"Right on Track"

Hello everyone,

Dane is at soccer, Ashley is at ringette and baby Clare is "snoozin" so now is the perfect time for me to post a quick blog update. I'll start with Dane's latest treatment news ...

After a ten day break from the Cancer Clinic that was enjoyed and appreciated by all of us, Dane was due for his second Interim Maintenance (IM) treatment today. As I mentioned a couple of weeks ago, during IM the amount of medicine he receives every ten days is based upon his neutrophil and platelet counts. For him to carry on without any breaks, both his neutrophil and platelet counts have to be above .75 and 75 respectively. His counts were great today, 1.51 for neutrophils and 220 for platelets, so he received two medicines as scheduled and the dosage of methotrexate was increased. Aside from a slight crampy stomach-ache after he received the meds, he felt just fine and returned to school for the majority of the afternoon. Assuming no issues arise in the next week and a half, he has another ten day break before his next appointment on May 29. His hemoglobin stayed up there at 106 which is wonderful because then he has more energy to zip around the soccer field and play outside with his sister and his friends. He continues to be one brave kid when it comes to finger pokes and IVs and just today, a few people commented on how well he manages his "needles" in the absence of a port or central line (which the vast majority of kids in his situation have opted for). We are so very proud of him and how he handles his illness.

Baby Clare and family news ...

Week one is in the books and we have all fared pretty well. Clare Avery is a very content baby and she is being spoiled with affection by her big brother and sister. They jockey for who gets to hold her and what they can help out with, and it is wonderful to see them dote on her. Their "hands" truly do make my life a lot easier because I can get lots done while they are snugglin' Clare. Ashley and Dane are unfazed by her nightime wake ups, however Dirk and I are pretty tired these days. After ten days at home with us, Dirk heads back to work tomorrow. Here's hoping little Clare sleeps a bit more soundly tonight so he isn't woken up quite as often. Of course I've included some more recent photos of Clare, Ashley and Dane with this blog update.

Well, my eyes are getting heavy and it's time for wee Clare to have her bath. Our thanks to folks for the kind messages and home cooking - all your efforts are greatly appreciated.

Take care - Janie and Dirk