.

Ella has not been too good this afternoon. It is 'nil by mouth' again now, for the forseeable future, until Mr Wynn gives us the all clear again. A great set back for us. The TPN feeds are giving her all the calories and nutrients she needs, and more powerful drugs are helping her to move forwards again.

Ella has finally fallen asleep. Damian is here tonight and the faires are flittering around, if you know what I mean. I thought you would like to meet Janet? Here are some photos of Ella, Rosie and Janet from earlier today.

The first picture shows Janet ducking the camera to touch up her make up!
The second picture shows Ella and Janet hard at it, whilst Rosie wishes she was bit taller.

Night night and lots of love to everyone. Thankyou for all your prayers and good wishes.
Ella, Damian and Annette.xxx
PS Great DVD Andrea!

Day +20
Well, today has ended as it began, with lemon puffs and pancakes! After oversleeping for the first time ever, I raced over to the unit to find them both asleep. Great! Anyway we caught up time in the usual tea and biscuit way, with Ella teasing both of us about eating all the biscuits......could this be the beginning of an even greater improvement on yesterday?
Ella was very itchy, which by all accounts can be a side affect of the morphine, so Alison suggested that something cool on the skin may be best. We jumped in straight away and Ella had a cooling bed bath, clean pj's and new cool bedding with no fuss!
On to breakfast, with Sally requesting pancakes and any filling, as long as it was cheese. I hunted the hospital for cheese, but apparently cheese doesn't exist until after 11.30. Back to the drawing board. By now Ella had joined in and was asking if she could fill the pancakes when they'd been made "please Nanna ". How could I resist? So off I went again looking for any filling I could find. Half an hour later Nanna emerged from the kitchen with four pancakes, sugar, lemon juice(borrowed from a neighbour) fruit salad and a chunk of stilton with onions. It was worth it? You bet. Ella relished filling them with all but the cheese, and even watching us eat them, as well. After asking if all the mix had gone, I text Simon, who was coming along with supplies, if he could add pancake mix and lemons to the list urgently, they arrived half an hour later. Many thanks Simon.
Ella promptly fell asleep, and was quite drowsy for the rest of the day really, with short intervals for chats with the nurses and with Janet (my teacher). We enjoyed reading almost all of "George's Marvellous Medicine" and the new mosaic was started. Mrs Doubtfire has been shopping for the day, so we watched Bee Movie instead.
Mr Wynn has been twice today, both times examining carefully and listening intently to all the sounds going on that little body. Those of us around... medical team, nurse, Sally,Ella and I ........all waiting silently for the result. Both times good news. " Carry on the way we are going."
The intravenous lines are staying up and all medicines are going in the same way too, in order to give Ella a complete rest.
Now for the best bit of our news. Whilst Alison was changing all the lines over at teatime she and Ella were discussing chinese food,as you do, and Ella was advising her on what to try next time. The subject of pancakes came up again and Ella was explaining how she had filled our's this morning. Later, just as we were sorting out our tea, ready for Corrie to begin, Ella asked if she could have a pancake and could she have a mixture of fillings to choose from? We looked at each other in disbelief, but I said I'd check with Alison......yes it was ok........whatever she wants. Thank goodness for Simon! Off I went to find more fillings and to make more pancakes, or should I say one special one pancake. Not too well done, perfectly shaped and just the right size. Well, she chose sugar and lemon, she rolled it, she cut it and then....................tasted it. It was definitely a lump in the throat time. The first time Ella has tasted anything for three weeks. It was only a nibble, but wow!
What will tomorrow bring we wonder? We feel sure that Ella is on the way up again.
Night night and lots of love to everyone, especially to MAX who is four tomorrow.
Ella,Sally and Annettexxx
P.S. As I have been finishing the blog, Ella heard Sally open a packet of crisps and asked if she could have one. (It's 10.45pm by the way).

Day +19
I thought "Who's that 'turning over' in my igloo? Shall I look and keep my fingers crossed it's Harrison?" Well I did look, but the sound I was hearing was munching, macaroon munching actually...........from Sally. I usually start the day with a cup of tea, but Sally had decided to carry on from where we had left off the night before, which was tea and 'roonies' ( as I now call them) in bed. After a quick shower I left Sally for a well deserved lie in.
(As you may have guessed, both Sally and Damian stayed last night.)
About 8.15 I saw Mr Wynn arriving, from Ella's window. He parks his motorbike under Ella's tree. So from then on it was 'stand by your beds' time, until he came in to see Ella about 9.15. We knew that he would find a difference today, just by looking at her and after a good check over he said "You're better than yesterday, young lady". Ella answered by sucking her thumb even more loudly. To which he replied " Perhaps one day you'll let us get a word in edge ways." A knowing look from Ella showed us all that she will have plenty to say, soon.
We have got a new pink, fluffy pet living with us now. She arrived with Janet, who has lovingly washed her and made her smell fab. She's a gorgeous pink monkey, with long wrap around arms to cuddle Ella in bed. The next dilemma.....what to call her? I think we have decided on Rosie. Thanks Janet, I'm sure Rosie will be included in lessons from now on, but no monkey business eh?
Today Ella has felt more like joining in again, and whilst I was out, doing the highlights of Swinton shopping centre, Ella was instructing Sally on how to decorate a T shirt for Sam. The front has got SAM ROCKS emblazoned on it, and the back is to be finished tomorrow. She seems to have been able to concentrate on short activities more today. The pain relief is really kicking in and she is much more settled.
Mrs Doubtfire made a return this afternoon, with Damian and Ella watching it and before long both Daddy and daughter were fast asleep. It gave Sally a break time and me time to 'fight' with the washer in the igloo. It has decided to only wash one item at a time, or so it seems. For the second day on the run I have had to empty sopping clothes out, hand wring them, and start it all over again! It plays havoc with your nails. (Phew, I've been longing to get that moan off my chest). The thing is though, I hardly dare complain about the washer, after yesterdays run in with the fire brigade.
When I got back to the unit it was to find Ella sitting up in bed directing Sally on how to make play dough models, and later eagerly helping Andrea to change the dressing on her line. To top it off she then wrapped Max's birthday presents expertly. What a wonderful improvement during the course of the day.
At the moment she is fast asleep, in peace and quiet. No machines bleeping, just flashing a lot up to now. There is so much going on in that corner again, even the fairies seem to have huddled together.
We're going to finish now whilst we're ahead, if you know what I mean. Sally has had lots of calls saying that you can't leave comments at the moment? I've tried to fiddle with it, but that probably didn't help, except I've noticed I've left a comment to myself. Oh well, We'll keep blogging and trust that you are keeping up with us. Once again, thankyou for all your lovely messages of support, they mean such a lot to everyone here.
Night night,
Ella,Sally and Annette.xxx

Day +18

Who do you send for when you are feeling low? Little brother.

We thought you'd like these photos of Sam, trying to make Ella ,and all of us, smile. The game was to balance something on his head and walk across the room. We tried with just the spring to begin with, but extended it to include the sicky bowl ( empty ) for extra points. Did she smile? well yes she did. Only briefly but it was there.

Definitely a day of highs, lows and funny bits. We will miss out the middle section and move on to the others.

Auntie Rachael and Auntie Margaret both arrived about 10.00, with Damian and Sam hot on their heels and, as usual, it didn't take long for Sam to be whooping us all on the Wii. Is Wii-ing a curricular subject now?

Sally and I had a walk down to the igloo, to put the washing in and to spend a few quiet moments over there, after a particulary difficult night. We went armed with bread for toast and real butter, as a treat. Sally headed for the kitchen, whilst I hunted for more 20p's. As I went to find her again I could hear " oh no, I've burnt the toast". "Never mind" said I.........as I opened the lounge door to put the fire on. "We can.......................................". I didn't get any further than that

as all hell broke loose and the loudest fire alarm in Manchester began to sound.

Sally by now was trying to open the kitchen window, which we managed, and it was then that we spotted a notice on the wall saying,

" Please use cooking appliances with caution, the fire alarm is connected directly to the fire brigade."

As Sally and I both turned a funny colour she came up with a master plan " Quick, let's eat the evidence!" Ever tried to eat a slice of unbuttered charcoal toast? We have.

The alarm was still going beserk and I peeped out into the hallway, to be met by 3 firemen and several hospital officials, who were checking the building for bodies. By now a large crowd had gathered round the fire engine, whilst we were of course told off for not evacuating. One of the hospital staff jokingly said "We'll send the bill to you" at which point Sally burst into floods of tears, and we were instantly forgiven. What a 'to-do'.

We stayed well hidden until everyone outside had dispersed and then made our way back to the unit, to tell Margaret and Rachael. Need I say more than Sister Andrea already knew about the fire brigades' arrival, but hadn't linked it to us. They are keeping an eye on us now as well as Ella.

There has been a change in treatment for Ella today, with the TPN feed starting up again. Ella has not been too good for the last few days, hence the review. The naso -gastric feeds are not the right thing at the moment, so all the lines are going back up instead. Everyone has agreed that this is the correct move to keep Ella on top, and once she is more settled Mr Wynn will look again at her further treatment. All it will mean is that we'll be here for longer, a small price to pay.

We've had a visit from Janet, who is back after Half Term, who tried valiantly to interest Ella in a story, but to no avail! There are secrets afoot for Ella tomorrow........so watch this space.

At the moment the lines are being done and Damian is reading Ella " George's Magic Medicine".

We are going to finish very early tonight and take a welcome break once Ella is asleep again.

Lots of love to everyone,

Ella, Sally, Damian and Annette.xxxx

Day +17
Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz's were all I could hear this morning when I arrived, so I thought 'I'll give them another 10mins' which extended into 20mins until finally they surfaced, both looking exhausted. How do you get a day like that started? With tea and biscuits of course. Which ones today?...half coated shortcakes ! Did we finish the packet? Ask Ella.
By 9.00am we had transferred Ella to the bed settee, made her comfortable and Sally started to paint some stained glass windows. She's remarkable.
There are two hatches/cupboards in the room, both opening into the corridor, marked in and out. Anything we want disposing of goes out that way and items to bring in come the other way. Well, nurse Kirsty was collecting drugs from the 'in' hatch when she made a discovery! Ella is a winner. She had won a prize from Radio Lollipop for a colouring competition, and she had some post! An exciting looking parcel. Great anticipation as Mummy helped her to open it.........some Fairy books and magazines from Yr4 at school.Thank you very much Mrs Swainson and 4S. Thank you as well to 6N/E and Sue at St John's for your Newspaper reports. They are on the wall, well done, they're great.
We very quickly realised that Ella was not feeling well enough to join in today, but that we could keep her included, in quiet activities and conversations, in between snoozes. The doctor ( well actually Professor ) came early and examined Ella. He said, as yesterday, that she is doing well, but a close eye is being kept on her. The line feeding is proving to be an issue, with Ella still not eating or drinking during the day. We are hoping for a change of plan when Mr Wynn returns tomorrow.
Sally left us about 1.oopm to do some shopping, but mostly to get some fresh air. Ella had a waking moment and we read one of the new stories together, just before Daddy arrived with Sam and Uncle Gav. Sally arrived minutes later with a copy of Narnia she had found in the Co-op, of all places. So, curtains drawn, seats in rows, film started, as Sally and I handed out popcorn and icecreams. Much to my relief Mrs Doubtfire wasn't in it.
After the boys had gone home we began to think about tea and we tried to tempt Ella to join in with some drawing. She did manage to finish off a puppet for Sophie, but tummy ache had kicked in and, after calling Sister Andrea in, it was decided to up the morphine to give better relief. The feed has been left off tonight too, so hopefully that will help settle a sore tummy.
In amongst all this I had forgotten about our tea in the oven. Fortunately, I quite like my chicken well done, especially with crispy roast veg and peppers. Sally does too.......now.
It's quite late now, Sally is yawning and I've got 'twitchy' legs, a good indication that it's time for us to get to bed too. The igloo is becoming more and more homely....I've got two plants over there now, thanks Martin. I'm thinking of extending into a window box. What do you think?
Night night and lots of love to everyone, we love your blogs.
Ella, Sally and Annette xxx

Days +15 and +16
I'm sat here at the end of Day +16 and looking over towards Ella's bed, where she is being cuddled to sleep by Sally. A lovely peaceful start to an equally peaceful night's sleep, hopefully.
Ella has got two sets of fairy lights above her bed ( they are fairies ). The pink set are 'on lend' from Sophie and white set are from Auntie Dianne's Christmas collection. They are giving a really gentle glow to the bedroom end. They have become an essential part of the room with Ella's nurses changing lines and doing obs' all by fairy light!
Yesterday was a stay in bed day, with Ella feeling tired and listless. Even Mrs Doubtfire didn't work her magic.It was decided that she needed more pain relief, which she received and then when Mr Wynn came later in the day he decided that the morphine should be put back up in order to keep on top of things.
When Daddy arrived to stay the night Ella perked up a little, especially when she saw the new cake mixes and wait for it...........a 'Perfume Laboratory'. Umm, lots to look forward to the next day.
I was coming home for the night and Sally was being left in charge of the igloo. It didn't take her long to move her things in, I can tell you. She left the ward at 9.00pm and was asleep by 9.10pm.........hence no blog yesterdayzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz!
Which brings us to today +16.
Whilst I was at the hairdresser's (having my hair cut as short as I dare go ) Ella ,Mummy and Daddy were enjoying a visit from Martin, who came bearing gifts. I've heard all about it Martin, being accosted at the door and having to relinquish your aspidistra! Martin and Damian were advising Ella on her wardrobe for today and Martin decided it was definitely not a pink day, but rather a spotty one. Good choice!
I know cakes were involved today, but I haven't seen any evidence of them. Maybe Daddy has taken them home to enjoy in his cave, with Sam?
By the time I arrived Mrs Doubtfire had been for afternoon tea and the Perfume Factory was open on the bed.......looking for someone to start it. I did read the instructions, until nurse Alison came in and Sally told her I was making a bomb. I think we will shelve that until tomorrow, when our noses are fresh and we can invent a new and exciting 'pong'. Perhaps 'Fairy Water' or maybe even 'Eau de Swinton'? I can definitely feel a photo shoot coming on.
Sally and I had a really healthy tea.........lots of salad and lean chicken, so we thought we had earned enough points to have a pudding. This was not just any pudding, it was M and S pudding. The bread and butter variety, with lashings of cream. It's ok though because it's after 8.00pm and it doesn't count does it?
We are winding down for the night now. Ella's monitors are all beeping but she is managing to sleep through them for now. She looks all the 'ables' right now. Comfortable,Vunerable and totally Adorable.
Night night and lots of love to everyone, keep blogging,
Ella, Sally and Annettexxx
P.S. A multi media text has just arrived on Sally's phone........we know what happened to the cakes! In Sam's own words "Your cakes rocks sis, can't wait to see you, love you loads".

Day +14

We are going to confuse you all today and start the blog at the end of the day! It's peaceful and quiet and Ella is fast asleep. She is looking very cosy, surrounded by teddies and a nice warm 'snuggly'. She is having a well earned rest, with pain relief in her line.

The highlight of the day came when Daddy and Sam came to visit, about 6.oopm. Ella had been looking forwards to them coming and although she didn't feel like joining in, she did few manage smiles and a few laughs at Sam's antics.

Sam had made her some goodies today, and couldn't wait to give them to his big sister. They now have pride of place in the Sylvanian village.

He was full of beans, even after a full day at Holiday Club. He was playing on the Wii almost before he had his coat off, and finding that Ella was too tired to play, he chose me as his next victim to beat. He really is very skillful.

We have had a few 'goes' today at different activities..........mosaics, computer games and GREASE. The mosaics must have a million pieces to stick on. We have managed the first 50, so we are on the way! One of the most successful half hours was just to listen to a story and fall off to sleep. I can recommend "Sophie, the Saphire Fairy" for a mid morning nap and "Ella ,the Rose Fairy" at bedtime. Sally was well away before the end of both.

Looking back over the day, we have both agreed that Ella has needed the time to recharge her batteries. She is finding the naso gastric tube a real challenge, along with the hair loss.
Mr Wynn was very positive when he came today. He checked Ella over, as usual, and told her that he is very pleased with her. He said for her ( and us ) to " keep our chins up " and low days are only to be expected after such a massive proceedure. SO THERE!

As usual thankyou for all your blogs. We are going to have an earlier finish than usual and hopefully sleep. Lots of love to everyone, night night.
Sally, Ella and Annette xxx

Day +13
Those of you who are really alert ( I'll resist the joke about 'lerts) will have noticed the deliberate mistake in the days, at the beginning of the blogs. Today is the real Day13. Somehow I ( we ) managed to miscount and confuse ourselves. Not difficult really.........but we're back on course now.
So, how did Day+13 begin? For me, in the igloo, it was a chilly start with a quick run around in a luke-warm shower. Then, my usual jog up here to find the two of them fast asleep. A definite pattern is forming!
No biscuits for Ella today so Mummy eat them instead.
After the housework Ella and I played with the Sylvanian Family village for a while. We rearranged, sorted out and were just getting into the mood when Andrea arrived to take a nose swob. Lovely! The news got even better, we were going to have a naso-gastric tube fitted later, to use for feeds and also to put the oral medicines into. It's meant to really help Ella to tolerate having her medicines and to give her the nutrition she needs, now the feeding lines are down.Naturally, that's not the way Ella sees it, and who can blame her?
I think we should draw a veil over the showering, suffice to say that when Dr.Wynn arrived on the unit he asked " Who's that screaming?" and when he knew, he was wise enough to stay out of the way until all was quiet again. Poor Ella, she did well really. We wanted to wash her hair, to make her more comfortable and I think in the long run it worked.
Dr Wynn is still very pleased with Ella's progress and the treatment he has prescribed will deal with the GVHD ( steroids) and it's a case of keeping everything else under close scrutiny. There are lots of anti rejection drugs going into her line as well though. It really is non-stop.
Muriel arrived with a dolly, to explain what the gastric tube would look like and then Andrea arrived to fit it. Ella was measured up and it was soon in place. It didn't go down very well and although we all tried to put on a brave face it wasn't the best of starts to a new day.
However, things looked up when Auntie Rachael, Auntie Margaret and Ian arrived, plus Sophie.
Sophie found the corridors on the unit ideal places to try her ' running away from Nanna' strategy, so we went over to the igloo, to take some washing and to look at the birds.
A very restful afternoon followed. Reg arrived and we sat quietly watching Mrs Doubtfire, who is back from holiday, and Wallii. Ella snoozed, woke to check up on us, snoozed, woke again to check.............and so it went on. Her pm nurse was in and out to check her over and then finally about 5.oopm her naso feed was started. It will run over night, so she'll wake with a full tummy.This was the confidence boost Ella needed..she wasn't going to be sick.
After such a "stay in bed" day we had a really fun ending. Ella has a High School Musical Wii sing along. Well, on went the disc and she sang her heart out, using the microphone, to all her favourites. Even Corrie was given a miss.
Just a quick mention to say that the "wig lady" , as she's affectionately known, came this morning, to give advice and show us the wigs to choose from. Ellla wasn't in the mood today, but Mummy chose and Ella approved. It arrives next week.
All is calm right now, with Ella asleep, Sally busying around and me coming to the end of the blog.
So night night to everyone, with all our love,
Ella, Sally and Annette. xxx

Day +12
The mornings are getting really light aren't they? When we first began on this venture it was pitch black as I came up onto the unit. Now it's quite light at 7.00am. Well here in Manchester it is...are we north of the equator here or something?
When I arrived today both Sally and Ella were fast asleep in Ella's bed, after what had turned out to be a very restless night, unfortunately, with Ella awake for much of it, but not knowing quite what was wrong. Anyway, we thought 'best foot forward' and we started off with tea and biscuits, which Ella really enjoyed.....eating one and half biscuits and sips of tea. The first proper, solid food she's tried by herself, for days and days. A good start we thought!
The rest of the day has been somewhat of a roller coaster, with highs and lows and nothing in between, I'm afraid. We have just let Ella dictate the pace according to how she has felt and how much energy she has wanted to put into things.
Showering was a disaster, but putting on her brand new pj's with matching head band, from Sallyanne, was a definite highlight. She looks gorgeous in them.
Once we were dressed and beds changed we pulled out the bed/settee from the wall and Ella had a chance to write on her white board."What shall we do Nanna?".........."How about counting up to 100?" What a perfect opportunity to do some Maths. We spent a lovely half hour, with Ella drawing out a 100 square and using it to answer questions. Then, all change as the white board was cleaned and a plan of a zoo drawn on it, complete with animals. I think Sally and I need to take a few drawing lessons though, particularly in the animal department.
Another down followed, as the orals arrived. Poor Ella is so sick, even at the thought of them.
Mr Wynn is back from his travels to meetings in America, and he soon hot footed it in to see all his patients. He came in with his team, being mostly concerned about the fact Ella had needed oxygen again in the night. That sorted, he said how delighted he is with Ella's cell growth and how well she is doing.
There have been more 'goings on' with Ella, which show that the donor cells are active. Soreness in her joints and back, and also GVHD, which means that the donor cells are thinking " Where am I?" and making a fuss about it. The treatment is the same..........anti rejection drugs, pain killers, rest and lots of cuddles. Not necessarily in that order.
A sleep followed during the afternoon, with Ella and Mum both snoozing for a while. This did perk Ella up a little and whilst Sally slept on, she and I got her colouring entry for Radio Lollipop ready. Of course Mr Wynn reappeared whilst this was going on, Ella silently concentrating on her colouring, and Sally looking as if she had been in a wind tunnel. He checked Ella's breathing and rash over again, and is pleased with her. They really do take great care of their little ones up here.
So, here we are again tonight. Ella asleep on the bed/settee, Sally still sewing and me ' you know whatting'.
Some exciting news from Sally. She won a box of Belgian chocolates in the hospital tombola, to raise money for a new heart scanner. Well actually she won three prizes..........but two of them were teddies and we can't bring soft toys onto the unit. Sally gave the chocolates to Ella thinking they might tempt her, and Ella passed them onto me thinking they would tempt me and I did the same back to Sally. We'll try again tomorrow.
One bright spot from today. 'Mrs Doubtfire' has gone on holiday, and may be away for a couple of days.
Lots of love to everyone.Night night.
Ella, Sally and Annette.xxx

Day+12


Another early start for the three of us, with cups of tea and coffee, a quick play on the Wii and an even quicker, unwanted bed bath!


Forgive me if I seem to be whizzing passed all the usual morning preliminaries but we are anxious to get on to the real news of the day. Ella had an early visit today from the consultant, not her own but another in the team, who came to say that her white cell count is up again, indicating further that the donor cells are being accepted. He told us that, because she is responding soooooo well, the feeding lines would be taken down today, the morphine discontinued and as far as possible Ella's medication will be given orally! It's wonderful news and real progress isn't it?


We watched another showing of Mrs Doubtfire, just to make sure that we know all the dialogue in the first hour by heart, and said bye bye to Daddy. Time for a little nap before Mummy arrived, or so Ella thought! The first batch of orals arrived.................


Nanna's face must have been a picture, as I looked from them, to Ella and back to them again. I know what I was thinking................


Tricia, the ward Sister for this morning, said that she would give sleeping beauty another five mins and then come back, which she did, to wake Ella up. Ella's reaction to seeing the medicines lined up in syringes was predictable.........NO! It took a lot of gentle persuasion and reassurance to get the first taste down, and eventually with a short break in between they were down, and stayed down. A further 'grumpy' play on the Wii helped us to forget. Fortunately, Mummy arrived back with Sam and Ian, just in time to take our minds off it completely.


Ella made and played with Mummy for a while and then it was time to go along to Xray for a check up on the chest, ( a little rattle ). We processed proudly along the corridor....Mummy and Ella leading the way, myself and the monitors bringing up the rear guard.


Ella has been quite sleepy today, with frequent naps in between activities. One huge difference today is that Ella's hair loss has started for real. Whilst we are holding our breath in amazement and total admiration for this dear little girl, Ella's only comment this afternoon was " it's gone in the glue now..it's stuck all over my painting!"


Bedtime came quite early and took us by surprise. Mummy had been persuaded that the only way for Ella to get from her bed to the bed/settee, to watch TV, was to be carried across the room. A very good ploy, which Ella has been using on Auntie Rachael and Daddy just recently. ( I think I'm considered too old for the job). Once across here she promptly fell asleep, missing all her favourites......Emmerdale, 'Enders and Corrie. Actually, we noticed that she was panting slightly, so after a quick look over by Sister it was decided to give her a whiff of oxygen, which meant carrying her back again! Do we mind? Of course not! She looks really cosy and settled at the moment.


I'm including a photo of Sally tonight. As I blog she is ........guess what?.........cross stitching..........in a darkened room, with a Tinkerbell reading light shining on it. Honestly, I never thought I would see the day!!!!!!!!

What can I do as my new hobby? I've tried macaroon dissection, cardio vascular dancing and Wii -ing. Maybe I'll take up quilling......I've heard it's quite relaxing.

Sally and I are just deciding who is going to make the next cup of tea..........I think I'm going to win. There are some good points about pulling rank aren't there?
Night night to everyone and lots of love and thank you's for all your blogs and messages.

Sally, Ella and Annette.xxxxxxxxxxx

PS Ella has got all her lines down, except one. She will have a real surprise when she wakes up!

Thought you would like to see these photos of Ella with John the 'magic man' and then with Daddy, making cakes. Rachael looks really chilled out there, painting.

Day + 11

I arrived back this lunch time to find Ella and Daddy watching 'Mrs Doubtfire', but with great plans for Ella to whoop me in the Wii. I needed a quick cup of tea ready to steel myself for that one and a chance to catch up on overnight news.

I already knew that Ella had had a good night and that Rachael had slept well in the igloo, but the fantastic news is that it's looking positive that the donor cells may be 'coming up'. We know it's a very slow process, but early signs may be there.

Rachael had already left when I arrived, taking a welcome break and getting back to her little ones. They must be missing her and vice versa. Well done Rachael.

Daddy, Ella and I settled into a quiet Sunday afternoon. A few visits to the igloo to catch up on washing......Damian took one load and I perched Ella on the window ledge so that she could see him cross the carpark. No sooner had we done that than all the machines beeped at the same time, they all flashed and went into overload. Never mind, it gave Ella a look outside.....first time since the snowman!

Ella and I had a 'go' on the Wii. Talk about being white washed!!!!!!!! I think we have got a girly racing driver in the family. Then Daddy got on to show us how to do it properly. Obviously a man with too much spare time on his hands! On to something else I think!

We hunted in the making box and came up with a kit to make an angel fish from balsa wood..courtesy of Reg. Just the thing to keep Damian busy for a few hours. Ella is helping, in between having little rests on the bed/settee and I'm blogging. There is a lot of steam coming from that direction, but I must confess it's looking very splendid. Watch this space for the finished article.

Ella's lines are due to be changed soon....I think that's why they are beeping so loudly. I expect a team will be in soon, to sort them out. Nikki has been looking after Ella this afternoon. She has been teasing her. Sometimes Ella 'growls' at the nurses when they come. It causes an immediate laugh and lightens the job, I guess.

I think we are going to settle down early tonight, ready to watch the Dancing on Ice and then Ella's favourite programme , Wild at Heart. I'm going to practise my dance moves when I get back to the igloo...........I need to after all that gorgeous food I ate last night!

We really enjoyed reading all your news earlier. Hi everyone and thankyou.

Night night, and lots of love and cuddles, especially to Mummy, who is coming back tomorrow, and to Auntie Rachael, who we miss already.xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Annette,Damian and Ella

Day +10
Hi to all bloggers, Happy Valentines Day!,
Its Ella, Daddy and auntie Rachael, as Nanna's away,
Where has she gone? I can hear you all thinking,
For a Valentines dinner and lots of Wine drinking!!,
Reg came to 'the unit' and whisked her away,
To a hotel on the East Lanc's for an overnight stay!!!,
What shall we do while the cats away???,
Lots of cake making is again the request of today!

After a quite an unsettled night, I woke this morning to find Ella watching Toonatik. I had told mum to have a 'lie' in, in the igloo and not to worry about Ella and I as I thought we would all be up late.
Late yesterday evening, Ella was given a blood transfusion with platelets to follow, and her morphine which had been turned down earlier in the day was turned off. At bedtime we noticed Ella becoming more and more restless, which led to the morphine be turned on again at 2.30am, we agreed that this would have been the desision if Sally or Damian had been here also. Shortly after this Ella seemed to drift off, mum eventually retired to the igloo, and I got into bed. Not for long though, as Ella was then up again till gone 4.30am. Not particularly unwell, but something wasnt quite right.
When mum got here at 9am,ish Ella seemed quite perky, if a little grouchy that we had not been up with tea and biscuits earlier! So we set about the daily routine of 'housework', only to find a few moments, later Ella begin to flop, and complain of tummy ache. We tried to distract Ella for a while by giving her Valentine presents and cards, which did bring a smile for a few minutes. The doctor arrived, who said everything was ok, and par of the course, maybe expectations given the day before had been slightly premature? she reassured that anytime Ella needed it, the morphine could be turned up, and the continuing sickness was just the after effects of chemotherapy. This was quite dismaying, given the positive 'lift' we had felt 24 hours earlier. In another perky moment however, Ella was taking nana's temperature, and her own, only to discover that it was 38.3, oh no, antibiotic time!!
This apparently though, can be quite normal as there are no white blood cells, so as soon as temperatures reach 38 antibiotic infusions are given immediatly. Parecetemol has to wait as the drugs are to important, so consequently to this, Ella's morphine was turned up slightly to deal with any pain she might have. We were told that it shouldnt take long to take effect, and luckily they were right! Ella seemed to 'liven up' within the hour and before we knew it the baking had begun. It was just mum and I that needed an injection of adrenalin and eye bag removal!!
Chocolate cookies and smartie fairy cakes, were under way, helped by nana, whist I became the washing lady today [needed fresh air to stay awake!]
The cakes were soon cooling, and it was time for Nana to leave on her romantic break [think Reg will have to prop mum up on the dancefloor!]
Ella and I then got stuck into more painting and Valentine card making ready for Daddy to arrive. At 5pm Damian came and Ella presented him with a beautifully decorated heart magnet and bumblebee card, smiles all round, lovely!
Since then things have gone from strength to strength, and on coming back from the laundrette for the 100th time I heard screaming from Ella's room, only to find Ella and Damian battling it out on Wii Mario Kart! A definite improvement from this morning!
One thing noticed this morning though, is that the first few strands of Ella hair began to come out. But when I had eventually swallowed the lump in my throat, i asked Ella about it, only for her to reply, 'yeah I know' in a 'whatever' type attitude. She's such a superstar.
So that is where we are up to so far today, Ella has just fallen asleep, unbelievably without a nap at all. I have decided to write the blog early before I pass out, and Damian has just come in with tea, mmn steak pie followed by crumble and custard! thanx sooooooo much auntie Dianne, a very welcome treat!
Night night again to all, sleep tight, as hopefully we will! xxx

Day+8


As I jogged up to the unit I wandered what the new day would bring? I had time for a few more laps of the carpark, but something wasn't right.......something was buzzing again and again. My alarm of course, waking me up to reality, a freezing cold igloo, no towel except the NHS exfoliator and pitch black darkness. Looking out of the window I could see the glowing warmth of the Unit and of my girls. Both good reasons to jump out of bed with vigour!


We started off with a group hug on Ella's bed and slowly graduated to the bed settee, which had been freshly changed...so Rachael couldn't get back in it now!Ha. As Ella and I warmed up Rachael re appeared with our breakfast, a great treat to have it brought on a tray. Ella had just decided on weetabix and then the usual happened, in came our nurses to take blood. The line was tried, we held our breath. It was wriggled and jiggled, we held our breath. Then joy of joys, the answer to many prayers, it began to bleed back and give a lovely sample. Ella had two teaspoons of her breakfast and was a happy bunny.A quick bedbath followed, no tears, followed by what Ella had most been looking forward to. Putting dry shampoo on Nanna's hair. I survived, albeit in a cloud of white powder. Back to the drawing board tomorrow.


The Dr. ( very senior) arrived and as he examined Ella he commented on her progress so far and said that she is doing really well. He would like her to try to eat more, because her mouth isn't sore just now and the fact is that the more she can tolerate orally, the more quickly they can wean her off the line feeds. He suggested specially prepared milk shakes etc and said that he would organise for the dietitian to call and see us today. She did come and the result is we have got some milky cartons for Ella to enjoy when she is in the mood.


Janet arrived , bringing a book which she had promised to read to Ella ..The Rude Rhinoceros ... then even more fractions. Never mind, it's Half Term next week, and Ella has a week off, not to mention Janet.


We had a lovely surprise visit from June and her little girl Heather this morning. We chatted either side of the screen for quite a while and then Rachael took them along to the restaurant. Then Daddy arrived...had he brought the most important things of all? YES.CAKE MIXES!!!!!!!!!!


We had had the idea that today we could make cakes, as long as Ella didn't come into contact with the raw egg. Well, there are ways around that . So, with Ella covered in white pinny and wearing surgical gloves she mixed and stirred and filled cases with Daddy, who in turn carried them to the kitchen to bake. Running the gauntlet of the nurses talking about 'being in touch with his feminine side' can't have been easy. Mind you Damian, your muffins are lovely so it was worth it. Not that Rachael and I would know....us being on our strict diet and all!


After Damian left about 6.00pm it was time to set Ella's line up to receive the blood transfusion expected today. That is up now and will be followed by platelets, to give her a boost. She'll be on 'rocket fuel' tomorrow won't she?


All is peaceful now, Ella is fast asleep, Rachael and I are having a welcome cup of tea before bed and the machines are not beeping. Has there been a power cut? Oh no, they're still glowing red , there in the corner.


Have I told you that the unit washing machine has conked out? Well it has. We always have stacks of washing to do, because we have brought little girl bedding and snugglies which have to be changed and washed each day. Fortunately the igloo has a working washer and the washing was ferried across in carrier bags, hence my new name 'bag lady'.

Oh well, that's about all for today I think. As usual we send you all lots of love and big thankyou's for our blogs. Annette,Rachael and Ella xxx

Grace and her Mum, Sam, when they came to visit.

Day+
A really peaceful opening to this day with both Ella and Rachael fast asleep when I arrived. I made good use of the quiet time I had, adding the finishing touches to my leg warmers, then shortly before 8.00am I heard a movement........Rachael. She was quickly revived with sugary coffee and shortly afterwards Ella woke up too. We all sat on Rachael's bed to have a usual sharing of ' during the night' stories and discussed our plans for the day.We put on the dvd, but only to watch, it wasn't fair to the other patients to make a noise at that time was it?
Ella was just helping herself to some cornflakes when Nikki arriveed to say that Ella needed to give some blood again (line still being naughty). She gave her the choice of a thumb prick or from her arm. We were all surprised when Ella elected tp have the latter. All the grown ups then spent the next half hour trying to change her mind, in order to avoid the performance of yesterday. Eventually she was 'thumbed' much to Ella's disgust, and Rachael and I had the back lash of a grumpy, fed up little angel to get 'you know what'ed'. It was decided a quick bed bath was the order of the day, quick pj game and back onto her own bed just in time for Janet to arrive. A welcome distraction!
The lesson was fractions again today and then a computer session. All good stuff. Janet explained that as we move into the next couple of weeks there may be times when lessons, as such, won't go ahead ,so the computer will come become even more useful.Stories and hands and feet massages will help Ella to relax and keep her motivated. They made a good start this afternoon when Janet came back to massage Ella's hands and paint her nails. Lovely! A great time to chat!Half term next week, can the time be flying by so quickly?
Later we had a visit from Muriel our play specialist, another welcome diversion from the 'thumb' incident. Ella happily used a sticker book with Muriel whilst talking about the pros and cons of giving blood, Rachael painted and I tidied the toy boxes.
By early afternoon Ella had more or less forgiven us and we all settled down to watch a dvd......Tinkerbell. Ella managed the first ten mins. which left Rachael and I to relax and enjoy it to the very end. I have been trying for the last two days to prise Rachael outside. She gave in this afternoon and went shopping in Swinton.umm. She came back two hours later with quite an assortment of shopping which included Reb Bull and dry shampoo (good thinking?)
After such a long sleep this afternoon Ella is wide awake at 9.45pm. Of course we have switched the TV off, and instead Rachael is warming up using the dvd. A shining example of agility and grace. ( remember the boxercise Sally?) I'm doing my bit sat down, just in case you think I'm slacking. There is much pointing of toes going on under the bed Im leaning on, writing tonights' blog. VERY strenuous on the old ankles don't you know!
We have decided to have an early night tonight. Rachael is cooling off on the bathroom.(muttering something about loosing weight).......and Ella has been watching projected space pictures on the walls, which are meant to be soothing and relaxing. Unfortunately the projector makes such a racket that I've had to switch it off.
We'll say night night to everyone, especially Mummy and Daddy. Ella can't wait to see you again and sends big hugs and kisses. lots of love to everyone, Ella, Rachael and Annette.xxx

Day+6
We are really getting the hang of this now. I arrived about 7.15am and Rachael and Ella were awake and taking notice. In fact they had the biscuit box out and ready for when their cups of tea arrived.
As usual we discussed 'the shower' and finally after much cajoling Ella agreed to go in there as long as she didn't get wet. So that's what we did. She sat on the chair wrapped in her big fluffy towel from neck to ankles with her feet in the little blue bath. Auntie Rachael, on the other hand ,was down to the buff ...behind the chair.... washing the royal hair. We prayed that the Dr. wouldn't arrive at that moment in case we had to explain why Ella was dry and Rachael was soaked! ( don't worry, she did emerge clean in the end ).
We had breakfast quite late today, in fact Janet had arrived. ICT skills were the order of the day, and after Ella had been shown around her hospital laptop, Janet introduced her to a programme working on fractions, which Ella's friends at school are working on too. I'm sure they weren't lucky enough to be snuggled up to Mrs Hodge though,as Ella was to Janet.
You can't wait to find out about today's project can you? I'll give you a clue......... P of P.
Yes! Plaster of paris! After a very organised, but very messy, making of the shapes, they were put to dry for later. After a quick nap over lunch then began the painting of the 24 perfectly formed hearts,mirror frames, flowers,ladybirds etc. Ella was enthralled and so were her nurses today. She concentrated on the job, none stop, for at least two hours whilst Reg and I shopped for more goodies in Swinton. I had to stop Rachael in the end....she was enthralled too....... I'm sure she has a few of them lined up as birthday presents for friends!
There is a problem with Ella's line at the moment, All her many treatments are going into the line, but the nurses are not able to draw any blood from it.........which is essential in order to monitor blood counts etc. Because of this, Ella has had blood taken from her arm for the last two days, which is not an ideal situation from any point of view. Therefore her lines were closed down for a couple of hours at bedtime, in order to put a warfarin based flush into them. Ella had the great joy of being snuggled on Rachael's knee with no lines and no beeps, and that's how she fell asleep.
Isn't children's sleep amazing ? Sometimes you only have to breathe in and they wake up. We have just watched the lovely, and extremely skillful, night staff reconnect all Ella's lines to her feeds and drugs without her knowing. We do appreciate their care and gentleness.
I have some distressing news to pass on. Unfortunately the first day of mine and Rachael's fitness regime has had to be postponed until tomorrow, we are still knitting our leg warmers . We have vowed to take as long as it needs through the night to get them finished. Needless to say the video is still in the box!
Night night, Annette, Rachael and Ella xx

Day+5
In all the other rooms on the unit it came light about 7.30am, except ours..............
Is that song by Tina Turner called "Steamy Windows" or "Smeary Windows"? If it's the latter, then any remake of the video could easily be filmed here, in Ella's room. Mind you, they are the cleanest smears in town, thanks to Rachael.
Ella and Auntie Rachael were awake when I arrived and both had had quite a peaceful nights' sleep, the morphine seemingly having done it's job, and Ella only waking a couple of times. We had a gentle start with a 'nice cup of tea' and then we set about the daily routines, starting with the beds. Rachael was easily turfed out, but Ella wanted another few minutes.............before her bed bath..........then another few minutes.....until finally she succumbed to the gentle touch of Auntie Rachael and the sweet smelling bubbles. ( I was trying put the vision of the windows out of my mind at this point.) We played the pj's game, where Ella guesses which top we have hidden up our jumper and she tries to match the bottoms, then she chooses which ones to wear. Pink gingham today!
Breakfast came and went with Rachael and I polishing off bagels (with pastrami ) and Ella fancying just the toasted bagel with butter. When the nurse asked me later how much she had eaten, I was able to say ' oh! a quarter of a half '.( Not very good for a former Maths Co-Ordinator.)
Janet came quite early and they read and compared Greek myths again, looking at the features and enjoying the stories. A real treat to see and hear.
A little later, Muriel ( play specialist ) came to the window to say that the magician was coming in about 2.00pm. Ella and all the family know him from Chiquitos Restaurant in Southport, where he entertains the children at teatime on Sundays. He also works in the hospitals in the North West and had promised to come in to see Ella when he was over here. Ella was sooooooooo excited and had the great idea of drawing him a picture, which she decided was going to be a seaside scene with him stood on the seashore. From that we moved on to making him a present. What could it be? Of course, a finger knitted wand warmer........perhaps not.No! we would make him the wand itself! Good old Auntie Rachael, she knew just what to do. She prepared the sparkly star for the top of it, whilst Ella did a mile of finger knitting to cover a pencil twice. Then it was all glued into place, with a pompom on the end! One wand extraordinaire!!
We waited for the big moment to arrive ( transferring Ella to her bed so that she would be able to see him through the window and trying to keep her awake long enough to see him at all) and it didn't disappoint. Ella was delighted with his magic and Mr Magic was delighted with his presents!
We have found Ella much more content to sit or lie quietly for longer periods today, in fact this morning we listened to gentle background music whilst we 'made and do'd'. One of the nurses commented that she loved our room because it is so calm and a little haven of girliness.Ahhh

Sadly both Mummy and Daddy are suffering with coughs and colds, so will not be joining us for a few days. On day +5 transplant patients begin treatment to encourage the growth of white blood cells. Ella will be at her lowest over the next few days, but the work is beginning, to build her up again. It also means that she is at her most vunerable to infections. Tomorrow she is going to have a blood transfusion ( standard practice )to give her a boost and help her along a little.

Tonight Ella fell asleep early, shortly after 5.00pm and she hasn't really woken up. We've settled her down for the night, her lines have been changed and her pink fairy lights are on. Mummy and Daddy have been reassured that all is well and hopefully they will have a peaceful night too.

Hi all, its rachael. Just a quickie from me to say 'hi'and let you know, mum and I also got a pressie today, brought to us by Reggie's son Simon. An exercise dvd!!!
Strictly come dancing workout! It arrived shortly after the magic man, and is still in the wrapper. We decided that it would be a good idea to work our way up to it, and begin tomorrow. Oh good time left for a macaroon!!
The medical team have been fully informed, and are standing by, so watch this space.....!!!
We have enquired with a professional window cleaner who advised vinegar and newspaper, although mum suggested elbow grease???!! might just leave them till we have perfected our quick step tango's, and fast jive moves, we are overlooking the car park after all!!!
Night night from Rachael Annette and our darling Ella.x
PS. In the words of Bruce Forsythe Andrea, ' you're my favourite'.
PPS. Don't worry Colette, Simon couldn't be tempted by our macaroons.
PPS. Come on Martin.I'm still thinking of a rhyme to go with Rev.

Day +4
The day began as I was woken up by the blaring of Nana's alarm clock. Hmnn!! I was as, snug as a bug, in an ....igloo??
I checked my mobile phone, and to my horror, there were 3 missed calls from Sally at 3.30am, what had happened???
I quickly showered, and ran as fast as I could across the car park, into 'the unit', washed my hands, alcohol gel'd my hands, entered Ellas room, re washed my hands, re alcohol gel'd my hands, aproned up, and..... they were just waking up!!
Thankgoodness no immediate emergency iIhad slept through!
Apparently, Sally had had several missed calls from John at 3am, and on trying to reply, there had been no answer. Panic back on, as John was alone at home only for the second time with Jack, Max and Sophie. aghh!
No answer again for an hour, but eventually, after almost contacting all the emergency services, he called back. John had fallen asleep, with the phone in bed, and Sophie, and Jack and Max, and every time he turned over he redialled Sally's phone. MEN!!!
Another 'peaceful' night for my poor sister!!!!

That was only the start of the day, you can imagine how the rest of the day has gone! [what will nana say on her return!!]

Ella had a fairly quiet night, although the tummy ache continued, was it time to start the morphine infusions?

After protesting about the shower routine, Sally and I eventually gave in, and agreed to a bed bath. The race was on, could Ella and Ibeat Sally in the shower?
Of course we won, and with Ella now quite happy, the mornings activites began!

Ella and Sally made teeny meez outfits [dont ask!] whilst I settled into 'antibacterialing' ALL the sillvanian families. [they're still not finished, got another 3 villages to do!]
Ella's teacher, Janet arrived with Greek mythology the subject for today!.

School was put to one side when, 'the tray', and Nikki came in. Oh no, its monday, dressing change day, and bloods. The tears began, poor Ella.
It went from bad to worse when Ella's 'line' would flush, but no blood could be drawn back from it, Ella, Nikki, Janet and Sally tried all but stand Ella on her head. No success. At least the medicines were going in.

More tummy ache..
Doctor Wynn came on morning rounds and was extremely pleased with our dear little Ella, infact , introduced her to his team as 'Ella, no complications', what a relief. Tummy ache, vomiting and a sore mouth were also to be expected at this stage. At the moment Ella doesn't have sore mouth, there is obviously something in sucking ice pops during chemo!

Knee deep in alcohol wipes, Ella decide to join me with the silvanian families, so for a while, all 3 of us happily played along. It was nice to see Ella sat out in a chair, especially not covered in glue!

Another try for bloods. Nothing.

Sally and I decided that she would go home and spend a night with Sam, as nana was on her way back. d d duh!!!
Sally disappeared for a few minutes to pack, when a nurse came to take Ella for a chest x-ray. [she has a slight cough] and they also thought that it would check if Ella's line was still int the right place.
I didnt know what to do, Ella was in isolation, no-one is allowed in her room other than a named few, let alone be allowed out! the nurse assured us though that everywhere had been evacuated from general rif raf, all doors had been opened ready, and of we went. Ella agreed it was almost popstar treatment!!
The only problem was, would anyone believe us on our return?

Still no blood, and more tummy ache.

Sally went home, and nana arrived, soon we were ship shape again. Don't you just love mummys!!

The evening drew in, the bloods didn't, oh no, not again, 'the tray' and magic cream. More needles, and during corrie orrie, how rude!!!
Luckily, a very lovely, experienced doctor took Ella's blood without any tears, and nana, Sally and I agreed that the morphine should start. One good thing at least, Ella will have a sleepy, dreamy night, ready to start all over again tommorow.

Night night, got to go, nana is twitting in my ear to get off. [will pass you over, am going to put my shoes on and make a break for the igloo before she notices!] rachael xx

Oh no she isn't......Annette xx
PS When I arrived Rachael was actually cleaning the windows with alcohol wipes..........

Day + 3

Oh what a funny Nana have we,

Can we make the blog as funny as she ?

We have sat hear thinking and scratching our heads,

As Nana's gone home for a night of passion with Reg........... OOH erh!!

She's gone off in the blizzard ,

Completely oblivious

To the plans laid down in Ella's room,

For little does she know'

as she drives through the snow,

We are hunting for her stash of macaroons..........................!!!

Mmmm they were tasty we left not a crumb ,

So please all you bloggers,

keep shtum!!

Well hello everyone out there!! This is Sally, Ella and Rachael signing in.

Our day only began at 4.45pm, taking over from nana and daddy. We belive everything has gone okay so far today, Ella was just waking from a long afternoon snooze when we arrived. She quickly came too, and before we knew it high school musical was on, Sally was colouring in, and aunty Rachael was break dancing [actually more like belly flopping!] which seemed to raise a slight smile from Ella. Breakthrough!!

As we tucked in to Lamb casserole and dumplings, Ella couldnt be remotly tempted, infact at one point she was hiding underneath a receiver bowl from the smell. So as you can guess, food is way down on the list of prorities for now.

The medicines from the machines is endless, as is the constant bleeping from them, the nurses are really good though and manage to shut them up for at least 60seconds. We did have a funny moment earlier when Sally plugged all the individul machines in next to Ellas bed, and then realised she coulnt get out past the wires!! oops!

Ella is reclining in bed as we write this, trying desperatly to concentrate on Wild at Heart, nursing a very sore tummy, along with being sick. Time for something stronger than paracetemol now.

Shes so brave, our little princess.

The snow seems to have stopped for now, and as we discuss who will sleep in the igloo, our minds quickly wonder to the macaroons!! he he he!! have a good night nana, sleep tight??!!! xx

Lots of love to you all, and thankyou for all your messages, they keep some kind of sanity in here! looking forward to reading them all tommorow, night night, Ella, Sally and Rachael xx

Day +2
Our days are definitely starting slightly later, although I'm sure Sally wouldn't agree with that. Her and Ella's night wasn't as peaceful as it may have been. I think I heard Sally say something about "those bleeping machines". When I arrived it was to find both Mummy and Ella in Ella's bed this time.
We decided to have breakfast first today and discuss showers when we'd eaten. Ella nibbled the cereal and buttered her own toast, and that was about as far as it got. She really is trying. All the nutrients she needs are going through the lines now, so the eating has become less of a challenge for her and us.
Then it was shower time...
We got well prepared this time, with a willing Ella. I filled the little blue bath with bubbles so that she could have a little play with the flannels and soap whilst sat on the chair in the shower, backwash salon style, to have her hair washed. Got the picture? Mummy was in the firing line this time, wrapped in a towel, I held the lines and the machine bleeped on merrily. Needless to say, as soon as any water came near, Ella immediately changed her mind and screamed blue murder, until the three of us emerged, five mins later, triumphant. A clean baby with clean hair.
On with the clean pj's and back onto her freshly made bed, with her Hannah Montana cover on.
Sally took the opportunity to cut Ella's hair shorter. Ella knows that one of the consequences will be hair loss and in her own way she is ready for this. We asked the nurse for scissors and Sally very skillfully cut a shorter 'bob' style. Lump in throat time.
Next it was Sylvanian Families..to the un-initiated they are tiny figures (mice,rabbits,cats,hedgehogs) which have even tinier clothes and furniture etc and when you have set them up you play 'dolls house '. Ella loves it, and so do I for that matter. We already have their village set up in the room, so it's just a matter of thinking of a storyline. Shopping for shoes today!
We were expecting Daddy later. He was coming over with Sam, Ella's best friend from school..Grace and her Mum, who's also called Sam! Got that? Ella has been looking forward to Grace coming for days, so it was decided that a little nap would be a good idea before hand. Mummy agreed and was asleep before Ella and I had strict instructions to wake them up at 3.00...which is easier said than done. Grace arrived and the little girls were able to speak through the glass and pass things to each other through the "in and out" doors.
Sally has gone home tonight, to have some quality time with Sam, so Damian and I are in charge!
Before we finish, Have I told you about the coconut macaroons? They are the latest 'must have' from the hospital restaurant. I'm stashing them in the igloo. We've decided to have a competition. The best "macaroon" comment to the blog during Ella's stay will win.What... we don't know yet.........
By the way Damian said Ella used to like macaroons, but now she is half Canadian we are wondering if, when her taste buds come back, she will be into maple syrup, drizzled over hot pancakes ,instead!
Night night Annette, Damian and Ella.

Day +1

Hello everyone, I wanted to show you these photos of us this morning after my transplant. Thankyou for all of your blogs I enjoy listening to them. I am painting stained glass pictures for my windows.

Lots of love

Ella.xx

As you can see Ella has had a wonderful first post transplant day. She started with a lie in, and so did Daddy. After a cup of tea Daddy and I got cracking on the housework, whilst Ella directed us from the comfort of Daddy's bed.

Then it was Ella's turn to be spruced up...no easy feat with all that equipment in the bathroom. We decided that Ella would stand in the blue bath for a "wash down" rather than a shower.(she is very anxious not to wet the lines). Mummy had arrived by now and she was squashed into the bathroom too, as I filled the little bath using the shower. That's when things went slightly wrong. Somehow the nozzle slipped out of my hand and sprayed me from head to foot, much to the delight of Ella.

When everyone was dry again Daddy slipped out to "make" our breakfast, and it only took 5mins girls. Toast,bacon,eggs,tomatoes and hash brown. What a gem! Ella enjoyed just what she fancied, much to our surprise.

Auntie Rachael soon arrived and Sally and I took the opportunity to go shopping for hand cream (dry hands are an occupational hazard ) and tonights' tea. We found some nice slithers of fresh pineapple for Ella to nibble, we know that post chemo the taste can be very refreshing. We'll see how it goes.

She has continued to amaze us today.

When I came back from a short break I was met by a beautiful streamer she has made with Rachael, to decorate her room, and she was enjoying a story read by teacher, Janet .

It's around 6.30,Rachael and Daddy have left for home and we three have been watching Grease on DVD.Sally and I have been singing along and Ella has looked on in amazement at us jigging up and down. It didn't take long for the news to reach round the unit

"Ella's got Grease on!"

Of course, every subsequent 'obs visit has been a hum along'

Dr Wynn and his team came along this afteroon.He examined Ella and pronounced "You are doing very well ,young lady."

Sally is back in residence tonight.I've evicted her from the igloo.........what with her dryer,straighteners and not to mention zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz ing. It's like having a teenager all over again.

We know this is the beginning , only day +1, and we know there will be some darker times to come, but what a start!

Night Night,Sally Ella and Annette xx

Day zero, transplant day.

Another very peaceful start to the day..Sally and Ella both fast asleep when I arrived. They missed the sight of me arriving covered in snow, it was coming down quite heavily then.(Sadly for us it stopped early so Ella's tree didn't look like a christmas tree for long.)

We got started properly on the day about 8.00am, with Ella propped up comfortably on Sally's bed. No shower today, the thought was too daunting but from tomorrow Ella has to shower everyday. We tried to get interested in "making and doing" but we finally settled on a DVD, which none of us was watching !

How about some breakfast then? That might cheer us up? Sally and I were just getting to grips with cereal and toast when Damian arrived, about 11.30. Now the four of us wondered what to do next. (minds were definitely elsewhere today ).

One of the transplant team arrived to check Ella over, and the first question on three minds was WHEN? He said probably about 7.00pm, we'd know more later. Shortly after he popped his head around the door to say " the cells are air born!". Frantic texting and phone calls followed to let people know the news we had been waiting to hear.

Ella perked up a little during the afternoon, but it was very quiet with Sally still cross stitching,

Damian watching TV with Ella and me doing one of Ella's painting by numbers, age 6+, which was quite hard enough thank you very much.

About 5.30 Sally and I went for a walk and as we passed the nurses station we over heard them talking about Ella and mention "between 5.00 and 6.00". It wasn't a secret of course, but we put two and two together and realised that the moment was coming soon. About 5mins later we saw the courier arrive carrying a cool box and being met by the transplant technician.It was a heart stopping moment I can tell you. To realise the precious load he was holding.

We came back to tell Damian and Dr Wynn came to say that the cells had arrived and were being prepared and checked ready for transplant about 7.00pm. How organised and accurate the timing had been , from this mornings estimate.

The nursing staff made Ella's lines ready, we put our pinnies on ,because from now on Ella is in isolation and everyone who is allowed inside the cubicle needs to wear one, and we clock watched until 7.05 when they arrived to set it up...

Just before that ,two faces appeared outside the door, Auntie Rachael and Auntie Dianne, who had raced over to be here as soon as they heard the news.

The transplant took about an hour to go through, very successfully,with no hitches. A doctor stayed on the unit just in case and a nurse stayed in the cubicle to monitor Ella's vitals every 10mins.

Half way through Ella really perked up and afterwards she made her way to her own bed and waved back to her adoring fan club, through the glass.

We have all (and I'm including all our dear families and friends ) reached the end of a momentous day in many ways, none more so than Sally,Damian,Sam and Ella. We are so grateful for the wonderful support you all give and for the fantastic skills of the team here, who have steered Ella so far successfully.

Here's Tevor the Consultant Clinical Scientist who set up the transplant.

The red bag holds the cells from the donor, Ella's new bone marrow.

The cells have reached Ella's body.

Damian is staying with Ella tonight and Sally is joining me in the igloo, so she'd better behave. Daddy is on breakfast duty so I hope he has a good night ,don't you?

Night night, Sally,Damian,Ella an Annettex

Day-1, 9th day of conditioning

When I peeped through the window this morning Ella was still in bed...awake.....but resting, and Sally was too. This told me a lot about their night. Anyway, we all transferred to Mummy's bed for cups of tea and biscuits, Ella managed two cream Hobnobs and Mummy and I the rest. (umm)

We swapped stories about our nights and I told them about my shower and how I found out too late that I didn't have a towel. About padding ,dripping down the corridor at 6.00am to the shared cupboard to look for a hospital towel, and praying that Harrison Ford wasn't padding in the opposite direction. And about the two postage stamps I found, which didn't actual dry anything but exfoliated beautifully.

Ella's immunology nurse,Barbara, came along to see her about 9.30, just as Sally's phone rang. It was Rachael....and obviously from Sally's voice something was wrong.She had run out of petrol on the East Lancs but had managed to pull off into an industrial estate. "Mum come and get me!"Fortunately Barbara is local and drew me a map! any men reading now look away..........it went over the page.......but I knew what she meant. I did find her eventually in Homebase carpark, where we got her going again. We were soon on the ward, with Auntie Rachael lugging in two great big bags of new craft activities, including a potter's set, complete with wheel. Naturally it's been put to the back of the pile, until Daddy's free!

As the morning progressed it became apparent that there would be big changes all round today, both in Ella's treatment and in her condition.

The line which we hoped would be down today doubled and later unbelievably doubled again. Ella has been very drowsy and hasn't felt like doing much at all. She did brighten up a little when she got her new baby Annabel and positively smiled when Daddy showed her how Sam's new remote control car can go along the ceiling without falling off. When it did fall off there was a hint of a laugh!

Ella drifted in and out of sleep all day really, so we have tried to generate a more calm atmosphere, even little Sam joined in by giving big sister a lovely foot massage ( he's learned a lot Andrea ) while Rachael did some finger knitting.

As I say the lines have quadrupled, so that by tonight there are four drips going all at the same time. Two with feeds to give enough calories etc whilst Ella isn't eating and and two supplying drugs. Sally has been wondering how three of us, and the stand, will squash into the toilet.

As you can see from the photos Ella is well and truly hooked up as she snoozes tonight.

This picture is from Ella's portfolio of makeup...beware., and Ella's tree which she can see from her window even when she is lay down.

It's very late now so we are going to close,Sally has struggled hard to get the photos on, hope you enjoy.

It's great to hear all your news too.Night night form Sally, Ella and Annette