The End of the Journey

As I'm sure you can appreciate, we often wait for the "right" moment to say good-bye, move on or close a chapter in our lives.  When Cole passed away we were sure we would spread his ashes at Pickerel Lake the following summer.  But it just didn't feel right - probably because we weren't ready to let go of him in that way that soon.  And then months turned into 14 years and it's always just felt more natural to have him closer to us.   

For the past six months I've been waiting for that "right" moment to write the final post on the "The Hantscher Update".  Dane finished treatment May 8 and two weeks ago he swallowed his final dose of antibiotics.  We are half way through the critical first year after treatment and he is doing amazing.  He is slowly rebuilding his strength and stamina and it's truly wonderful to watch him play hockey and see he is having no trouble keeping up with everyone else.  Call it superstition, but even though he is on a great path, I felt like saying good-bye to the blog that WAS my lifeline and therapy for a good part of his cancer journey would somehow jinx his recovery.  Well, today I no longer feel that way and the "right" moment has arrived to close this chapter.

 

At lunch today we were honored to be guests at the 2012 Manitoba Philanthropic Awards banquet.  We were there to watch an amazing man, supported by his wonderful family, receive the award for Outstanding Philanthropist.  Dr. Mark Evans is that man and if you have never met him, you will have to trust me when I describe him as a rare person who inspires others to give to amazing causes.  Mark and his family also happen to be South Drive neighbors and our first personal encounter with him sums up what makes him so special.  In late 2009 you will recall Dane was the "face" of the CCMB Foundation's Holiday Appeal.  One cold winter evening our doorbell rang.  It was Mark.  Although I had never met him, intuition kicked in and I was sure it was "the man" others had described to me as being so generous.  He did not disappoint that night.  He introduced himself and asked to meet Dane.  He told Dane the CCMB letter had arrived in his mail and seeeing Dane's face on that newsletter inspired him to knock on our door.  He handed Dane a cheque for $1000 for the Foundation and told him "he was doing a great thing by telling others of his story and encouraging them to give back to CCMB."

 

Over the years we became more friendly with the Evans and so it was this past winter, just as Dane was nearing the home stretch of his treatment, that we were so saddened to hear Mark's kidney cancer had relapsed and was in his lungs.  He would travel to California multiple times for groundbreaking treatment, all the while maintaining his amazing attitude.  We received a phone call early one morning from a mutual friend asking for a photo of Dane.  Mark asked for it along with other photos of kids battling cancer as inspiration while he was in the hospital.  We were so moved and held out so much hope for a successful outcome for Mark.

 

Fast forward to May 26 - "Dane's Dream" events.  We had a very lofty goal of raising $50,000 for CCMB dedicated primarily to pediatric leukemia research.  The afternoon before the social Mark texted me to ask what our goal was.  I hesitated telling him because I did not want him to feel any sense of obligation because he does so much for CCMB and Children's Hospital already.  He "badgered" me a bit and so then I told him our dream number.  In a simple text back he said "don't worry, we will get you there."  That evening he and his wonderful wife Sharon surprised us on stage at the hall and presented a cheque to Dane's Dream for .... $50,000!!!!  That amount combined with the amazing efforts of our committee resulted in $94,000 being raised.  When I think of that moment I still feel like I should pinch myself - it really was surreal and will be one of those times that we never forget.

And so it was today at the luncheon watching the video of Mark before he went to the stage that I really reflected on how touched I feel that our paths crossed three years ago.  Then when he began to talk and tell his story and how he motivates and inspires others, that "right" feeling started to settle in.  The capping moment was when he asked Dane and two other childhood leukemia survivors - kids and families we became friends with during treatment - to join him on stage.  Amazingly Mark is connected to all of these families and although I'm not a huge believer in fate, I think there has been some at work there.  He had the crowd in tears and delivering a standing O as he talked about how funds raised for cancer research save lives and Dane, Hayden and Nick are the proof!!  Mark is also living proof as he is now in remission and with all likelihood and a dose of luck thrown in, he will stay that way for a very long time.  So if you ever struggle with whether your donations or that extra effort for a good cause - regardless of which cause it is - makes a difference, please picture Mark surrounded by three healthy young men.  We might not all have his means, but hopefully he teaches us every person can make a difference.  I hope too that what he has demonstrated sparks youths like these boys, their siblings and friends to carry on his amazing legacy.

November 16, 2012 - nearly four years after Dane's diagnosis and four years to the month that Mark Evans received his original diagnosis, the moment is here and now to say good-bye to this blog.  As I signed off so many times during the first several years, on behalf of all of us, our heartfelt thanks for your endless love, support, understanding, dedication, listening ears and compassion.  We couldn't have done it without you.

We hold the most positive thoughts we can that our Dane and his special friend Mark never fight this battle again and that others win their "war" on cancer.

Love - Dirk, Janie, Dane, Ashley & Clare   

"ONE MORE MONTH!!!"

I'm not sure I can put as many exclamation points as I really want to on this blog's title. I meant to write it yesterday but didn't quite get to it between Easter celebrations - April 8 marks one more month until Dane completes his leukemia treatment!!!

It's truly hard to believe after all these years & months that the end is in sight. I don't want to "pinch" myself because this feeling is pretty great for everybody! We've been very busy prepping for "Dane's Dream" celebration on May 26 - it's going to be an amazing day in support of CCMB Foundation. The hockey game details are taking shape and the social is sold out! Wow, how about that for a great response!

Besides our fundraising activities, we are busy with spring hockey & ringette. Both kids are into it pretty heavy now and then soccer starts for Ashley in May. Clare is nearly three -the big b-day is May 11. So between May 8, May 11 and May 26 it's going to be one crazy & exciting month!!!

We've enjoyed some amazing family time this winter. Late January was a trip to Florida to celebrate finishing the journey and spring break was a ski trip to Montana. Two very different yet equally enjoyable holidays. We "stay put" now until summertime and I sense that is just fine for everyone.

Until next time, take care - The Hantschers

"Welcome 2012"

The calendar will flip to a new year tomorrow night and as a family we are looking VERY forward to 2012. Here are a few of our reasons why ...

- Jan 6 marks Dane's 3 year leukemia anniversary. Certainly not an event to celebrate on its own, however it is a very significant date because it marks 36 months down, a mere four to go of his treatment! In early 2009 it seemed like an eternity until we would get to this point and although it hasn't "blinked" by, it has passed pretty well

- Later in January we take off for a much anticipated family vacation to Florida that includes a four day Bahamas cruise. It's an early celebration trip and to say we are all excited would be an understatement!

- Ashley officially hits pre-teen status at the end of January when she turns 12. Wow - that is hard to believe!

- At the end of May (26th to be exact) we will be holding a HUGE celebration which includes a hockey game and social. All the proceeds will be donated to the CancerCare MB Foundation. Please watch the blog for further details ...

From our entire family to yours, our very best for a happy & HEALTHY 2012!

The Hantschers

"Double Digits!"

October 18, 2001 - Dane Owen Hantscher is born, a son for Janie & Dirk and a little brother for Ashley. Life is great - our family feels complete.

October 18, 2011 - Dane celebrates his double digits birthday with his family and friends, including the newest member that wasn't really in the "plans" all those years ago. As the attached pictures indicate, he had a great milestone b-day. He thanked us for all we did to make it special and he really seemed to appreciate the significance of celebrating the final birthday while he is still undergoing treatment. Next year will be so great!!!

He is doing really well and the countdown is definitely on. In just over a week we will hit the six month mark until he is finished (May 8, 2012) and plans are underway for the big celebration. His counts continue to be pretty good. I'm preparing myself they might be a little low his next appt in early November because they were hovering on the edge at his last clinic visit.

His hockey is going great. His team went 3-1 in a pre-season tourney and he looks really good. He loves his teammates which for us is the most satisfying part of the hockey experience. He's also busy with all things sport at school, including playing on the grade 6 v-ball team (he's only in grade 5)!

Ashley & Clare are doing well. Ashley made the "A" ringette team and plays her first game later today. Like all things in her life, she works very hard and we are really proud of her efforts. Clare is nearly two and a half. She talks in full & multiple sentences, is nearly out of diapers (yeah!!!) and has some attitude! We can't imagine where she gets that from.

We hope fall has been good to you - Janie & Dirk

"We Remember - Sept 29, 1998"

Thirteen years ago tomorrow we welcomed our first child, Cole Andrew. Although we will never truly understand why his physical time with us was so short, we are thankful he came into our world because he will remain in our hearts forever. As we have done every year since 1999, we will visit his place tomorrow and reflect on our special little son and brother. We miss him dearly but are so thankful to be surrounded by his three siblings. They truly do have a guardian angel and we are counting on him to keep them all safe, particularly Dane as he nears the finish line of his journey.

All is well on the medical and home front. Dane's counts are excellent, school has resumed without a hiccup for both kids, Ashley is knee-deep in ringette, Clare is awesome and Dane's extra effort at hockey tryouts last week donned a huge reward - he was successful in his attempt at 10 A1. For those who have been following his story since the beginning, this marks his third season playing higher level hockey while battling the effects of his ongoing treatment. We are thrilled for him but more importantly look so forward to this time next year when he hits the ice "like every other kid". No leukemia, no drugs, no side effects - just pure Dane! That will be an amazing feeling - for all of us.

Take care - Janie & Dirk

We have been on vacation!

Wow, I knew it had been a long time since I posted but didn't realize mid-June was my last blog. Time sure does fly by when it's sunny and warm in Winnipeg. Here's a quick update on Dane's journey the past little while ...

The countdown to the end is kicking into high gear. We are now less than nine months until his treatments are finished. One real positive of such a gap in between posts is the time seems to tick away quicker. We are down to one more birthday, one more school year and one more hockey season until he is finished chemo hopefully forever. The planning for the big celebration is really going to have to ramp up come the fall. We will be busy but it's an event we can't wait to have because it will signal the end of his 3.5 year cancer treatment.

Dane has been feeling really well the past six weeks. We had a "rough" patch in late-June early July when a virus hit him and combined with his chemotherapy obliterated his infection fighting neutrophil cells. The upside for him was he felt good because his daily chemo meds were suspended until the counts rebounded in mid-July. The downside was he was living with a mom & dad (particularly mom) who was very stressed out for several weeks. Although intuitively I knew his leukemia wasn't back, it didn't take away the panic when I saw blood cell counts that were as low as they had ever been, even compared to the very early days of his diagnosis. We generally only go to the clinic every 28 days, but because of the counts were there every week for five weeks straight. It was brutal and on one visit when told his neutrophils were so low they could only be read manually, I lost it - tears and all. I was reassured by the head pediatric oncologist he was "ok", however I didn't "de-stress" until his numbers rebounded. They are much better now and tomorrow is his monthly chemo. We had it moved a few days this week because he and Ashley are both in hockey camps and we didn't want him to get "whacked" with drugs that sap his energy.

Aside from this health blip, the summer has been fantastic! Ashley and I did our mother/daughter trip in early July with friends and it was excellent. We have been spending a lot of time at the cottage in Ontario and the kids have been having a great time with friends, tubing and particularly water-skiing. Last week we were off work but in Winnipeg and very involved in the annual Believe in the Goal golf tourney & hockey game. It was tiring but rewarding and a ton of fun. We wrapped up our vacation with a couple of days at Lake Wpg - Grand & Victoria Beach. The kids don't experience "beach" life too often so it was great.

We are prepping for the return to fall and the busy days & nights of hockey and ringette. Dirk and I are heading back to Las Vegas for a few days in September - we are looking forward to that "R&R" time. Clare is fantastic - so full of personality. She talks all the time - can't imagine where she inherited that trait from!?!? I've attached a picture of the three of them taken by a photog in June.

We hope all is well with you and your family. Until next time - take care, Janie & Dirk

Another (Exiting) Month Behind Us

It's mid-June and with the passing of another month we are that little bit closer to the end of Dane's treatment. Although we are not wishing time away, we are relieved that with every passing month we are that much closer to the finish line of Dane's journey.

We continue to be busy with regular programming. The kids various spring activities are in wind-down mode. Both of them are looking forward to the end of the school year and their much-deserved two month break.
Dane is feeling well. He returns to CCMB June 21 for his next treatment. When we think back to two years ago and all he had to endure, we are so relieved long-term maintenance is a much easier walk. The summer of 2009 was so very hard - a new baby, a struggling sibling and a young boy spending way too much time at the Clinic undergoing tests and receiving meds. That year it was such a struggle to escape Wpg for any length of time because of all his appointments. This year I'm not sure how to manage their schedules. Between camps and trips to the lake, it's going to be busy!

The girls are doing great. Ashley has really matured the past year and as you can imagine, that comes with its pluses/minuses! Seriously, she is a lovely young lady. She has developed a great deal of confidence the past few months and now realizes she can accomplish pretty much anything she sets her mind to. It's wonderful to see. Clare is a ton of fun - talking more than you can imagine. We are in that "danger" zone time though because she repeats pretty much all she hears. With two much older siblings, that can be scary some days!

As you would likely guess, there has been a lot of hockey on our TV the past two months. Dane's interest has waned now, ever since those darn Canucks knocked his Sharks out in the third round. However the end of the season still ended on a high note. On the May long weekend I surprised Dane & Dirk with tickets to Game 4 of the SJ vs. Van series. In a matter of 24 hours, we confirmed tickets, booked flights and a hotel and they and a good friend of Dirk's were off. They had an amazing four days in Cali. Lots of sun, relaxing by the pool, two hockey games (they picked up last-minute tickets to Game 3 as well) and a SF Giants b-ball game. Although the Sharks only won one game, it was a trip of a lifetime and a father-son experience that will be cherished forever. When I think of it nearly a month later I still get "goosebumps". Ash was of course a tad disappointed she and I were not making the trip so I promised her a mother-daughter weekend. As luck would have it, there is a concert in Minni in early July that she is dying to see. So we are heading there with good friends and sans hubbies, brothers and a little sister, we are going to "shop til we drop"!

We hope you are enjoying spring and looking forward to summer. Until our next entry, take care - Janie & Dirk

"MAY 8!!!"

Yes, that's right, we said MAY 8!!! Why are we so excited? Because we are now in official "kick-butt" leukemia countdown. Today is Dane's anniversary date so to speak and this day next year he will be DONE, DONE, DONE this long and winding journey. If you are keeping track, he's completed 28/40 months of treatment in pretty fine form. He had just turned seven a couple of months before his diagnosis and now he is 9 1/2. He has grown likely a head since then and developed in more ways than we can count. Aside from his condition and all that accompanies it, he is a very typical boy who lives for sports, friends and fun and that makes the days much easier for his mom & dad. The planning will soon begin for the BIG, BIG celebration next May. Please watch future blogs for details.

Since my last post we've been very busy with many spring activities. Dane continues to hit the ice multiple times a week with two teams plus he just started flag football last week. Ashley's spring ringette finished just in time for the beginning of the soccer season - a sport she hasn't played in a few years. Her track experience and good conditioning is helping her as she eases back into the game. She can sure chase the ball, now she just needs to get her kicking form back. Both kids are prepping for their school's upcoming track & field meet. They really enjoy sports days and they were out in the field today practicing their sprinting in prep!

Clare's activities are just what most two year olds are into - talking, running, playing and the "odd" temper tantrum. She celebrates her second birthday this coming Wednesday. It's hard to believe she is hitting this milestone already - we all remember well the weekend she was born. It was Mother's Day two years ago and she arrived fifteen minutes after midnight. Although we are biased just a bit, she really is adorable and we love her to bits.
Dane had his last treatment on April 26. For the first time in I don't know how long Dirk took him instead of me. It was a three month appointment so it was a spinal tap as well as IV chemo. I went to bed the night before thinking I would be going as is usually the case, however a very bad case of pink-eye (passed along courtesy of little Clare) kept me away. All went off without a hitch, blood counts were very good and he was back on the ice a couple of days later, albeit a little slower than other times in the month. His next appointment is May 24 so we are the "great zone" right now in terms of energy ... and of course attitude!

Too all you mothers, Happy Mom's Day! We hope you had a special day - my family treated me very well and I'm grateful to have three very wonderful children. one special angel and a great hubby!

Until next time, take care - Janie & Dirk

"Ski Bums"

Good morning,

It's hard to believe it's mid-April already. The snow is almost gone from Winnipeg yards and not a day too soon. We remember how warm it was this time last year, however April sunshine was replaced by the May deluge so perhaps a slower start isn't all bad. Looking very forward to +15 later today!

Although I don't want to remind folks about snow, it's been a while since I posted any pics and couldn't pass up these few from mid-late March. The first was Clare's one and only venture on our rink on bob-skates. She did amazingly well - no tears and was very keen on putting that hockey stick in her hand. The debate is already on in our house - will it be hockey or ringette? We have a few years to decide and for her to show her interest - one thing is for sure though - she is a bona fide "rink rat"!

The other two shots are from our Spring Break trip to Big Sky, Montana. We had an excellent time - the kids only needed about two runs on the first morning to get the feel of it back and then they were off! They skied trails, the bush, jumps and moguls - Dirk & I can't keep up with some of their antics. I'm absent from the outdoor pool shot - somebody has to take the pics, right?? This was our first skiing adventure since spring 2008 and it was a wonderful feeling to know we could all handle it, especially Dane. He never missed a beat and had no stamina issues. They are both "naturals" - all the skating really helps when it comes time to don the skis.

Everyone is pretty healthy in our house right now. Dane had a treatment the day after we got back from the trip and he weathered it very well. April 26 is his next spinal tap and he's decided no more sedation is required - he's going to do all his SPs at the clinic on the same day as his 28 day chemo treatments. What a trooper! It's starting to feel more like the "seventh inning" stretch every day - I will post more on that in my next update.

Ash and Dane are busy with spring sports now - no sooner had the regular season finished before we hit the ice again for 3x3 ringette and hockey and Dane's new spring team. Ash is also playing outdoor soccer for the first time in a few years and that gets going in early May. There are not many free nights or days but that's the way we tend to like it!

Clare is nearing her second birthday. We continue to adore her to bits - although we really good do without the "terrible 2" tantrums. Anybody got a cure for those??

Hope all is good in your worlds. Take care - Janie & Dirk

"Procrastination ..."

Honestly, I've never been a big procrastinator (ok, the odd task gets pushed to the back burner) but this is really bad! It's been six weeks since I last "blogged" - even I didn't realize it had been soooo long. The good news is nobody has emailed asking me if my delinquency means something is wrong. The great news is Dane is doing excellent and with all of life's business, I just haven't sat down to type.

The news ...

Dane started another cycle in early February and his treatment was another milestone in his journey. He was scheduled for two appts that week - his regular monthly check-up on Tuesday and his every three month spinal tap on Wednesday. The problem ... he had a track meet on the Wed and he qualified for several events - even one in an older grade - and there wasn't a hope he was missing out. The appt couldn't be rescheduled but he could have the spinal done in the Clinic on the Tuesday, however with no sedation (a first). He thought about it - but really not for that long - and declared "I will NOT miss the track meet so I'll do the spinal without being put to sleep." There was no changing his mind and although I was nervous (so was he a bit), we proceeded and it went off without a hitch. He lay there so still, the small area on his back frozen and the doctor did her thing. He never moved and afterward said he didn't feel much at all, especially no pain. It was great and now there is likely no turning back. It seemed to make his recovery time shorter because he didn't have to contend with the effects of the sedation. That kid is one tough bugger!!!

An indication of how far I am behind with my writing is we go back to clinic this coming Tuesday for his next monthly checkup. The timing is good as he has no games during the week so he should be well rested by the next weekend for playoffs. It's also steroid time again so we've got that to look forward to - NOT! That said, the past couple of months have definitely been better and we are all thankful that's the case. It's hard to believe we've been at this for over two years. Some days we are both "fed up to here" with leukemia, pills and Dane's fatigue but what can we do? We walk a fine line with him still because when he doesn't show much energy or interest we don't know if it's the meds or Dane just being Dane. We look forward to the day when we know it's just his attitude because at least it will be obvious.

Tons of hockey & ringette still being played. Dane's team just finished the regular season and a tourney - they played 7 games last week and Dane held his own. They start playoffs tomorrow night and then get a week's reprieve. Ashley's playoff journey began today on a winning note and they are back at it this Monday night. After playoffs it's one final year end tourney for both and then we are done for a week or so before spring season starts!

We are heading out on a family ski trip to Montana in March and are very excited! We have not skied since 2008, the spring before Dane got sick and little Ms. Clare arrived. We are heading to Big Sky - a hill I grew up at but haven't been too in about 25 years. Should be lots of fun.

Clare is great! She is nearly 22 months old, getting tall and talking a lot. And not to jinx it but FINALLY sleeping better. We moved her into a bed about a month ago and after a hard transition, she seems to love it and most nights she sleeps through. You can't even imagine how wonderful it is not to feel sleep deprived most of the time - that goes for both Dirk & I. It's amazing how you function so much better with some decent shut-eye!

Well, I've crammed a lot into this blog because I'm mindful it might be a bit until I "post" again. I'll have to put a big, bright sticky note on my face to remind myself! Until next time, take care and hope life is good for all.

Janie & Dirk

"24 down, 16 to go"

Two years ago this week. Life turned upside down. Three and a half years of treatment ahead of us. Such a long, long road. How will we survive the journey that accompanies childhood cancer?

Fast forward to January 2011. Consider ourselves in the "home stretch". 24 months behind us ... 16 more to go. With the start of another calendar year, May 2012 doesn't seem so far away. Oncologist echoes this milestone is good news. Dane continues to stare leukemia in the face and win! Please continue to believe in miracles and no relapses.

Life as of late ...

Enjoyed a nice holiday season with the kids, family and friends. Whipped down to Minni for a few days to watch a Sharks v. Wild NHL game. Dane's hero "Big Joe" was on the losing end but his new and good friend Cam Barker was a wonderful host and victorious. Great shopping and minus getting stuck in Fargo for an extra night because of a crazy blizzard and brutal driving conditions, it was a good trip.

Hockey & ringette are in full swing again. Both kids' teams continue to do pretty well. Ashley's team is 8-1-1 but need to pick it up a bit b/c other teams are really catching up. Dane's 9A1 gang had a great first half finishing near the top of the leader board. Between regular season, tourneys and playoffs, the next three months will be hectic.

Clare is 20 months old. Talking up a storm and really a little character. We love her to bits but really need the "sleep doctor" to pay a visit to our place. She continues to keep us up many nights and this is tough on two working parents.

Medical news ...

Dane had his monthly IV chemo this past Tuesday. All was good. Neutrophils still high enough to stay at 100% chemo dosages. Steroids finished yesterday - yeah! A much better cycle though, really no mood issues which is a welcome relief. He has lots of zip and it showed in his skating this weekend. That's always uplifting.

Hope all is good in your world. Thanks for staying tuned into our ongoing journey.

Janie & Dirk

"Here comes Santa Claus ..."

Two days to go until the big guy in the red suit arrives to delight all of our children. Ashley and Dane are still believers - or at least that's what they tell us! They are getting very excited and it's wonderful they are all so healthy at this special and busy time of the year.

We will post a new update after X-mas ... time is running out and there are still many things to do before the big day. From our family to yours, best wishes for a magical holiday season.

Warmly - The Hantschers

ps Enjoy the 2010 X-mas photo!

"Busy ... Busy"

So, yet another headline to "excuse" my blog writing delay. Life is truly very busy these days ... such is fall when you have kids playing winter sports. A quick recap of the past month and some cute pics as well ...

Start of another cycle

Dane had his monthly chemo treatment and every three month spinal tap procedure last week. The good news is his neutrophil count rebounded from October so we remain at 100% chemo dosages and don't have to go back to clinic until early December. The bad news is the past five days have been "steroids" and you all know by now that is our least favorite time of the month. He did pretty well this go around ... a couple of down days in the middle but today he seems more like his normal self. We are on the countdown of spinals ... I think he only has six left until he finishes this gig once and for all in May 2012!

Early champions

Both kids were entered in pre-season tourneys and just to be sure neither was outdone, each of their teams won the gold medals/championships. Ashley's team is off to a wonderful start - they are 7-0 and really having a great time. She's skating fantastic and playing solid "d". Dane's team is 8-2 and bonding like crazy. In between many ice times they are finding time for lots of fun activities ... swimming parties, street hockey pancake breakfasts and Moose games. All in all - the season is off to a super start.

18 months

It's hard to believe but our "little" Clare is already 18 months old! She is soooo much fun and in our biased opinions absolutely adorable. She has really found her voice - the talking is taking shape and to our dismay, she has screaming down to a science. Not much of a surprise - her favorite word is "NO" and she says it with conviction. She is officially a rink rat and we are looking forward to trying her out in bob-skates this winter on our backyard ice.

Working for a living

It's two months today that I went back and all is going pretty well. It's definitely a balancing act with three kids but everyone is doing their part to manage the "chaos". Dirk is really enjoying his new job at Hydro and his return to the technical side of engineering.

Looking ahead

The rest of this month and December will be filled with more hockey & ringette. Dane's team is entered in a tourney in Minnesota in a few weeks that should be tons of fun. And of course it's prep time for x-mas ... always a busy, busy time of the year!

Hope life is good - Janie & Dirk

"Where have we been?"

These days I feel like a student with a very overdue assignment. I know I need to get my "work" done but I just haven't been able to get to it. After a couple of weeks of procrastinating I'm giving myself a proverbial kick in the butt tonight and posting our news from the past several weeks.

Since I last wrote Dane has had two monthly chemo treatments. One was mid-September and the other was just this morning. He continues to feel pretty well and his blood counts remain decent. Today's neutrophils are a little lower than usual and not optimal, so we have to return to the clinic in two weeks for a follow-up blood test. The good news is his hemoglobin has rebounded (it was a bit lower in Sept) and is sitting in the middle of the normal range. Bodes well for hockey ... I'll get to that update in a minute. The next week will likely not be ideal - the steroids have been affecting him more in recent months. September was brutal and scary -Dane was really emotional and down. We are hoping it was a "blip" due to all the changes in his life and that this month is better. All of us and his oncology team are anxious for the next seven days to be behind us.

We spent much of September and early October in the rink as Dane and Ashley participated in evaluations for A1 hockey & district (A) ringette. In both their cases, energy = effort = positive results. Ashley was successful in her skates and very pleased her hard work landed her on the district team with her BFF. After a bit of a sluggish start (tryouts began the week of Dane's last chemo treatment), Dane hit his stride and for the second year is playing the highest level of hockey for his age. He is really happy with his coaches and players and is already making new friends. Although it's very hard to go through the process, it's all made worthwhile when you see the kids branch out of their comfort zone and develop new friendships. We were really fortunate last year to meet some great new people and we are looking forward to this year being the same. The next couple of weeks are filled with practices and a couple of tournaments and then league play starts in late October/early November.

My return to work in mid-September went pretty smoothly. I didn't enjoy the first few days and I really, really missed the kids. Having Dirk in the same building was a big help and as much as I thought the car pooling would drive us both crazy, it's actually working out well because we get to catch up to & from work every day. Once I got over my loneliness, I started to shift my mind-set back to the world of Hydro and building dams and I actually began to "enjoy" work. Intuitively I knew it was time because I'd been home for too long with my complete focus the kids and Dane's illness. Of course I still think about it when I'm at the office, but I have a job to do and that requires a different kind of focus. Probably the hardest part of returning was getting over the "nagging" feeling the other shoe would drop if I let my guard down and returned to the world of the "living" as I describe it. I know it isn't logical, but it's how I felt. Now that I've been at it for a month, I'm past that fear and know it's best for everyone that I be employed again. Clare has adjusted really well to her nanny and we are so thankful to have such a kind and warm young woman looking after the kids.

Late September was our time to remember Cole and how his presence, even for such a short time, enhanced our lives. The kids still have their moments when they are sad their older brother is not here, but we remind them his gift to them is to live in the moment and be happy. We know that is what he would wanted for his special siblings.

I will sign-off before my ability to articulate really abandons me. I'm pretty tired tonight - this working for a living is definitely an adjustment!

Until next time, take care - Janie & Dirk

Dragon Boating Finals

The email has arrived ... we finished near the top of the pack after our two races today. We had an awesome day and for the first time in the team's history, clocked two races under 2:00. Based on our results, the following is our time for tomorrow:

Time: 12:40 pm (approximate)

Division: Mixed Recreational, Division I

Heat: AA

Lane: 2

Team: #40 - Paddlestar Gallactica

We will also be speaking at the Closing Ceremonies at 4:00 pm in the Beer Gardens (where else)!It's supposed to be a beautiful day and we'd love it if you could join us as we paddle our hearts out in support of the CCS and celebrate a wonderful group of people's contribution to a great cause.

Thank you and good night. Time to rest some tired bodies!

Janie & Dirk

"September is ..."

This month is significant for many reasons, several of which I'll detail in today's entry - "September is ... "

- Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

All across the world, the message is getting out that September is CCAM. The reading I've done on the Internet is fascinating and makes me realize we are part of such a larger community. One of the neatest things about CCAM is some soul has launched a Facebook campaign to get Oprah to do a show about childhood cancer. It was started just a few days ago and has nearly 5000 members already, me included. Lets hope the message is heard loud and clear.

- Back to ... everything

Tomorrow is day one of structure, oh, I mean school. Ashley and Dane start grades 4 & 5 respectively, officially both in middle school. The backpacks are ready, the outfits picked out and the spirits mixed. Ash is definitely ready ... Dane, well he could wear a bathing suit 12 months of the year! I on the other hand really, really need them to get back to routine - nine weeks of togetherness has us all a bit on edge. Clare is not going to know what's up - she is so used to her big bro & sis being around all the time.

I return to work in a week so another big adjustment for the entire family. Clare's nanny is gearing up to start work and we're hopeful for a smooth transition.

The winter sports have kicked into high gear. Hockey & ringette camps are filling our evenings and weekends, but we love being back at the rink.

- Dragon Boating

We finished our third and final practice last night and it was the toughest one either of us can remember. Wow - we have some sore muscles and butts today. It seems finishing 2nd overall last year has the team thinking we need to improve?!? If you are interested in watching an exciting and emotional event, we are team #40 - Paddlestar Gallactica and our Saturday race times are as follows ...

1st race - Heat W - Lane #1 - Approx time 1:50 pm

2nd race - Heat YY - Lane #2 - Approx time 5:20 pm

We won't know Sunday's final time until later Saturday evening (I will post the final that night).

We are the honorary spokespersons for this year's Festival and will be speaking at the Opening (noon Saturday) & Closing Ceremonies (4:00 pm Sunday). Seems pretty appropriate September is CCAM and this event is taking place this month.

If you'd like to support our fundraising, please see the link I included in my last blog update - Thanks!!!

- The Half-Way Mark

A month or so ago when I couldn't fall asleep one night I did the math in my head re: Dane's treatment. He was diagnosed Jan 6, 2009 and will finish May 8, 2012, a total of 40 months to rid his body hopefully once-and-for-all of this nasty leukemia. Well, it's September 7, 2010 and officially month 20 or the half-way mark of our family's journey. When I figured this all out late that one night it was an overwhelming feeling. Realizing how far we've come since that awful January night is pretty amazing, yet knowing we still have just as much time to go is cause for some angst. We will make it though - Dane is just too tenacious, spirited and downright stubborn to let cancer beat him!!!

Take care - Janie & Dirk

A Summer Photo Essay

Well, it's August 29 and in ten days Dane & Ashley will make the trek back to Oakenwald to start grades 4 and 5. Dirk heads to Hydro for Day 1 of his new job tomorrow and the countdown is on for me ... Sept 15 is my return to the working world after a nearly two year hiatus. We've packed a lot of fun into the past two months that I'll recap with some recent photos ...

Look at me ... I'm kayaking! Never to be left behind her big bro & sis, Clare stepped in but never quite made it away from the dock. Check out that tummy!

Although not in this picture, the kids took it one evening at the lake in July. It's got to be one of the best sunsets we've ever seen.



August Long weekend ... fun to be had with Scott, Karen & Marshall visiting from NB. Based upon Marshall's idea, Scott & Dirk's carpentry, Karen and the kids' creativity and G&G's babysitting, we ventured out on the "Pirates of Lot 9" craft for some water excitement!

Pre and post 18 holes of golf with Cam Barker, Dane's generous and gracious host for the Believe in the Goal Invitational Golf Tourney. Dane had an amazing time ... we're not quite sure if Cam will recover from the trauma of Dane's driving, but we are hopeful! Top photo is Dane and Mason dropping the ceremonial puck to kick-off the event. When I get the photos from the professional photog we'll post some of Dane coaching with Jonathan Toews.

Dane's CCMB buddies hanging out in Souris during a very fun but chilly August weekend. Four of the five kids in this photo are kickin' leukemia's but and our host Jessie (far left) has recently beaten her fight with lymphoma. Way to go gang and LOVE all the new curls!!!!

Ashley, Dane & Clare with lake Superior in the background. This one was taken earlier this week during an end-of-summer get-away to Duluth and Minni for sightseeing, lots of swimming and some shopping.

Well, that's July & August in a nutshell. On the medical front, Dane started his fifth Maintenance cycle in mid-August. He has felt great all summer long and we can really notice the return of his strength, stamina and muscle tone. His blood counts have been excellent so he has remained on 100% dosages of all his meds. He and Ashley strap on the skates this week for hockey and ringette camps and we are anxious to see how they fare.

Late August and early September also signifies dragon boating season. As was the case last year, we are paddling on team Paddlestar Gallactica. If you are interested in supporting our cause, the following is the link to our personal page. Our team captain and me are the honorary spokespersons for the event this year. Apparently our team spirit (aka loudness and time spent in the beer tent post races) and Dane's story caught folks' attention in 2009!

http://convio.cancer.ca/site/TR/Manitobathirdpartyevent/DRAGON_MB_Winnipeg_?px=2893401&pg=personal&fr_id=8520

Hope summer has been good to everyone - Janie & Dirk

"Seeing is Believing"

Just time for a quick update and posting of a picture from this week's "Believe in the Goal" activities. It's been a whirlwind three days which I will recap in more detail in my next update when I'm not prying my eyes open with toothpicks. Suffice to say Dane had an AMAZING time as the NHL Experience child and the highlights included golfing 18 holes with Cam Barker, dropping the puck and co-coaching with Jonathan Toews!

Great people united for a great cause ... helping kids & adolescents fighting cancer.

Take care ... Janie & Dirk

"Is he a celebrity yet???"

We're thinking that three CTV stories in eight months has likely "elevated" Dane to a local celebrity but we're certainly not telling him that! And we think after this many tries he might just be getting the hang of how it's done ... the first time all he did was nod; the second story he muttered one word answers and yesterday's piece he nodded, smiled and wait for it ... gave a two word answer! He also obviously poked at one of the hockey stars a bit before the press conference as is evident by Travis' quote about Dane reminding him Jersey went out in the first round - again! Our boy is sure subtle ....

So, in case you didn't catch the story, here is the link to the Believe update that aired July 19. The footage is from the press conference held back in June and it's meant as a lead-up to the big game on August 12. It should be a great couple of days and if you are interested in tickets, they are just $20 and available through Select-A-Seat at at local Dairy Queen stores.

http://winnipeg.ctv.ca/servlet/HTMLTemplate/?tf=ctvlocal%2Fhub%2FhubCap.html&cf=ctvlocal%2Fwinnipeg.cfg&hub=Winnipeg&page=search&site_codename=Winnipeg&query=Dane+Hantscher+&x=30&y=8

The first three weeks of summer have been really good. We've been at the lake for most of it and enjoying some pretty good weather. Dane had his monthly IV chemo appt today. It was long but went not too bad. He was a bit more stressed than usual about the IV ... that's the "double-edged sword" of going infrequently. Needles became second nature for him when he got so many that he didn't even flinch but now he gets a bit more worked up because he kind of forgets from month-to-month. His neutrophils are only .51, so just high enough to keep going at 100% dosages. The oncologist figures it's because he's had a congestion virus for the better part of three weeks so she's not worried. It means a trip back though in two weeks for blood work but that's just a finger poke so he should manage ok. Today is day one of "roid rage" week so we're bracing ourselves for the inevitable emotional roller-coaster. The good news is he should be fully recovered for our next stint at the lake and all the Believe activities.

The change of pace has been nice for Ashley. As much as she loves school, a break from routine and academics is welcome. Clare is "going" even more than last month ... we think she is going to be a handful.

Take care and hope the summer is treating you well - Janie & Dirk

It's Summer and we "Believe"!

Wow - it's been an entire month since my last update! June has been crazy busy and we are all very ready for some quality time at Pickerel Lake. The forecast is looking a bit better so we are optimistic mother nature knows we have high expectations this year. None of this rain and cool weather we experienced last summer - we want sunshine!

Dane continues to feel really well. Last week was his heavy treatment week so physically, mentally and spiritually he was not himself. However he has rebounded nicely and is really pumped to get to the lake. I think he knows how lousy he felt last year and is looking forward to enjoying all his favorite activities with enthusiasm and energy. He has already proclaimed he will be tubing by tomorrow. He doesn't have another treatment until July 20 so we are in the clear for a few weeks. This is awesome because you may recall last July and August we were at the Clinic a ton as he was in the last two months of the intensive phase.

Dane and Ashley's trip to Camp Arnes a few weeks back with CCMB was fantastic!! They made sure they did all the activities and it doesn't sound like they missed us one bit. We know they will be at the top of the sign-up list when 2011 rolls around. My 20km walk on June 12 was equally special. A heartfelt thanks to Jodi, my partner and BFF. We proved that that distance can be done in pretty good time (3.5 hours) even when you don't train and you talk the entire time. Between us we raised over $4000 for the Foundation and I am very appreciative of the generous donations.

We have been very busy working behind the scenes for the Believe in the Goal Foundation. This is the organization that sent Dane to Vancouver in March to watch the Canucks play the Sharks. Believe's marquee event is the SuperStar Summer Showdown. It's August 12 and will feature many huge local stars, including Jonathan Toews, Nigel Dawes and Travis Zajac. The Press Conference announcing the game was yesterday and that's when this awesome photo was snapped. Dane also got the surprise news he will drop the puck at the game ... he's pretty pumped! I'll post more details in an upcoming blog but in the meantime here is a link to the article in the WFP this morning. There is also a very touching story on Shaw TV that features Todd's mom and player friends ... just go to ShawTV Winnipeg and click on Wednesday June 30 stories.

www.winnipegfreepress.com/sports/hockey/nhl-stars-unite-for-cause-97460354.html

Spring hockey & ringette are down - yeah - and we have no skating until late August. We are all looking forward to the break. There will be many laps swam at PL this summer to keep up the kids' stamina and work those leg muscles. This is really good for Dane to counteract the various drugs he continues to take.

Ashley and Clare are doing well. Ashley is glad to be done Grade 4 ... the last couple of months were tough on her. Likely an accumulation of all the stresses she's had to deal with. Clare is basically a going concern, with "going" being the operative word. She is everywhere and into everything! She also has quite the temper and voice ... watch out when she doesn't get her own way.

Hope all is good in your world and enjoy the next few days ... It's Summer and we "Believe"!

Janie & Dirk