"Second chance at summer"

Hello everyone,

Well, this is definitely more like it, even if it is September 2! Dane is feeling much better post transfusion so we are going to enjoy this "second chance at summer" for the next few days before the fall/school activities kick into high gear.

Although his neutrophils remain pretty low (.17), Dane's platelets and hemoglobin have rebounded to nearly 70 and 100 respectively. As such, his color and energy level are really good and they will continue to improve as he has not had any meds in 10 days. He had his weekly check-up yesterday and his oncologist can tell by his other blood results that his neutrophils should start to increase soon. As was the case with all the other phases, he needs to be at .75 and 75 platelets to start long-term Maintenance. We don't think he will be ready next Tuesday, but we have been surprised before. This is the one time when we would appreciate a delay, otherwise he'll be having his once every three months spinal tap next Wednesday, which happens to be the first day of classes. We would really like him to start school normally like all the other kids and not show up at lunch and after a sedation procedure. However, we know we don't control the blood results so we'll just wait and see what next Tuesday brings.

Dane's doctor has given him the ok to play hockey this winter and he is very excited about hitting the ice. We have been outfitting he and Ashley the past couple of days as ringette and hockey camps are in full-swing. Ashley started yesterday and Dane gets going next Tuesday (another reason to hope for a week's delay).

Our Clare is nearing the four month mark (Sept 11) and is now over 15 lbs. She is full of smiles and chuckles and we are all enjoying her many expressions.

Until next week, take care and enjoy the long weekend.

Janie and Dirk