Journal History
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Monday, November 9, 2009 7:47 AM CST
WOW!!!
11 months of no updates - but that's good news, everything is going great with Cameron.
Eight years ago today, my little 4 year old Cameron was in such severe pain because of the monster that was growing in his head. This monster's name was ganglioglioma and he was a brain tumor that was hurting my baby.
We got rid of that monster, but he didn't leave so completely. He did some damage before that awesome doctor plucked him out. Cameron still has the nerve damage to his left side, his thyroid needs help with a little pill everyday, and his pituitary gland doesn't work quite right so it gets a boost every night via a shot in the leg of HGH (human growth hormone).
Cameron is now 12 years old. He is great! He is growing so tall and before too long he'll be taller than me.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009 10:18 PM CST
Happy New Year!!!
I hope you all had a very Merry Christmas and are enjoying 2009!
Cameron's visit with his endocrinologist went well. Cameron grew 1 inch and gained 2 pounds since his last visit 3 months ago. Wow! So, his growth hormone shot dosage was increased. He's now over 5 feet tall, just by 1/2 an inch, but still...
He got contacts last week and is doing very well with them, he loves being able to see without glasses - I know the feeling!
Friday is report card day, and Cameron assures me it will be ok, and I'm sure it will.
We're still waiting for winter to come, we get little teasers like a really cold day or even snow (ok that was just once) but that 70 degree mark still keeps showing up...I have some sweaters that I'd like to wear, but it has to stay cold long enough!
Cameron and his "g"friend exchanged Christmas gifts right before Christmas and Taylor got him an iPod (kewl) and Cameron gave her a monkey from Build-a-Bear workshop that he thoughtfully named "Cameron" and a necklace with a "C". Talk about cute! They got together on New Year's Day and played "Rock Band" on the Wii - now that was funny - Austin was too shy to sing in front of the grown ups, so he just did the "la la la" thing until we went in the other room...kids...
Well, I hope you all have a wonderful week. Thank you for checking on my (used to be) little man!
Lots of Love
~ Sheri ~
Monday, December 22, 2008 7:39 AM CST
:) Thank you Caringbridge for your fast response to why I couldn't see my new journal entries...
I had my text color set to white - which is fine if it's on a black background...duh!
Anyway, please check journal history for recent update!
Monday, December 22, 2008 7:30 AM CST
Oops! Guess I know what my New Year's Resolution should be....
Cameron did hit the 5' mark by his September doctor visit. He goes back Jan.5th and I bet he's past that.
Cameron made it through the whole 1st semester of 6th grade with NO sick days! That is so great! We actually got some snow a couple weeks ago - a whole inch - so I let him stay home from school to enjoy it. Cameron and Austin had a little snowball fight before Austin and I had to go to school - I got a full-time position in October - yay!
The boys are looking forward to Christmas, already enjoying being off of school for 2 weeks.
My baby is growing up fast. In November, he attended his first school dance with a date! Taylor was in the same first grade class with Cameron and they hadn't seen eachother since the beginning of 2nd grade. So, after 4 years they went to a dance and have been "hangin' out" quite a bit since then. They've been putting the texting and IM's to good use. Tomorrow they'll exchange Christmas presents. I know, he's only 11, that's too young, but it's so cute!
I'll try to update better - at least once a month. Thanks for checking on my big little guy!
Lots of love, and I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas!!!!
~Sheri
Monday, August 18, 2008 10:56 PM CDT
Current journals not showing up on front page, along with titles and other info.
Monday, August 18, 2008 10:35 PM CDT
19 days and counting until Cameron turns 11!
Cameron started 6th grade and so far so good. He's decided to brown-bag it for lunch everyday so he doesn't have to wait in line. Lunch time is their only free time, I should be glad he's eating, huh?
Austin is not too thrilled to be back in the classroom, I think August 8th was way, way too early to start school and I think Austin agrees.
Uncle Matt visited with us for a couple of weeks and the boys had fun playing video games with him, but he had to go back to Arkansas so he wouldn't miss his first day back at college (which was today).
Summer went by way too fast. Basically we just hung around the house, sleeping late, watching tv, playing video games, swimming in the pool - good old summer vacation stuff - all of us, the whole family. It was a blast, but I was glad to get back to substituting and spa parties.
Be sure to check the photo album for Cameron's "first day of 6th grade" picture.
Cameron's MRI on July 11 was all clear - yay! His shunt setting had to be adjusted (first time since he got it almost 7 years ago) but that was no problem. He sees his Endocrinologist on Sept. 15th and we're hoping he'll hit the 5' mark by then, he's getting so tall!
I have no idea what Cameron wants for his birthday - as usual he will wait until the last minute.
Thanks for checking on my guy, I'll update after his next appointment.
Thursday, June 12, 2008 10:49 AM CDT
Happy summer!
Cameron had a visit with his endocrinologist last week and he has gained weight AND height! He's 66 pounds and 4'11".
He did great in 5th grade - Academic Achievement Award and the Sunshine Award (for having a positive attitude and a smile on his face every day).
Austin left 2nd grade with an Honor Roll Trophy and knowing he was the fastest runner in his class!
Cameron's next MRI is in July. The boys are having fun sleeping late and being super lazy.
Have a great summer!
Thursday, June 12, 2008 10:29 AM CDT
Six months already?
Cameron saw his endocrinologist last week and has gained weight AND height! He's 66 pounds and 4'11" - almost as tall as his Granny! His growth hormone shot dosage was increased - that means it's working!
Cameron did great in 5th grade - received an Academic Achievement Award and the Sunshine Award (for always having a smile and a positive attitude).
Austin received an Honor Roll Trophy for 2nd grade and he was the fastest runner in his class.
They are both glad it's summer vacation so they can sleep late - and they do. We're hoping to go to Arkansas next month to visit the cousins - always a good time.
Cameron's next MRI is in July. He's doing great and having fun being 10!
HAVE A GREAT SUMMER!
Thursday, January 10, 2008 11:49 AM CST
Winter in Louisiana means Gumbo!
Next Saturday is the 1st Annual Gumbo Cookoff benefiting the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation - and Cameron will be making the rounds (with me of course) tasting all that yummy gumbo!
Cameron's doing great! He had a wonderful Christmas - many thanks to the great folks with Hugs and Hope that went above and beyond for Cameron and Austin by sending them lots of goodies.
School is going well - not too many complaints - ha ha!
At his December appointment with his Neurosurgeon we were graduated to MRI's every 2 years - yay! Cameron will see his endocrinologist again in February to check on his growth and to see if he'll need an increase in his HGH shots he gets every night.
If you're local, I hope you'll participate in the Gumbo Cookoff -either by cooking, sponsoring or just eating!
Happy New Year to all!
Lots of Love,
Sheri
Friday, November 16, 2007 6:40 AM CST
Six years ago today was the scariest day of my entire life. Six years ago today my first born, my baby, was having brain surgery! The hours Cameron was in surgery seemed to take forever - a forever that my nerves were in such a tight coil it was hard to breathe. I've never been so nervous, so very very scared. The day we discovered Cameron had a brain tumor was terrible, horrifying, but he was with me, I was holding him - he was ok. But six years ago today, he was on an operating table. A section of his skull removed - his 4 year old brain exposed - his life in the hands of the surgical team.
We were given updates about every hour - "the surgery is going well" - but each hour was sooo long. We were told before the surgery what to expect after. Cameron would wake up on a respirator, and likely require therapy to be re-taught how to swallow & talk. Sometimes the patient would "forget" how to do these things after this kind of surgery.
When it was over, I was brought into the recovery room as Cameron had asked for me - HE ASKED FOR ME!!! - that meant he wasn't on on a respirator, and he was speaking! When I got to recovery, Cameron asked me for a drink of water (my shy little baby would never ask someone else) so he got it - no problems swallowing! Thank GOD! He came through the surgery fine - such a tremendous weight was lifted!
PICU was not too fun for Cameron - too many babies crying constantly - lights always on, and Mommy & Daddy had to leave for 2 hours a day for shift change - that's when he took advantage of some sedatives - but who wouldn't? Two days in PICU and he was more than ready to get back into his own room. He didn't move around too much for a while, but enjoyed watching movies and other kids playing video games.
Thanksgiving Day - how fitting - we were released and came home - just in time to get an "already cooked" Thanksgiving Dinner from Albertsons grocery store. After a few weeks, Cameron regained his strength and was doing great.
So, Thanksgiving has extra meaning for us - and this year with it being on the same "dates" as six years ago - just makes it all the more special.
..please pass the gravy....
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving Holiday and enjoy your family. God Bless!
~Sheri~
Saturday, October 27, 2007 4:24 PM CDT
WOW! Finally an update!
Sorry everyone for keeping you hanging, but you know, life happens and you get busy and before you know it, it's been almost a year....not a very good excuse - I know!
Anyway, Cameron is doing great! He's 10 now and recently attended his 4th Ride for Kids event sponsored by the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation - this time he rode by himself - well, in a sidecar without me & Austin. He was the first one in the huge line of motorcycles, in the sidecar of an orange Harley-Davidson! Austin was the back-seat passenger of a NICE Honda Trike and I was on a little yellow bike holding on for dear life! ha ha! We had a great time and the Louisiana Ride raised almost $50,000! This year we'll be helping out a bit with the folks in the LA Task Force and see if by my cutie little (getting big) Cameron making some appearances we can get to $75k!
Cameron successfully completed the 4th grade and left Elementary School behind with an Honor Roll Trophy in his hand. He's now in Middle School working hard in 5th grade! We had a visit with his Endocrinologist yesterday and Cameron is growing fine - he's up to 4'9-1/4" and is a whopping 63 pounds!!! Guess those nightly shots are doing their job!
We have a new addition to our family, another boxer - a male this time, his name is Ike - his claim to fame is that he can open the back door to let himself in, he just won't close it - ha ha!
We went to Arkansas over the summer to see Cameron & Austin's new baby cousin Madelyn - they enjoyed talking baby talk to her. We had fun visiting with all my family and the boys had a blast sharing in the July 4th fun with all their cousins. Get it, blast....fireworks? ha ha ha!
I started substituting last year and I'm at it again. Austin loves it when I'm at school, even though sometimes I don't see him all day. But we get the same days off - yay!
We should be due for an annual MRI in December - I'll probably need to call to remind them to schedule it. But when we go, I'll be sure to post the results. Austin's birthday is coming up fast (Dec.2) my baby will be 8! yikes! Then it will be Christmas - wait, wasn't it just Christmas? Why does the time fly by so fast?
I hope everyone is doing well, have a great Halloween with lots and lots of candy!!!!
~Sheri
Thursday, November 16, 2006 5:01 AM CST
Good Morning!
Cameron had surgery yesterday to remove his tonsils & adenoids, had tubes put in his ears and had minor sinus surgery. His sinuses were packed full of "gunk" so it should make him feel lots better. He did so well with his surgery - he's such a good patient, all the nurses love him. We got home right before 6pm and he was already talking! He was also starving, but he could only have popsicles and jello, so he had 6 jello cups, 9 popsicles, and a slush from Sonic. By 9:30 he was ready for bed and has slept good all night. He sounded so good I told him he could go to school today - ha ha - he didn't go for that, I think he's looking forward to his extended Thanksgiving break.
Austin is getting ready to turn 7 (Dec.2) and deciding on what he wants for his birthday - like always, waiting until the last minute.
It was 5 years ago today that Cameron had his surgery to remove the brain tumor. My how time flies! He has been through so much in the last 5 years, poor baby, but he's doing great! Thank God!
I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving! Thank you for stopping by to check on my brave little man.
Lots of Love!!!
~Sheri~
Sunday, October 22, 2006 7:09 AM CDT
Good Morning!
Not much has been going on besides school, but this morning we're heading out for the PBTF's Ride For Kids!
We're hoping the rain will stay away so we can ride again. Last year Cameron, Austin and I all fit into a side car. It was cozy and fun!
We made up little thank you notes to put in the bag lunches the participants will get. The notes have a picture of Cameron from last year's ride and it says "Thank you for all you do! See you next year! Love Cameron".
I thought about it way too late, or did I, to actually help raise some money for the PBTF instead of just bringing Cameron as a Ride For Kids Star. I was telling this to the secretary at school and she gave me a $25 check so Cameron would have something to bring. What a great lady!
Well, I better get the kids up and ready so we can hit the road!!!
Have a great week!
Lots of Love!!!
~Sheri~
Wednesday, August 16, 2006 8:20 AM CDT
Wow! What a summer!
Cameron is doing great - I took him off his allergy medicine for the summer and had no problems - no sickness all summer! yay!
This morning Cameron and Austin went to school so summer vacation is officially over. Cameron is in 4th grade and Austin is in 1st. They are growing up so fast. I dropped the boys off at school and when I got home I noticed Cameron left his lunch in the car. I hope he doesn't stress out about it - I always worry about my kids stressing over something and it makes me feel bad. I guess it will teach them responsibility, but still...
We put a pool in this summer so we stayed home and enjoyed it. We did go to Dallas at the end of July for my BeautiControl convention. That was the only travelling we did, but that's ok, we've had fun just hanging out and swimming.
Cameron's MRI in June showed no change and his Neurologist said he thinks Cameron is in the clear and he doesn't think the tumor will come back. He's leaving the shunt in, kinda like "if it ain't broke, don't fix it".
Cameron is still on the growth hormone shots every night, and he's getting a bit taller, but still at 50 pounds so his dosage stays the same. Austin is catching up to him quick.
So, the kids are in school and here I am, with the empty nest. I guess I better make myself useful.
Have a great week!!!!
Lots of Love,
~Sheri~
Wednesday, April 5, 2006 7:11 PM CDT
No news is good news, right?
Cameron has been doing very well aside from the usual cold, allergy, sinus infection stuff. He gets to have some allergy testing done next week. Poor baby, more stuff to go through.
Baseball season has begun and now our calendar is full until the second week in June.
Cameron's next MRI is April 28 so it's back to New Orleans for that.
We got to go to Arkansas during Mardi Gras to visit my Mom and my sister and brothers and sisters-in-law and neices and nephews, and Cameron and Austin got to finally play with their cousins - all of them! Whew, what a run on sentence! It was great - we had a family picture made and if I ever get around to getting a copy, I will post it in the album. It was fun trying to get all 15 of us to smile at the same time.
Sorry for the huge delay for an update, and I hope I can get to it more often, but we're entering the really busy time of the school year - ugh! I hope you all are doing well. Have a great April!!! (My birthday is Saturday - I know you were about to ask - hee hee!)
Lots of Love!!!
~Sheri~
Tuesday, January 17, 2006 5:52 AM CST
I can't believe I haven't updated since last year! ha ha!
Christmas was wonderful, Cameron even commented that they got too much stuff. I'll have to keep that in mind for next year. The folks from Hugs & Hope really went above and beyond with loaded stockings and then a huge box of presents for the boys. Big thanks to Hugs & Hope and Make A Child Smile for thinking of my boys during the holidays as well as all year long!
It was too foggy for fireworks on New Year's Eve, but the next night we had quite a show. Austin is a little braver than last year - he actually stayed outside for some of the loud ones.
Report cards come out Wednesday, we're hoping for good grades so we can celebrate at Baskin Robbins and Barnes & Noble.
Cameron's shunt tubing was bothering him a couple of weeks ago, so I took him to his doctor in New Orleans. It appears scar tissue grows on the tubing, then when he over extends his neck it tears the scar tissue causing it to swell, turn red and hurt. Whew! I had packed for a weekend stay just in case it turned into a surgical thing.
Cameron sees his Endocrinologist on Feb.9 and his next MRI is in April.
Thanks for stopping by!!!
Lots of Love!!!
~Sheri
Monday, December 12, 2005 5:56 AM CST
All is well on the homefront!
Thanksgiving was perfect - everything ready on time and still hot - and I didn't forget the rolls in the oven like I usually do!
I've been busy volunteering at the school and will be right up until Christmas Break - I'm sure ready for it.
Austin celebrated his 6th Birthday on Dec.2nd. We had his party at the house on the 3rd and had a little house-full of 6 kids playing Pin the tail on the donkey and Musical Chairs. It was so fun, and very loud!
The boys haven't asked for much for Christmas, they're probably waiting until the last minute like I do.
We have a little cold going around our house but not too bad, other than that, our health is good.
Well, time to wake Cameron up to give him his pill (thyroid med).
Have a wonderful week, and thank you for checking up on Cameron!
Lots of Love!!!
~Sheri
Monday, November 7, 2005 7:08 AM CST
It's hard to get into the holiday spirit when it's in the upper 80's. You'd think after being in the south for 11 years I'd get used to it - but no, I miss the cold.
Cameron and Austin had a profitable Halloween. Cameron came in 1st with 7 pounds of candy - Austin got 6! And that was only going around for 1 1/2 hours. Candy everywhere! I'm trying to be good, but come on...it's chocolate!!!
Cameron got all A's and 1 B on his report card. Austin had all E's and one S (the S was in talking at appropriate times - he has a little friend that he likes to talk to when the teacher is talking). So, we got to go to Baskin Robbins to celebrate. I even got a treat - I guess since I keep them on top of things, make sure their homework is finished, help Cameron study, etc.
Well, time to wake up the boys for school. Enjoy your week, and thank you for stopping by to check on Cameron.
Lots of Love!!!
~Sheri
Saturday, October 15, 2005 8:48 AM CDT
Cameron's MRI was fine - no change since the one in April! We spent 5 hours at Children's Hospital. They are not fully staffed yet but they were doing a great job! The traffic going in though - ugh! It took us 2 hours to go what normally would take 45 minutes. That made our morning trip 4 1/4 hours. Needless to say, we were 1 1/2 hours late. Good thing I left early. hee hee!
We saw lots of debris on the sides of the road - they've done alot of clean up. Most of the houses had taped up refrigerators in front of them, some said "Do Not Open" and we saw one that said "Loot This".
We took a different route home to avoid the traffic and got home in 2 1/2 hours.
I almost forgot, Thursday night at Cameron's baseball game, he hit one that got him to 2nd base! Go Cameron Go! He's really quite the ball player!
*******
Journal
Thursday, October 13, 2005 9:22 AM CDT
Cameron got glasses yesterday. He failed the vision screening at school so last Friday he went to see an Opthamologist. Cameron is near-sighted (like mommy) so Daddy took him to pick out some glasses. They came in yesterday. Cameron is very happy to have glasses and adapting well to them. He couldn't wait for his teacher to see them - she wears glasses too.
Tomorrow is Cameron's MRI and doctor visits. I figured it would get rescheduled because of the hurricane, but I guess the clinic part of Children's Hospital is up and running full force. I hope the traffic isn't bad going in. His MRI appointment is last so I may not get the results until next week. I'll post them when I find out.
Cameron and Austin are both doing very well in school. Austin had his first field trip last week - to the firestation. I'm so glad I was able to go.
What's up with the crazy weather this year? Cameron had a school project - he chose Antarctica - so now I'm an Antarctica expert. Third grade is way harder than 2nd, but so far Cameron is doing great. Parent/Teacher conferences are on Oct.27th, so I'll find out just how good the boys are doing. But, I keep in contact with both teachers (I'm Room-Mother) so I have a little inside track.
All the boys (including Daddy) were sick over the weekend with a stomach virus Austin brought home from school. Dad got it the worst, but I think he had the flu mixed in with it. I woke up with just the flu part yesterday so after I dropped the kids off at school, I went back to bed - for the rest of the day. I'm so glad to be over that, and that I didn't get the stomach virus part.
Well, I better get going. I still have stuff packed up from when I thought we might be evacuating for Hurricane Rita. I should keep it packed until hurricane season is over, hee hee!
Have a great weekend everyone!
Lots of Love ~ Sheri
Thursday, October 13, 2005 9:22 AM CDT
Cameron got glasses yesterday. He failed the vision screening at school so last Friday he went to see an Opthamologist. Cameron is near-sighted (like mommy) so Daddy took him to pick out some glasses. They came in yesterday. Cameron is very happy to have glasses and adapting well to them. He couldn't wait for his teacher to see them - she wears glasses too.
Tomorrow is Cameron's MRI and doctor visits. I figured it would get rescheduled because of the hurricane, but I guess the clinic part of Children's Hospital is up and running full force. I hope the traffic isn't bad going in. His MRI appointment is last so I may not get the results until next week. I'll post them when I find out.
Cameron and Austin are both doing very well in school. Austin had his first field trip last week - to the firestation. I'm so glad I was able to go.
What's up with the crazy weather this year? Cameron had a school project - he chose Antarctica - so now I'm an Antarctica expert. Third grade is way harder than 2nd, but so far Cameron is doing great. Parent/Teacher conferences are on Oct.27th, so I'll find out just how good the boys are doing. But, I keep in contact with both teachers (I'm Room-Mother) so I have a little inside track.
All the boys (including Daddy) were sick over the weekend with a stomach virus Austin brought home from school. Dad got it the worst, but I think he had the flu mixed in with it. I woke up with just the flu part yesterday so after I dropped the kids off at school, I went back to bed - for the rest of the day. I'm so glad to be over that, and that I didn't get the stomach virus part.
Well, I better get going. I still have stuff packed up from when I thought we might be evacuating for Hurricane Rita. I should keep it packed until hurricane season is over, hee hee!
Have a great weekend everyone!
Lots of Love ~ Sheri
Saturday, September 24, 2005 10:08 AM CDT
So far so good! We still have power. The yard is covered with leaves and branches. Our neighbor to the back of us has a tree that fell in her yard and across the street the yard is flooded. We're having wind around 30 mph with gusts over 50. We have a bit of roof damage - leaking a little in the kids' room, my closet and the bathroom. But all in all, everything is good here in Lafayette.
We're supposed to have rain all through next week - that just makes the clean up harder.
Cameron is doing great - wishing the lights would have gone out so he could use his flashlight to read (without getting fussed at). They're getting a little bored, I guess it's time to start the crafts - paper airplane time.
Have a great weekend!!!
Friday, September 23, 2005 11:06 AM CDT
We're riding out the storm! Hurricane Rita is coming very close to us here in Lafayette. The outer bands have started arriving and hopefully we're ready. We're supposed to get Tropical Storm conditions throughout today and possibly Hurricane conditions tonight and through tomorrow. The only evacuation recommended for our area is for mobile homes and people that have medical conditions that require electricity. We live in a brick house and we're not in a flood zone, so they said it would be best to stay instead of getting stuck on the interstate and have to go to a shelter.
We have water and food, and if the electricity goes out we have a generator and enough gas to run it for 6 days. Tom got a special wire that he can plug directly into the generator from our fuse box. So we shouldn't be too uncomfortable. But, this storm is supposed to last for about 18 hours - I think the generator doesn't get used until the storm is over - 18 hours in 90 degrees - ugh!!!
Well, I guess it's time to watch some more hurricane news. I'll update when everything is back to normal.
Local info is on www.katc.com .
Thanks for checking on us. Have a wonderful weekend!
Lots of Love ~ Sheri
Friday, September 23, 2005 11:06 AM CDT
We're riding out the storm! Hurrican Rita is coming very close to us here in Lafayette. The outer bands have started arriving and hopefully we're ready. We're supposed to get Tropical Storm conditions throughout today and possibly Hurricane conditions tonight and through tomorrow. The only evacuation recommended for our area is for mobile homes and people that have medical conditions that require electricity. We live in a brick house and we're not in a flood zone, so they said it would be best to stay instead of getting stuck on the interstate and have to go to a shelter.
We have water and food, and if the electricity goes out we have a generator and enough gas to run it for 6 days. Tom got a special wire that he can plug directly into the generator from our fuse box. So we shouldn't be too uncomfortable. But, this storm is supposed to last for about 18 hours - I think the generator doesn't get used until the storm is over - 18 hours in 90 degrees - ugh!!!
Well, I guess it's time to watch some more hurricane news. I'll update when everything is back to normal.
Local info is on www.katc.com .
Thanks for checking on us. Have a wonderful weekend!
Lots of Love ~ Sheri
Thursday, September 15, 2005 2:32 PM CDT
The Pirate Party was a huge success!!! We had 11 pirates and nobody got hurt - except Daddy. While we were out doing the "treasure hunt" (I made the map) I thought it would be fun for Tom to throw some water balloons at the kids for a "pirate attack" - well, I forgot to tell him to stay on the other side of the gate. So, when he attacked, all the kids attacked back - 11 kids with swords, and they weren't gentle. hee hee! The treasure map led all through the yard and ended up in the living room where the treasure was - the loot for everybody. Little treasure chests filled with candy and a bunch of other stuff.
The kids were entertaining themselves after that taking turns playing the Pirates game on Xbox. We sang Happy Birthday...Argh! and then had cupcakes and Pirates Brew - I made cool labels and hot-glued them to bottles of rootbeer. Then the kids were promptly picked up at 2:30 and I was so relieved that I could relax. I was feeling pretty bad by then with a massive head cold.
Cameron is enjoying school and the Cub Scout meetings begin tonight. Next week starts baseball practice. It seems we'll be busy until summer!
Austin is doing great in school - he gets a bit emotional if he sees me at the school, he wants me to take him home. But Cameron still does that to me, and he's in 3rd grade! Austin is out of school today because he has strep throat. Ugh, so it begins! I hope I can keep Cameron from getting it. No sharing!!!
Our visitors have returned home so we have the house to ourselves for now.
Thanks to everyone who signs Cameron's guestbook, and who sends cards and other happy mail. We really appreciate all of you.
Have a great weekend!!!!
Lots of Love ~ Sheri
Tuesday, September 6, 2005 7:01 AM CDT
My Birthday Boy is 8 years old today!!!
He's off of school today because they are doing staggered attendance for reading tests. Half the kids go today, the other half tomorrow. So, we're going to have a fun day making the rounds of birthday stuff. Toys R Us makes a big tadoo - he gets a special basket and they announce over the intercom it's his birthday, then everyone that sees him will wish him a Happy Birthday. Then we'll go to the party store to find some more pirate stuff for his Pirate Party he's having on Saturday. We hand-delivered invitations yesterday. Mommy's been very crafty - I made little "map" invitations by "aging" regular paper with crumples and tea. I also made a treasure map for the treasure hunt - I was having so much fun planning this party. If anyone has any ideas of fun pirate stuff for 8 yr olds, please let me know.
8 years ago today, at this very hour, I was at the hospital awaiting the arrival of my little man. Just think, 8 years from now he'll be 16!!! Oh my goodness, I can't handle that stress right now...I'll enjoy their childhood.
Austin does have to go to school today, so I better get him up and ready.
Have a great week everyone!!!
Lots of Love ~ Sheri
Friday, September 2, 2005 8:08 PM CDT
Sorry to keep you in suspense! The only part of Hurricane Katrina that got to us was wind and a tiny bit of rain. Of course now our town has over 10,000 extra people. I don't know what we're going to do about Cameron's MRI that was supposed to be in October. Children's Hospital is flooded and I heard it had been looted. The medicine he gets for his growth hormone comes out of New Orleans, so we had to get the home office in IL to send us his refill. Only problem is FedEx won't guarantee next day to Lafayette, or anywhere else in Louisiana. We had it sent to Tom's sister-in-law in Tyler, TX and a trucking company Tom has friends with is bringing his medicine tomorrow. But what about next month??? Guess I'll start on my inquiries on Tuesday so we don't get stuck not having any.
Tom has family in the New Orleans area. A bunch of them are staying with us - we're now a huge family! Their homes are a mess and they don't know when they'll be able to return, or if they even want to.
Cameron is off of school for 4 days! On Tuesday (his birthday) he gets the day off because the school is staggering attendance for some reading tests. He'll have the whole day at his leisure.
I picked up a stack of cards and a birthday package from the Hugs and Hope Club at Cameron's mailbox. Thank you to all that thought of him for his birthday.
Have a great weekend!
Sunday, August 28, 2005 1:58 PM CDT
We're watching the Weather Channel constantly - waiting to see Hurricane Katrina turn to the north so it won't hit us. I've been up since 3am, preparing just in case we're asked to evacuate. I was watching when it was upgraded to a catagory 5 at 6:20 this morning.
School has been cancelled for tomorrow - the kids are excited about that. Even though they both really enjoy school. Austin has done very well - no separation anxiety! Cameron likes school again - the first day is always the roughest on him. I'm looking forward to doing lots of volunteering for both classes.
Cameron is feeling great and has gained 2 1/2 pounds so far! He still has no appetite though.
He's excited his birthday is coming up soon - he wants to have a Pirate party...argh!
Well, I better finish getting the yard picked up and outdoor stuff secured, "just in case". I'll update after the storm, if we have electricity.
Have a great week!
Lots of Love!!!
~Sheri~
Sunday, August 14, 2005 7:46 AM CDT
5 more days until school starts!!!
Cameron is doing great! He grew about a 1/4" since starting his growth hormone therapy on July 17. My scale battery is dead so until I remember to get one when I'm at the store, we won't know how much weight he's gained. He does so wonderful with his shots. I would even let him give it to himself, but the button is a bit hard to push.
Yesterday, Cameron got on all his bike-riding safety gear and was ready to go - but no bike. Apparantly someone thought they needed it more than Cameron. I don't remember the last time I saw his bike (2 days, 3...?) so I don't kwow when it got ripped off. But I do know his bike has distinctive "scars" so if I (or Tom) see that bike - the kid riding it will know it. I guess the mystery of what to get Cameron for his birthday has been solved...a new bike.
Austin is excited to be starting Kindergarten on the 24th and Mommy is excited to have some peace and quiet after such a loud summer. I think the arguing and fighting get worse as they get older - ugh!!! But they even play loud, really loud. I'm looking forward to start sewing quilt blocks again for the sick kids featured on the Quilting Angels website. I'll also be doing lots of volunteering at the school again. I guess I'm excited to be going back to school too - ha ha!
Well, time for coffee. I hope you all have a great week, and thank you for checking on my baby!
Lots of Love!!!
~Sheri~
Wednesday, August 3, 2005 3:46 PM CDT
We had a great trip to California in Daddy's truck. I enjoyed the scenery and the kids enjoyed being able to play video games in the sleeper for the whole trip. We went to Tombstone, AZ and had a drink in Big Nose Kate's Saloon. The kids were a little apprehensive, I think they thought they weren't supposed to be in a bar! But it was a Sunday evening, and everything but the saloon was closed - bummer!
I didn't care much for Southern California. Too much smog - and way too much traffic. It took us 4 hours to go 80 miles! In Arizona we stayed at a great hotel with a refreshing pool - just what we needed in the 113 degree heat!
When we got home I set up delivery for Cameron's Growth Hormone supplies. Then a Home Health Nurse came to the house and instructed me in how to properly administer the shot. Cameron, of course, took it like a champ. No problems, no pain. He says he can feel it a little, but it's ok. He has now been taking shots for 17 days. I told him we'll wait until it's 21 days before we go measuring and weighing him again. He's bound to have gained something during this time.
Cameron's Grammy (my mom) came down for a visit last week and brought my nieces. The kids had so much fun swimming and playing (mostly swimming) and I had a great visit with my Mom. I'm hoping to be able to go up there to visit during one of the school breaks.
School starts August 19... I'm counting the days. Austin will be going to Kindergarten this year - I'll be all alone at home - yippeee!
Well, we're cleaning out the toy box - Cameron's birthday is in 34 days and he seems to think he needs more room...lol
Have a great week, and if you're a WalMart fan, Aug. 4, 5 &7 is National Kids Day at WalMart - take the kids shopping with you and they will get special treats. We went a couple years ago and they had a fun time.
Lots of love ~ Sheri
Wednesday, June 29, 2005 10:03 AM CDT
The results are in!
Cameron's growth hormone is too low. The normal range is 10 and above, Cameron's highest was 6.
What does this mean? Well, Cameron will now be on Growth Hormone Therapy where he will be injected with a growth hormone daily. He should be starting it in about a week. A nurse will come to our house to train me in how to use the device. Cameron will be on this therapy until he stops growing, then he will be re-tested to see if he will need to continue therapy at an adult-dosage.
We're taking a run to California with Dad this weekend and I want Cameron to have a good time, so we're not telling him about the injections until we get back. He is very apprehensive about shots and I don't want him being stressed out for the whole week. But Cameron is such a trooper, once he realizes what a small shot it is, he will breeze through it, just like he has everything else life has thrown at him. He will just (as his sister Amber says) "Keep on Truckin'"!
This latest news, of course, has me all bummed/stressed out. You know, one thing after another.
Today is the boys' last day of swimming lessons, tomorrow is "Show Day" so I'll get a swimmy pic up tomorrow. Cameron has completed the Public Library's Summer Reading Challenge of 450 minutes. I'm so glad he enjoys reading so much - his latest fave...scary stories. I can't believe Summer Vacation is flying by so fast.
We'll be celebrating the 4th in Cali - a first for all of us!!! Have a great and safe holiday weekend. And thanks for checking on my baby - please sign the guestbook - it's been very lonely!
Lots of Love!!!
~Sheri~
Sunday, June 19, 2005 9:46 PM CDT
Happy Father's Day!!!
We had a great day! Dad had a great day, and is already crashed.
Cameron had his hormone stimulation test on Wednesday and went through it like the trooper he is. We were there for 7 hours and Cameron had to be fasting the whole time. He got 7 IV sticks (those stubborn veins) and 3 different medicines - one was a shot! We should get the results back in 2 weeks and hopefully have the answers or solution to why his growth slowed down so much. He's still at 44 pounds - the same as a year ago.
Little League is over but there's good news. Cameron will get to be on the same team for the Fall League and the next Spring League. He is very happy about that. He did such a good job playing and hitting every time he was up to bat.
Swimming lessons start tomorrow. Cameron and Austin will be in different classes this year. Lots of going back and forth for Mommy!
I can't believe June is almost over already. We're hoping to get a visit to Arkansas in during July. I need some of that peace and serenity of the Ozarks.
I hope you all are having a great summer, and thanks for checking in on my little man. I'll update with the results when I get them in.
Lots of Love!!!
~Sheri~
Sunday, May 8, 2005 8:46 AM CDT
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!!
I hope all you Moms have a great day today.
Cameron is having fun playing baseball. He's pretty good. He got his first base hit the other day, and he was so proud. (I was too!) He had a game yesterday morning and got a base hit but then got out at second. But he didn't mind - he knows he's doing better at each game and he'll eventually get to run all the bases!
He has an appointment with his Neurologist on Friday, but I think I'll postpone it until school gets out. This last month of school is so busy for the kids, I don't want him to miss out on any of the fun, and learning! Last week was Teacher Appreciation Week so it was a very busy week for me. The PTO put on a "Mystery Dinner Theater" for all the teachers. The title of it was "Who Stole the Cookies" and I was the Librarian, Mrs.Bookworm. It was so fun, and the teachers had a great time. Cameron's teacher was part of the group that solved the mystery.
The boys are getting excited about summer because that means swimming!!! They'll be going to swimming lessons again this year, but this time they will be in separate classes. But so far we'll have the whole month of July free - nothing planned, so if Daddy gets a run somewhere interesting, we can go with him.
Well, my kids are up so I better go get my Mother's Day hugs and kisses. Have a great day, and a great week! Above is Cameron's Spring School Picture - so handsome! When his baseball pictures come in, I'll put it up.
Thanks for stopping by!
~Lots of Love~ ~Sheri
Saturday, April 9, 2005 10:39 AM CDT
Cameron's MRI was great - all clear! "No residual tumor, no recurrent tumor". It was scheduled for noon, but they got him in at 9:30 and we were finished with everything by noon. What a great birthday present for me - yes, I turned 29 again yesterday (for the 7th time) hee hee!
He also saw his Endocrinologist - he's running another hormone test to see if he can pinpoint the slowdown in Cameron's growth. Cameron's still as tall or taller than his peers, but his charted growth has slowed way down. He gained only 1 pound in 1 year. He's trying though, he looks at food labels to see the protein content and does sit-ups and push-ups every day. I wish I had that drive...ha ha!
His next MRI is in 6 months! He does so good with them, even though now he doesn't get sedated anymore. He says it's boring and would rather be sedated, but I'm glad he stays awake - it gets us out of there faster.
His baseball games start next week and he'll have 17 games through June - some are on Saturdays at 8:30am - so much for sleeping in...
We're off to the sporting goods store to get his baseball pants and socks. I'll update again sooner, after his game on Thursday.
Thank you all for continuing to check on Cameron. If I get some results from his Thyroid tests, I'll post those. Have a great weekend!!!
Sunday, March 13, 2005 7:48 PM CST
Sorry about not having an update in so long. Cameron is doing great. We've signed him up for Baseball again and he's anxious to be out practicing every day. His next MRI is April 8 (my birthday).
Spring has sprung in Louisiana and before too long it will be pool weather! Which reminds me I better get the kids signed up for this summer's swimming lessons before the classes fill up. 2 more weeks until Spring Break - our only plans so far = sleep late. I've felt so tired and run down lately, but so does everyone I talk to.
Austin has finished up a round of antibiotics for strep throat. I need to get Cameron tested since he's feeling good to see if he's a carrier for strep. I was supposed to do it over the summer, but just never found the time.
Well, thanks to all for signing in to let us know you were here. I'll update again after the MRI. Have a Happy St.Patrick's Day, a Happy Easter (which is also our 12th anniversary) and a fun April Fool's Day!
Lots of Love!!!
~Sheri
Friday, January 28, 2005 8:19 AM CST
Good Friday Morning to Ya!
What a busy month we've had! We went with Tom to Ohio to get his truck earlier this month. What a long drive! Cameron is on antibiotics right now for strep throat. He missed Monday and Wednesday because of it. He feels much better now but I think Austin may be getting it.
As you can see from the above picture, today is Crazy Hair Day at school. Students who read 900 minutes for the 9 weeks get to participate. Cameron read 1335 minutes. What the picture doesn't show is the 3 King Cake babies in his hair - and the bows. It was pretty fun. It's rainy today so I'm sure when he gets off the bus the color is going to run everywhere!
His report card was great - he made Principal's List again! I sure hope Austin enjoys school like Cameron does. Sunday is the Raingutter Regatta for Cub Scouts. Yes, we're waiting until the last minute to have it ready, just like always. I'm hoping to get to the store today to get the paint so it will have at least a day to dry.
It's been 8 months since I've done any quilting and I really miss it. I'm in a Round Robin with the Quilting Angels so I'll be back at it very soon.
Our puppy is growing and acts just like one of the kids. Especially when it comes to aggravating the boys - she loves it!
Thank you to all for continuing to check on Cameron and signing his guestbook.
Have a great weekend!!!!
Lots of love!!!
~Sheri
Saturday, January 1, 2005 9:20 AM CST
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!
Yes, it's been a while since I updated about Cameron. He's been doing great and feeling great! We had a wonderful Christmas, Santa was good this year. Daddy was home so we were all together. On Dec.9th Tom's truck got hit in Ohio, around $10,000 in damages - they just finished fixing it! Not the greatest time to be out of work, but we managed perfectly. The boys got what they wanted and are still happily playing with EVERYTHING - I had some busy days putting things together and playing!
The folks from Hugs and Hope really did a great job this year for the kids. Cameron and Austin both got cool stuff from 2 different Angels! And the cards - I really should keep count of how many Cameron gets, it's unbelievable!
Amber and Nick came in on Thursday, in Amber's new car. Yes, she's driving, these kids are growing up so fast. We all managed to stay up until midnight and went outside to see the neighborhood fireworks. We lit all ours on Christmas night while visiting friends out in the country. Austin still doesn't like the loudness of fireworks, so he stays in the house or I have to hold him.
Thank you all for continuing to check on Cameron. His next MRI is April 8 (my birthday). He's doing great in school and Cub Scouts. Austin is looking forward to Kindergarten - so am I, hee hee! Cameron is still taking the thyroid medication, but doesn't seem to be gaining any weight. He's so active though, it may not have a chance to stick.
Have a great weekend!!!
Lots of Love!!!
Sheri
Sunday, December 5, 2004 7:43 AM CST
Finally a new update!
I hope everyone had a happy Thanksgiving. Ours was for sure. For the first time in 17 years, I got to spend Thanksgiving with my Dad! Tom had a run down to St.Petersburg, FL and decided to make a family/holiday vacation out of it. We got a rental car and checked into our hotel on Wednesday and stayed until Sunday. We had a great time and even got to go swimming on Thanksgiving morning (hotel pool was heated somewhat) - my first time ever! Although it's usually warm enough here in Louisiana, our pool is not in use past September. Usually because of hurricane season.
I enjoyed spending time with my Dad, and not having to do any cooking. I'm sure I'll make up for it for Christmas Dinner though. Poor Florida - the hurricanes really did a number on it. And there's still so much work to be done.
Austin turned 5 on Dec.2nd. My baby is officially a "Big Boy" now. We had a busy day - first he quietly sat through an hour long PTO meeting, the ladies all commented on how good he was and when I told them it was even his birthday, they all made a big fuss over him - he even got 5 AirHeads out of it. Then we checked Cameron's mailbox and Austin had a few cards and a Birthday Box from Hugs & Hope! It contained all the fixins for a party - cake mix, frosting, plates, napkins, cups, party favors, candy, and some presents. He loved every bit - thank you Rhea from Hugs & Hope!!! After Austin ate his lunch we went to Toys R Us for his special treat. He got a crown, a balloon and a special shopping cart that read "It's my Birthday" there was also a special announcement over the intercom "may I have your attention please, we have a special guest in the store today. He is wearing a special crown, holding a balloon and pushing a special cart, it's Austin and today is his 5th birthday. When you see him, wish him a Happy Birthday!" Now tell me, how cool is that? He was hot stuff for sure. He picked out a couple of things with his Birthday money, and even got Cameron a cute little puppy. Then after Cameron was home from school, we went to Chuck E.Cheese's to play. We came home for cake and to open presents. He had a wonderful day, and so did mommy!
We finally got our Christmas tree up yesterday, and for the first time, the kids helped. I think they were having a race to see who could get the most ornaments on the tree. But it looks cute. I thought the puppy would be trying to eat it or knock it over, but she just gave it a sniff so far and was not impressed. Cameron's class decided to go see "The Polar Express" instead of having a class Christmas Party. They get a "special viewing" before hours, but imagine, a theater full of 2nd graders. Yes, I'll be chaperoning which means I'll miss most of the movie. hee hee!
So far our Christmas plans are to be home, but you never know, Tom may get a run to someplace snowy, and the kids have been wanting to see the snow bad! We'll just see.
I hope you all have a great week, and thank you for continuing to check on us, even though I'm so bad about updating. But it's for good news - Cameron is doing great!!!
Lots of Love!!!
~Sheri~
Monday, November 1, 2004 6:33 AM CST
Wow! November is here already. Only 54 more days til Christmas! That just blows the mind, doesn't it?
We went Trick-or-Treating last night and walked the neighborhood for 1 1/2 hrs. Cameron and Austin both have overflowing buckets of the good stuff! They were both Ninjas, and I went as a Mommy - complete with the backpack of bottled water, something to eat, cell phone, glow sticks and a first aid kit. I like to be prepared.
Saturday we went to the AirShow with Cameron's Cub Scout Den. It was so cool - and a little scarey - seeing all the planes doing tricks. The Thunderbirds (AirForce) were there and put on a great (loud) show. We even got to tour the inside of a KC-135 Refeuling Tanker. The pilot let the kids go up in the cockpit and sit at the controls. What could be cooler for little boys?
Wednesday (27th) was Cameron's last baseball game for the Fall Season. Even though we don't keep score, his team won, 8-2!!! They had cupcakes and juice pouches after the game to celebrate. We're looking forward to alot of practicing over the Winter, and playing again in the Spring.
Last Sunday (24th) was Louisiana's Ride For Kids. Although Cameron didn't ride, he was still a star! Cameron's Oncologist was supposed to be there to talk, but she didn't show up. I got to get on stage and tell my story - unprepared so I left out alot. While up there, Cameron was making faces at me and Austin was laughing really loud - what a couple of clowns! Then Cameron and 3 of the other brain tumor survivors (kids) got up and told everyone a little bit about themselves. Click here to see the article and Cameron's cutie mug on the Ride for Kids website. The bikers raised $30,079 for the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation. It was so moving, watching the 155 bikes take off - all for the kids!
The day before, was the Fall Carnival at Cameron's school. We got there at 9am to help set up, walked around and played for 5 hours, then stayed another hour to help clean up. The cub scouts clean up after the carnival to earn a "claw" for their bead necklace. Talk about a long and tiring day. When we got home, we all just sat down with our feet up and watched tv for the rest of the day.
Oct.20th was Cameron's Field Trip to the Museum to see "A T.Rex named Sue". Austin and I met his class there. I love doing stuff like that with the boys. Cameron's next field trip is Nov.10 to a Symphony Children's Concert. I'm hoping I can go to chaperone.
Well, that should bring us up to speed with what's happened since my last journal. It looks like November is going to be a busy month too. Friday we're off to New Orleans for Cameron's visit with his Neurologist (we had cancelled the Oct. visit). Then the next day is the Cub Scout Camp Out. Hopefully the weather will be cooler as it's been in the upper 80's here still. We'll be roughing it - no electricity and the questionable bathroom facilities are a ways from the tent. Luckily it's only for one night, and I've been camping since I was 2 months old so I can handle it. Last year we had a huge tent that was a bit hard for me to set up alone, so this year we may go for the small tent. We'll have to set it up at home to see if we'd be able to all 3 fit.
Cameron's off of school today and tomorrow, so hopefully he'll sleep late. I just love this time change. I can finally wake up early!
Well, I hope that everyone had a safe Halloween. Don't forget to vote tomorrow!
Thank you all for stopping by to check on my Cameron. I'm sure our visit with the Neurologist will be a good one, since Cameron's MRI last month was so good. Take care and have a great week!!!
Please keep Cheyenne's family in your thoughts and prayers as they face this most difficult time of being without their beautiful and precious daughter. Also, Cameron's shunt bro, Kody is still in the hospital after having the bulk of his brain tumor removed, stop by his site and tell him Cameron sent you!
Lots of Love! ~ Sheri
Sunday, October 31, 2004 11:07 AM CST
One of our favorite girls earned her Angel Wings yesterday. Cheyenne passed away yesterday morning. Brain tumors SUCK!!!
Sunday, October 10, 2004 11:51 AM CDT
Finally, an update! I can't believe I let it go so long. But here it is...
Cameron is doing great, feeling great, etc. His results from Endocrinology finally came back and his TSH was still too high, so Cameron now takes "synthroid" to correct this. It's a little pill he takes each morning. I've already seen an increase in his appetite and when he gets home from school, he's not wiped out. This is great since he is playing Little League this month.
Cameron is loving school again - I had to pick him up early one day and he was quite upset with me - he missed his Spelling Bee. Last week (Oct.7&8) we were in New Orleans for Cameron's Psyche Evaluation (went great) and his MRI - all clear! "...the subtle faint residual enhancement identified in the anterior aspect of the surgical defect cannot be identified on today's study." Wahoo!!!
We stayed at a nice Hotel but we didn't get to go out and play in New Orleans, thanks to Tropical Storm Matthew. We get to make the trek back to New Orleans on Wednesday for Cameron's Neurologist appt. I tried to get them all in one visit, but they rescheduled me at the last minute. I hate having to go back and forth like that, especially when the gas prices are so high - what's up with that???
This is a busy month for us. Cameron has 2 baseball games a week, Cub Scouts, a field trip to the museum with the school, Fall Carnival, Ride for Kids, and Halloween. I'm tired already!
I'm sure I've left something out, and if I realize it, I'll add it later.
Have a great week everyone!!!
Lots of Love!!!
~Sheri~
Monday, September 6, 2004 7:16 AM CDT
Happy Birthday to you!
Happy Birthday to you!
Happy Birthday, Dear Cameron!
Happy Birthday to you!
Today Cameron turns 7! Seven years ago today I finally got to see and hold my precious baby boy in my arms. My firstborn, my oldest son, the most beautiful newborn I had ever laid eyes on. My baby boy - 7 days early but still a whopping 9 pounds! He stole my heart for sure.
Seven years old and already he has seen and felt what most people never will. Instead of learning how to ride a bike and go to school, he was getting chemo and transfusions. Instead of going on playdates and making friends, he was masked and kept away from everyone and everything. But he got through all that with no complaints - he followed the rules. Now he's enjoying his second year in school and having old friends and making new ones. I am so proud of my big boy, my Cameron!
Today we are going to Chuck E.Cheese's to do some serious playing and then back to the house for cake and ice cream - and presents of course! I'll post a new pic as soon as I can snap one.
Thank you everyone that remembered Cameron's special day and sent him cards and stuff. We checked his box on Friday and it was overflowing - he really appreciates each and every one.
I talked to my dad last night, and the Hurricane hadn't affected them as of yet. I haven't checked yet this morning to see what's new.
Cameron's test results haven't come back yet, but I should have them on Tuesday. His eye appointment got cancelled - which was fine with me - so I'm going to try to find someone local so I don't have to drive 300 miles for an eye exam.
I'll try to update this evening with party details. I hope everyone has a safe and happy Labor Day! Thank you for checking on my Cameron!!!
Lots of Love ~ Sheri
Tuesday, August 24, 2004 4:39 PM CDT
Today we went to New Orleans for Cameron's Endocrinology appointment. We were in and out in 1 1/2 hours - record time. In April, Cameron's TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) was again elevated and he was supposed to see the Endo Dr in May, but it happened to be on the same day as his awards program at school and his 1st grade swimming party, so I rescheduled - and the only time they had available since May was August.
Anyway, Cameron's new doctor was concerned about the elevated TSH and that Cameron's growth has hit a plateau. He requested Cameron's growth charts from his pediatrician to see if this is normal for him or not. I did a little charting of my own and I found that since he started chemo he steadily went down from being above the 95 percentile to around the 75 percentile (over 3 years). Today Cameron had a bone age test done (x-ray) and some bloodwork. We'll get the results next week. If his TSH is still high Cameron will begin Thyroid medication. I talked to him about having to take a pill every day, and so far he's ok with it.
Cameron is liking school alot better now. I guess my little pep talk Wednesday night really helped. This week the homework started - right up Cameron's alley - he loves doing schoolwork. On the way home today he got tired of watching movies and asked if I brought him a book to read. Wahoo!!! Tonight is Open House at school so I'll be able to finish volunteering for stuff and find out his schedule. Once in a while I'll go eat lunch with him - it's lots of fun, and I know one day he'll be "too old" to eat lunch with Mom.
The countdown has begun...13 more days until Cameron is 7!!!! All I know is there will be pizza, and presents. I guess I better get it in gear and plan something. Next Tuesday we go back to New Orleans for Cameron's eye exam and will get the results from his bloodwork while we're there. I will update again after that.
Have a wonderful week, and thank you for checking on my Cameron. And a huge thanks to the folks at MACS and Hugs & Hope for still sending Cameron and Austin some happy mail. They really love it!
Lots of Love!!!! ~ Sheri
Thursday, August 19, 2004 6:40 AM CDT
Day 4 of Second Grade...well, almost. Cameron is still sleeping. I haven't been able to get much out of him except "Second grade is hard!" - but I hear this is what all the Second graders are saying right now. He did the same thing in First grade - I reminded him of this and then how good he did so I think he feels a little better about it all.
I wouldn't be surprised if it made national news, but our school system is having huge problems with the buses this year. So far Cameron has not been assigned a bus - but we sure did wait for one on the first day for almost an hour! I found out yesterday what bus would be Cameron's and before I called the driver to make the arrangements, I discovered the boy up the street didn't get home until 4:15 - that's a whole hour after school is out, and we only live 2 minutes from the school! Well, Cameron is now an official car rider - to and from school. This also means he can sleep until 7:30 every day - lucky kid!
The picture above shows Austin in a school uniform too, only because he started "Preschool at home". I got him some workbooks and school supplies and we've been having school in the mornings. He can't wait to go to Kindergarten next year.
We had a great summer vacation, but it went by way too fast. Cameron has an Endo appt on Tuesday and then his Eye appt the week after - both in New Orleans, so he'll already be missing school. His next MRI is in October.
Cameron's 7th Birthday is coming up - September 6 (Labor Day!!!)! He's growing up so fast, and getting so tall. Now if we could only get him to gain some weight. He's over 4 feet tall and only weighs 43 pounds.
Well, I better get started with my day, but I wanted to update about Cameron's first day of school.
Have a great weekend!
Lots of Love ~ Sheri
Thursday, July 22, 2004 3:20 PM CDT
We finally made it to Six Flags in New Orleans and we had a great time. The humidity was low so the heat was more bearable. It wasn't crowded so the few lines that we had to wait in were short.
We are planning to go Go-Karting tomorrow, if the weather is nice. Cameron is having a fun summer and loves swimming in his pool every day. I need to get him used to an earlier bed time though. School starts in about 3 weeks. I have all the supplies, just need to get his school-clothes. I'll probably wait until the last minute like I did last year, but that's what makes it fun.
Have a great weekend everyone, and thank you for stopping by to check up on Cameron!
Lots of Love ~~ Sheri
Friday, July 16, 2004 6:01 PM CDT
Well, the rain has ended (for a little while anyway!). I don't think it's rained all week. Tonight's a different story from what I hear.
Anyway, Cameron and Austin have completed their first year of swimming lessons. They were taking a Red Cross class so they're learning to swim "the correct way". Tom and I both got to go to their "Show Day". They did exceptionally well, the 2 best swimmers in the class, I would say. Cameron will probably get advanced to an older class next year. They've been swimming in our pool every day and having a blast.
Today Cameron lost his 3rd tooth. Last month Austin lost his first - it was the one that was capped, so we didn't mind seeing that one go. Since the Toothfairy stopped carrying all that change around(remember the commercial?), these kids are getting about $5 for each one. Yikes!
Next Friday marks 1 year since we came home from Cameron's Make A Wish Trip. That means our World Passport to all the neat amusement parks (Six Flags) will expire. So, I finally made the arrangements for us to go to Six Flags in New Orleans on Tuesday. Talk about waiting until the last minute. We'll be taking Granny to visit her sister while we're playing with Bugs Bunny!
Daddy is now driving local so he can be home with us more. The kids have been wearing him out making him throw them up in the air to splash down in the pool. I think I can get a good picture of that in the photo album so check it out. We are having a relaxing summer floating around in the pool and getting tan! Now let's hope we don't get another month of rain every day - our yard is still mud!
We recently found out that a very good family friend's son has been diagnosed with Leukemia. Please keep Patrick in your prayers. I've never met him or his parents, but I know everyone else in his dad's family very well. Easter seems to be the holiday we spend with them. Also remember Cheyenne as she's going through some pretty rough treatment.
Thanks for checking on us, please drop Cameron a note in his guestbook so he'll know you were here.
Have a great weekend!!!
Lots of Love!!!
~Sheri
Monday, July 5, 2004 9:26 PM CDT
I hope everyone had a Happy 4th! We set off one gigantic firework, fittingly called "One Bad Mother", it had 16 shots, Disney World style. We live in city limits so that's all we could get away with doing and not have the police show up. It was lovely. We BBQ'd and celebrated the 3rd day in a row with no rain.
Today the boys started their swimming lessons down the street. It rained the entire time so they didn't get in any pool time - just learned safety stuff inside the house. But they were good and listened and are excited about getting extra play-time in the pool tomorrow after their lesson.
Yesterday I set up our new 18'pool, in the sun and heat, what a day! We had it almost filled by 10pm, after the hose had been running for over 6 hours. We finished filling it today. So, when we got back from the boys' lesson, we all jumped in - Cameron, Austin, Mommy, Daddy and even the puppy (see photo album). Finally, a pool I can swim in. Hopefully the rain will go away for the rest of the summer - well I don't mind it raining at night.
I had a dream last night that Cameron missed his first day of school because I forgot when it started - it sounds goofy now, but in my dream I was devastated, too much sun yesterday I suppose (hee hee)!
We got the Hollywood Video Access Pass - for a low monthly fee, Cameron can get a game and keep it for as long as he wants. He's on his 3rd game. I wish I would have gotten this sooner, would've been so much cheaper. I don't know how many times we rented a game only for him to hate it the first day. Now we can go every day if we wanted to switch games. Sounds like fun huh? Good thing we live just 2 minutes away...
Well, our summer is going pretty good. I still want to get to Six Flags one day - that little old man in the commercials just cracks me up.
I hope you all are enjoying your summer!!!
Lots of Love!!!
~Sheri
Monday, June 21, 2004 4:11 AM CDT
Yes, the time is correct. I'm having a bit of insomnia and since I haven't updated lately, here it is.
Everything is going great. Cameron is feeling wonderful and enjoying playing with Austin all day, every day. Our little puppy is growing so fast and she's such a good puppy. Yesterday Daddy got to put up some chicken-wire to keep the puppy from escaping and going to play with the neighbor's dog. I tried to let him relax for Father's Day, but we made a good team working in the yard.
I'm a bit surprised that the kids aren't driving me crazy with "I'm bored!" - especially since we've been having soooo much rain. They are keeping eachother occupied, I guess. And the puppy keeps them on their toes - boxers just love kids. Yes, Daddy, you made a good choice!
The boys will have swimming lessons in July, they are looking forward to it although they think they can already swim (splash around - yes, swim? not quite). We have out-grown our little 10'x 2 1/2' pool, so this week we're upgrading to a 18'x 4'. Hopefully there will be one left for us (especially since I already took down the old pool).
Well, both my boys are up now wondering what in the world is Mom doing on the computer when it is clearly still sleep-time. So, have a great day!
Lots of Love!!!
~Sheri
ps - please pray for the kids listed below, as well as the rest of the caringbridge kids.
Wednesday, June 2, 2004 8:46 AM CDT
It's Summer Vacation! So, what has Cameron been up to? Well...
May 24 was the Honors Program for the First Graders at School. Cameron got a certificate for making A's & B's (above picture). I am one proud Mommy! Then after school that day was his class Pool Party at the "big pool" down the street. Cameron and Austin had fun splashing around with all the kids. Cameron even took a few turns on the slide - this freaked me out since he can't swim, but it wasn't over his head where he landed and he came right up, but still... I should get those pictures back today or tomorrow. The last day of school was May 27. Cameron's backpack was full of papers and the remainders of his workbooks. And there was even something for me - a $20 giftcard for Hobby Lobby from the First Grade Teachers as a thank you for making their copies all year. I almost cried, I had alot of fun making copies and getting to know more teachers and office staff, and I'm looking forward to being the "Copy Mom" for the Second Grade next year.
When Cameron got off the bus on that last day of school I wanted to do something special. I was planning balloons, but didn't get home in time, so we just went to Baskin Robbins (our favorite) for some Shrek Hot Sludge Sundaes. Then we ordered Pizza Hut for supper. Cameron was ready for bed at the usual school night bedtime (9pm) and here's the kicker, he was up the next morning at 6:30! That's the time I always woke him up for school, he got up on his own maybe 4 times all year, then on the first day of Summer Vacation he's up early (what a nut!). Here's how I got Cameron up for School - from the first day to the last - at 6:30 I would pick him up out of (my) bed and carry him (he's still just 42 #'s) to the couch, put on (ToonDisney) Recess, bring him cereal, pop tarts, toast or whatever. Then nag him for the next 25 minutes to get up. Then he'd finally get around eating and getting dressed during the last 5 minutes before the bus would arrive. Yes, it was like this all year.
The first day of Summer Vacation was ok - we went to the Library for a ton of books so they could do some Summer reading (for prizes of course). We went out for Pizza and then came home to swim. Cameron's friend Edgar came over and then I got to take Austin to the doctor. He had this weird looking rash all over him and since it was a holiday weekend, Daddy didn't want to take any chances. The doctors didn't know what it was, but said to just keep an eye on it. By Friday night it was already starting to clear up. This was about the time the "puppy talk" started. I was out-voted (3-1) and we were off to get the newest member of our family. We came home with "Nikki" - our 7 week old Boxer puppy. She slept in Minnie's carrier that night with a towel and did great - she didn't cry or potty all night. Saturday we got her a kennel and stuff and she has proven to be a very good puppy. We are kennel training her, so she doesn't get the run of the house at night - so I don't have to worry about any "surprises" when I get up. Right now she's teething on Austin - too cute! Her first night here is displayed in the photo album.
Memorial Day started out nice - I was out for 2 hours cleaning the pool that morning (the kids had it a mess the day before) and it was finally sparkling again. Then as I was setting up to BBQ, the storm rolled in - and what a storm it was. Yesterday was the same thing - nice in the morning, then stormy in the afternoon, but this time with tornado warnings. Yesterday we got Cameron's Summer workbook to keep him sharp on what he learned in 1st grade, and he's already started working on it. He read his new Shark book yesterday and will hopefully read some library books today, not to mention the swimming, they should start asking any minute now.
Well, I hope everyone is enjoying their summer so far, I know we are.
Lots of Love!!! ~ Sheri
Saturday, May 15, 2004 12:47 AM CDT
Sorry for the huge delay in updates, just not much of anything going on here.
My mom came for a surprise visit and brought my neices (it had been over a year since we'd seen them). They stayed for the shortest 2 nights ever(4/30-5/2)! Cameron and Austin made the most of it by spending every moment playing with their cousins. We set up the queen size air mattress and they all slept on it in the living room(see photo album). They were asleep around midnight, then up by 7am! We had rain that weekend so they got to have a mud fight - I took lots of pictures and put them on a disc with music for the girls to take home to remember their fun time. We ate crawfish and SnowCones and played lots of games. We even had a Birthday Party. Since the kids are always missing the cousins' birthday parties, I decided to have a little celebration. I baked a cake and let each of the kids have a turn blowing out the candles. Then I presented each one with a wrapped birthday present. They thought it was so fun, and what a surprise! I tried to make it a memorable visit for the kids since they don't get to spend enough time together. I had a wonderful visit with my mom, although it was way too short (as always)!
Mother's Day was great - I had homemade cards and the cutest Precious Moments Mother's Day Figurine. I bar-b-que'd hamburgers, hotdogs, chicken kabobs, and steaks. Then with the leftover heat, we popped some JiffyPop right on the grill. That was the kids' favorite part.
Then the rain came, and it's been raining ever since! Today is the Kids Kicking Cancer Celebrate Life Picnic, but we had to stay home as 2 hours driving in this terrible rain is not what I call safe. And by the looks of the news, we'll be getting more rain all next week - ugh!
Well, just 9 more days of school!!! Next week is International Week at school. I'm helping to make some costumes for the kids that are doing the Cuban Dancing. I made the skirts, and I think they turned out really cute. Right now Cameron's best friend Edgar is here so they're taking turns playing video games. I'm glad he was able to come over to keep Cameron occupied as he was already bored.
On a heartbreaking, sad note, we lost Maddie and Savannah. Please keep their families in your prayers as they try to get through this most difficult time.
Thank you for stopping by to check on my Cameron. Give him a shout-out in the guestbook if you can.
Lots of Love!!!
~Sheri
Wednesday, April 21, 2004 7:34 PM CDT
Excellent news!!! The Neurologist says Cameron's MRI is "clear" he sees no residual tumor!!! Wahoo!!! I'm so glad we had a visit with him today, since the MRI report showed the usual "no change". Cameron's next MRI is in October and after that we will go for a "yearly" MRI. Cameron was going to try to do the MRI without sedation today, but changed his mind at the last minute. He didn't get alot of meds - I saw his eyes were open when he went into the MRI. He said he wasn't all the way asleep and he listened to the music that was playing in his earphones. This gave him confidence to want to try no sedation next time. And, he'll be 7 by then - a big kid!
Cameron's platelet count is FINALLY in the normal range along with his other counts. But, now his TSH is elevated again - we have an appointment with the Endocrinologist next month so we'll find out more about that then.
Well, better get to helping with the homework, I just had to share the wonderful news with everyone real quick.
Thanks for checking!!!
Lots of love!! ~ Sheri & Cameron
Monday, April 19, 2004 7:08 AM CDT
Happy Monday!!!
Spring Break is over, and Cameron is back at school! I think he had a good time during his little vacation. The Easter Bunny brought some nice goodies and we even went bike riding - even Mommy for the first time in 3 years! I still have the baby seat on from when Austin was 1. It was lots of fun, and the weather was beautiful, but then the rain came and it turned cold! On Monday we all went to Chuck E.Cheese, and Cameron's best friend got to go too. On Tuesday we headed out for 3 days at Grand Isle, LA. Our room was just a short walk from the beach. The first day was so cold and windy, we were wearing our winter jackets on the beach, but we did manage to kick off our shoes to walk in the water. Wednesday was much better. The kids built sand castles and jumped around in the water. It was still a bit cool and breezy, but that didn't stop them. Good thing I brought the sunscreen - they ditched their shirts in no time. I did neglect to use the sunscreen myself, but I had on a long-sleeved shirt and long pants. Well, that sun found the little bit of me that was exposed - my feet, wrists and neck - oh, and my scalp - youch! I was so cold, I didn't feel that sun burning me - now I'm peeling - yuck! Now I'll know better for next time. Some friends of ours own a camp in Grand Isle, and since we had such a good time, we're definately going back. We walked on the beach one more time before leaving for home on Thursday and collected lots of cute little shells. I'm hoping to de-sand the car today - it's everywhere! On Saturday Cameron and Austin both got to play at a friend's house. The boy is in Cameron's class, and his little sister is Austin's age. They all get along and play so great. And I enjoyed being able to go shopping without the extra 2 sets of hands - hee hee!
Well, tomorrow we leave for New Orleans for Cameron's next MRI on Wednesday, so please keep him in your prayers for good results. Thank you for stopping by and signing the guestbook - it's great to hear from you all!
Have a great week!
Lots of Love!!!
~Sheri
Thursday, April 8, 2004 7:15 AM CDT
(UPDATE 4:30PM - Both boys have strep - again. The doctor thinks that one of them (or both) may be a carrier, so he wants to do another strep test when they're feeling good to make sure. So, another 10 days of Amoxicillan - ugh!)
Good Morning!!!
I hope everyone is enjoying Spring!!! Today I will be helping Cameron's class with their Easter Party. We're all walking over to one of Cameron's classmate's house for an Easter Egg Hunt and other fun & games.
Cameron is feeling ok - he's having some allergy/sinus issues right now so after school we'll be making a trip to the doctor to make sure he's not developing a sinus infection or strep throat again. Austin is not feeling too hot - sore throat, runny nose,etc, all the signs that Spring is in the air. After today, Cameron will be off for Spring Break for 10 whole days! Good thing there's a few new movies for us to go see.
Ok, I'll say it, today is my Birthday... 34 ... how do I feel? I feel pretty good! I am more aware of my age though, and trying to take care of myself a little better. Good thing my mother-in-law is an Avon Lady (discount)so it's a little easier (discount) to use the Anew products to protect me from the signs of aging (hee hee) - did I mention I get a discount?
Well, I hope everyone has a wonderful Easter and is able to spend some quality time with family - the most important thing in the world. Daddy is home, so we'll all be together. Cameron's next MRI is April 21st.
Have a great weekend!!!
Lots of Love ~ Sheri
Wednesday, March 24, 2004 10:48 AM CST
Cameron is back at school today after being absent for 2 days. He woke up Monday morning with a real bad sore throat. I took a peek and could see his throat was red & very swollen. He just finished antibiotics on Saturday for strep throat. We went to the doctor and sure enough, he still had strep - really bad this time. The previous round of antibiotics made it a little better, kept it from growing, but as soon as he stopped it started again. So, he's now on a different med. He felt better after the first dose. Tuesday morning I went to donate blood, and when I got back Austin had a fever, 102. So I took a looksie in his throat - red red red and his tonsils were swollen. Cameron's doctor figured this would happen, so she gave me a prescription for him. I got it filled and he was feeling better by bedtime.
So now that Cameron is back in school and Austin is back to his playful self, I'm able to get my Spring Cleaning done. Yes, I'm having lots and lots of fun - hee hee! Well, I better get back to it before I lose my drive.
Please stop by Savannah's Site to pray for her family and offer support as she prepares to receive her angel wings.
Lots of Love!!!
~Sheri
Saturday, March 20, 2004 9:51 PM CST
Spring has sprung here in Louisiana! Flowers are everywhere! I've been trying to do some spring cleaning so today I cleaned out some stuff out of the attic - I sense a garage sale in the near future.
Tonight was Cub Scout Night at the IceGators Game. Cameron and Austin are both signed up to be in the Macot's club - Clawd's Krewe. They each received an official club t-shirt and badge. There's a play area where the kids can color and play board games while the parents are watching the game. I stayed up there with them almost the whole game so I didn't see much. When we got there we saw Cameron's friend Taylor with her family. She's the one that got the kids in their class hockey tickets for Christmas. So, we sat by them and Taylor took Cameron down to the ice level so he could get a hockey puck. She gave hers to Austin so they would each have one. So sweet! The kids had a blast and are still up playing - Cameron is on the computer in his room, sending me instant messages, very sweet ones at that!
Well, I hope everyone is enjoying the first day of Spring. Have a great week!!!
Lots of love!!!
~Sheri
Sunday, March 14, 2004 9:08 AM CST
ONE YEAR OFF TREATMENT!!!!
One year ago today, Cameron received his last dose of chemo. He is doing great! His strep throat seems to have been taken care of already with the antibiotics he started on Thursday. Since chemo stopped Cameron has only gained 2 pounds, but he's so active - it's a wonder he gained any. It's so good to see him play and run and feel absolutely wonderful! He never complained during chemo...I guess he got used to feeling blah and figured it to be normal.
We don't have much planned today, just relaxing at home. Maybe I'll make a cake to celebrate Cameron's anniversary, I'm feeling pretty lazy today, so we'll just see.
Thank you for your prayers and guestbook entries. Please continue to pray for all the kids on Caringbridge, etc, those off treatment and feeling good, those that have relapsed, those spending too much time in the hospital, and for the families of the Angels.
Lots of Love!!!
~Sheri
Thursday, March 11, 2004 7:13 PM CST
Good Evening!
Today Cameron stayed home from school with a sore throat and fever. I brought him to the doctor, and just as suspected, he has strep throat. What a bummer, so he'll be out of school tomorrow too. He rested a lot today and is now watching Home Alone. So, for the next ten days he'll be taking antibiotics (which he hates!). He feels a little better tonight, but his face is still flushed and you can tell his throat still hurts by the look on his face when he swallows. I got him some yummy rainbow popsicles today and he's been drinking mint tea with honey. My poor baby couldn't even eat his Happy Meal today.
Yesterday I did class sitting for a 3rd grade teacher at Cameron's school - what a difference between 1st and 3rd graders...I could have fallen asleep they were so good and quiet! After lunch I went to Cameron's class to help with a writing project. I explained to the kids about the Hugs and Hope Club and introduced them to one of the H&H club kids...Craig! What a cutie! He's in the first grade too so I thought they could identify better with him. He has a brain tumor and is going for his 10th round of chemo tomorrow. The kids were sad about what he's going through, but also happy that they were able to send him letters to make him feel better. A bunch of the kids even put their phone numbers on the letters - how cute is that?
Tomorrow I'm sure Cameron will be feeling lots better. And I'll be right there next to him on the couch playing video games. The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King...anybody got any hints? hee hee! It's pretty fun kicking that bad guy booty along side my little man! We do make a good team.
Well, thank you all for checking on us and the messages in the guestbook. I hope you all have a wonderful weekend.
Lots of Love!!!
Sheri
Wednesday, March 3, 2004 9:02 PM CST
Good Evening All!!!
Sorry for such a delay in updates, everything's been running so smoothly...
Today we had a scare with Cameron's shunt. I got a call from school today that his chest bone was hurting him. They thought it was caused from falling off the see-saw at recess. When I got there he seemed upset so when he settled down some, he told me a spot on his chest was hurting since this morning. I looked and there was a red area right on top of where his shunt tubing is running under his skin on his chest. His Neurologist had told me if he ever became irritated from the tubing, to put a warm compress on it. So I brought him home and called the doctor. After the warm compress, he felt fine. Two of the three doctors called back. Since he wasn't running a fever or had any more pain, the Neurologist said to come in for a check up in a couple of weeks, and our family doctor said to watch him closely for the next 24 hours. If he has any more pain or symptoms of shunt infection (fever, nausea, confusion, unsteadiness, etc) bring him to the ER. Well, so far, so good. He's felt fine for the rest of the day...playing outside and having loads of fun playing his new video game (Lord of the Rings...Return of the King) with his Uncle Ed.
Two of my brothers came in yesterday for a short visit. This was great since I hadn't seen my older brother Ed for almost 3 years. And it had been more than 6 months since I'd seen my younger brother Mike. We've had a nice visit but they have to leave tomorrow, always too soon. Daddy told Cameron he could stay home from school tomorrow if he wanted to but Cameron declined...the reason being, he'd have 4 pages of Math to make up if he stayed home. What a good boy!!!
Cameron's big sister Amber turns 16 on Friday! She'll be here in Lafayette that day with her school weight lifting team for an event. Cameron has a birthday party to go to that night, but I hope we can see her if only for a little bit.
Well, I know Cameron didn't go to bed like I told him...still making Uncle Ed play that game...so I better go or he'll be a grouch tomorrow getting up for school. Thank you all for checking on us and the wonderful entries in his guestbook.
Have a great weekend!!!!
Lots of love!!!
Sheri
Saturday, February 14, 2004 10:51 AM CST
HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!!!
Cameron had his party at school yesterday so Austin and I went too. It was lots of fun and all the kids had tons of Valentine goodies. Cameron got his teacher a musical bear that had fiber-optic roses, a box of chocolates and FLOWERS!!! It's so cute how he's so thoughtful - I hope this lasts through adulthood and he'll be like this for his wife.
After the party we went to the pediatrician for Cameron's ear check-up. They wanted to make sure that his infection was gone since he was on antibiotics twice in a row for it. Well, his left hear was perfect (it was the infected one last time), but his right ear was infected. This after only 6 days of being off the Augmentin. So, they brought out the big guns...the S-H-O-T. It was such a large amount of medicine, that they had to give it in 2 shots. And these 2 shots were not small! He did good until the nurse left the room, then he let it go. I'm guessing the shots of Rocephin are extremely painful - he cried an excrutiating painful, screaming cry for 10 minutes straight. He slept on the way home (10 min) and I carried him to the couch and gave him heating pads for his legs and brought him his Valentine box from school. After the heat worked it's way through, his legs felt much better. He also got a prescription for Zithromax to take for 5 days, and Anaplex DM (for cough and runny nose). He was asleep by 8pm last night and slept until 7:30 this morning.
Right now he's playing the bonus features on the new Lion King 1 1/2 DVD. I got some movies from the Library to watch this weekend - Sleepless in Seattle, You've Got Mail, Tuck Everlasting, and The Lizzie McGuire Movie - perfect Valentine's movies!
I really hope Cameron's ear infection problem gets solved with this latest antibiotic treatment. He never had ear infections before chemo - well maybe once or twice in 4 years, but that's it. After the shot incident, I was actually missing his port - at least that didn't hurt him.
I heard it snowed in Texas - Ft.Worth/Tyler area, my mom went through there yesterday morning to visit her ailing mother, what timing...she missed the snow! Well, I hope you all have a great weekend and get lots of chocolate today.
Lots of Love ~ Sheri
Sunday, February 8, 2004 8:48 PM CST
Sunday nights are the hardest to get these boys to bed on time. Cameron is over his ear infection (I hope), he has a visit to the pediatrician on Friday to check. It's been rainy and quite cold here, but not cold enough for snow. I'm really hoping that during Cameron's little Mardi Gras vacation in a couple of weeks that we can head up north to play in some snow. Daddy's always up there driving in it, he may not want to vacation there...we'll see...
Well, I need to get Cameron to bed so he won't be dragging tomorrow at school. I just wanted to do a quick update to let everyone know that Cameron was feeling much better...I think I'm getting a cold - ugh!
Have a great week, and maybe Cameron will get on here and leave you all a Valentine message for the next update.
Lots of love!!!
~Sheri~
Thursday, January 29, 2004 1:31 PM CST
Cameron's first sick day!
Today Cameron stayed home from school sick - the first time all year! The other 4 times he was out of school was for doctor visits & MRI's. Last night he said his ear was bothering him and then he woke up at 1:30am with it hurting. I gave him some Advil (blue raspberry is great!) and he went back to sleep. He had just finished antibiotics on Monday for his ear infections from 2 weeks ago. I woke Cameron up for school at the regular time and his ear was still hurting so we decided he should stay home. I took his temperature and it was 101. I called the doctor's office right when they opened and got Cameron a 10am appt. The doctor took a look and sure enough - infected. He said he thinks the antibiotics he was on just kept the bacteria from growing and once it was out of his system, it grew and grew causing all the pain. Cameron is now on augmentin for the next 10 days. No fun, especially since he hates the taste so bad. My poor baby.
On a good note, Cameron received his quilt from the Quilting Angels on Monday (photo above) with a matching pillowcase. The Quilting Angels (that I'm also a part of) makes quilts for kids featured on the Hugs and Hope website. So, since Cameron was featured on there in March'03, he got a quilt! The first quilt block I made was for Cameron's quilt - then I just couldn't stop, it was so much fun, and for the best cause.
After the doctor visit today, we went to the drug store to get Cameron's prescriptions (& candy) then just had to make a stop at Hollywood Video for Cameron's "sick day" game. Well, now that Austin is into playing the games now, he had to get a game too. Good thing we have 2 systems! When we got home, Cameron had a package waiting - his cross-stitched quilt from Love Quilts - these ladies make cross-stitched squares to be made into a quilt for the kids featured on the Make A Child Smile website (Cameron was featured there in Dec.'02). The theme is Noah's Ark and it turned out absolutely beautiful. I'll post a picture really soon. He also got 2 matching pillows and a framed cross-stitched Noah's Ark picture. Wow - 2 quilts in one week! Now I need to make one for Austin, I'm going to let him pick out some fabric that he would like - he's in the fabric store with me enough, so why not...
Cameron is sleeping right now and Austin is demanding my help with Sonic the Hedgehog...so it's off to the GameCube for me. I hope you all have a great weekend and for all of you in the snow...keep warm, and feel free to send some this way...
Lots of Love,
~Sheri
Thursday, January 22, 2004 4:57 PM CST
I'm finally updating! After such a long day yesterday, I'm still tired.
Cameron did great for his MRI - went to sleep nice and easy with the sedation. Austin and I went to the cafeteria for a drink and a couple of chicken tenders while Cameron was having his MRI. We got back right before he was done and Cameron woke up when they brought him back into the room. He asked for a coke and a blanket and after a few sips, was sleeping. We secured him in a wheelchair to go to radiology to get his shunt checked. While we were waiting he started to cry, but he was still so out of it I couldn't tell what he wanted. After his fluoro (xray) I held him while he cried in his sleep. He woke a little and I told him we had to go back to the clinic and this frustrated him. He just wanted to lay down in the car and sleep. When we finally got the films and MRI report we were off to the clinic. Cameron wanted to lay up on the table because the wheelchair was not comfortable at all. He was still quite sedated and floppy. He couldn't hold his head up or even keep his eyes open. When he talked it was very hard to understand. He was getting so mad at me because I didn't know what he wanted.
He finally relayed to me that he wanted me to lay on the table with him - it's not a very big table, so I didn't think I could get on it. He got really mad and started hitting the window and screaming. Then the doctor came in and Cameron was pretty mad about that too. I was willing to get on the table to calm him down, but needed the nurse to come in and watch him so Austin and I could make a potty run. Then I got my big self on that table next to my baby and he snuggled up against me and fell right asleep. An hour later we had all our next appointment cards and copies of his counts (good) and MRI report (also good, no change) and were out the door. Cameron was still sleeping. When I put him in the car he asked (nicely) if he could eat something, then went back to sleep. 2 hours later when I stopped for gas I had to wake him up. This was 6 hours after sedation. He was friendly and in a really sweet and loving mood. We got some candy and he ate a Happy Meal and we talked and talked all the way home. My head was hurting so bad - always happens on MRI day, guess I shouldn't skip the morning coffee. We were supposed to go to Applebees for Cameron's favorite (steak) when we got home, but since I had such a bad headache, Cameron said we could go another time. See? I told you he was being sweet!
Anyway, Cameron had slept for 6 hours straight from the sedation...was he ready to go to sleep at his usual 9pm bedtime? No way, in fact he was still awake at 10:30. I wondered if I should let him sleep in this morning and take him to school a little late, but knowing how he likes school I thought I'd give it a shot waking him on time. He gave me no problems getting up. While we were out waiting for the bus he was running and jumping around - made me feel good to know he wasn't too tired. Right now he is sleeping, and when he gets up if he wants to go to Applebees, we'll go.
Cameron's platelets are now just a tad below normal - I'm so glad they're coming up. And his thyroid counts are all in the normal range - this I'm especially glad for - I didn't want him to have to take thyroid medicine. His next MRI was scheduled for April, but I had to change it since it was on a Field Trip day, just waiting for them to call me back with the new appointment date.
Well, Austin is terrorizing the kitty, so I guess I better go save her. I'll update again soon.
Have a great weekend everyone!!!!
Lots of love ~ Sheri
Wednesday, January 21, 2004 10:03 PM CST
We're home! The MRI showed "no change" - again, but that's alright with me! I'll update about our day, etc. when I'm not so sleepy. Take care...
*******
Wednesday, January 21, 2004 7:24 AM CST
Good Morning!
We're getting ready to head out the door for Cameron's MRI. The poor guy can't have anything to eat or drink until after the MRI since he still gets sedated, and it's not scheduled until 1pm. I'm hoping he'll sleep the whole way to New Orleans (2 1/2 hrs). His Oncologist visit is before the MRI so we won't get the results until a day or so later.
Cameron's report card was very good. All +'s and E's and an A in conduct. His Math grade did go down a bit to a B, but we're working on that. He is reading better and really enjoying it. Cameron had his first sleep-over this past weekend. His friend Justin spent the night on Saturday and wouldn't you know, the kids go to bed by 9pm every night except this one - they stayed up until Midnight! Then were up by 7:30 the next morning. They were very good and not being loud or cutting up (surprise), they just wanted to stay up playing video games.
I've added a Guestmap (link above) so please give it a click and make your mark on our map. Cameron would like to see where everyone is that signs his guestbook.
Have a great day and I'll update when we get back tonight.
Lots of Love!!!
~Sheri
Wednesday, January 21, 2004 7:24 AM CST
Good Morning!
We're getting ready to head out the door for Cameron's MRI. The poor guy can't have anything to eat or drink until after the MRI since he still gets sedated, and it's not scheduled until 1pm. I'm hoping he'll sleep the whole way to New Orleans (2 1/2 hrs). His Oncologist visit is before the MRI so we won't get the results until a day or so later.
Cameron's report card was very good. All +'s and E's and an A in conduct. His Math grade did go down a bit to a B, but we're working on that. He is reading better and really enjoying it. Cameron had his first sleep-over this past weekend. His friend Justin spent the night on Saturday and wouldn't you know, the kids go to bed by 9pm every night except this one - they stayed up until Midnight! Then were up by 7:30 the next morning. They were very good and not being loud or cutting up (surprise), they just wanted to stay up playing video games.
I've added a Guestmap (link above) so please give it a click and make your mark on our map. Cameron would like to see where everyone is that signs his guestbook.
Have a great day and I'll update when we get back tonight.
Lots of Love!!!
~Sheri
Wednesday, January 14, 2004 5:59 AM CST
Good Morning!
I'm sorry I've been so bad about keeping this updated. I've been getting some good quality play time with the kids. Mostly playing video games - Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (PS2) is the favorite right now. Cameron and I make a good team as Raphael and Michelangelo - Cameron comes up with some very good "plans" to beat the bad guys. I even attempted to teach Cameron to ride his new 2-wheeler bike - is there a secret or a book about teaching a child to ride a bike - like the balance thing? I don't remember, it's been close to 3 decades since I'd learned. He lost interest when he fell and the bike landed on his leg. And since his platelets are still below normal, I'm sure he's got the bruise to prove it.
Two days after Cameron went back to school he came home with a note from his teacher - Recess Detention! It seems Mr.Cameron was a bit talkative that day. He wasn't upset about it - a bunch of kids got it - but he didn't want to hear what I had to say about it. I tried to make light of it but at the same time stressing to him to be good and show respect for his teacher (who he loves) by listening and not talking during lesson time. So, his conduct grade for last week was a B, instead of the 18 weeks before that were all A's. Report cards come out soon, so I'll get that on here too.
Yesterday Cameron went to the dentist to get his teeth cleaned. They said his permanent front teeth are coming in so his baby teeth should be ready to fall out soon - hear that ToothFairy??? He also has to go back to get 2 cavities filled. I brought the boys back home and then I went to the school to the Blood Mobile to donate. That's my New Year's Resolution, to donate on a regular basis. I would have done it earlier this month, but I wanted to support Cameron's class. The class that has the most turnout for the blood drive gets a special treat, and I got a T-shirt. Let me just say - ouch! Some people are good at needle poking, but the guy yesterday, was not. I was wishing I would have used some of Cameron's Emla cream. When I got home, my arm was still hurting and when I looked at it there was a big bump and if I touched it - double ouch! I remember this happened to Cameron once after a blood draw. My poor baby, it made me really sad! This morning my arm is still sore - but please don't let my whining make you not donate. Donors save so many lives every day. Cameron received 21 platelet transfusions and 6 blood transfusions because of chemo, and lots of times had to wait because there's such a shortage. Chemo kids need special types of blood/platelets, so please donate and get tested to see if you're CMV negative. If you are, and you donate regularly, you will be saving lives like my Cameron. Look in the photo album, at his Cub Scout picture...how could you say no to that????
Well, I'm sure there was more I wanted to say, but I need to get Cameron up for school. Thanks for reading - and for signing the guestbook.
Lots of Love!!!
~Sheri
Thursday, January 1, 2004 9:29 AM CST
Happy New Year!!!
We spent the evening shooting off fireworks, but couldn't hold out until midnight. We were up until shortly after 11, so needless to say, the boys are still sleeping.
New Year's resolutions? We'll see.
I hope everyone will have a wonderful New Year. Cameron's next MRI is scheduled for January 21. But I'll be sure to update way before then.
Thank you all for checking on us!
Lots of Love!!!
~Sheri
Friday, December 26, 2003 8:32 AM CST
I hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas! I know Cameron sure did. Santa was very good to him this year! We all got what we asked for, and then some...
Austin was not feeling well when he woke up yesterday morning, so he wasn't too interested in opening anything. He had a 102.6 temp and slept most of the day. I hope he's feeling better today. Cameron and Austin both got new bikes, so when I'm feeling brave, I'll be out teaching Cameron how to ride a 2-wheeler. Austin is sticking with the training wheels - there's just so much I can take...hee hee!
Daddy and Nick left out at 3am on a run to Houston - Nick finally gets to go in the big truck. Cameron went with them to Baton Rouge last night to pick up the trailer and to drop Amber off.
We've had quite the house-full this Christmas. Cameron's Uncle Mike (my brother) was here with us for a couple days and Cameron enjoyed showing him his aquired talents (video game & reading) since we saw him last. Amber and Nick came in on Tuesday and I think Amber is coming back on Sunday and they're staying until New Year's Day. Uncle Robert (Daddy's brother) and Aunt Mary surprised us on Christmas Eve with a visit. We all had fun opening presents and visiting, we even went to IHOP on Christmas day for brunch. Granny made a roast for dinner, I was just too wiped out to make my traditional Christmas Dinner (turkey and all the fixins). Now I feel guilty.
Well, I guess I better try to find a place for all our new toys and stuff - I should learn carpentry so I can add on to our house - just for the kids' toys - ha! But if I could do that, I'd build myself a sewing room....anyway...
Have a great weekend everyone!
Lots of Love!!!
~Sheri
Saturday, December 20, 2003 5:28 AM CST
Good Morning! I can't believe I'm up so early, but it's so quiet and peaceful...
Yesterday was Cameron's class Christmas Party. I made little quilted stockings for all the kids in his class. I asked Cameron what he wanted to give his teacher and he said "flowers" - it is so sweet how much he loves his teacher. We had pizza and played games...Cameron won a "drop the clothespin in the bucket" game and also he won his first try at Christmas Bingo! He was thrilled as he never wins at Bingo (unless Mommy's playing too). Austin had a blast getting so much attention (as usual) from the girls. Then the kids handed out their little treats to everyone. In the stockings I put some candy and a little Santa lip balm - but I found out yesterday that it is red! Austin had it all over his mouth, so, sorry to all the mom's who also found out the hard way! hee hee
This past week it was Cameron's turn to be Student of the Week. He enjoyed being the line leader and such. He even got to bring the attendance papers to the office and the lunch count to the cafeteria every day.
Daddy's home now until after the first, and Cameron is already bombarding him with game requests. I'm up early to see if I can get out to the stores early for their 7AM sales. I guess I better get it in gear then.
Merry Christmas everyone!!!
Lots of love,
Sheri & Cameron
Sunday, December 14, 2003 9:26 PM CST
Sorry for the huge lapse in updates. Cameron is doing great, and we've been very busy. I was at school every day for the last 2 weeks helping with the decorations for the first grade Christmas Program. It was great, my friend loaned me her video camera so I could film it for Daddy. I, along with the other 4 moms, got recognition for the decorations (very sweet) and even got a beautiful poinsettia to take home - anyone know how I could keep it alive?
Saturday was the Tiger Cub's Space Derby - we worked on Cameron's rocket the night before so I didn't think it would even go. Well, he won a race! It was so neat.
On Wednesday, Austin had an earache so I brought him to the doctor when Cameron got home. Yup, he had an ear infection. I asked the doctor to take a peek in Cameron's ear since he was there, and wouldn't you know...he had an ear infection too. I'm so glad we caught it before it got bad and made him miss school. Now they're both on antibiotics until Friday morning.
Today we had our Cub Scout meeting at our house and then we went to a hockey game. A girl in Cameron's class got the class tickets to the game for Christmas - thank you Taylor!!! We had a blast, except that our home team lost.
The boys are looking forward to Christmas, and so am I. All these commercials...they keep changing their minds for what they want Santa to bring. Poor Santa - all these last minute additions. Cameron should be getting his quilt from the Quilting Angels this week - I will post a picture of him with it as soon as it arrives. I love that group and so glad to be a part of it - I even learned a different way to quilt - paper piecing, now my favorite!!!
Tomorrow I'll be back at the school for Cameron's book fair, and to take down the decorations. I'll try to get in a quick update before Christmas. Thank you everyone, for checking on us. Have a great week!!!
Lots of love ~ Sheri
Tuesday, December 2, 2003 4:01 PM CST
HAPPY BIRTHDAY AUSTIN!!!!!
Today my baby turned 4 years old! He didn't want to be older, but he finally gave in and now he says he's 4.
We had his birthday party on Saturday so Daddy could be here for it, and he had a fun time. But today I wanted to do something special with Austin to celebrate his day. So, after I got back from making copies at Cameron's school, we went to Chuck E.Cheese's. Austin was very happy about the surprise. There were hardly any people in there so it was rather relaxing. Austin rode every ride and played every game. Three hours later we were cashing in our tickets and Austin was picking out stuff for both him and Cameron. He wished Cameron could have come too, but you all know how Cameron is about missing school. Then we checked Cameron's mailbox and there were 7 items in it - all birthday cards for Austin. He sat and listened carefully as I read each one. And when I would say who it was from, he would nod his head. It was so sweet that he was actually paying attention to what was written in the cards. He did have a few surprises - stickers and even a dollar - thank you to the Hugs and Hope & Make A Child Smile folks that were so considerate to think of Cameron's little brother.
Shortly after we got home, Cameron came home from school. I thought he'd be mad at me for going without him, but he wasn't. When Austin showed him all the stuff he picked out for him, he was very happy and they are now playing. Later we'll go to Baskin Robbins for dessert. Well, maybe sooner than later - Austin's asking to go NOW! OK, since it's his special day, I'll give in and let him have ice cream before his supper. And what will he request for supper? Probably his most favorite food - cheesy eggs!
Have a great week everyone - the boys are getting their immunizations on Saturday...ugh....I'll update next week when I get a chance.
Lots of love!
Sheri
Saturday, November 29, 2003 9:13 PM CST
Good Evening! I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving. I sure did!
I was up early cooking, and for the first time I had everything ready at the time I planned. The night before I stayed up late to make the Cranberry Nut Bread, Sweet Potato Casserole, and Haystacks (green beans wrapped in bacon) then in the morning I made the Pumpkin Pie and Maple Glazed Apple Pie. Then the turkey went in the oven. Everyone got plenty to eat and we have lots of leftovers -still!
Amber & Nick - Cameron's brother & sister - were here too so the kids had fun playing, it had been more than 4 months since we'd seen them. We watched The Santa Clause, The Santa Clause 2, Jingle All The Way, Bruce Almighty and countless cartoons this week. I enjoyed sleeping late, but Cameron is ready for school to get started. He's been sleeping late too so I hope he'll go to bed early tomorrow night.
Today we celebrated Austin's birthday. It was a small get together with a family friend, her husband and kids. We had a great and relaxing time. Austin and Cameron both got some HULK hands and they've been hitting everything in sight...what was I thinking??? Tomorrow we put up the Christmas tree, usually something I do on the day after Thanksgiving, but I was too tired. I plan to have my shopping close to completion by next Friday - alot of it being done online. I usually wait until the last minute, but that's getting too stressful for me.
Don't you love the picture of Cameron with his steak?
Well, I better get those boys ready for bed. Have a great weekend!!!
Lots of love,
Sheri
Saturday, November 22, 2003 9:12 PM CST
We're home! Actually we were home at 1pm but I wanted to relax. We watched The Santa Clause and tomorrow we'll watch The Santa Clause 2. I even did some Christmas shopping tonight. We're having Austin's birthday party next Saturday so I wanted to get a few things for that too.
Cameron's surgery went great - we were there for only 4 hours. We got to keep the port - they cleaned it up of course. I told Cameron it would be good to take for show and tell, then he wants to blow it up with some firecrackers to celebrate being off of chemo!
Cameron woke up right after they took him to recovery, so they brought him up to his room. He was in some pain and very groggy for about 20 minutes, but after a popsicle and a sprite, he was back to his old self and ready to leave. While he was "under" they put an IV in his hand and had it taped to a little wrist brace - he didn't like not being able to move his hand. As soon as the IV came out, we were out of there! Cameron's nurse gave him a certificate for bravery - he's very proud of that. I am very proud of him - when they were bringing him to the O.R. he said "let's go on a ride" - I could tell he was scared but he was being very brave.
Cameron is a bit upset that he has to be out of school for a whole week for Thanksgiving break. I know I've said it before, but I am so glad he loves school! He insisted that I call his teacher as soon as we left the hospital. It was only 12:30 so she was still in class, so I just left a message.
Austin turns 4 on December 2nd, but we'll be having his birthday party on Saturday (after Thanksgiving) since Daddy will be home and Amber and Nick will be here too. Then on his real birthday I will take him to Chuck E.Cheeses for some serious playing. We're hoping to catch some movies while Cameron's off of school. The Cat in the Hat is the most requested one from the kids, and Mommy and Daddy would like to see Elf. I'll give my reviews when we go. Did I rate Brother Bear? If not, it was another good one by Disney - even good for the grown ups.
Well, I am VERY tired. I'll update in a week or so. Thanks for checking on Cameron and thanks for the well wishes in the guestbook. Please keep Kody and Ashley in your prayers, they are having a rough time right now - their links are below.
Happy Thanksgiving!
~Sheri
Friday, November 21, 2003 4:53 AM CST
Good Early Morning!
We're off to New Orleans for Cameron to have surgery to have his port removed. He's not too happy that he has to miss school today...
We're staying the night at a hotel in New Orleans, so I'll update when we get back tomorrow.
Thank you as always for checking on Cameron! Would you please sign the guestbook so we'll know you were here?
Lots of Love!!!
Sheri
Monday, November 10, 2003 7:35 AM CST
Happy Birthday To You,
Happy Birthday To You,
Happy Birthday To Cameron's Shunt....
Happy Birthday To You! ...although we wish we didn't need you....
Cameron, Mommy is so proud of you! I love you more with every breath I take. Two years ago today you had your very first operation ever - to put in your VP shunt. You were still so much a baby, only 4 years old. I know you were scared when they took you to the operating room, we were all scared. You were mad when you woke up because your belly hurt where they had to cut it to put the tube and you asked "why did those mean doctors hurt me?"
You have been such a good boy through this whole ordeal, taking your medicine, being poked with needles too many times to count, transfusion after transfusion, having to stay home in isolation for months at a time. You handled it all way better than any adult ever could. Every nurse, doctor and technician that ever had the pleasure to take care of you ALL have said what a wonderful patient you are and they wished all of them were as good as you!
And yesterday when you told me out of the blue, "Mommy, I am thankful for G-O-D" well, I'm sure He feels the same about you...You have my heart forever and always. I love you, my little Monkey Man, Cameroni!
Love ~ Mommy
Hi everyone! Not much to update, had a pretty good weekend - went to a birthday party on Saturday and had a Cub Scout meeting on Sunday. Cameron and Austin had lots of fun playing at both. Cameron was up bright and early this morning ready to get back to school - oh how I hope this love of school lasts for 15 more years - he wants to be a doctor you know.
I almost forgot - Brother Bear was one cute movie - another thumbs up for Disney!
Have a great week!
~Sheri
Saturday, November 8, 2003 6:49 AM CST
Good Morning!
I was planning on sleeping late this morning but instead I was up at 5 - an hour earlier than during the week. Oh well, I'll just get a jump start on my day.
We were in New Orleans yesterday for Cameron's appointments. The Endocrinologist was pleased that Cameron has grown 1/2" and gained 2.5 pounds in less than 4 months. Also his TSH looks to be regulating without any meds. He wants to see him back in 6 months. Then we saw the Neuro Surgeon and I asked about if there were any changes in the tumor. He said the only change that would be in the residual tumor is that it would grow - and it hasn't in almost 2 years so that is very good. After Cameron's next MRI in January, he won't have to get another one for 6 months - so we kinda graduated from the 3 month MRI to the 6 month MRI! And if that MRI remains good (the same) his next one will be a year after that. That is very good, but kinda scary - waiting a whole year to see if there's any growth. But Cameron will be glad because he HATES missing school. It's bad enough he doesn't get to go on weekends, but to miss it for a doctor???
Before we left for home we stopped by the Hemoc Clinic for Cameron's flu shot - yes, they tell me to "stop by" for his shot, and it takes over an hour - typical! Cameron did so great - not one tear, and he even watched the whole thing.
Tomorrow it will be 2 years that we discovered Cameron's brain tumor. He was only 4, still so much a baby. I can still recall the pain and fear of that moment. Strange how you can actually feel your heart breaking at moments like that. And when I think about all that he's gone through at such a young age, I feel a squeeze on my heart that hurts so bad it opens up the flood gates of tears.
I have met many, many families through this site, Hugs and Hope, MACS, Quilts of Love and The Cage - I've rejoiced with them when there's good news, tried to comfort with words when there's not so good news, and cried buckets of tears at the worst news of all. There shouldn't be so many children suffering, and yet each one changes so many lives that you can almost see the purpose in it - although us mommies (and daddies) don't think it's worth it.
I'll be spending the weekend having fun with my boys - even going to a birthday party!
Love and Hugs....God Bless!
~Sheri
Saturday, November 1, 2003 9:13 AM CST
Happy November!!!
The Holiday Season is here - time to shop! I'll never get used to the weather here in South Louisiana. It's been in the 80's all week. I remember Halloween being cold - of course it's because I was way up in Massachusetts when I did the Trick or Treat-ing. I've been here for 10 years and I still can't get used to it.
The boys raked in a bunch of treats last night - we were out for 1 1/2 hours. It was very warm, especially for them in their costumes, and the mosquitos were out. Cameron and Austin were both asleep by 8:30. Then we slept in this morning and just having a lazy day. Monday is no school so I'm taking the boys to see the new movie "Brother Bear". Cameron has appointments on Friday to see both his Endocrinologist and Neurologist. Just routine check ups.
I hope everyone has a great weekend - we have a yard full of leaves to play with, now that the sun broke through the fog...
~Sheri
Friday, October 31, 2003 2:25 PM CST
HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!! Click here for some Halloween fun!
I hope everyone has a fun and safe weekend!!!!
~Sheri
Journal
Monday, October 27, 2003 8:04 PM CST
Good Evening!
Another quick update - nothing new is going on here. Cameron's cold/flu that had him in the hospital last weekend has made it's way around our house. We all have the head cold and going through the Kleenex like crazy. Being the trooper that Cameron is, he didn't miss any school because of it. Every day last week he'd come home from school and take a 2 hour nap, and still be in bed by 8:30pm. I got his report card on Friday, and he is doing excellent! I am one proud Mommy!
Today was Parent/Teacher Conferences so the kids were out of school. Cameron was not happy about having the day off, especially since Mondays are "Library" days. So, I brought him to the Public Library and he checked out 20 books - all with his very own Library Card. He's so excited he's reading "chapter" books now. He told me not to tell his teacher today, he wants to tell her about it tomorrow. His teacher said Cameron is really blossoming and has come a long way since the first day of school. She showed me a paper containing a couple of sentences that Cameron wrote in August - I made out maybe 3 words - and then a paper of the same sentences, written this month - wow, what a difference! I could read every word, and he even puncuated it!
Cameron is counting the days until Halloween. He's going to be a scary monster - and since I'm making up his face for it, it will surely be scary - ha!
We go see Cameron's Neurologist on Nov.7, and he should be getting his port taken out on Nov.14. I found out today that the 14th is the day of Cameron's class field trip. I feel so awful - I totally forgot about it when I scheduled the surgery. He's VERY upset about missing it. I hope I can find some way to make it up to him. (UPDATE: I changed it to Nov.21!!!)
A wonderful organization called the Quilting Angels is having a fundraiser in November. The proceeds will be used to stuff and ship out hundreds of stockings for the children featured on the Hugs and Hope website. The Quilting Angels are currently making a quilt for Cameron, and as soon as we get it, we will post a picture of it on here. The fundraiser is called "Quilting for Quarters", so if you would like to help out these wonderful ladies that give so freely of their time and talent please visit the website for more info, or you can contact me. I've already started saving my quarters...
I hope you all have a safe and fun Trick or Treat, I'm hoping for lots of chocolate....
~Sheri
Monday, October 27, 2003 8:04 PM CST
Good Evening!
Another quick update - nothing new is going on here. Cameron's cold/flu that had him in the hospital last weekend has made it's way around our house. We all have the head cold and going through the Kleenex like crazy. Being the trooper that Cameron is, he didn't miss any school because of it. Every day last week he'd come home from school and take a 2 hour nap, and still be in bed by 8:30pm. I got his report card on Friday, and he is doing excellent! I am one proud Mommy!
Today was Parent/Teacher Conferences so the kids were out of school. Cameron was not happy about having the day off, especially since Mondays are "Library" days. So, I brought him to the Public Library and he checked out 20 books - all with his very own Library Card. He's so excited he's reading "chapter" books now. He told me not to tell his teacher today, he wants to tell her about it tomorrow. His teacher said Cameron is really blossoming and has come a long way since the first day of school. She showed me a paper containing a couple of sentences that Cameron wrote in August - I made out maybe 3 words - and then a paper of the same sentences, written this month - wow, what a difference! I could read every word, and he even puncuated it!
Cameron is counting the days until Halloween. He's going to be a scary monster - and since I'm making up his face for it, it will surely be scary - ha!
We go see Cameron's Neurologist on Nov.7, and he should be getting his port taken out on Nov.14. I found out today that the 14th is the day of Cameron's class field trip. I feel so awful - I totally forgot about it when I scheduled the surgery. He's VERY upset about missing it. I hope I can find some way to make it up to him. (UPDATE: I changed it to Nov.21!!!)
A wonderful organization called the Quilting Angels is having a fundraiser in November. The proceeds will be used to stuff and ship out hundreds of stockings for the children featured on the Hugs and Hope website. The Quilting Angels are currently making a quilt for Cameron, and as soon as we get it, we will post a picture of it on here. The fundraiser is called "Quilting for Quarters", so if you would like to help out these wonderful ladies that give so freely of their time and talent please visit the website for more info, or you can contact me. I've already started saving my quarters...
I hope you all have a safe and fun Trick or Treat, I'm hoping for lots of chocolate....
~Sheri
PS - today my baby sister turns a quarter of a century - Happy 25th Birthday Julie!!!!!
Sunday, October 19, 2003 8:52 PM CDT
We're home!!! Everything went well in the hospital and Cameron's cultures all came back negative. So, the cause of his short-lived fever was just a cold. Now Austin has the fever and I feel like it's getting a hold of me now. Cameron has a bad cough so it looks like we'll be post-poning his surgery to have his port taken out.
Cameron is so ready to go to school - he was asking to go to bed at 7:00! When he was running a fever after school on Friday, his only concern was missing 2 days of school having to be in the hospital. Well, when I told him it was the weekend, he was relieved. I'm so glad that he's taken such a liking to school.
Well, it was a long and draining weekend - I can never sleep in the hospital - so I'm turning in early. I hope you all have a great week, and thank you so much for checking in on us and the nice guestbook entries.
Lots of Love,
Sheri
Friday, October 17, 2003 3:39 PM CDT
5:26PM - we're off to the hospital for a weekend of blood draws, IV antibiotics and cultures...will update when we get back Sunday night or Monday.
****************************************
Just a quick update...
We're waiting to hear back from Cameron's pediatrician to see if she wants us to go to the hospital or not. Cameron has a fever 101.2 - and since he still has his port, he needs to have cultures drawn. He has a cold and cough, so I'm thinking that is what's causing the fever. We did a CBC this morning before school, and his counts are still ok - but his platelets went down a little. He may not be getting his port taken out on Tuesday after all. But, it looks like we'll be spending the weekend in the hospital. Cameron is just glad that he won't be missing school.
Well, I'll update later if we go or not.
Have a great weekend!!!!
~Sheri
Monday, October 13, 2003 9:15 AM CDT
Happy Columbus Day!!!
I hope everyone enjoyed their weekend, because we sure did! We got to the Scout campground at 3pm on Saturday, and we were the first ones at our site. It didn't take long to get our tent up and everything situated. Then a bunch of Cub Scouts and parents went on a hike to the Crooked Bridge. We were way in the woods - good thing for Bug Guard! We got to the rickety old narrow bridge and all crossed, had a lesson in different area trees on the other side, then crossed back over. I was very nervous as this tiny unstable bridge crossed right over the swamp - yes, the swamp with all the swamp creatures, like snakes and alligators! We then hiked down to the lake. Not the kind of lake you'd want to swim in though, it's more like a swamp than a lake if you ask me. Anyway, we went back to camp to eat and all the boys got to help build the campfire. The pack leader was teaching the boys the proper way to add wood to the fire, etc. At 8pm everyone gathered at the big bon fire - it was like camp orientation. Some of the older scouts did a few skits and we sang and met the staff. They went over some "rules" - one being "don't go across the crooked bridge, it is broken" - huh? Didn't we just do that earlier? Uh, yeah, only about 50 of us!
Lights out was 10pm, and I was more than ready! Cameron was out once his head hit the pillow and Austin was far behind. Me? well I'm such a light sleeper. I was in the middle of the air mattress so that made the sides go up and the kids roll right into me - not too comfy. I had 2 little battery operated fans to help with the heat, but the humidity - it was awful - everything felt wet - one of the drawbacks to camping in Louisiana! January is the best time to camp here. So, 6:30 rolled around and I got up and we got ready for breakfast at 7am. After waiting in line for a LONG time we got to eat some pancakes and bacon. Then it was off to the activities....
Cameron's first choice was to make a bird house. Once I got the boards figured out, Cameron started hammering. He was doing good until - whack - he hit my thumb. Then our pack leader came to help Cameron finish. We brought the bird house to the tent and then off to take a spin in a canoe. On the way to the lake we stopped by the Obstacle Course. I was not about to run through tires or climb over a wall so I volunteered one of the Boy Scouts to go race Cameron through it. Cameron won both times (those scouts are so nice to the little ones)! He ended up going through it about 10 times all together - it was his favorite!
Since neither Cameron nor Austin can swim, a life guard (Girl Scout) rode in the canoe with us. We went around a small part of the lake twice. Austin says he saw an Alligator's nose - it was more fun for him to think that, so I didn't tell him otherwise. I'm glad that girl went with us, it kept me from having to paddle too much or steer. Time for some boy stuff...we were off to the BB gun range. I think that had the longest line. I didn't get any pictures of Cameron shooting since I was helping him - the BB gun was too hard for him to handle alone. He didn't get a bull's eye, but he did hit that paper 5 out of 10 times - not bad for a beginner. But now he wants a BB gun for Christmas - as did all the boys there. Next was Sling shots - they were shooting dry dog food at targets - Cameron hit some, but didn't pop any balloons.
Lunch time - and boy were we ready for it. Austin was falling asleep eating so I made him walk around and that woke him right up. We went back to the obstacle course and then on to Archery. Austin got to participate in this one and he even hit his target a few times thanks to one of the helpers guiding him. Cameron, well he tried...his helper wasn't as helpful - he didn't get any hits. Next time we'll do archery first so he'll have time to practice. It was then time to pack up and leave. We had already brought one load to the car and still there were no available carts. So, instead of waiting for one I thought I would just carry the rest of the stuff out - and it was a long walk. Well, it was just way too heavy so Cameron's friend said we could put our stuff on their cart. While we were waiting I found a cart in our camp site that had a flat on one side and a warped tire on the other. I was so ready to go, I didn't care so we loaded it up and were off. It was not easy, but we made it back to the car. The boys fell asleep pretty quick. An hour later we were home!
We had a great time and we're looking forward to going back next year.
Cameron is scheduled to have his port removed next Tuesday, Oct.21. I'll update when we get back from that, if not sooner. Have a great week everyone!!!
~Sheri
Wednesday, October 1, 2003 8:48 PM CDT
Good Evening!!!
I just wanted to update real quick about Cameron's MRI. The report shows "No Change" - and that's a good thing! Especially since he's been off of chemo for 6 months. His counts continue to rise - yippee!!!
I'll update more this weekend, it's been a long day.
~Sheri
Friday, September 26, 2003 1:18 PM CDT
TGIF!!!!
Cameron had his first "official" Cub Scout meeting last night. We got to see how to make fire starters for a camp fire. Neat. The meeting was a bit boring, since Cameron had no idea what the Pack leader was talking about. I think he'll enjoy the Den Meetings much better since it will only be the kids his age. We're not going on the Camp-out next month - Daddy won't be home so we'll go some other time. On Saturday we're going to "Tiger Day" - especially for the 1st graders in Cub Scouts. It will just be me and Cameron and it sounds like it will be lots of fun!
I've been recruited to be a reporter for Cameron's school newsletter. I had signed up to do proofreading, but they were short on reporters. My first article was a hit! It was about the Fall Carnival at his school. I must admit it was fun to do, and I'm looking forward to writing another article next month.
Next week will be a busy week. On Monday I'll be getting trained in the copy room at school. On Tuesday I go in to make copies for the 1st grade teachers. Wednesday is Cameron's MRI (please pray for good results). Thursday I volunteered to help out with the Vision/Hearing Screening at school. Friday night we're going to a football game - Cameron's teacher is married to the coach, so it's almost like a night-time field trip. Then Saturday is voting day! I never imagined having a child in school could keep me so busy. I guess if I didn't volunteer for everything it wouldn't be so hectic, but I love doing that kind of thing. It's what I always imagined being a Mommy would be like.
Cameron has a cold right now, so I'm hoping it stays just a regular cold and doesn't turn into bronchitis or another sinus infection. He says he feels fine, but does he really? Or has such a long time of feeling run down made him think that's a normal feeling? I hope not. From what he tells me, he's very active in school - recess being his favorite now. That with his cold is why he so easily falls asleep on the couch not long after he gets off the bus.
Well, I hope you all have a great weekend. Remember to pray for Cameron's friend Kody as he's having eye surgery on Tuesday.
Thanks for checking on us!
Lots of Love!!!
~Sheri
Visit some more of Cameron's Caringbridge friends:
Gooch, Kaelei, Matthew,Adam, Anna, Bailee, Brice, Benjamin, Brandon, Aizee, Cheyenne, Zoie, Jimmy - unfortunately, there's many more - I'll try to get them listed on here soon. :(
Thursday, September 18, 2003 10:13 AM CDT
Good Morning!
I'm sorry I didn't get this updated over the weekend, what was I thinking? We were having some stormy weather over the weekend so maybe that's why...
Cameron is doing just great! I went to Open House at his school last week and his teacher told me he's come a long way since the first day of school. He's "coming out of his shell". His best subject so far is Math - he told me he's really good at it. He also does well on his vocabulary words and he started getting spelling words this week.
On Saturday we went to a birthday party for one of his classmates - it was at a cheerleading place so Cameron and Austin had fun bouncing on the trampoline.
Monday we had Cameron's blood counts checked and they are still on the way up. His platelets are still below normal, but they are higher than they've been in a long time. His ANC, WBC and Hemoglobin are now in the normal range! Hooray!
Tonight Cameron is signing up to be in the Cub Scouts. He is very excited about all the cool stuff they get to do. My baby is growing up so fast! We're going to get a haircut this weekend since school pictures is on Wednesday.
I have a lunch meeting today with some of the other moms about the school's Fall Carnival. Cameron's class is responsible for the Haunted House, so we're going to brainstorm. This morning I volunteered in the school library, I shelved some books and sorted through many, many of the boxtops the kids have been collecting to raise money for the school. I'll be volunteering in the library every other Thursday, and making copies for the 1st grade teachers on Tuesdays. But enough about me....
Thank you for stopping by to check on Cameron. And thank you to all who sent Cameron birthday cards. Now, if I could only get a scrapbook started.....
Please continue to pray for Ashley and Katia. A few journal entries back I asked that you also pray for Zach. Well, Zach earned his Angel Wings on September 14, he is now free from his brain tumor and basking in the Glory of God! Cameron's "shunt brother" Kody is having eye surgery on September 30, so please remember him in your prayers too.
Have a great weekend everyone!!!
Lots of love,
Sheri
Visit some more of Cameron's Caringbridge friends:
Gooch, Kaelei, Matthew,Adam, Anna, Bailee, Brice, Benjamin, Brandon, Aizee, Cheyenne, Zoie, Jimmy - unfortunately, there's many more - I'll try to get them listed on here soon. :(
Saturday, September 6, 2003 1:47 PM CDT
Happy Birthday to You,
Happy Birthday to You,
Happy Birthday Dear Cameron,
Happy Birthday to You!!!
Today is Cameron's 6th Birthday! He woke up to a Skateboard - just what he's been asking for. It wasn't long before Cameron was all dressed and suited up with his safety gear to try out his new present. It also wasn't long before he was flat on the ground...(see photo album)
Looks like he'll be needing LOTS of practice. He also got a bunch of Star Wars stuff from Granny, Lord of the Rings Two Towers DVD from Austin and some Scooby Doo books from Mommy. Then it was off to the bowling party...
We were met there by some of Cameron's friends from school, Taylor & Matthew, and some neighbors, Johnny, Erika & Esther, and friends Emily & Ellen. They had lots of fun bowling and jumping around.
Now time for cake...
After about 2 hours it was time to come home. Cameron is now playing with all his goodies...Magic Set, Ninja Turtles Motorcycle, Star Wars Lightsaber, Bionicle, not to mention all the goodies he got in his Birthday Box from Deb (Hugs & Hope)! He has received so many cards from all the wonderful people that check on him at the Make A Child Smile and Hugs and Hope websites! And, his Birthday Quilt that Quilts of Love made him - it's just beautiful!
Thank you all for signing Cameron's guestbook with all the Happy Birthday wishes - you guys are great!
Have a great weekend everyone!
Lots of love ~ Sheri
Monday, September 1, 2003 3:01 PM CDT
Happy Labor Day!
Not much happening here, it's a bit rainy out so we'll have to do our BBQ-ing under the carport. Cameron is enjoying his 5-day weekend. He's off of school tomorrow too. They are doing Developmental Reading Assessments at his school this week so he gets an extra 2 days off. Cameron does his testing on Wednesday, then is off again on Thursday. On Friday his class is having a special "Tea" for the Grandparents in celebration of Grandparents Day (Sept.7). Cameron made an invitation in school and brought it to Granny. I may have to go by too and take some pictures.
Saturday is Cameron's 6th birthday and he's having his party at the bowling alley. He's very excited about it, and is inviting a few friends from school. Cameron has also received his first birthday party invitation from a classmate. It's a week after his party. I guess I'll be stocking up on little gifts for those last-minute invitations.
Well, I think I'll start the grill before it rains again (I hope). Have a great day everyone! I'll update after Cameron's party.
Lots of love,
Sheri
Please add Cameron's Caringbridge friends to your prayers, Ashley, Katia and Zach can really use them right now.
Sunday, August 24, 2003 11:15 AM CDT
Wow! This weekend just flew by. Tomorrow starts another week of school and Cameron is ok with that.
Last week went by pretty fast too. On Wednesday I went to the PTO meeting and signed up for almost everything. Now, whether or not I'll be able to do anything is another story. If I can bring Austin along then I can do it all! I didn't tell Cameron about the meeting until after school. Last year I told him about it and when he went to lunch and saw that I wasn't still there he got sad and the teacher thought he wasn't feeling well so she called me. That was his last day in Kindergarten before we put him on Homebound.
Thursday was the busiest day of all. I dropped Cameron off at school at 7:40. At 8:30 the teacher called me because Cameron had a nosebleed. I was there in a matter of minutes and it wasn't really bad. Once I was comfortable letting him go, I walked him back to class. I was surprised that he didn't ask to come home with me. Then at 10:00 I was called again - another nosebleed - but by the time I got there Cameron said he stopped it and wanted to go back to PE. Wow - he's really getting into school. But wait, here's the best part. As I was waiting outside for Cameron's bus to drop him off, his teacher called me - Cameron missed the bus! He was having such a good time playing with the other kids that he didn't hear his bus # being called. Luckily I live only 2 minutes away from school.
On Friday I passed by the school and the kids were out at recess. I saw a blonde headed boy on the swings and thought it might be Cameron, but then thought he was too big to be. Well, the little boy jumped off the swing and then I could see better that it WAS Cameron! It was so cute that he was playing and looked like he was having a fun time. I circled the block and passed again and he was playing - swinging on some low tree limbs with another little boy. He said it was his friend Edgar. He's already asking to go sleepover. Not in first grade - especially since his counts are still so low.
Our weekend has been relaxing. Cameron just got through reading for 15 minutes - which he's supposed to do everyday. I guess he wanted to get it over with. He's made big improvements in only a week!
Thank you all for checking on Cameron and please leave him a message in the guestbook.
Lots of Love ~ Sheri
Friday, August 15, 2003 8:17 AM CDT
Good Morning and TGIF!!!!
Cameron's first day of 1st grade went well. He was very tired when he got home and didn't want to talk, but after a snack and a rest he opened up and told me about his day. He said he didn't like recess - it was hot and boring. I guess if it wasn't so hot it would be ok. One of the boys in Cameron's class has Cerebral Palsy and is in a wheelchair. At recess Cameron said some kids were picking on him and pushing his chair in the grass. Cameron said he would watch out for him so he doesn't get hurt - he's so sweet!
Cameron brought his lunch to school yesterday since we didn't know what was on the menu - well, it was sloppy joes and he said he would have liked that. Now we have a menu, and after telling Cameron all that was on it, he decided he'd eat the school lunch for at least the rest of the month. But then this morning as we were going out the door he said he wanted to bring his lunch - but I talked him out of it. I think he's apprehensive about the cafeteria because last year on the first day of school the lunch lady was mean and yelling at the kindergarten kids.
My day yesterday was a long one. I was anxious all day - would have been a good time to have a prescription for Xanex but I coped. I was on the phone alot to help pass the time. Then when it was time to watch for the bus I went outside. It seemed to take forever, but then the bus finally came. The bus owner (training the new driver) said he wouldn't drop off Cameron (and the girl across the street) in front of the house, but at the 4-way stop down the street. Why? because his bus would have to stop too many times. I guess that's what happens when school systems don't have their own buses and have to lease them from independent owners. It's the same guy that was Tom's bus driver and was a mean *@# way back then too. We're going to talk to the new guy to see if he'll drop off our kids in front of the house whenever he's on his own. If he won't, then I'll just be picking Cameron up from school every day. Our street doesn't have sidewalks, and it's the busiest street in the neighborhood. Tons of people use it for a cut through and don't obey the 25 mph speed limit.
Well, this morning Cameron wanted me to walk him to his class "just one more time", so I did. He sat in the hallway with the other kids waiting for the bell to ring and he looked ok. I didn't look back at him that last time before I went around the corner - just in case he was a little sad. So, hopefully this won't be another anxious day - I have lots of housework to keep me busy since I couldn't do it yesterday. Austin has been such a good boy. Yesterday he got to play on the computer, watch whatever he wanted, read books (with mommy) - all without crying or getting yelled at - I think he likes Cameron going to school. But when Cameron got home Austin was like a chatterbox with him, so I think he did miss him a little.
Well, it's time for me to get with it. Have a great weekend!
lots of love ~ Sheri
Saturday, August 9, 2003 8:32 AM CDT
Good Morning!
I talked to Cameron's nurse yesterday and she had good news for me. Cameron's TSH level has come down quite a bit, it's still higher than normal so she's checking with the doctor to see if he wants to start any medication. His Free T4 (Thyroid hormone that is available and active) is perfectly normal and his Thyroid antibodies are completely normal. So, this was very good news. Cameron's TSH levels since April were 10, 17 & 22, but his last test showed his level to be 9.8 - it's going back down on it's own and will hopefully get back to normal.
I rented the movie "Agent Cody Banks" for Cameron and he's been watching it every day. It's really a cute movie, but it's made Cameron start asking about taking karate again. I tell him he can't because of his shunt. Now he keeps asking about when he can get his shunt out. Poor baby. His neurosurgeon said he'd keep it as long as it didn't give him any problems. Cameron told me that he can't sleep good because of the shunt - this was news to me since he's had it almost 2 years! I just thought he liked to sleep on his side. The shunt is in the back of his head and he said it bothers him to lay on it. Most other shunts I've seen are on the top of the head, I wonder why Cameron's is in the back? Oh well, once school starts he won't be so bored and thinking he needs to do everything he sees on tv.
Well, 5 more days 'til school starts. We'll have a busy week ahead of us - Cameron needs a haircut and blood test and I was wanting to take them to see Spy Kids 3-D and a visit to Chuck E.Cheeses. I'll update again on Thursday after school...
Have a great weekend!!!!
~Sheri
Thursday, August 7, 2003 9:43 PM CDT
Good Evening! Sorry it's been so long without an update. I was waiting to hear back from Cameron's endocrinologist, but I figured I'd better do an update before everyone forgot about us.
Last Monday, July 28, Cameron finally met with his endocrinologist. It was a post-chemo check up as well as to find out more about his elevated TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone). Since April his TSH has been rising - 10, 17, & 22. More blood was taken for extensive testing, and I'm still waiting to hear about that. The doctor said Cameron has Acquired Hypothyroidism and will more than likely require medication to get his thyroid working correctly. If put on this medication, Cameron will have to take a little pill every day - how long, I don't know. The doctor said this condition is caused by the tumor and/or the surgery and/or the chemo and/or any combination of the three. He said it usually occurs after radiation, but Cameron hasn't had radiation. I should hear tomorrow what the outcome of the blood tests were, and when/if he'll be starting this thyroid medication. Cameron has NO symptoms of hypothyroidism, in fact he has the symptoms of hypERthyroidism, but we have to go by the blood tests, don't we?
Cameron starts the first grade in just 7 days. We have all his school supplies and uniforms and he is ready to go. I was willing to homeschool him, but he really wants to go to school. We decided to keep his port in a while longer since last month's virus caused his counts to bottom out and he ended up needing a platelet transfusion. Now that he'll be around bunches of kids at school, we want to make sure he doesn't need a transfusion every time he gets sick.
My Mom came in over the weekend and we had a great time visiting. She left with a copy of all the pictures we took while on our Disney vacation and a good supply of Cajun seasoning. I miss my Mommy but I know she's glad to be home.
I'm having fun being a part of the Quilting Angels. I just mailed off my third block, this one was for Gooch. If you've been around the Caringbridge websites, you know who Gooch is, if not just check our guestbook - his mom has signed quite a bit. I'm now working on a couple more blocks for other kids, and a quilted stocking! Then I'll be making Tom a quilt for his truck made out of his old truckin' t-shirts. Hopefully it will keep my mind off of worrying about Cameron while he's in school. I think he'll do fine, we went over some school stuff yesterday, and he remembered it, to my surprise!
Well, it's way past the boys' bedtime - I'm trying to get the early bedtime for school set up, but it's hard to from the computer - hee hee! Anyway, if I hear from the doctor tomorrow, I'll update with the news. If not, then have a great weekend!!!!
Lots of love,
~Sheri~
ps-I added a link at the top of the page for Cameron's Make A Wish Trip pictures.
Thursday, August 7, 2003 9:43 PM CDT
Good Evening! Sorry it's been so long without an update. I was waiting to hear back from Cameron's endocrinologist, but I figured I'd better do an update before everyone forgot about us.
Last Monday, July 28, Cameron finally met with his endocrinologist. It was a post-chemo check up as well as to find out more about his elevated TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone). Since April his TSH has been rising - 10, 17, & 22. More blood was taken for extensive testing, and I'm still waiting to hear about that. The doctor said Cameron has Acquired Hypothyroidism and will more than likely require medication to get his thyroid working correctly. If put on this medication, Cameron will have to take a little pill every day - how long, I don't know. The doctor said this condition is caused by the tumor and/or the surgery and/or the chemo and/or any combination of the three. He said it usually occurs after radiation, but Cameron hasn't had radiation. I should hear tomorrow what the outcome of the blood tests were, and when/if he'll be starting this thyroid medication. Cameron has NO symptoms of hypothyroidism, in fact he has the symptoms of hypERthyroidism, but we have to go by the blood tests, don't we?
Cameron starts the first grade in just 7 days. We have all his school supplies and uniforms and he is ready to go. I was willing to homeschool him, but he really wants to go to school. We decided to keep his port in a while longer since last month's virus caused his counts to bottom out and he ended up needing a platelet transfusion. Now that he'll be around bunches of kids at school, we want to make sure he doesn't need a transfusion every time he gets sick.
My Mom came in over the weekend and we had a great time visiting. She left with a copy of all the pictures we took while on our Disney vacation and a good supply of Cajun seasoning. I miss my Mommy but I know she's glad to be home.
I'm having fun being a part of the Quilting Angels. I just mailed off my third block, this one was for Gooch. If you've been around the Caringbridge websites, you know who Gooch is, if not just check our guestbook - his mom has signed quite a bit. I'm now working on a couple more blocks for other kids, and a quilted stocking! Then I'll be making Tom a quilt for his truck made out of his old truckin' t-shirts. Hopefully it will keep my mind off of worrying about Cameron while he's in school. I think he'll do fine, we went over some school stuff yesterday, and he remembered it, to my surprise!
Well, it's way past the boys' bedtime - I'm trying to get the early bedtime for school set up, but it's hard to from the computer - hee hee! Anyway, if I hear from the doctor tomorrow, I'll update with the news. If not, then have a great weekend!!!!
Lots of love,
~Sheri~
ps-I added a link at the top of the page for Cameron's Make A Wish Trip pictures.
Friday, July 25, 2003 5:21 PM CDT
Well, here it is...the rundown on our Make A Wish Trip to Disney World....
Thursday 7/17/03...We made it to the Airport in New Orleans with time to spare. Cameron wore his Make A Wish t-shirt and button, so he got some extra attention from the ticket counter lady - a hug! And then she gave Cameron and Austin each a stuffed Shamu-airplane, an activity book and a bag of wings. Tom got the pat-down by security because the metal arches in his shoes set off the alarm, then it was off to our gate. After we boarded the plane, I realized I had left my cellphone in the car - oops! The boys were excited as we took off and then proceeded to eat all the candy and snacks they had brought with them. One hour and 45 minutes later we landed in Orlando. We were met by a volunteer from Give Kids The World Village and went for our luggage. Then it was off to get the rental car - a Buick Century - it was nice - brand new, only 300 miles on it. About 30 minutes later we pulled up to the Give Kids The World Village. Wow! We went inside and Cameron was given a Mickey Mouse and Austin a Shamu. I was given our "Bunny Book" that I would keep with me always so I could find my way around and then we were off to our villa.
Our Villa - talk about nice - 2 bedroom, 2 bath - drinks in the fridge and candy on the table along with a video for the kids. The boys bedroom had 2 beds, a chest that they put their toys in and even a roll-away bed in the closet. Their bathroom was huge - a big whirlpool bathtub and a wheelchair accessible shower. I never found the time to get in that whirlpool, but the boys were in it every night! We went out exploring around the village and made our first stop at the Ice Cream Palace - after we all had our ice cream cones we went to the Amberville Train Station. There the boys raced remote controlled boats and watched the huge train set in action. They also played some arcade games. By this time dinner was being served, so we went to the Gingerbread House to eat. Each of the tables were decorated with real peppermints! We filled our tummies and then it was time to see Santa. Every Thursday night they celebrate Christmas in the Village. We headed over to the Castle of Miracles and the boys got to sit on Santa's lap and pick out a present. Austin picked out a little lion stuffed animal that he now calls Roary and Cameron picked out a Pokemon book. They each decorated a Christmas Tree Ornament and wrote a letter to Santa. Then we were back at the Ice Cream Palace to decorate Christmas cookies! I had to go to orientation so I missed the puppet show and the snow, but Tom said the boys had a great time. On our way back to our villa we stopped by Julie's Safari Theatre. We got an Icee and some popcorn, but didn't stay for the movie since it was almost over. Then we went to the Walmart down the street to get some water, snacks and a couple of shirts for me (yes, I forgot to pack my shirts!!!). It was 10:00 PM and that store was packed like it was Christmas! We finally made it back and went to bed - after the boys took a whirlpool bath, of course.
Friday 7/18/03...Our first day at Disney World. We went to Magic Kingdom - Cinderella's castle was beautiful. The boys got a couple of character autographs and started riding the rides. We went on Aladdin's Magic Carpet, Jungle Cruise, Pirates of the Carribean, Peter Pan's Flight, Snow White's Scary Adventures, Winnie the Pooh, Dumbo, Mad Tea party, Buzz Lightyear (the best), the Haunted Mansion and watched Walt Disney's Carousel of Progress. It was our longest day, we were there for 5 hours - we walked and walked and it was so very hot. It was good to get back to the villa...after a short rest we went to the Castle where the Disney Artists were doing some drawings. Cameron got a Winnie the Pooh and Austin got Tigger. I felt sorry for the artists there, everyone was taking advantage of them - wanting several drawings from each artist. We stopped by the Ice Cream Palace for our daily ice cream fix then it was off to bed.
Saturday 7/19/03...Animal Kingdom...we went straight to the "It's Tough to be a Bug" 3D show starring Flik. It was great - we all enjoyed it except Austin, it made him cry. Then we made our way to the Kali River Rapids ride, it was fun, but it too made Austin cry - he got SOAKED! On our way to the next attraction we stopped to get Baloo's autograph. Well, once he saw Cameron had on that magic button he pulled him out to dance with him to the drummers that were out playing. Not being a dancer, Cameron just kinda stood there, but the smile on his face was huge - I could have cried (it's a mom thing). Right after that Cameron's nose started bleeding so we went to a secluded corner to get it stopped. After 15 minutes Tom asked for someone from First Aid to come bring us some tissues and ice to help stop it. Forty-five minutes later they showed up - the girl who was supposed to call them decided she'd finish her character greeting set before she called. Anyway, the paramedics showed up and managed to get Cameron's nose to stop bleeding. The head medic - Gail - had one of the park managers get Cameron a new t-shirt since the one he was wearing was now covered with blood. She then escorted us to First Aid and arranged for Guest Services to drive us out to our car. We didn't want to stay after that, in case it happened again, and Cameron was all for going back to the village. We went straight to the Ice Cream Palace for some hot dogs and of course, ice cream. Then while Daddy rested we went to the Theatre and watched Atlantis - we hadn't seen it yet so it was even better. After the movie we went to the Gingerbread House to eat - well that didn't happen. Since it was Mayor Clayton's birthday (the village's mascot, a huge bunny) there was a special celebration and there were alot of visitors to the village and the line out the restaurant was very long. So, we went out to eat. Tom decided on the Boston Lobster Feast since I'd been wanting lobster for the longest. Cha-ching! But is was soooo good!
Sunday 7/20/03...We drove around the Kissimmee area for a while and made our few souvenier purchases and then went to Epcot - mine and Daddy's favorite Disney park. We went on a boat ride in Norway, then again in Mexico. We spent most of our time in Germany - it was the best. We ate at the German restaurant and then watched the fireworks. It was so beautiful!
Monday 7/21/03...We had to get up early to get our picture taken in the theatre with Mickey & Minnie (above photo). After breakfast we went to Universal Studios. We went on the Jimmy Neutron ride and I had a blast - it was the best ride of the whole trip - I wish we would have gone on it again. Then we saw Shrek 4D, it was very funny and lots of fun! Cameron and Daddy went on the Terminator 2 - I stayed behind with Austin - I didn't want to scare him too much. After that we went on the Woody Woodpecker roller coaster, and although it was small, it was fast and curvy. Then as it started to rain we made it to Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville for lunch - yes, we had the Cheeseburger in Paradise! Then it was back to the villa. At the Village they have a parent's night out, but since I don't like to be away from my kids, we opted for the dinner show. So, we went to the Medieval Times show - complete with real horses and jousting. It was great, our Knight won the tournament! We all loved it.
Tuesday 7/22/03...SeaWorld...we saw the Dolphin show, and we were just inches away from getting splashed, but right after the show it started to pour down rain so that more than made up for it. The rain also shut down the rides we wanted to go on. We saw penguins and manatees and tried to see Shamu, but everyone we asked about special seating for Cameron didn't know what we were talking about, so we just left. By then we were tired of walking and it was so hot - the kids did not object to going back to the village especially since we ordered a pizza. That night Mayor Clayton came to tuck the boys in to bed.
Wednesday 7/23/03...Checked out of the villa at 11AM. Had to go to Walmart to buy a huge duffel bag to fit all the stuff we accumulated at the village. We had our last ice cream fix, then we went to GatorLand until it was time to head to the airport for our 6:45PM flight home. We walked in the door to our house at 10PM and it was so good to be home - now I can relax!
It was truly a magical time for Cameron - everyone treated him like royalty, even his pass for Universal Studios said Prince Cameron on it. Give Kids the World is a wonderful place - they are so generous. We had a great time. Thanks Make A Wish for making this happen for us.
If you would like any more details,or tips, just email me.
Thanks for taking the time to read our adventure.
Have a great weekend!!!!
Love, Sheri
Thursday, July 24, 2003 9:46 AM CDT
WE'RE HOME!!!
Check back in a day or so for all the exciting details...right now I have to take Cameron for some blood work to see if he needs another platelet transfusion.
Hopefully I can get all our trip details on here by tomorrow...???
Love, Sheri
Wednesday, July 16, 2003 5:14 PM CDT
Thursday July 17, 2003 - WE'RE OFF TO DISNEY WORLD!!!!
UPDATE: Cameron did good with his platelet transfusion. We got home after 10pm and Cameron's temp was still up. So, this morning I made an appointment to see his pediatrician one more time before we go. Shortly after that Cameron cleared a huge mass from his sinus cavity and hacked it in the toilet - yes I know it's gross but I had to get it out so I could show the DR. It actually turns out to be good news - he has a sinus infection that is also contributing to his fever. So now he can get antibiotics to get rid of it. His Dr. wanted to make sure it was indeed a sinus infection, and to see how bad it was so she ordered a CT Scan - he stayed real still and they just called me with the results of it. Cameron has sinusitis and now I need to get his antibiotics, so I better get going. Then it's time to finish packing for our trip.
I'll try to get on here tomorrow morning before we go, but if I don't, have a great weekend!!!
~Sheri
Tuesday, July 15, 2003 9:03 AM CDT
Cameron's party was a hit!!!!!!
But before I tell you all about it, let me tell you about Cameron's weekend...
Cameron finally got over his stomach virus on Thursday - that was 10 days of that bug! He woke up Friday morning with a bit of a sore throat and stuffy nose. That evening he started with the low-grade fever - uh-oh! Saturday wasn't any better, then his fever started to rise. When it got to 101.2 I called the doctor then off to the hospital. Since Cameron still has his port, he has to be admitted for a few days for cultures, etc. Right away the doctor saw the probable reason for the fever - Cameron had puss all over his tonsils - probably a virus, but they did the strep test anyway, which came out negative. Having to follow the protocol regarding the fever with the port we had to stay - I did tell him as soon as we got there that we had to be out by Monday so we could go to Cameron's send off party.
Cameron continued to run a low-grade fever during the night, but perked up in the day. Monday morning came and the doctor said if Cameron could get through the morning without a fever, he could go home. So, at 11:30am his temp was 98.4 - "Call the doctor so we can go home", I said. Yup, we could go, but we have to come back the next day so Cameron can get A PLATELET TRANSFUSION!!! His low platelet count floored me - as well as the doctor - he's been off of treatment for 4 months!!!! On July 1st his platelets were 100,000, when we checked in to the hospital on Saturday, they were 57,000, and on Monday they were 41,000! Cameron's oncologist seems to think the low count is due to the virus, but since he needs to keep them above 50,000 he needs a transfusion. So now we wait - the platelets are coming from Pennsylvania! - thank you Jebediah (a little Amish humor :)
Now, about that party...
The limo pulled up around 5:45pm - and yes, Cameron was outside waiting. We piled in (Me, Cameron, Austin, Daddy, Amber, Nick & Granny) and we were off. About 7 minutes later we were in front of Chuck E.Cheeses. Waiting for us were our Make A Wish volunteers Mary and Edith. We went in and to our table. And on that table was a huge basket - FULL of stuff - toys, snacks, games, drinks, film.....all thanks to some very nice Oncology Nurses from the University of Louisiana - I'm waiting to get some names so we can send them a thank you card.
Some of Cameron's friends came to celebrate with us - Emily, Josh & Ellen - and Chuck E. even came out and danced. Not being a dancer, Cameron just watched...
Our party time went by fast, and it was time to go home - the long way!!!! We drove around in the limo for about 1/2 hour - such a luxury! Once home we got our travel packet, complete with that magical button that will get Cameron to the front of the ride lines!!! Now the countdown continues...this time on Thursday we'll be driving to the airport!
I'll add a little update to the top of this when we get back from Cameron's transfusion - hopefully tonight. I really need to get packing. I wasn't planning on spending 3 days in the hospital - so I'm very behind on what I want done. But I just had to let everyone know what was going on.
I almost forgot - duh - Cameron was on TV last night! Our sweet volunteer Mary has connections! A reporter from a local station came by the party and did a little piece on Cameron - we watched it on the 10 o'clock news (and recorded it) - it was the same station that covered the Relay for Life. Thank you Mary & Scott Brazden (reporter)!
Well, I hope you all had a great weekend, and for those of you in Texas in Claudette's path - I know what you're going through (Lili Oct'02). Have a great week!
Lots of love!!!
Sheri
Tuesday, July 15, 2003 9:03 AM CDT
Cameron's party was a hit!!!!!!
But before I tell you all about it, let me tell you about Cameron's weekend...
Cameron finally got over his stomach virus on Thursday - that was 10 days of that bug! He woke up Friday morning with a bit of a sore throat and stuffy nose. That evening he started with the low-grade fever - uh-oh! Saturday wasn't any better, then his fever started to rise. When it got to 101.2 I called the doctor then off to the hospital. Since Cameron still has his port, he has to be admitted for a few days for cultures, etc. Right away the doctor saw the probable reason for the fever - Cameron had puss all over his tonsils - probably a virus, but they did the strep test anyway, which came out negative. Having to follow the protocol regarding the fever with the port we had to stay - I did tell him as soon as we got there that we had to be out by Monday so we could go to Cameron's send off party.
Cameron continued to run a low-grade fever during the night, but perked up in the day. Monday morning came and the doctor said if Cameron could get through the morning without a fever, he could go home. So, at 11:30am his temp was 98.4 - "Call the doctor so we can go home", I said. Yup, we could go, but we have to come back the next day so Cameron can get A PLATELET TRANSFUSION!!! His low platelet count floored me - as well as the doctor - he's been off of treatment for 4 months!!!! On July 1st his platelets were 100,000, when we checked in to the hospital on Saturday, they were 57,000, and on Monday they were 41,000! Cameron's oncologist seems to think the low count is due to the virus, but since he needs to keep them above 50,000 he needs a transfusion. So now we wait - the platelets are coming from Pennsylvania! - thank you Jebediah (a little Amish humor :)
Now, about that party...
The limo pulled up around 5:45pm - and yes, Cameron was outside waiting. We piled in (Me, Cameron, Austin, Daddy, Amber, Nick & Granny) and we were off. About 7 minutes later we were in front of Chuck E.Cheeses. Waiting for us were our Make A Wish volunteers Mary and Edith. We went in and to our table. And on that table was a huge basket - FULL of stuff - toys, snacks, games, drinks, film.....all thanks to some very nice Oncology Nurses from the University of Louisiana - I'm waiting to get some names so we can send them a thank you card.
Some of Cameron's friends came to celebrate with us - Emily, Josh & Ellen - and Chuck E. even came out and danced. Not being a dancer, Cameron just watched...
Our party time went by fast, and it was time to go home - the long way!!!! We drove around in the limo for about 1/2 hour - such a luxury! Once home we got our travel packet, complete with that magical button that will get Cameron to the front of the ride lines!!! Now the countdown continues...this time on Thursday we'll be driving to the airport!
I'll add a little update to the top of this when we get back from Cameron's transfusion - hopefully tonight. I really need to get packing. I wasn't planning on spending 3 days in the hospital - so I'm very behind on what I want done. But I just had to let everyone know what was going on.
I almost forgot - duh - Cameron was on TV last night! Our sweet volunteer Mary has connections! A reporter from a local station came by the party and did a little piece on Cameron - we watched it on the 10 o'clock news (and recorded it) - it was the same station that covered the Relay for Life. Thank you Mary & Scott Brazden (reporter)!
Well, I hope you all had a great weekend, and for those of you in Texas in Claudette's path - I know what you're going through (Lili Oct'02). Have a great week!
Lots of love!!!
Sheri
Wednesday, July 2, 2003 6:55 PM CDT
Good Evening~!
I wanted to let you all know how Cameron's MRI went yesterday ~ "No change" ~ which is a good thing! We weren't sure we'd even be able to go to New Orleans for the MRI because Tropical Storm Bill was on his way. It was supposed to hit here in Lafayette, so we were going to go into New Orleans on Monday, but as we watched the storm turn, then hit New Orleans we decided to wait. Good thing because it hit them good - over 60,000 people without power when we got there Tuesday morning. There were tree limbs everywhere and lots of flooding.
Cameron got sick Sunday night - threw up 3 times (3:30, 4 & 4:30 AM!) and he's still hanging onto that stomach virus, although it moved through his little system so he's not throwing up, just the other :(
Cameron did great with his MRI - he only received a little of the Nembutol sedation, and he woke right up when it was over. Then we drove to the hotel and jumped in the pool. Even Daddy went swimming with us! After that we drove up to get Amber & Nick and go to Chuck E.Cheeses for a little pizza and a lot of tokens. We had lots of fun. This morning we got up and went for Cameron's visit with his oncologist. His counts are improving, his white blood cell and hemoglobin counts are now in the normal range and his ANC and platelets are still below normal, but on their way up. Now Cameron only has to have blood tests once a month, and only sees his oncologist every 3 months - the same time as his MRI's. He has an appointment with the endocrinologist on July 28, then on August 4th he'll be de-ported!!! Just in time to be healed up for when school starts! His next MRI is scheduled for October 1st and his next visit with his neurologist is November 7. It's so good to not have to go on that trip every 2 weeks anymore.
We're counting the days until we go to Disney World - 15!!! We got a packet in the mail the other day from Give Kids The World with a map, some info and a coloring book. It looks and sounds like such a wonderful place, we're all very excited to be going! Cameron's Bon Voyage party will be on Monday, July 14 at Chuck E.Cheeses. I'll update after that unless something newsworthy happens before then.
I hope you all have an excellent Independence Day!
Thursday, June 26, 2003 10:09 PM CDT
Good Evening!
Sorry it's been so long between updates, we've been busy enjoying some family time. On Wednesday (June 18) we went to the Circus - as you can see from the above photo. It was my first circus and it was wonderful. Our seats were high up and more to the back of the stage but it was still a good show. Next time I'll know what section of seats to ask for. On Friday (20th) we got a hamster - Daisy - she's been running on that little wheel all night every night - I wish I had some of that energy! I put a picture in the album of Minnie checking her out. Last Sunday we went back to Catfish Heaven and splashed around in the pool while Daddy was busy catching 8 catfish. That night he cooked them up in the FryDaddy he got for Father's Day. We also made homemade onion rings and fried pickles. We all had a great time - except I got a sunburn! I was careful to put that sunblock all over the kids, but only half-way put in on myself, so I got a half-way burn.
Our Make A Wish trip to Disney World has been confirmed. We'll be leaving on July 17 and returning on July 23. Sometime before then Cameron will be having his bon voyage party. He's real excited about it all. But first, we have doctor appointments. On Tuesday, July 1 is his MRI and then the next day he sees his oncologist. Hopefully we'll have excellent news from the MRI, and will also know when Cameron can get his port taken out.(de-ported ha!) On July 13 we're going to New Orleans to see the Zephyrs baseball game - courtesy of Kids Kicking Cancer, the same organization that hosted the picnic at the zoo last month. Then at the end of the month Cameron's cousins from Arkansas are supposed to be coming down for a visit. July is definately going to be a BUSY month.
We went to see "Rugrats Go Wild" at the movies today. It was cute. It was playing at the same theater as The Hulk, and the boys decided that's what they wanted to see, but I wasn't in the mood for that - Austin doesn't really like sitting still for those kinds of movies - so we ended up seeing what we went for - the Rugrats. I must admit, I'm a big fan!
Well, not much else to update - not until next week. I'll be sure to let you all know how the MRI went when we get back on Wednesday. Have a great weekend - we'll try if it ever stops raining!
Lots of love!!!
~Sheri~
Sunday, June 15, 2003 12:54 AM CDT
Happy Father's Day!!!
I hope all the Daddys everywhere are enjoying this special day. I think Cameron's daddy is enjoying his day - he's playing video games with Cameron and Nick. We were going to go fishing for the day, but it's still storming here in south Louisiana.
We skipped Cameron's doctor appointment on Friday - you see, we took a tiny vacation. On Monday daddy got a run to Miami, so he asked if we'd like to go visit my dad since it was on the way. Florida in June? - uh, yea! I took Cameron locally for a blood test and to get his port flushed, but I never got his results. We left Monday night and got to my Dad's around noon on Tuesday. After a short reunion - dad was at work - we went to the hotel. Within minutes of checking in, we were changed and in the pool. We had a blast, and even some of that glorious Florida sun - what a tan Florida makes! We visited with my Dad and little brothers while Tom slept, and then the next day while he went to Miami. Cameron and Austin had lots of fun with their uncles - Christopher(14), Zachary(9) & Lucas(7). Then on Thursday while daddy was in the pool with the kids, he suggested we stay one more night. Wahoo! Even though it rained that day, we managed to get in a few good sunny hours in the pool. We left Friday and picked up Amber and Nick on the way home.
Saturday morning I was up bright and early and checked out our little pool - it was green! All the rain we've been getting everyday was aiding in the growth of the green! I added some chemicals and turned on the filter to see if I could fix it. In the afternoon - in between the rainstorms - Cameron and Austin were able to swim for a while. Our pool is so tiny compared to that hotel pool. We even sat in the extremely hot hottub!
We heard from our Make A Wish volunteer, and it looks like we may be going to Disney around July 17! I'll know for sure this week. I'll admit, I've already started packing! Cameron's appointment with the endochrinologist got changed to the end of July, so that's another month of us wondering about his elevated TSH level. His next MRI is on July 1, and then he has a regular appointment on the 2nd, so I'll update after that visit - pray for great news, like NO tumor!
Well, I better get back to pampering my hubby. Have a great week everyone, don't forget to check out Cameron's other page for his Florida pictures!!!
Lots of love, Sheri
Sunday, June 8, 2003 11:24 AM CDT
Hi Everyone!
Not much to update this week - Cameron is doing great! His next appointment with his oncologist is Friday, so I'll update again after that. We finally went to see Finding Nemo on Friday - it was such a cute movie, definately one to buy when it comes out on DVD. It's been raining everyday for a week, so we've had to stay in quite a bit, but we have managed to get out almost everyday for a quick dip in the pool before the rain would start again. It hadn't rained here in such a long time, we really needed it, but I think it can stop now - for a few days at least!
We still haven't heard anything about when we'll be able to go to Disney World - it's almost like waiting for Christmas!
Cameron is on another website that does quilts - this one is looking for volunteers to do a cross-stitched square - you can see the specifics here if you know anyone that likes to cross-stitch, and would be interested in making a square for Cameron, please pass this info along to them. This past week I made a square for Cameron's Quilting Angels quilt. I'll have to admit, it was alot harder than I thought it would be, and took me a long time since it was my first quilting project ever! But, I got it finished and I think it looks good enough to be a part of his quilt.
I've also become a member of the Quilts of Love Angels. I visit as many web sites as time allows and I leave cute little calling cards in their guestbook - my first one was in Cameron's guestbook.
Monday, May 26, 2003 9:47 AM CDT
Happy Memorial Day!!!
I'm sorry I didn't get this updated Friday night like I wanted, but we've been so busy having fun before Daddy goes back to work.
Friday after Cameron's blood test we went to Catfish Heaven, a local catfish farm, so the boys could do some fishing. They each held the pole for a minute, but found it did not have enough action for them so we were off to the playground. Dad caught 5 good sized catfish and had them cleaned so he could fry them up at home. I walked around with Cameron and Austin for 3 hours in the sun - we're in training for when we go to Disney World for Cameron's Make a Wish trip. We played on the swings, and the boys played on the slides and see-saw. We also walked around the pond a few times until Cameron said his feet hurt. That was about the same time Daddy caught his last fish and we were all ready to head on home. And when we got home we played in the pool for about an hour to cool off.
Saturday we spent most of the day outside and enjoying the pool. It's only 10'X 2 1/2', but it does the job when it's so hot out. Then that evening we met with Cameron's 2 Make a Wish volunteers to talk about his wish to go to Disney World. Miss Mary and Miss Edith brought Cameron some coloring books and markers, a bag of BlowPops, and a box of 100 Pop-Ice popsicles - Thank you ladies!!! We filled out all the paperwork and had a nice chat. We should be hearing back about when we can go in a couple of weeks. Cameron is very excited about going - he wanted to start packing already! I'll admit that I'm excited too!
Sunday was a lazy day spent around the house. The boys (and Daddy) splashed around the pool for a while then we went to a neighbor's house to visit. I picked up some ride tickets for the State Fair that I'll be taking the boys to (probably on Wednesday - unless Tom wants to go today).
We have no plans for today - maybe helping Tom get all his truck supplies together since he'll probably be going back out on the road Tuesday or Wednesday.
Thank you all for checking on us and for signing the guestbook. Cameron's next appointment in New Orleans is June 13, but I'll try to update before then. We're having a great summer so far - we hope you are too! (even though technically it's not summer yet, but tell that to the heat!) Have a great week!!!
Love ~ Sheri
Friday's counts:
ANC 1680
WBC 4.4
HGB 9.9
Platelets 74,000
Still below normal, but no transfusions needed! Wahoo!
Monday, May 19, 2003 5:28 PM CDT
Good Afternoon!
I wanted to update over the weekend, but I was busy enjoying the pool!!! On Saturday we went to New Orleans to attend the Celebrate Life Picnic at the Zoo hosted by Kids Kicking Cancer. It was great - lots of food and music. We walked around the zoo for 5 hours and still didn't see everything. We rode the carousel and the train. Cameron and Austin got to touch lots of reptiles - they even helped hold a HUGE Boa! Cameron is doing great. He now only has to get his blood tested every other week instead of once a week - that's a big relief! His next CBC is Friday - I'll update the results Friday evening. We're hoping to be hearing from our Make A Wish Volunteers tomorrow.
Cameron is officially out of school for the summer - he's looking forward to being able to go to school next year. Our summer vacation is going well so far.
Have a great week everyone!!!!
Lots of love, Sheri
Saturday, May 10, 2003 9:33 AM CDT
Quick note - Thursday, May 15 AM - please say a prayer for Cameron's computer buddy Kody who is having a shunt (like Cameron's) put in today.
Good Saturday Morning!!!!
Cameron did great last night at the Relay For Life!!! He got his t-shirt marking him as a "survivor" and was instantly making new friends, shaking hands with lots of other survivors. It was extremely windy so the heat was not so intense. They had a few fun jumps set up so Cameron and Austin were occupied before the opening ceremony began - until Austin bumped his face on a little girl's head and busted his lip real good, he was bleeding and now he has a big knot on his lip. Around 6pm Cameron was introduced on stage and received his medal - by this time he was hot and tired. I was standing behind him listening to the cheers he was getting - I was so proud of him - he was so brave to stand up there in front of all those people!
After the opening ceremony we walked the survivor lap - I thought Cameron might be tired, but he was charged up and ready to go. The news camera was there, and took lots of footage of Cameron, but only a quick shot was used on the news - but hey HE WAS ON THE NEWS!!!! The relay went on until 6 this morning so if there's a write-up in the newspaper about the Relay, it will probably be tomorrow. After we walked our 2 laps, we were pretty tired - it was very hot by then. We let Austin & Cameron have one trip on the Castle Fun Slide and it was time to go. We were going to try to stay for the Luminaria ceremony but we were all so tired having been up so early for Cameron's doctor appointment in New Orleans. We did catch a glimpse of it on the news and it was very beautiful.
Cameron's doctor appointment went well - his platelets are still on their way up. He has been feeling so good and happy lately. And he's getting lots of exercise now - running around and playing in the pool with Austin.
Well, I'm going to try to get some of last night's pictures on here. I hope you all have a wonderful weekend. Thanks for checking on Cameron.
Lots of love ~ Sheri
Thursday, May 8, 2003 7:38 AM CDT
Good Morning Everyone!!!
It feels like summer is already here in South Louisiana. We got the pool all set up last Friday and the boys have been in it every day since! They even had me in it! I'll try to get a picture on here so you can see how happy they are when they're splashing around.
Tomorrow is the big day - Cameron leads off the survivor's lap at the Relay For Life. We raised $150.00 for this by selling the Luminarias - 12 just for Cameron!!! I wrote his name on them, and let him decorate them with some of the many stickers he's received over the past 18 months. I met some of the other people with the relay the other day, and did a press release for Cameron's story. If there's an article in the paper, I'll try to post a link to the website (if they have one). Cameron is real excited to be going to the relay - I wouldn't doubt it if he runs that first lap!
Cameron is feeling really good these days. We had his counts checked on Tuesday and they are all on their way up. Finally! His platelets had been going down and I was wondering if he'd be needing another transfusion. Thank God they're going back up. They are still not in the normal range, but they're headed in the right direction!
Thank you to all of you who check on us and for those who sign the guestbook. It was good to see so many entries recently. And a big thanks to those of you who donated for Cameron's Luminaria's - a cure is out there, unfortunately money talks...thanks for giving! I'll update after the relay (probably Saturday morning) - Have a great day!!!!
Love, Sheri
Tuesday's counts:
ANC 1620
WBC 4.5
HGB 9.2
PLT 69,000
Thursday, May 1, 2003 9:12 PM CDT
Good Evening Everyone!!!
I want to let everyone know that Cameron will be an Honorary Survivor at our local Relay For Life next Friday. We're very excited, and Cameron even said he would make a speech - he then asked what a speech was! We'll see how he is when he's up in front of bunches of people. So, for the next week we'll be trying to get donations for the Luminarias.
We checked counts on Monday since Cameron was getting so many nose bleeds that would last almost an hour or more. His counts were down from last week, but still not needing any transfusions. Yippeee!!! Even though his blood is low, Cameron is so full of energy, and running around all the time. He now has Austin jumping off the swing! Mommy's poor nerves...
Now that May is here we're hoping to get the pool set up soon. Right now they're content playing in the sprinkler. The weather has been really nice lately, but I think tomorrow is calling for rain.
Last weekend Cameron's cousins from Arkansas came down for a short visit. I enjoyed visiting with my sister and mom, and Cameron and Austin had a blast playing with the girls. I'm adding a picture of all the kids to the photo album, so check it out - they are all too cute!
Please take a moment to sign the guestbook - it's been really slow - only 1 entry in over a week (thanks Kim)! Thank you all for checking on us, I hope you have a great weekend!
Lots of Love!
Sheri
Monday's counts:
ANC 1755
WBC 3.9
HGB 8.3
Platelets 54,000
Tuesday, April 22, 2003 5:06 PM CDT
Quick Update - Thursday, April 23, 2003 : Cameron's counts from yesterday:
ANC 1484
WBC 5.3
HGB 9.5
PLT 59,000* Please pray for Cameron's platelets to start going up so he won't need anymore transfusions. Thanks!!!
****************************************
Good Evening!!
Just thought I'd do a quick update to let everyone know what's been going on. Yesterday we went to New Orleans for Cameron's Eye appointment. Everything went well, the shaky-ness in Cameron's left eye has improved, but the doctor said it would not go away since it's from nerve damage from the brain tumor. He said since it doesn't affect him, it's nothing to worry about. The doctor did say that Cameron would eventually need glasses - not because of the tumor or chemo, but because it runs in the family. Hopefully he'll take after Daddy and have good eyesight.
Tomorrow we go for the weekly blood test, so please say a little prayer that his counts will be good. I noticed some bruising on Cameron's legs, especially his knees, but I'm thinking that may be due to Cameron's new adventures. It seems he's learned how to jump off the swing in mid-air! He does good at first, but after a few times he lands more on his knees than his feet. It's good to see him getting stronger and more active.
I'll update tomorrow with the results of the blood test. I hope you all have a great week! Thanks for checking on us!
Lots of love ~ Sheri!
Saturday, April 12, 2003 2:52 PM CDT
Happy Saturday!
Just a quick update to let ya'll know what's been going on this week...
On Wednesday we checked Cameron's counts and wouldn't you know, his platelets were low, time for another transfusion. I was hoping since his chemo was finished that he wouldn't be needing any more. So, Thursday afternoon, right after his teacher left we went for the transfusion. We got to come home around 8pm, without his post-transfusion counts - the lab was having computer trouble. Cameron's nurse called me later that night with his results. That being that his blood was now low and would normally get a blood transfusion. I asked that they not order one until I had a chance to talk to Cameron's oncologist. That brings us to Friday...
On Friday morning we went to the Easter Party for the Homebound Kids. Cameron and Austin had a good time running around and eating Easter candy. They got their picture taken and they put it in the bunny frame they made. I'll try to scan it and put in on here today. They are so cute! Cameron passed out some of his "business cards" that have his webpage address on it. Then they had an easter egg hunt out on the playground then it was time to come home. In the meantime I spoke with Cameron's oncologist and she said that as long as Cameron felt good, not to worry about a blood transfusion right now. She wants to check counts next week to make sure it comes back up. Thank God! Cameron is so tired of having to sit for so many hours in the hospital getting transfusions. We still haven't heard about getting an earlier appointment to have his thyroid (TSH) checked again.
Thank you everyone for checking on Cameron, and for signing his guestbook - we like to see who's come to visit. I hope you all have a wonderful weekend - the weather is beautiful here!
Lots of Love ~ Sheri!
Wednesday's counts:
ANC 3330 - Wahoo!!!
WBC 4.5
HGB 8.7
Platelets 42,000
Thursday's counts (post-transfusion):
ANC 1258
WBC 3.4
HGB 7.8
Platelets 135,000
Monday, April 7, 2003 4:18 PM CDT
Good Afternoon!
It is a very stormy day here in south Louisiana - lots of thunder and rain. So, we just had to go to the movies to see "Piglet's Big Movie" - it was very cute, Austin, Cameron & Mommy all enjoyed it.
As we were leaving the theater I spoke with Cameron's oncologist about his MRI. The report showed "no change", unlike last time when it was "continued regression". However, she did tell me that Cameron's Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) was abnormal, meaning his brain is having to produce more for his thyroid to be functioning properly. A visit with the endocrinologist will tell us more. We have an appointment at the end of June, but she's going to try to get us in earlier (much earlier I hope). Another thing to worry and wonder about. I'll now be spending lots of time on the internet doing research instead of just on ebay getting DVD's for the boys. (I recently won some auctions for both Rugrats movies, Toy Story 1&2, and A Bug's Life, some of our favorites!)
I read that an elevated TSH can be caused by an acute illness - Cameron had an ear infection on the day of the test - or by several medications - chemo??? Let's pray this was the case and not something more. I think Cameron's been through enough without having to worry about hypothyroidism or any other thyroid problems - he's so sick of having to take medicine. He's still on Bactrim - a medication to protect his lungs from the chemo - and he'll have to be on it for 6 more months.
The other night about an hour after we went to sleep Cameron got a nose bleed. The way he was laying, the blood ran out of his nose right onto the bed & pillows, so it didn't wake him up right away. When he did wake up (and woke me up) he had bled on 2 pillows, the bed, and the back of my nightshirt (yes he still sleeps with mommy) and in my hair. By the looks of things he had bled alot - I'm so glad he woke up when he did. Once we got the kleenex on his nose, it stopped bleeding right away - a good sign that maybe his platelets are on their way up. We have to see his pediatrician on Wednesday to make sure Cameron's ear infection has been taken care of so we'll do a blood test then.
Well, tomorrow I turn 33, I guess I'll do the same thing I did last year...get my free movie rental from Hollywood Video and lay in my bed and watch it - with the kids' permission. Maybe I'll get something we can watch as a family (cartoon)- since I'm boycotting movies made by the brainless in Hollywood who dare to protest!
Thank you as always for checking on us, and especially for those prayers. Let us all continue to pray for our brave military that are putting it all on the line for all of us, even the dummies in Hollywood! God Bless us, every one!
Lots of love ~ Sheri
1Corinthians 13:7 Love "bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things."
Friday, April 4, 2003 10:23 AM CST
Good Morning!!!
Just a quick update to let you know Cameron had his MRI yesterday. He had his check-up before that, and he was running a low-grade fever 99.8. We quickly found out he had an ear infection that was probably the cause of that. He received a 1/2 hour dose of IV antibiotics then we were on our way to the MRI. He did real good with the sedation and woke right up after, asking for some juice. The poor guy had to go 6 hours with nothing to eat or drink - he was miserable, but still very good. We waited around for a while for the MRI report, but were informed that since Cameron's doctor left early, they wouldn't do it until this morning. I called Cameron's nurse this morning and she told me his doctor would not be in until Monday or Tuesday, so we wouldn't be getting the report until then. Nothing like having to wait, huh? You would think we'd be used to it by now, but it is very aggravating. I will update again when I get the MRI report.
Until then, I hope you all have a wonderful Spring weekend!
Lots of love ~ Sheri
Yesterday's counts:
ANC 1220
WBC 3.95
HGB 8.8
PLT 75,000
Antibiotics for right ear infection: ceftriaxone 1000mg/25ML
Saturday, March 29, 2003 4:39 PM CST
Good Afternoon!
I was hoping to have an uneventful few weeks before Cameron's next MRI, but as we've come to find out, that just won't happen. We checked counts yesterday, and not only did Cameron need a transfusion, but he's neutropenic also. He got his platelet transfusion today, and miraculously he doesn't need a blood transfusion (he's now at the borderline). He's still neutropenic, but since it's cold and rainy we don't mind staying at home.
Daddy's been home for a few days, and Cameron's Uncle Mike (my little brother) and his family came in for a visit. We all went to the zoo yesterday even though Cameron's counts were low, but since it's all outside I didn't think it would hurt anything.
We're supposed to go to New Orleans tomorrow for Cameron's eye doctor visit, but it looks I'll be cancelling it again because of his counts. I had to cancel it last week because I was sick with a 48 hour flu. Now Austin has it. I'm hoping that since Cameron got a flu shot in November, that he won't get it. He still will have to be admitted for IV antibiotics and tests if he gets a fever of 100.5 or above. Once he gets his port taken out (July) then we won't have to worry about that anymore.
It's been 2 weeks since Cameron got his last chemo treatment, so transfusions now are pretty much expected, and will be for about another week. Then his counts should start coming up and staying up.
Thanks to all for checking on us and signing the guestbook. This month went by really fast since Cameron was featured on the Hugs and Hope website. He's had a real good turnout of letters, cards and goodies! Thank you all!
I hope you all have a nice weekend!
Lots of love ~ Sheri
Tuesday, March 18, 2003 10:19 PM CST
We're Home! The platelet transfusion went well with the only delay being with the lab. They were short-handed so we had to stay an hour more than planned. Cameron took a good nap so Mommy got to watch a little non-animated tv! Austin stayed home with Granny and had a little nap himself - now that they are both so rested, I'm ready for bed! Looks like it will be a late night though - they're both wide awake! Cameron, of course, is playing his new game Kingdom Hearts - I get to look on the computer for him for hints, my little contribution to help him win!
I'm glad to have Cameron's transfusion done, and his counts are looking good so we shouldn't have to get another one for a while, if at all. With the way things may be going after tomorrow, I'll be glad to stay home. I'll pray for you that have loved ones in the military, that they will be safe, and home soon. And I thank God for them, they are so brave to serve our country. We should all be greatful to them and give them all of our support!
Thank you all so much for interest in the progress of Cameron, and thank you for the many kind words you've left in the guestbook - keep up the good work! Thank you especially for all your prayers for Cameron and for me! I hope you all have a great week, and an even better first weekend of Spring!
Lots of Love!!!
~Sheri
Today's Counts:
ANC 870
WBC 2.9
HGB 8.9
PLT 187,000 - now that's more like it!
Monday, March 17, 2003 2:24 PM CST
Happy St.Patrick's Day!!! I guess since we're not Irish, we don't have "The Luck of the Irish" today - Cameron needs another platelet transfusion. So soon you say?
We had a wonderful weekend despite the rain - we did get a couple hamburgers and hotdogs BBQ'd before it started though. I added a new picture to the photo album - from Friday. My babies are growing up so fast! Cameron still has not reached the 40 pound mark - once he does, we'll be having a party for him. He gets close - Friday he was 39.2, and 2 weeks before that he was 39.8. He's 1 1/2 inches away from being 4ft tall, so his under 40 pound weight makes him skin and bones. You can see in the picture how skinny his arms are, and can even see how around his eyes are black - the telltale sign of chemo!
I can't believe he needs another platelet transfusion already - just 3 days from the last one. I'm so glad the chemo is over - it's really wreaking havoc on his poor system. I'd hate to think of the transfusions he'd need if he were on chemo any longer. I know the possibility of him needing more transfusions over the next few weeks are likely, but I pray this will be his last. Where Cameron used to enjoy going in for transfusions - different game system to play - he's getting to hate it so bad. I realized the other day how Cameron has coped with his treatments and transfusions - he totally ignores it. When a nurse comes in to access/flush/check his port, or take his vitals, he doesn't look at them or talk to them or even acknowledge their presence. He totally blocks them out - it took me a whole year to figure it out, I always thought he was just really shy - but he's really strong and brave!
Cameron has missed out on a lot this past year - many days he's missed out on playing outside or on the swingset because his platelets were too low. He's missed out on his first year of school because his counts were too low leaving him at high risk for infection, he's also missed out on birthday parties and Sunday School for the same reason. This is why I really hope the Make a Wish trip to Disney World comes through for him - he deserves to be treated like royalty after all the torture he's braved - he's my little warrior! I've heard the Give Kids the World is just the place to give him such great treatment!
I would like to thank you all for checking in on us, and big thanks to all who donate blood - the gift of life, and mostly I'd like to thank you all for the hours you spent on your knees in prayer for my Cameron and for me. Thank you, thank you, thank you! There is no better gift I can think of than your prayers. Please sign the guestbook so we can thank God for you - by name!
Blessings to you all ~ lots of love ~ Sheri
Today's counts:
ANC 702
WBC 2.7
HGB 9.9
PLT 49,000
Phil 4:6-7 "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."
Friday, March 14, 2003 4:20 PM CST
We're Home!!!!!
Cameron's last chemo treatment went smoooth! They even had his platelet transfusion set up so we didn't have to wait so long. We got there an hour early - I was giving myself extra time because it was supposed to be foggy and rainy for the whole trip, but it wasn't too bad - we made excellent time. That's easy to do when you don't stop the whole way there. I'm sure everyone has heard about the serial killer that's been loose in these parts. Tom always tells me "Don't forget your gun" and "Don't stop along the way". That means no morning coffee! Anyway, we were all done in just 5 1/2 hours - that's good considering Cameron got a platelet transfusion and his chemo.
Cameron had quite a few surprises for his last day of chemo. First, Daddy gave him a DVD "Neverending Story II" - he watched it on the way home since he slept the whole way there. Then while we were waiting for platelets, Cameron's SMILE Buddy, Benton, came with a gift - "DragonBall Z for Playstation 2" - WOW!!!!! Cameron was about to fall asleep from his dose of Benedryl, so he wasn't too talkative, but once he got home he was showing everyone what his friend got him! While Cameron was sleeping through his platelet transfusion, the giftshop lady brought him a Balloon and green bear from Pamela - the balloon lady from the Hugs and Hope website - Thanks Pam!!! Then, right before it was time to go, some nice ladies from the Church of Christ in LaPlace, LA brought in some little afghans and let Cameron AND Austin pick out the ones they liked the best - how sweet is that?!!!
After chemo we came straight home, didn't even stop to eat - Cameron's neutropenic so his immune system is way too low to go out in public. And, because his Aunt & Uncle from Texas came in late last night and he was anxious to visit with them. It was Christmas in March - they got Cameron "Kingdom Hearts for Playstation 2" and a Rescue Vehicle set! So, he had a great day (except that his counts are too low to go anywhere)!
Cameron's MRI is scheduled for April 4 (my Dad's B-day), but I'll update way before then. He has to go in to see the eye doctor in New Orleans on March 24 to have his "after chemo eye check-up".
I hope you all have the best weekend, and a Happy St.Patrick's Day!
Lots of Love!
~Sheri~
Today's counts:
ANC 350
WBC 3.9
HGB 11.2
PLT 40,000 (before transfusion)
Thursday, March 13, 2003 6:27 PM CST
Quick Update:
The transfusion did not go as planned. As I was parking at the hospital, I got a call that the bag of platelets ruptured. So, I called Cameron's Oncologist to see if she could set up the transfusion for tomorrow while he's getting his LAST chemo treatment. I really hope they have it set up so we won't have to stay there all day. I'll update tomorrow night. Thanks for checking on us!!!
~Sheri
Wednesday, March 12, 2003 1:07 PM CST
Good Afternoon!
I thought I'd do a mid-week update since we finally got Cameron's counts checked today and his platelets are low - 27,000 - and he needs a transfusion. I just talked to the Dr's office and they are sending in all the paperwork to the hospital so they can get started on finding some. So, I have no idea how long it will be. I really hope they can get some quick - I'd hate to have to be staying late at the hospital tomorrow night since I have to get up at 4AM Friday to go to New Orleans. It will be Cameron's LAST dose of chemo!!!! So, in a few weeks his blood counts should be getting back to normal so he won't be needing transfusions every week. I would love for this to be his last transfusion, but in reality, he usually needs more after the end of a round of chemo than at the beginning. Except this last round he's been getting transfusions every week.
He is still loaded with energy, and refuses to sit still and take it easy. He jumps around so much I think he's part lemur! We checked Cameron's mailbox yesterday and it was packed with cards and goodies from so many nice people that read about him at the Hugs and Hope website. He will have quite the scrapbook to show his kids. We had a great visit with Amber and Nick last week. Nick even went to the hospital with us last Wednesday for Cameron's blood transfusion - he got to see first hand how boring it is sitting in a hospital room for 10 hours. They even played video games and watched a couple of movies, but it's still such a drag! We have an early appointment on Friday for his chemo, so hopefully we can get out quick. When we get home Cameron will have a surprise visit from his Aunt & Uncle from Texas. We'll sure be doing some celebrating for finishing that chemo! We may have to wait until Monday to go anywhere - I'm still keeping him away from crowds so he doesn't get sick.
Well, I guess I better help Cameron with his school work. I'll update when we get back from the transfusion (whenever that will be - maybe even tomorrow). I hope you all have a great day!
Lots of love ~ Sheri!
Today's counts:
ANC 756
WBC 2.7
HGB 10.5
PLT 27,000
Wednesday, March 12, 2003 1:07 PM CST
Good Afternoon!
I thought I'd do a mid-week update since we finally got Cameron's counts checked today and his platelets are low - 27,000 - and he needs a transfusion. I just talked to the Dr's office and they are sending in all the paperwork to the hospital so they can get started on finding some. So, I have no idea how long it will be. I really hope they can get some quick - I'd hate to have to be staying late at the hospital tomorrow night since I have to get up at 4AM Friday to go to New Orleans. It will be Cameron's LAST dose of chemo!!!! So, in a few weeks his blood counts should be getting back to normal so he won't be needing transfusions every week. I would love for this to be his last transfusion, but in reality, he usually needs more after the end of a round of chemo than at the beginning. Except this last round he's been getting transfusions every week.
He is still loaded with energy, and refuses to sit still and take it easy. He jumps around so much I think he's part lemur! We checked Cameron's mailbox yesterday and it was packed with cards and goodies from so many nice people that read about him at the Hugs and Hope website. He will have quite the scrapbook to show his kids. We had a great visit with Amber and Nick last week. Nick even went to the hospital with us last Wednesday for Cameron's blood transfusion - he got to see first hand how boring it is sitting in a hospital room for 10 hours. They even played video games and watched a couple of movies, but it's still such a drag! We have an early appointment on Friday for his chemo, so hopefully we can get out quick. When we get home Cameron will have a surprise visit from his Aunt & Uncle from Texas. We'll sure be doing some celebrating for finishing that chemo! We may have to wait until Monday to go anywhere - I'm still keeping him away from crowds so he doesn't get sick.
Well, I guess I better help Cameron with his school work. I'll update when we get back from the transfusion (whenever that will be - maybe even tomorrow). I hope you all have a great day!
Lots of love ~ Sheri!
Today's counts:
ANC 756
WBC 2.7
HGB 10.5
PLT 27,000
Thursday, March 6, 2003 0:06 AM CST
Good EARLY Morning!!
We got back from the blood transfusion about a half-hour ago. Just in time to sing Happy Birthday to Amber (she's 15) and eat some cake. She got a day to herself with her Dad - going to the movies and to the mall. I had Nick and Austin with me at the hospital. Then Dad made her favorite for supper - Gumbo!
Cameron's blood transfusion went well, I guess. After the usual 4 hours of transfusion the nurse added another 2 hours to the pump time since the bag was not empty. It took me about 15 minutes to notice that there was still blood going, instead of the saline flush. I quickly found her and let her know he never empties a bag, that 4 hours is plenty. An hour after that (more like 1 1/2) they drew blood for a CBC. Some time after that when Cameron got up he noticed his shirt was wet. We figured it to be from the saline flush on his line. A little while after that he noticed his line from his port was dripping blood. The little clamp was only clamped on part of the line, so blood was getting through AND the cap to his port line was gone. Luckily we were done with his port, since now the line was contaminated. We then got the results from his post transfusion CBC:
ANC 783
WBC 2.9
HGB 9.9
PLT 58,000
Yes, his platelets are low again. I'm figuring we'll have to check them again on Friday to see if he needs another transfusion. It seems the end of Cameron's treatment is turning out to be quite eventful.
Cameron's teacher comes tomorrow, and he hasn't been able to get any of his homework done. Friday we were in New Orleans all day for chemo. Saturday and Sunday of course he was busy playing with Amber & Nick. Monday we were in the Emergency Room for 5 1/2 hours checking counts. Tuesday we were in the hospital for 7 hours getting platelets. And Wednesday we were in the hospital for 10 hours getting blood. I would have brought the work to do in the hospital, but when Cameron's blood is low, he is EXTREMELY irritable. And he has good reason so I don't make anything of it, just give in since it's not his normal behavior.
Well, it's very late and I'm very tired. Austin and Cameron are both still up - now that Cameron's blood is up he's feeling really good. Thank you all for checking on us and signing Cameron's guestbook. I'll update again when we do counts again. I hope you all have a great week!
Lots of love ~ Sheri
Tuesday, March 4, 2003 11:17 PM CST
Quick Update:
Cameron's platelet transfusion went well. It started at 5:15 pm. His post transfusion counts showed - guess what - his HGB dropped to 7.2 so now he needs blood. Exactly like I told the doctor yesterday, and he chose to argue with me like I had no clue. So, now we are home waiting for the blood to come in. The on-call doctor tonight didn't know Cameron's protocol so they had to pull records from his last blood transfusion (2-1-03) for the info. That took longer than the transfusion! Anyway, we're now home, thank God! I'm going to relax and eat the last piece of that King Cake, then I'm going to bed - it's amazing how exhausting sitting in a hospital room for 7 hours can be. I'll update again after Cameron's blood transfusion. Have a great night!!! ~Sheri
Post transfusion counts:
ANC 1160, WBC 2.9, HGB 7.2, Platelets 84,000
************************************************************
From yesterday:
Monday, March 3, 2003 6:20 PM CST
Good Evening Everyone!
I just wanted to post a quick update. We finally got some counts on Cameron today and they were not good. His platelets are 16,000 - dangerously low. We were sent home to wait for platelets because there is such a widespread shortage - New Orleans is even having a long wait for them. We were told it would be 24-48 hours. His blood (HGB) is low too - 8.0, if it gets any lower, he will require a blood transfusion. Platelet transfusions ALWAYS make his HGB go down, so I'm expecting a blood transfusion also.
Tomorrow is Mardi Gras, so of course everything is closed down until Wednesday. A short time ago Cameron received a special delivery from his SMILE Buddy from chemo - A KING CAKE!!! Complete with New Orleans coffee, mardi gras beads and a parade guide - a nice addition for Cameron's scrap book. Thank you Benton!!!
Cameron is supposed to be taking it easy - laying down, staying calm, etc. Do you think? I already had to get on to him to settle down, I guess with Nick around he wants to be rowdy.
Well, I hope everthing is going well with everyone - I'll update after the transfusion (hopefully tomorrow).
Lots of Love ~ Sheri
Monday, March 3, 2003 6:20 PM CST
Good Evening Everyone!
I just wanted to post a quick update. We finally got some counts on Cameron today and they were not good. His platelets are 16,000 - dangerously low. We were sent home to wait for platelets because there is such a widespread shortage - New Orleans is even having a long wait for them. We were told it would be 24-48 hours. His blood (HGB) is low too - 8.0, if it gets any lower, he will require a blood transfusion. Platelet transfusions ALWAYS make his HGB go down, so I'm expecting a blood transfusion also.
Tomorrow is Mardi Gras, so of course everything is closed down until Wednesday. A short time ago Cameron received a special delivery from his SMILE Buddy from chemo - A KING CAKE!!! Complete with New Orleans coffee, mardi gras beads and a parade guide - a nice addition for Cameron's scrap book. Thank you Benton!!!
Cameron is supposed to be taking it easy - laying down, staying calm, etc. Do you think? I already had to get on to him to settle down, I guess with Nick around he wants to be rowdy.
Well, I hope everthing is going well with everyone - I'll update after the transfusion (hopefully tomorrow).
Lots of Love ~ Sheri
Saturday, March 1, 2003 10:39 AM CST
Hello All!
Yesterday's chemo visit went fast - we were in and out in only 2 hours. Cameron's platelets are on the downside, so we'll have to have them checked again on Monday.
Yesterday's counts:
ANC 1060
WBC 3.31
HGB 9.0
PLT 54,000
On the way home we stopped by to pick up Amber & Nick. Cameron stayed up late with Nick last night playing video games - his favorite thing!
There's rain in the forecast, so I don't think we'll be making it to any Mardi Gras parades. And since Cameron's platelets are so low, he'll be missing out on the carnival too. Good think we didn't discuss it much or he'd be broken hearted. I think Nick's big supply of video games will make him feel better.
Well, it's Saturday morning and there's cartoons to watch. I'll update later when we get new counts. Thanks for checking on us, and for signing the guestbook.
One more thing - Cameron is one of the kids featured this month at www.hugsandhope.com(link below) - another month of mail - yay! I also heard from the Make a Wish people, they are currently training volunteers in our area, so it will probably be sometime next month that we get a visit from them.
Have a great weekend everyone!!!
Lots of love ~ Sheri
Wednesday, February 26, 2003 9:21 AM CST
UPDATE:
Good Morning everyone!!! It's a cold and rainy day here in South Louisiana. Cameron is doing really well. His platelet transfusion was another record breaker - we were in and out in 4 1/2 hours!!! Before his transfusion Cameron got to visit with the kids across the street for a birthday party. He had so much fun - especially since he's been at home so long.
Friday is Cameron's second to last chemo treatment. We're going to pick up Amber & Nick on the way home - they're coming in for Mardi Gras! We're hoping to go to the Children's Parade, but if it doesn't warm up, we'll be staying home!
Thank you all for checking on us and signing the guestbook!!! ~ Sheri
From transfusion day:
Saturday, February 22, 2003 10:59 AM CST
The Waiting Game - not a fun game, but it seems to be the most popular. We had Cameron's counts checked yesterday, and wouldn't you know, he needs a platelet transfusion. I brought him to the pediatrician yesterday to get him checked out since he had a sore throat and a cough. They did a strep test and it came out negative. We then went over to get his blood test done, and I totally forgot to put his Emla cream on. When I thought of it and put it on, they called his name. It was on his arm maybe 2 minutes, but he looked away when they stuck him and said it didn't even hurt. What a brave kid!
The doctor called me yesterday afternoon with Cameron's counts:
ANC 1395
HGB 9.3
PLTS 46,000 - not extremely low, but low enough for a transfusion.
I called the nurses' station last night for the status of the platelets, and they said it would be this morning.
This morning I called, and whoever answered the phone must have too much access to the medicine cabinet because she was way out there! I ended up calling the blood bank myself to find out the status. His platelets are coming from - "Vegas, Baby!!!" - sorry, I couldn't resist that one! They should be ready early this afternoon. Austin is going to stay home with Daddy - that will be more fun for him, and also free me up at the hospital to play video games with Cameron.
Cameron finished his chemo pills on Monday, and I took a picture of him throwing away all his pill bottles. Now, just 2 more IV Vincristine treatments, and the chemo will be done! It may be several weeks after that before his counts get back to normal and he won't be needing anymore transfusions. I'm looking forward to a med-free summer!!!!
Thank you everyone for checking on us, I hope you all have a great weekend!!!
Lots of love ~ Sheri
Saturday, February 22, 2003 10:59 AM CST
The Waiting Game - not a fun game, but it seems to be the most popular. We had Cameron's counts checked yesterday, and wouldn't you know, he needs a platelet transfusion. I brought him to the pediatrician yesterday to get him checked out since he had a sore throat and a cough. They did a strep test and it came out negative. We then went over to get his blood test done, and I totally forgot to put his Emla cream on. When I thought of it and put it on, they called his name. It was on his arm maybe 2 minutes, but he looked away when they stuck him and said it didn't even hurt. What a brave kid!
The doctor called me yesterday afternoon with Cameron's counts:
ANC 1395
HGB 9.3
PLTS 46,000 - not extremely low, but low enough for a transfusion.
I called the nurses' station last night for the status of the platelets, and they said it would be this morning.
This morning I called, and whoever answered the phone must have too much access to the medicine cabinet because she was way out there! I ended up calling the blood bank myself to find out the status. His platelets are coming from - "Vegas, Baby!!!" - sorry, I couldn't resist that one! They should be ready early this afternoon. Austin is going to stay home with Daddy - that will be more fun for him, and also free me up at the hospital to play video games with Cameron.
Cameron finished his chemo pills on Monday, and I took a picture of him throwing away all his pill bottles. Now, just 2 more IV Vincristine treatments, and the chemo will be done! It may be several weeks after that before his counts get back to normal and he won't be needing anymore transfusions. I'm looking forward to a med-free summer!!!!
Thank you everyone for checking on us, I hope you all have a great weekend!!!
Lots of love ~ Sheri
Saturday, February 15, 2003 10:41 AM CST
Back On Track!
Cameron's counts were good yesterday:
ANC 1452
WBC 4.4
HGB 10.7
PLT 152,000
So, he started his last round of pills. I told him last night that I'd be waking him up to take his pill, and he was ok with that. At 4am he did not want to wake up, he told me "get out and leave me alone!" He finally woke up enough and took it. This morning when he woke he said "Mommy you forgot to wake me up to take my pill" he must have really been in a deep sleep last night.
I dropped Cameron's Valentines off at school Thursday and met his Kindergarten teacher for the first time. She showed me some work the other students were doing, and it gave me some ideas on other things to do with Cameron. It also let me see that he is not behind the other kids by being homebound - what a relief! I picked up a class picture and his teacher wrote the names of the students so Cameron could see what kids are in his class. They made Cameron some special Valentines, and he also got regular ones (candy) from his classmates - he was very pleased.
We're having a very rainy day today and it seems like we all may be getting a cold - Cameron's been sneezing, Austin and I have been coughing. Cameron's done very well for a whole year without getting sick - no colds, flu or anything! Let's pray he'll continue on this healthy track at least until he's done with chemo. I don't want to spend 3 days in the hospital because he has fever from a cold.
Well, it's breakfast time - I hope you all have a great weekend!!
Lots of love ~ Sheri
Wednesday, February 12, 2003 6:50 PM CST
UPDATE:
We're Home!!! It was a transfusion record! We were in and out in only 5 1/2 hours - it was still daylight (barely) when we left. The lucky platelets came from Reno, Nevada!! Cameron did good with the transfusion - no reactions - and his post counts are good:
ANC 810 (still not high enough to start chemo)
WBC 4.5
HGB 10.2
Platelets 176,000
When we got to the room, Cameron had a temp of 99.9 - it went as high as 100.2, but came back down to 99.2. If it goes to 100.5 he has to be admitted for 3 days and have a ton of tests run - it was close! I'll keep an eye on his temp to make sure it doesn't go up tonight. Now I'm ready to relax. I'll update again the next time we check counts. Thank you for checking on my baby, and for signing the guestbook. I hope you all have a great weekend!
Love - Sheri
FROM EARLIER TODAY:
Wednesday, February 12, 2003 10:55 AM CST
Here we go again! We checked counts yesterday and Cameron's platelets were low(38,000), so we're now waiting on platelets for a transfusion. I was told yesterday they located some in Arizona, but they wouldn't be shipped out until this morning.
Cameron's ANC was also low (665) so he will not be starting his last round of chemo just yet. ANC has to be 1,000 and Platelets have to be 100,000 before he can start. His chemo dosage has been lowered again so maybe with this round his counts won't get so low, and he won't need so many transfusions.
Cameron's protocol for chemo consists of 8 rounds. Each round being 4 days of pills (at home) followed by 2 doses of IV Vincristine - all over a 6 week period. The only round of chemo that he has started on time was the first. Every one after that was delayed at least a week because of low counts. I am so glad this is almost over. There is still a chance that he will need more transfusions since it usually happens a couple of weeks after his last dose of each round.
I was reading that the Saturn Dealership does a Blood Drive and Bone Marrow Donor Registry on Valentine's Day, I'm going to look into that - I can't donate for my son, so I'll donate for others. I wish everyone would do the same, maybe we wouldn't have to wait so long for each transfusion.
Well, I better get everything (toys) together for our transfusion stay so the kids won't be so bored. I'll update when we get back home.
Lots of Love ~ Sheri
Wednesday, February 12, 2003 10:55 AM CST
Here we go again! We checked counts yesterday and Cameron's platelets were low(38,000), so we're now waiting on platelets for a transfusion. I was told yesterday they located some in Arizona, but they wouldn't be shipped out until this morning.
Cameron's ANC was also low (665) so he will not be starting his last round of chemo just yet. ANC has to be 1,000 and Platelets have to be 100,000 before he can start. His chemo dosage has been lowered again so maybe with this round his counts won't get so low, and he won't need so many transfusions.
Cameron's protocol for chemo consists of 8 rounds. Each round being 4 days of pills (at home) followed by 2 doses of IV Vincristine - all over a 6 week period. The only round of chemo that he has started on time was the first. Every one after that was delayed at least a week because of low counts. I am so glad this is almost over. There is still a chance that he will need more transfusions since it usually happens a couple of weeks after his last dose of each round.
I was reading that the Saturn Dealership does a Blood Drive and Bone Marrow Donor Registry on Valentine's Day, I'm going to look into that - I can't donate for my son, so I'll donate for others. I wish everyone would do the same, maybe we wouldn't have to wait so long for each transfusion.
Well, I better get everything (toys) together for our transfusion stay so the kids won't be so bored. I'll update when we get back home.
Lots of Love ~ Sheri
Thursday, February 6, 2003 6:51 PM CST
Good Evening from the Wetlands! It's been raining and cold all day. Luckily it was nice and dry yesterday for our trip to New Orleans. Austin stayed home with Daddy to get the truck ready for another 3 week run. He was a very good boy, and so was Austin - ha ha!!!
Cameron and I had a quick visit at the clinic - only 2 hours! He didn't need his port accessed so we went right to the lab for bloodwork, and there wasn't alot of kids in the clinic so we got a room right away. Cameron handed out some "Nerds candy Valentines" to his doctor and nurses. There was a little girl that came in and she was crying, so Cameron gave her a valentine too - he's so sweet!
Cameron's counts were too low to start his final round of chemo. I was so sure that since he had transfusions on Friday AND Saturday his counts would still be up enough to start his chemo. BUT, they went way down in just 3 days! His counts on Saturday night were:
ANC 1170
WBC 4.5
HGB 10.4
PLT 156,000
But yesterday they were:
ANC 780
WBC 3.25
HGB 11.8
PLT 86,000
We're going to check counts again next week to see if he'll be able to start his chemo then. If so, his last treatment will be on March 12!!! Yahoo! I've been thinking about what I can get him as a reward for being so good about all this chemo stuff. I'm sure whatever I decide will include a day at the zoo and pizza!
I sent off to try to get Cameron featured on the Hugs and Hope website - he could use another month of mail. Every time he got mail from a kid, he would want to know where they lived and if we could go visit so he could play with them - it was so cute but also very sad. I'll be so glad when Cameron can play with other kids again I won't have to worry about him getting sick.
I hope you all have a great weekend - I'll update next week!
Lots of love ~ Sheri
Saturday, February 1, 2003 10:04 PM CST
Hi everyone! I didn't get to update yesterday because we ended up being at the hospital all day! Cameron's platelets were supposed to be ready at 4pm, so we got there before 3. We waited and waited....and waited. The blood bank's nationwide search turned up some platelets from Billings, Montana. Yee-Haw! I told Cameron he was getting some cowboy platelets! His transfusion finally began at 10:10pm. We had Austin with us, and we had to stay in the room - I didn't want to take any chances with Cameron getting around anyone sick. They did not like this - they wanted to go to the playroom. Luckily I brought lots of things to do, and Cameron got to have the Sega all to himself. After the platelet transfusion we waited around for the results of the post-transfusion CBC. Just as I dreaded, his hemoglobin had dropped and he now needed a blood transfusion. I had learned my lesson, and we went HOME to wait.
We got home around 2:30am. Cameron's port was still accessed so I didn't sleep too well worrying about that. But, we were at home and it was a million times better than sitting in a hospital room.
We got the call shortly before 1pm that the blood was ready, and we were on our way. It was just me & Cameron this time. He was premedicated right away, and the transfusion started at 2pm. We had lots of fun watching cartoons and playing video games together. Today's blood was from a local - good thing since they had closed local airports this morning due to today's space shuttle tragedy. We even had a civil emergency for 45 minutes because of the debris falling - I didn't see any, but I heard the reports.
Everything went well today until it was time to take off the tape that was securing the needle in Cameron's port. We use a cloth covering instead of the Tegaderm, and it usually doesn't give us any problems. But I guess since it was stuck to him for 2 whole days it didn't want to let go. It was giving him alot of pain trying to take it off. We ended up cutting off just enough tape and gauze to de-access his port, and left the rest on for Cameron to soak off in the bath(with a lot of help from skin-so-soft).
When Cameron woke up this morning he was so pale, his lips so white - shortly after his transfusion he was so full of energy and had great color! His post transfusion counts are good, and I hope they stay that way so Cameron can start his LAST round of chemo next week!
We're going to enjoy the rest of the weekend - I hope you do the same! Thank you for checking on my baby, and signing his guestbook!
Lots of love ~ Sheri
Friday, January 31, 2003 at 10:17 AM (CST)
Good Morning! We checked counts yesterday as the doctor ordered. Just as I suspected, Cameron's platelets are LOW and he needs a transfusion. I spoke with the hospital last night and was informed the blood bank was doing a "nation-wide search" for Cameron's platelets. I just found out they will arrive in Lafayette this afternoon. Now I just need to keep Cameron as inactive as possible until then. Ever hear of an inactive 5 year old? Me neither. He was running around playing with Austin so much last night, making me so nervous. He's still sleeping and will hopefully stay that way for a while - it's safer!
This will be Cameron's 14th platelet transfusion since he started chemo in Feb.'01. Thanks to all who donate - I guess we need to get Louisiana on the ball! Yesterday morning (5:30) Cameron woke up with a nosebleed, but it stopped pretty quick considering his platelets are so low (30,000). His hemoglobin is close to the borderline. The last time it was this low and he got a platelet transfusion, he ended up needing a blood transfusion too. Pray this will not be the case this evening. Daddy's on his way home and the kids are anxious to see him.
My mom has been here visiting for a couple of days but will be leaving today. We had a great time just sitting around chatting. Cameron has been reading books to her - Bears on Wheels - from his Dr.Seuss collection. We are so proud of him! Yesterday he received an autographed picture from Judge Marilyn Milian of The People's Court. He watched it yesterday "hey that lady sent me a picture!" He's too cute!
It was addressed to Cameron and Dad, but the picture is signed to Cameron. He got a packett last week from Steve Irwin, the Crocodile Hunter. It had a map of his Zoo in Australia, and Cameron said "I can't wait to go there" - sorry buddy, that's a little too far!
Well, everyone's up now so it's time for breakfast! I'll update tomorrow on how the transfusion went.
Have a great day, and a great weekend!
Lots of love ~ Sheri
Yesterday's counts:
ANC 1404
WBC 3.9
HGB 8.2
Platelets 30,000
Tuesday, January 28, 2003 at 12:35 PM (CST)
Good Afternoon! Just a little in-between-treatment update. We had Cameron's counts checked yesterday. Since he got a transfusion last week, his doctor wanted his counts checked on Monday instead of the usual Wednesday. They are pretty low, but not low enough for transfusions:
ANC 928 (normal range is 7,000-10,000)(ability to fight infection)
WBC 2.8 (normal range is 4.5-11.9)(white blood cells)
HGB 8.2 (normal range is 10.3-13.3)(hemoglobin - red blood cells)
Platelets 69,000 (normal range is 175,000-500,000)
So, as you can see, Cameron's counts are low. This makes him tire easily and want to sleep more. He slept until 11am this morning. I got a call today from the Oncologist's office - we need to check counts again on Thursday. Today is report card day, so he is in with his homebound teacher - I'll update his progress when I find out.
Our neighbor that told us of the chickenpox outbreak gave us a $25 giftcard to Hollywood Video for taking care of their cat while they were away - thank you so much! It came in handy for game and video rentals for Cameron since he can't go anywhere. Right now he's mastering Kingdom Hearts - thanks to the help I can get online! He can play through a game for the most part, but at times gets stuck and needs a little help from those who went before him.
My poor boys being stuck in the house for so long - there was a front page story in today's paper about the flu. It's going around bad here. One of the good things about Cameron being on homebound is that we could go to the movies while all the kids were in school, but I won't even take a chance with that right now. I sure hope the Make a Wish thing comes through, they definately deserve a fun time away with all they've been through. Especially Cameron, of course!
Next week, if his counts are high enough, Cameron will begin his final round of chemo!!! Since Cameron never got to start a round on time, because of low counts, I'm not getting my hopes up too much (just a little). I'll update later this week when we get the next CBC done. Have a great week everyone!!!
Lots of Love ~ Sheri
Thursday, January 23, 2003 at 02:14 PM (CST)
Good Afternoon! I hope everyone is able to stay nice and warm during this COLD weather!
We went to New Orleans yesterday and got there early so I let the kids burn off some energy playing on the slides. Good thing I did. We signed in at the clinic then went across the hall to the infusion room so the boys could watch some cartoons. It wasn't too long before Cameron got in to an exam room to wait for the port access, check up & chemo. Cameron's SMILE Buddy came by to visit. The SMILE Buddy is a program they have to assign 1st year med students with a chemo kid - Cameron's is Benton. He brought Cameron an X-Men action figure, and stayed to play for a while. This came in quite handy as I left the backpack of toys (including Gameboy) at home. The boys were very upset with Mommy for that. But, being "a Mommy", I made up for it. I had in my "chemo bag" a few new toys that I picked up the day before for real cheap. They each got a set of 2 space men w/accessories, these new toys kept them entertained all day. Oh, did I mention we were there ALL day? When Cameron's counts came back, his platelets were a whopping 37,000! And as you probably know by now, if they go below 50,000 he needs a transfusion. So, time to wait for platelets....
Hours later, we were admitted to a room for the remainder of the wait and for the platelets. Right when we got in the room, Cameron got a nosebleed - not good when platelets are low! After 15 minutes of ice packs to the nose (not pleasant) it stopped. Then we got a room-mate - Colton, age 3, Stage 4 Neuroblastoma - he was waiting for platelets too. We were supposed to get them at 3pm, yeah right. The clinic closes around 4:30pm so we got a room. Luckily there was a Super Nintendo - so we found the last game they had, and Unluckily, it wouldn't work! If that wasn't bad enough, the TV speaker wouldn't work either. The tech went to go find us another one, but she must have went home because I didn't see her again. The boys were playing so I wasn't concerned with fighting to get another speaker.
Cameron's transfusion began at 6:15pm, right after he fell asleep. I guess his pre-medication of benedryl knocked him right out. Austin, on the other hand, was full of energy. He was bouncing all over the place! We were supposed to be leaving at 8pm - like Colton did since they started at the same time. But we never saw our new nurse that started her shift at 7pm - there were alot of kids on the floor, so I'm sure she was busy. Colton's nurse - Heather - was kind enough to do Cameron's blood draw, de-access his port, and discharge us - thank you Heather!!! We left at 8:30pm - right after Austin fell asleep - yay!!! And I was glad I brought jackets in, because by this time, it was COLD!
Since I don't like to drive at night (I can't see), and Tom doesn't like me too either (not safe), he made arrangements for us to get a hotel room here in town. Daddy to the rescue - and all the way from New Jersey!!! Thank you Amber & Ginger too! We got to our room at 9pm. We got some snacks from the vending machine, tooks baths, then settled down for cartoons. Well, Austin didn't, his little nap recharged him for some more bouncing - this time from bed to bed! Finally at 11pm we called it a night. Cameron got his very own Queen size bed to sleep in - lucky! I thought I had it, but at the last minute, Austin jumped in Mommy's bed - oh well, it was just like home! We got up this morning to a continental breakfast, then came home.
I must admit, Cameron and Austin were so very good yesterday, never once complaining about the waiting - only the food! Next time I'll be sure to bring pizza money!
I hope all is well with your families and you all have a great weekend.
Lots of Love ~ Sheri
PS - Sawyer's (Cameron's cousin) MRI on Tuesday showed no change in his tumor, so they have decided to just watch it with MRI's every 3 months. If it starts to change, then they'll take it from there.
Thank you all for checking on my baby, and mostly for your prayers!
Psalm 31:14"But as for me, I trust in You, O LORD; I say, "You are my God."
Saturday, January 18, 2003 at 04:15 PM (CST)
Good Afternoon Everyone!
Boy did it get cold way down here in Southern Louisiana. If only we got some snow, now that would be fun!
I just wanted to do a quick update for the weekend. We checked counts yesterday, and they were all ok. No transfusions needed at this time. Cameron's platelets are on their way down again, but hopefully they will go back up on their own without needing another transfusion. I had him checked yesterday because he had been looking so pale, his blood is still low, but not low enough to need a transfusion.
I received news today that alot of the kids in our neighborhood have the chickenpox. Not good news. Cameron is now "isolated" meaning he can't go out anywhere (church, grocery store, video store) and nobody can visit. I don't want to take any chances that he might get exposed to the chickenpox virus. That would land him in the hospital for a while, and we don't want that!!! Austin got the vaccine when he was 1 1/2 so at least we won't have to worry about him getting it and giving it to Cameron.
Some happy news - I finally contacted the Make A Wish Foundation to get things started for Cameron's wish (Disney World) - I read to him about Kaelei's trip and he was like "wow, neat - I want to go!" So, I really, really hope he gets his wish granted.
I would like to ask everyone checking on us to please sign Cameron's guestbook. Since we're stuck at home, it will be nice to read to Cameron all the notes he gets through here. He really liked getting so much mail from the Make A Child Smile website in December, and now that it's over he's like - "do I have any mail?" - Thank God Angel Glenda sends him lots of cards and stickers. He's learning to recognize her name and address, so he knows when it's her sending him stuff.
I hope that everyone has a wonderful weekend. I'll update next week when we get back from chemo.
Lots of Love,
Sheri
1 Thes.5:16-18 "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."
Tuesday, January 14, 2003 at 02:28 PM (CST)
We stayed the night at the hospital for Cameron's transfusion.
We arrived at the hospital at 1AM since Cameron's platelets would be ready around 2AM. Cameron did really well with his transfusion, and slept from 4-10AM. Now his Red Blood Cells are getting low, so let's pray they will come up on their own and he won't need a Blood transfusion.
We got home shortly after 10:30AM, and Cameron got a special delivery. Last week Daddy sent an email to Judge Judy to ask for an autograph for Cameron. Well, he got an autographed book written by Judge Judy "You Can't Judge A Book By It's Cover" it's a guide for school. He thought it was so neat, getting something from somebody that he sees on TV! And it was so nice for her to take the time to do something so nice for my baby - Thank You Judge Judy!!!
Cameron was practicing his words, and reading some sample sentences today, and he was doing so good I just had to call my mom. He read to her his 5 practice sentences and talked to her for a long time. They were swapping hospital stories. Tomorrow she is having surgery on her ear, and she's doing good with her IV therapy for the staph infection. I can't wait to see her!
Today Cameron got a surprise from his teacher for being able to spell over 20 words - a Dr. Seuss book "One Fish, Two Fish". I'm looking forward to hearing him read it all by himself. He's advancing well with his schoolwork, as long as I don't let him slack off. He'd much rather be playing video games, but when he accomplishes new words, he's very happy with himself for working at it.
I hope the rest of the week goes well for all of you. I will post again after Cameron's next treatment (next week) or before if there's anything going on.
Much love ~ Sheri
Romans 5:1-5 "Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.
Monday, January 13, 2003 at 05:17 PM (CST)
Good Evening Everyone!
Well, it's transfusion time again - Cameron's counts today showed his platelets to be at 37,000 (below 50,000 needs transfusion). I had a feeling he'd be needing one since it has been so long, and since he's got bad bruises all over. We're waiting to hear back from the hospital to see when we need to check in. It usually takes a whole day to find his type, and since we got his counts done late, we may not be going until tomorrow morning.
I'll be bringing a big plastic container of toys for the toy room at the hospital - to give the kids something different (and not broken) to play with. I'm sure Austin will be going with us if we go tomorrow. When he has to stay home, Cameron always misses him terribly (so do I).
Thank you all for checking in on us - I'll update when we're back from the hospital.
Much love ~ Sheri
Friday, January 10, 2003 at 09:15 AM (CST)
Good Friday Morning!!!
We were in New Orleans for chemo on Wednesday and Cameron did very well - we were there for 4 hours - good thing we brought lots of things to do! I told him we'd have a party once he hit 40 pounds - he was at 38.8! He is very tall 3'11" so you know he's so skinny - he's not losing any weight, but not gaining any either. But he's also getting taller. I'm sure when the chemo is finished he'll start gaining real good.
Please keep my Mom in your prayers as well as Cameron. She's in the hospital for about a week for some intensive IV therapy for a staph-infection, then for surgery on her ear. She's in New Orleans, and I would love to go see her but can't expose myself or Cameron. She moved to Arkansas last summer and I miss her so much! Hopefully the IV treatments will work and I can see her the next time we go in for Cameron's chemo.
Cameron is back into the swing of things with his schoolwork after the long break. His homebound teacher told him once he could read and spell 20 words she would get him a surprise - well, Thursday he could spell 21 words!!! I am so proud of him! I got him some little First Reader books - I think once he actually reads a book, he may want to learn more - right now he has no desire. I really need to be consistant with him doing his schoolwork - it's so easy to let it slide. I'm going to try to do some field trips with him to the Library and Children's Museum, maybe as a reward for learning to read.
Well, I guess I better get the school day started, or I could be on here for hours...not really - the boys are ready to drag me off of here as it is!
Have a great weekend everyone!
Lots of love,
Sheri
Wednesday, January 01, 2003 at 10:16 AM (CST)
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!
We are looking forward to an excellent 2003! Cameron will hopefully be finishing up his chemo in March, then we'll be "watching"... Cameron took his chemo pills over the weekend, and he did a great job with it as usual! It is so hard to get him to wake up enough to take a pill at 3 in the morning, but he did it. I am so glad he has only 1 more round of those pills. Just 4 IV Vincristine treatments, and 1 round of pills - then he's done!
Cameron's looking a little "bruisy" so we'll get counts checked tomorrow to see if he'll be needing a platelet transfusion. I have a huge Rubbermaid container full of toys that we'll be donating to the children's floor of the local hospital. So when we have to go in for transfusions, they will have something to play with. And, so other kids that are there can play too! There's a nice playroom at the hospital, but the toy selection is terrible. I just hope they won't be wanting to take their old toys home with them - ha ha!
I wish you all the best and would like to leave you with a poem I found on a website:
There's a holy high vocation
needing workers everywhere;
'Tis the highest form of service--
'Tis the Ministry of Prayer
None need stand idly longing
For a place in which to share
Active service for the Master --
There's always room in prayer.
In these days of tribulation,
Wickedness pervades the air,
And battles we engage in
Must be won by fervent prayer.
There's no weapon half so mighty
As what the intercessors bear;
Nor a broader field of service
Than the Ministry of Prayer!
God Bless!
Love ~ Sheri
Friday, December 27, 2002 at 09:46 AM (CST)
Good Morning! I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas! The boys had a great time opening their presents - they were quite pleased with their goodies! Cameron told me yesterday that he had a nice Christmas - he's so sweet!
We had Cameron's counts checked yesterday, and his platelets are finally up enough to start his chemo. We sure enjoyed the 5 weeks off from treatments, but now we're back to getting all this over with - now we're looking at finishing chemo in March.
Cameron enjoyed all the attention from his Chemo Angels and from all the nice people that sent him lots of mail and stuff through the Make a Child Smile website! Thank you all for checking on us, and for signing the guestbook - it's nice to know so many are thinking of us and especially praying for us. Enjoy the rest of 2002!!!!
Lots of Love ~ Sheri
Wednesday, December 25, 2002 at 12:44 AM (CST)
Luke 2:4-14
"And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem...To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.
And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.
And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.
And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."
************************************************************
Merry Christmas from our house to yours. Thank you all so much for your loving prayers for my Cameron. I hope you all have a Blessed Holiday!
And in case you were wondering....Cameron has not yet been able to start round #7 of his chemo as his platelets continue to be too low. We will check counts again on Thursday to see if they are up enough. Today it is 5 weeks since his last chemo treatment, so of course, he's feeling wonderful.
Special thanks to Cameron's Chemo Angels for their wonderful generosity during the holidays: Angel Glenda, Angel Patti & Angel Joan - you ladies are the best!!!
God Bless you!
Lots of love ~ Sheri
Tuesday, December 17, 2002 at 10:08 AM (CST)
Good Morning!
Just a quick update - Cameron still has not started his next round of chemo, his platelets are still too low. We had blood counts checked yesterday, and his ANC was 1683 which is high for Cameron but his platelets were only at 62,000 and they need to be 100,000 to start chemo. Tomorrow it will be 4 weeks since his last chemo treatment. All these delays only makes the end of his chemo that much farther away.
Cameron has been getting a great response from the Make a Child Smile website. We checked his mailbox yesterday, and he had 3 packages. One was from an organization called Godskids.org - they sent 2 videos, Veggie Tales and Adventures in Odyssey, 2 T-shirts with their logo, bumper stickers, & bookmarks. Another package had a HotWheels car and a Santa ornament for the tree. Last week he received a travel pillow and the pillowcase was handmade into the American Flag, and had his name embroidered on the side. And the stickers, he's swimming in them, but that's ok - I love the stickers! Thanks to everyone for being so thoughtful and generous!
I can't forget Cameron's chemo angels - they have gone above and beyond, I am so thankful for them - what a blessing they are!
Our cold weather is gone for now, I may get out and mow the lawn today - the kids have been having fun playing outside on their swingset without having to worry about wearing a jacket. Cameron is feeling great, he went to Sunday School this week and had a good time!
Thank you all for your prayers, and for checking on us. Enjoy your week!
Hugs, Sheri
Isaiah 58:8 "Your light shall break forth like the morning, your healing shall spring forth speedily, and your righteousness shall go before you; the glory of the LORD shall be your rear guard."
Wednesday, December 11, 2002 at 04:28 PM (CST)
Good Evening! We had Cameron's counts checked today, and his ANC is back up, so he no longer has to be isolated. But, his platelets are still too low to start round 7 of chemo. They are at 58,000 and they need to be 100,000 to start chemo. Because of this delay, Cameron should be finishing up with his chemo the first week in March, instead of the last week in February.
The boys are getting excited about Christmas - Cameron wants to go out tonight to look at the lights - one of my favorite holiday activities!
I will update again when Cameron's counts get better and he starts his next round. I hope you all have a great week!
Lots of Love ~ Sheri
Numbers 6:24-26 "The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace."
Monday, December 09, 2002 at 10:43 AM (CST)
Good Morning!
I just wanted to add a quick note to let you all know what a wonderful service the Make a Child Smile organization provides. Cameron is one of the kids featured this month, and after only 1 week, he has received 23 cards/letters, Austin has received 3, and Amber & Nick each received 1. Cameron had lots of fun today opening his 23 letters. Most included email addresses, so I'll try tonight to send a note to everyone that sent stuff to thank them and to give them a link to this page.
Cameron is doing great, we rented the Stitch 626 video game for him to play since he's having to stay in because of his low counts. We'll do counts again on Wednesday, and if they are high enough, he will start round 7 of his chemo (the 4 days of pills).
Cameron will be visiting Santa when his counts are good, so I'll add that picture to the album when I can. Austin had such a scare at Halloween, I'm not forcing him to do the Santa thing. He is so terrified of anyone in a costume, or even dressed up. A few weeks ago while we were in New Orleans for chemo, Ronald McDonald was there visiting the kids and Austin was clinging to me so tight, he wouldn't even look at the clown. I let him write a letter to Santa instead of having to tell him in person what he wants.
Tom is home sick with a bad flu. Cameron asked yesterday what he could do to make Daddy feel better - he is so sweet!
I hope all is well with everyone. Have a great week!!!
Lots of love,
Sheri
Isaiah 66:14 "Your heart will rejoice and you will flourish like grass; the hand of the LORD will be made known to his servants."
Wednesday, December 04, 2002 at 05:21 PM (CST)
Good Evening Everyone! We have good news!!! Cameron's MRI today showed "continued regression of the residual enhancing soft tissue in the medial left cerebellar hemisphere..." - in English that means the tumor is getting smaller!!!! Wahoo! Finally, after 10 months of chemo, we get a report other than "no change".
The MRI also showed "the right maxillary sinus is opacified" that means Cameron has a sinus infection. His counts are too low to start course 7 now, and his platelets are slightly below transfusion level, but we're going to wait and see how a blood test on Friday comes out before transfusing. They figured he'd already been through enough today with the MRI. So, we will probably start chemo next Wednesday if his counts get up enough (they usually do). His chemo dosage has been lowered again so hopefully he won't be needing anymore transfusions for a while.
Well, it's been a really long day and I've lots to do. I hope you all have a great week!
Lots of Love, Sheri
Update Friday 12-06-02: Cameron's ANC is 358 so he's in for the weekend, and his platelets came up a tiny bit, so he won't be needing a transfusion!!! Have a great weekend!
Matthew 7:7-8 "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened."
Monday, December 02, 2002 at 08:05 AM (CST)
Good Morning and Happy Birthday to Austin!!! Cameron's little brother turns "3" today! We had a nice little party for him on Saturday, and both boys are enjoying Austin's new toys!
I wanted to update to let you all know Cameron is one of the kids featured this month at the Make a Child Smile website! http://www.makeachildsmile.org - we rushed at the last minute to get his PO box, and the nice lady at Allied Services gave it to us for 3 months - no charge! I wasn't expecting it since we went on a Saturday, but the manager just happened to come in while we were there.
Cameron has been doing fine since his transfusions, he had a wonderful time playing with his big brother Nick over the weekend - he got lots of fresh air, as well as lots of practice at those video games.
We put our Christmas tree up on Saturday night, and Cameron did a great job helping hang the ornaments! This is the first year we have an artificial tree, but it looks real nice and I won't have to worry about the tree drying out and everyone stepping on the needles! We'll have to keep an eye on Minnie though, she likes to lay under it and play with the dangling ornaments.
Cameron's MRI is on Wednesday, so please keep him in your prayers. He should also start course #7 then too, if his counts are high enough (that would be a first). I'll post when we get back about how everything goes.
Well, we have a busy day of schoolwork today, so I guess we better get to it. I hope you all are well and have a great week!!!
Lots of love ~ Sheri
John 1:16 "From the fullness of God's grace we have all received one blessing after another."
Monday, November 25, 2002 at 07:24 PM (CST)
Update: Tuesday, November 26, 2002 10:20pm
An overnight stay turned into a 24 hour stay! When Cameron's CBC came back after 5am, I didn't have the energy to check it. But when I got up at 7 I saw that his platelets were back up, but his hemoglobin was too low - need a blood transfusion. We stuck around since it was supposed to be ready within 3 hours - well, 6 hours later they were finally ready to transfuse. We got to leave shortly after 9pm tonight. Like I said before, I get NO sleep in the hospital. Even though we weren't bothered after Cameron's transfusion, he had a restless night. Every sound he made had me up to see if he needed anything - of course he would still be sleeping. Granny dropped Austin off around noon, so Cameron had a playmate. They were both sleeping at 5pm, but as I tried to lay down for a short snooze, here they come for vitals - and then supper. So, I'm like a vegetable I'm so tired. I guess I need to get to bed so I can get all my goody baking done tomorrow. Thanks for checking back with us...
Monday, November 25, 2002 at 07:24 PM
Good Evening!!! We had Cameron's counts checked today, and just as I suspected, he needs a platelet transfusion. He's at 21,000 - his cutoff is 50,000, so he REALLY needs some platelets. Brain tumor patients risk bleeding in the brain if their platelets drop below 20,000. I'm trying to keep him settled down, but it seems he has lots of energy, and can't help but to jump around and wrestle with Austin. We are expecting platelets from El Paso to be ready around midnight. Yay - we get to spend the night in the hospital - that means I'll get NO sleep, and I have so much that I want to do before Thanksgiving. Nick and Amber (the boys' brother and sister) are coming in for the rest of the week, so hopefully they can keep the boys busy enough for me to get everything done.
My main objective is to get the boys' room totally clean. It's an all day thing when I have to keep stopping for "Mommy I'm hungry", "Mommy I need a drink", "Mommy I have to potty", "Mommy I'm done", "Mommy what's this?", "Mommy I'm hungry", and so on. Then when I'm finished in their room, I come into the living room to find all the toys from the "get rid of" box all over the floor. Mothering and housekeeping is truly a never ending, 24-hour task.
Thanks for checking in on us, I'll update tomorrow when I get the chance. The guestbook has been a little slow, so if you would, please sign it so we'll know who's come to visit. I really appreciate all your uplifting words, and especially all your prayers. We wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving!!!
Much love, Sheri
Psalm 100:4-5"Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name. For the LORD is good; His mercy is everlasting, and His truth endures to all generations."
Wednesday, November 20, 2002 at 08:14 PM (CST)
Happy Wednesday! Today was our trip to New Orleans for Cameron's chemo. His ANC is up, but his platelets are falling again - was 153,000 on Saturday, but today were 77,000. We'll get them checked again on Monday to see if he'll be needing a transfusion before Thanksgiving.
We had quite a rainy trip - both ways! I'm so glad to be home! I hate driving in the rain!
I'm in the process of getting Cameron featured in December on the Make a Child Smile website - if he gets on, I'll post the address on here.
Thank you all for checking on us, and for signing the guestbook! I hope you have a great weekend!
Lots of love ~ Sheri
Saturday, November 16, 2002 at 09:11 AM (CST)
Update:
We're home now - Cameron's platelets weren't going to be ready until after midnight, so we checked in a little after 10pm. We were not due there until 11pm, but we went in earlier to get Austin checked by the ER doctor. Why you say? Well, yesterday afternoon Austin rolled off his bed and hit his mouth on the toybox - he bit the inside of his cheek and was bleeding, mommy rinsed his mouth with icewater, and everything was ok... At about 9:30pm Austin was jumping on his bed, fell off and hit the same side of his mouth on the toybox - again! This time it didn't bleed, and he didn't cry much, but it started to swell - big time! I felt inside his mouth and there was a huge knot. We decided to take him to the ER - I've never seen anything like it before.
The ER doctor checked Austin's mouth, and he has a hematoma - when he fell he busted a blood vessel and blood filled up a pocket in his cute little cheek. He'll have marked swelling for about a week, and we can put ice on it and give him tylenol for the pain. Austin stayed with me & Cameron all night at the hospital - Cameron wasn't finished until after 4:30am so we slept in - until Daddy came and woke us up at 7.
Cameron's platelets came from South Dakota this time - thank you!!! His post-transfusion counts were good as far as the platelets go(153,000), but his ANC is down to 468 - yup, that's neutropenic - isolation at home! He doesn't mind though, the perfect excuse for him to play video games on the Playstation2 ALL day!!! I took a picture of Cameron and Austin laying in the hospital bed together, my poor baby boys, I'll add to the photo album when I get them developed.
Thanks for checking in on us, I hope you all have a wonderful weekend!!
Love~Sheri
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Friday, November 15, 2002 at 11:34 AM (CST)
Good Morning/Afternoon! Cameron's platelets kept going down, and his blood test from yesterday showed them at 32,000 - transfusion time!!! Right now we're waiting for the blood bank to call to let us know when to come in. We've got the bag packed with some video games, coloring books and popcorn, so we're ready to go. Hopefully since it's early, we'll be done before dark. But you never know - nothing goes as planned or in a timely manner when it comes to chemo and it's horrible side effects.
I've added some new pictures - check them out! I'll update when we get back! Have a great weekend!!!
~Sheri
Psalm 139:9-10 "If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast."
Friday, November 15, 2002 at 11:34 AM (CST)
Good Morning/Afternoon! Cameron's platelets kept going down, and his blood test from yesterday showed them at 32,000 - transfusion time!!! Right now we're waiting for the blood bank to call to let us know when to come in. We've got the bag packed with some video games, coloring books and popcorn, so we're ready to go. Hopefully since it's early, we'll be done before dark. But you never know - nothing goes as planned or in a timely manner when it comes to chemo and it's horrible side effects.
I've added some new pictures - check them out! I'll update when we get back! Have a great weekend!!!
~Sheri
Psalm 139:9-10 "If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast."
Monday, November 11, 2002 at 05:52 PM (CST)
Update:
I got a call this evening - Sawyer is on his way back home! The tumor is small and slow-growing so they will wait to do surgery until after the holidays. They can't do the surgery now since he has pneumonia. Thanks for all your prayers!
Sunday, November 10, 2002 at 01:57 PM (CST)
Urgent prayer request!!! I just found out that my 3 yr old nephew Sawyer has a brain tumor! He is being taken down to Children's Hospital in Little Rock right now. He was brought to their local hospital last night and was admitted for double pneumonia. A CAT scan today revealed a 2cm mass in the middle of his brain. Please pray for Sawyer as well as their family. Thank you all for being so faithful with the prayers, that's why I'm posting this on here!
Cameron is doing fine, had a good time at a birthday party yesterday. He doesn't realize how serious a brain tumor is since he's breezed through his. He said "Sawyer can get mail from the Chemo Angels now too". Needless to say, my heart is breaking...
~Sheri
Ps 103:1-3 "Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases."
Sunday, November 10, 2002 at 01:57 PM (CST)
Urgent prayer request!!! I just found out that my 3 yr old nephew Sawyer has a brain tumor! He is being taken down to Children's Hospital in Little Rock right now. He was brought to their local hospital last night and was admitted for double pneumonia. A CAT scan today revealed a 2cm mass in the middle of his brain.
My brother is driving down there (3 hr drive) and my sis-in-law is riding in the ambulance with Sawyer. Please pray for Sawyer as well as their family. Thank you all for being so faithful with the prayers, that's why I'm posting this on here!
Cameron is doing fine, had a good time at a birthday party yesterday. He doesn't realize how serious a brain tumor is since he's breezed through his. He said "Sawyer can get mail from the Chemo Angels now too". Needless to say, my heart is breaking...
~Sheri
Ps 103:1-3 "Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases."
Thursday, November 07, 2002 at 08:33 AM (CST)
Good Morning!
We were in New Orleans yesterday for Cameron's chemo (Vincristine). The clinic was really full - we were sitting out in the hall because the waiting room was packed! After 2 hours we got in the exam room, 2 hours later we saw the doctor, 2 hours later Cameron got his chemo - AND A FLU SHOT! - then we came home. He was not too thrilled about the flu shot, but he took it like a man! He made an awful face, but he made it worse by looking at the needle right before she stuck him!
I spoke with the RN for Cameron's Neurosurgeon, and she told me at this point they were going to have Cameron finish with the chemo (that's in Feb!) and then "keep an eye on him" instead of doing radiation right away. Praise the Lord!!! I never liked the radiation thing - scares me - and now it looks like he may not need it. Only if the tumor progresses will they look to radiation - of course we'll also fully check into the Proton Therapy thing too so we'll know we've covered all the bases. I was so happy with the news, I was praising God walking down the hallway to the elevators!!!
We'll be going back to clinic on Nov. 20 for Vincristine, and Cameron's MRI is set for Dec. 4. Pray for Cameron during this time that he doesn't get a cold (I guess we have the flu thing covered - ???) or anything that would cause him to get a fever. We've been so blessed that he's been so healthy through all this - he's only been hospitalized once for fever - back in February right after he started chemo - and it was an ear infection.
Thank you all for stopping by and signing Cameron's guestbook - it's really a great inspiration to me, and Cameron enjoys hearing about so many people interested in him. I hope you all have a wonderful weekend!
Love, Sheri
Proverbs 10:24 "What the righteous desire will be granted."
Saturday, November 02, 2002 at 09:04 AM (CST)
Good Saturday Morning to you!!!
It's a bit chilly way down here in southern Louisiana! We stayed up late watching Spiderman last night so the boys are still sleeping.
Cameron had a wonderful Halloween - in the morning we went to the party for the homebound kids. Cameron was dressed as the Mummy, Austin was a pumpkin and I dressed in jammies, had my hair in pigtails and had rosy cheeks with freckles! We were in 3 different costume contests - Cameron won 6th place in the student contest, I won 5th place in the mommy contest and Austin won 2nd place in the siblings contest! Since most of the children are severely disabled, the prizes were geared more to the moms, so I got some really neat stuff (decorations, potholders & kitchen towels)!!! Cameron and Austin were in a cake walk and won the first time in - Cameron picked out a very orange cake, but it was yummy! Then they played stick the wart on the witch's nose -they had fun with that too. It was nice to see Cameron out and about, and not being so shy and clinging to me. Unfortunately, I forgot my camera, but a lady there took some pictures, so when I get them I will post them on here. There was stuff for the kids too - Cameron got 2 halloween bags with candy, little toys, books, pencils and erasers. He told me "Mommy, it's so nice of those people to give me all this stuff!" - I told the lady in charge what he said and I think she almost cried! It was such a blessing for me to hear him be appreciative! He never ceases to amaze me with his depth. All the way home he was telling me what a good time he had.
Once we got home Cameron was getting anxious for trick-or-treat time. I was trying to get my housework done, so I got the boys to watch some cartoons. I noticed some rain clouds hovering above the house - not a good sign since our roof had not been repaired yet. I rushed to Lowe's and got a pail of some roof-patching stuff and up the ladder I went. I used that whole gallon of black icky stuff and patched every crack and hole I could find - all by my little girl self!! (luckily Tom had marked them all with red spraypaint.) Well, the rainclouds went away, but we have lots of rain in our weekend forecast, so we'll see just how well I did! The insurance adjusters were out here Wednesday, and left a check (I had to take the kids to the dentist so I couldn't stay) - well, they paid to have our roof re-tarred and to replace the ceiling tiles that are soaked, but failed to mention the rotten wood and soaking wet insulation that will also have to be replaced. I called and left a message that day, but never got a call back. Monday they will be getting a visit from me I think. The guy Tom called to do our roof just didn't cut it - so, looks like I'll be doing some ceiling tile replacing this weekend too. I'm a regular Bob Vila - or not, we'll see!
After I got my hands clean from patching the roof, it was time to get the kids ready. Cameron decided he had enough of the Mummy costume and wanted to be a Vampire. Austin was still a pumpkin - these pictures are in the photo album. We walked for 2 straight hours - I brought a wagon all cozied up with a sleeping bag and some water to drink. We went with our neighbor since both of us have husbands on the road! The first house we went to scared Austin, but he did better the rest of the time - he'd ask me "is this one scary mommy?" poor baby! Cameron was not scared, or shy, he was the first one to the door everytime. They got 2 tons of candy, and that's what they ate yesterday - all day long! I finally got it away from them and put most of it up - after I took out some of my favorites!!!!
Oh yes, the dentist visit went really well. Cameron had 3 cavities filled, they didn't need to sedate him and he was a good boy. We figure the chemo is mostly to blame for his cavities. But Austin, oh my goodness, I'm guessing he had 8 cavities because he will not sit still for me to brush his teeth good. He also got a silver cap on his precious front tooth - I guess I should have been flossing his teeth too! Oh well, live and learn! You can see his new tooth in his pumpkin picture.
Thank you all for checking on us, and thank you Suzi for your commitment to all the kids you keep up with. You and your family are such a blessing! I hope you all have a great weekend!
Lots of love ~ Sheri
Jer 29:11 "I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
Tuesday, October 29, 2002 at 07:06 AM (CST)
Good Morning!
I was going to post this evening after I get Cameron's blood counts done, but since I'm up early....
I had a rude awakening shortly after 6 this morning - water dripping on my head! I first thought Austin's cup turned over on my headboard, but when I got up I found that it was the ceiling leaking. Hurricane Lili tore up our roof and we had a leak in the corner of our bedroom ceiling. Tom put a tarp on the roof and everything was ok until this morning. We've been having severe thunderstorms, and tornado watches since around 3am. I guess all this rain found a way under the tarp and made a new leak - right above my pillow! Tom called a friend of his to come check it out since he's on the road.
Cameron took his chemo pills like a good, big boy - even when I was waking him up at 4am. He even took all six capsules on Saturday with no problem. I found that if I talk to him about something while he's taking his pills, he's distracted enough to take them without gagging. He didn't get sick - I'm guessing because of the Zofran - but he did get tired alot. He took a nap everyday. We went to the birthday party at the bowling alley, and the boys had a great time. They tired of the bowling real quick, but they really just wanted to play the games that gives you tickets. They cashed in at over 200 tickets and each got a stretchy alien and a whoopee cushion - they just love those! After the party Cameron played at the neighbor's house until right before bedtime! Sunday it was raining and Tom and I were outside reinforcing the tarps on the roof, and the boys snuck out and were splashing in the flooded backyard and playing in the mud - one of their favorite outdoor activities.
Hopefully it will stop raining for the kids to go trick-or-treating. The boys still don't know what to be for halloween, I think I'll talk them into letting me paint their face and be homemade monsters or something. I waited too long to buy them costumes - the racks are bare! I've been known to be creative, I guess it's time to use some of it.
The boys go to the dentist tomorrow to get their cavities fixed - I need to get Cameron's blood counts done today to make sure his platelets are ok. 2 days in a row Cameron has busted his lip - once on Austin's head, and yesterday by tripping over a toy on the floor - it didn't bleed alot, but it's bruised and looks like he's been in a fight.
Cameron's next visit to New Orleans will be on November 6, for Vincristine. Tom talked to someone at Massachusetts General Hospital about the Proton Therapy - she said to send her all Cameron's information (MRI's, pathology reports, etc.) and it would be presented to their tumor board to determine if he would be eligible for Proton Therapy. If not, they would tell us what kind of treatment he would need. If nothing else, at least we'd have a second opinion from a top-notch hospital. Not that Children's Hospital is bad, but sometimes I think they are more into the treatment for their studies than for my child.
Well, I've rambled enough, I need to go check on that leak. I hope you all have a fun and safe night of candy-gettin'!!
Lots of Love - Sheri
Psalm 150:6 "Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD!"
Wednesday, October 23, 2002 at 09:02 AM (CDT)
Good Morning!
Cameron's blood counts are finally high enough for him to start his 6th course of chemo. He'll be taking pills every six hours for the next 4 days. He's not looking forward to that - especially since one of the meds he'll be taking is for 60mg, and instead of giving us a 50mg capsule and a 10mg capsule, the pharmacy gave us "6" 10mg capsules - this is the one he has to take in one dose. If the pharmacy was local, I would have made them fix it, but since they are in New Orleans, I'll just have to fuss at them the next time I go in.
I've been having to bribe Cameron to take his pills the last couple of times, as I'm sure I'll be doing for the next 4 days. Luckily, our neighbor is having a birthday party for her little girl on Saturday at a bowling alley - and he's been begging to go bowling! So, that will be an excellent incentive for Cameron. Don't get me wrong, I'll take him to the party anyway, I just use what I can to make it easier for him.
Thank you all for checking on us, and for signing Cameron's guestbook! Looks like we've got prayers from all over the country, all over the world, and even from celebrities!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you for taking the time to read about Cameron's journey, and for your many prayers.
I hope you all have a wonderful week!
Lots of love - Sheri!
James 5:15 "And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up...."
Friday, October 18, 2002 at 08:00 PM (CDT)
Good Evening Everyone!
We had Cameron's blood counts done today to see if he would be able to start his chemo. Well, his ANC is still ok, and his platelets are even higher, just not high enough. We will check counts again on Tuesday, and hopefully he'll be ready to start.
I added a new picture to the photo album of Cameron's birthday party. The hurricane pictures are on another roll of film, so I'll put those on as soon as I get them.
I'm researching an alternative to radiation for Cameron - Proton Therapy. The only places that does it now are in California and Massachusetts. So, if anyone has any input about it, please let me know!
We don't have much of a weekend planned, but since the weather is so nice, we'll try to get outside as much as the mosquitos will let us. Gotta keep Cameron away from that West Nile Virus! -As well as the rest of us.
Check back later next week to see how Cameron's at-home chemo is going, and don't forget to sign his guestbook!! Thanks for checking on us and have a great weekend!
--Sheri
Mark 10:27 'But Jesus looked at them and said, "With men it is impossible, but not with God; for with God all things are possible."'
Wednesday, October 16, 2002 at 07:07 PM (CDT)
We're back from New Orleans!!!
Cameron's doctor visits went well. He went in today for his check-up and to check his blood counts to see if they were high enough for him to start 'course 6' of his chemo. Well, his ANC was good (1220), but his platelets were too low to be able to start his chemo pills. We'll have them checked again on Friday. Cameron has completed 5 courses of chemo, and each time he's been delayed about a week before he can start the next. His chemo consists of 8 courses, so we only have 3 left! YAY!!! Each course takes 6 weeks. So far, we're looking at finishing up this milestone in February'03. For some reason I was thinking he'd be on it alot longer, but as I was doing research the last few days, I noticed the study he's in is only for 8 courses - and I confirmed that with his Oncologist today.
We also saw Cameron's Neurologist today. He checked Cameron's tummy and said everything appears to be ok with his shunt. Apparantly the tube can cause minor irritations every now and then, and as long as he's not running a fever, vomiting, or has swelling, it should be ok. I asked how long he would need the shunt and he said as long as it wasn't causing any problems, there would be no need to take it out. If it shows to have stopped working, and there isn't a build-up of fluid, they could take it out. For them to test the shunt to see if it is still necessary, would involve a hospital stay and for Cameron to be knocked out for a very invasive, lengthy and uncomfortable test. The other way to find out is if the tube pulls itself out of his abdomen and doesn't cause him any problems. Looks like this is a wait and see type thing - not temporary, but not permanent either. And that's sad because he was telling me the other day that when he gets his shunt out, he wants to take Karate.
The other questions I had for his Neurosurgeon about the radiation, were actually for his Oncologist, so I'll have to wait for the answers to those until the next time we go in - about 3 weeks.
A HUGE thanks to all the many people who have stopped by and signed Cameron's guestbook!!! I had mentioned that it was a little slow, then BOOM - I can hardly keep up with all of them!!!
I know it's early, but I'm so very tired and I think I'm going to relax in front of the tv for a bit. I hope you all have a great week, and I will update when we get some more news.
Love - Sheri
Psalm 29:11 "The LORD will give strength to His people; The LORD will bless His people with peace."
Monday, October 14, 2002 at 12:56 PM (CDT)
Good Afternoon Everyone!
Sorry it has taken me so long to update, we did get through Hurricane Lili without any harm, or very much damage. Our yard was a mess, and if I ever get my pictures out, I'll post one or two so you can see. We have minor damage to the roof over our bedroom, but it should be easily repaired. We lost power Thursday morning at 7:20 and didn't get it back on until Sunday at 1pm. Roughing it in south Louisiana is no picnic - talk about hot and humid!!! I never want to go through that again! We heard the tornado - swept throught the neighborhood just 1 1/2 blocks away.
Friday morning we got up and started cleaning up - Cameron was supposed to get his counts checked since his platelets were getting low when he got chemo on the Wednesday before the storm. Well, I was going to do it on Monday since we were without electricity and so was the whole town (no traffic lights). Around noon, Cameron got a nosebleed and since we had no ice, I couldn't get it to stop. Tom took us to Women's & Children's Hospital ER - his nose stopped bleeding finally and they checked Cameron's counts - sure enough, he needed a platelet transfusion. We got a private room - that was air conditioned and had TV!!!! I even got to take a shower! We were there until 11pm and came home - it was a very dark ride through our neighborhood - no streetlights. Very spooky!
Tom's brother came in from MS with a generator, so we did have one air conditioner going - until 2:30am when the generator quit. Needless to say, I did not sleep well at all the whole time we were without electricity, and time went by so slow. Austin on the other hand, slept excellent!
All the streets in every neighborhood here are still lined with the trees and limbs that people have picked up from their yards and off of their houses.
I would like to thank you all for your prayers during this devastating storm - another excellent example of how prayer changes things - Lili was supposed to hit us as a category 4 or 5, but went down to a 2 - Thank God! I read that if it was a 4, we would have been floating in salt water!
Please take a minute to sign Cameron's guestbook, it's been kinda slow. I'll try to keep this updated better.
We're going to New Orleans on Wednesday (16th) and hopefully Cameron's counts will be high enough to start his next round of chemo - or they'll have to decrease his dosage again! We're also seeing Cameron's Neurologist, Dr. Coulon - Cameron mentioned his tummy hurts sometimes where the shunt tube is, so they want to check it out to make sure everything is ok. I have lots of questions for the Dr., so I will hopefully have lots of info to post later on this week. Thank you for keeping Cameron in your prayers!
-Sheri
Matthew 8:26 'But He said to them, "Why are you fearful, O you of little faith?" Then He arose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm." -take that Lili!!!
Thursday, October 03, 2002 at 12:06 AM (CDT)
Good Early Morning! I just wanted to do a quick post before bed, since I may not be able to get on here for a few days, depending on how mean Hurricane Lili is to us! Cameron went for his chemo in New Orleans today and everything is still going well. His platelets are a little low, so I'll have to check them again Friday (weather permitting) to see if they continue to drop.
Please keep us in your prayers, as Hurricane Lili looks to be coming to visit us. I'll post again when all of this blows over to let you all know how it all went.
Thanks for checking on my baby! Lots of love, Sheri!
Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 04:44 PM (CDT)
Greetings from the Wetlands!!! Louisiana that is....we didn't get it like New Orleans did, but we got lots of rain and wind - and school let out for 3 days! So, Cameron's teacher didn't come today. He'll have lots of work coming in on Tuesday, but he's doing pretty good getting it all done.
Cameron's counts have remained good, looks like his lowered dosage is keeping them up. We go to New Orleans on Wednesday - I hope it dries up by then. The real test is how his counts are when we should be starting his next round on Oct.16.
Thanks to all for checking in on us so often, and signing his guestbook. And thank you even more for the continued prayers for Cameron and for me.
I hope you all have a great weekend, and you on the east coast, try to stay dry.....
Lots of love, Sheri
Hebrews 11:1 "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."
Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 03:21 PM (CDT)
Good Afternoon everyone!
I just wanted to make a quick update - Cameron's counts were finally up high enough for him to start his next round of chemo. So far he's taking his pills like a good big boy.
Cameron is now on Homebound - his teacher came today and he's learning to read already. He spelled "six" for me today. He is doing great!
Tomorrow is his 5th birthday - I would like to send out a special thanks to the many ChemoAngels that have sent Cameron cards and stuff - you all are great!!! I'm waiting until tomorrow to let him open all of them - that should keep him busy for a while.
If we get to go to Chuck E. Cheese's tomorrow, I'll try to get a picture of it on here.
Have a great weekend!!!
--Sheri
Monday, September 02, 2002 at 09:38 AM (CDT)
Good Morning!
I hope all is well with you and your families. We had a small birthday party for Cameron on Saturday with a couple of his friends from the neighborhood. We had it early since his counts were still too low to start his next round of chemo. We do a blood count again on Wednesday to see if it comes up enough to start.
Cameron had his MRI on Friday, Aug. 23, everything was the same - "no change" says the report. I would have liked to hear - "smaller", but it's way better than hearing "bigger".
How's Cameron doing in school you ask? Well, he's gone for 3 days, all 3 days the teacher called me, and the last day I had to pick him up early because they thought he felt warm. His temperature was 98.6. His counts were too low to go last week, so the homebound teacher came. We've decided to keep him on homebound for this school year, it was too stressful for me worrying he might get something, especially chicken pox. He wasn't liking school anyway, just like most kids at first, but I'd feel better keeping an eye on him. I was so worried about him hitting his shunt or his port, and the school staff was paranoid about everything - it was nice to know they were taking things seriously. Then we found out Saturday that Cameron's Kindergarten teacher was transferred to another school because there was not enough Kindergarten students to keep her there. His new teacher sounds real nice and said she's worked with homebound before, so we should have no problem there.
Cameron's real birthday is Friday, Sept.6. I would like to take him to Chuck E. Cheese's while all the kids are in school so it won't be so crowded. That's what we did last year.
The oncologist lowered Cameron's dosage again, so whenever he gets to start on it again, we'll see if it does better for his counts.
We haven't been going outside too much, because of the West Nile Virus being in our area. When we do, we're sure to pour on the Bug Guard - Good thing I have that Avon discount!!
Well, I better get back to the kids. We wish you all a wonderful Labor Day and hope you are enjoying the day off with the kids.
Love to all - Sheri
Romans 15:13 "Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."
Wednesday, August 21, 2002 at 11:45 AM (CDT)
Cameron is in school!!!
Yesterday was his first day of Kindergarten. He did so good, he was so ready to go. He rode the bus home and everything. He said it was "ok" - apparantly the lunch lady was mean, but everything else was good. His teacher called me at 10:30 to let me know he was doing good, but was tired. I was guessing it was because he's not used to waking up early and actually doing stuff. He did good for the rest of the day, even slept during nap-time. I now display his daily artwork on the fridge.
Now I'll let you in on what's been going on since the last entry...We did Cameron's blood test on Wednesday (14th) and his platelets were low - so we went for a transfusion that evening and got home at midnight. The next morning I called for his post-transfusion counts, and found out that his hemoglobin was too low and he needed a blood transfusion. We went back to the hospital for that, and were there for 10 hours. Everything takes so long, but I've come to expect it.
Monday morning we did a blood test again, and went to get his 2 stitches out from the week before (see previous entry). His ANC was 899 and platelets were 64. I was thinking his ANC needed to be over 1000 for him to go to school. I was so depressed, because Monday was orientation and school was on Tuesday. I went to orientation without Cameron so I could get the lowdown for whenever he'd be able to go. I left even more depressed, and for the first time really angry that he has to miss out on school because of all this. I wanted to cry. Then I started thinking - Cameron's oncologist never really gave me a number of what his counts should be to go to school, so I called to find out. The nurse called me back with great news - his ANC only has to be over 500, and platelets over 50 - thank GOD!!! I was so happy that Cameron would be able to go to school on the first day!
Looking back at all Cameron's blood counts, he has only been below the 500 five times in the last 7 months. I'm thinking he'll be able to go to school quite regular. So, please pray that he doesn't catch anything from going to school.
Well, I better get off of here to keep the phone line open. Cameron's birthday is September 6 - I'm having a party for him on the 1st, and hoping his little cousins from Arkansas can come in and surprise him!
I'll post again this weekend, to let you know how his MRI goes on Friday.
Lots of love - Sheri
2 Timothy 2:7 "May the Lord give you understanding in all things."
Monday, August 12, 2002 at 12:57 PM (CDT)
Good Afternoon!
I didn't think I'd be making another entry so soon, but I thought I'd share Cameron's little adventure today...
The boys were running through the house as they always do, and not listening when I was telling them to stop. Well, Cameron bumped his head on his headboard and was crying. I picked him up and held him, asked if he wanted some ice on it, he said no. Then he was fine, and we went in his room to play video games. Then he said "Mom, I'm bleeding" and sure enough, there was blood running down the side of his head. He had a cut on the side of his head, close to the top and it looked pretty wide. I was not taking any chances, I gave him a wet washrag with some ice in it to hold on the cut, and I loaded the kids in the truck for a trip to the emergency room.
Because Cameron is on chemo we got to go back right away, so he wouldn't be exposed to anyone in there that was sick. They cut a small bit of hair from around the wound, put some numbing stuff on it, and gave him 2 stitches. He handled it very well. He'll get the stitches out next Monday - good thing because school starts on Tuesday!
That's just another one of those things that boys will do - playing rough/running around.
Well, we're home now and Cameron is ok - a little disappointed that he can't go swimming today, but it's storming out anyway...
I hope you all enjoy your week, stay safe!
Lots of love to all! -Sheri
Friday, August 09, 2002 at 08:39 AM (CDT)
Cameron is still doing very well. At his clinic visit on Wednesday(7th) he had not gained anymore weight - I'm guessing it's because he's been so active. His appetite is still pretty good, most days. We've discovered I make a pretty good homemade pizza, so that's what his request is quite often. But he still likes Pizza Hut better.
Cameron did have to get a Platelet transfusion when he went in for his chemo. I knew he would, his arms and legs had bunches of bruises. Daddy was with us at this visit (his 1st time) and we ended up being there for 6 hrs. Cameron's last transfusion was on June 18, so he's been doing very well with that.
I think he's getting excited about school. He won't say for sure, but he's ok with practicing writing his name, and going to bed early so he'll be ready when it's time for school to start. We have all his school supplies ready and all we need to get is his uniform pants. Since he's so tall and skinny, I'm having a hard time finding them. A friend told me where I should be able to find some, but if I can't, he'll be going to school in shorts. I really want him to wear pants, to protect his knees in case he falls. A skinned knee is a big deal when counts are low.
Our kitty has a name! Cameron decided her name is Minnie. She loves to spend her lazy time next to Cameron, or on his lap. If he's sitting on the couch playing video games, she's right there next to him, and sometimes plays along. That is until Austin comes and tries to "get" her. Good thing she can jump and run fast. Sometimes not fast enough though. Last night Austin came out of the bathroom with her wrapped in a towel, and she was soaked. We're not sure what happened, but we think she got a little bath - or maybe a dunk in the toilet! --BOYS!!
A special thanks to Cameron's other ChemoAngel - Tony! He and his son Nicholas sent Cameron and Austin a box of goodies and then a couple of weeks ago Cameron and Austin got a special delivery from the florist - Balloons and stuffed animals from Tony and Nicholas! The kids loved it, and were so excited to get "a delivery". I think some of the balloons are still floating around in their room.
And Angel Glenda! Thank you for all you do for Cameron - your cards and activity books really brighten his days! You are such a blessing!
Cameron's MRI is scheduled for Aug.23 - but I will update before then to let you all know how Cameron's first day of Kindergarten goes. Pray for his counts to be up so he'll be able to go...
Have a great weekend everybody! I know I will, my mom is coming to visit!!!!
Psalm 18:6 "In my distress I called upon the LORD, and cried unto my God: he heard my voice out of his temple, and my cry came before him, even into his ears."
Friday, July 26, 2002 at 09:57 AM (CDT)
Good morning everyone! I hope all is well with you! Cameron went to New Orleans on Wednesday (24th) for his chemo of Vincristine. He's finally gaining weight! He had been getting taller, but his weight was staying the same. Since they lowered his dosage, he has been active, and hungry! He eats 3 meals a day, and has snacks in between. Before I'd be lucky if he ate 1 meal a day. He's playing outside more and in an all around better mood.
I want to say a special thanks to Cameron's Chemo Angel Glenda - thank you for the beautiful quilt, Cameron loves to sleep with it, and he's very protective of it when Austin tries to claim it. And for the cards, stickers and books!
Cameron will be starting Kindergarten next month - I think my separation anxiety is already setting in. We'll be going school shopping next week for his uniforms and all his supplies. He'll only be attending school when his ANC is over 1,000 - that's not very often - but maybe he'll get used to it enough to be ready for 1st grade next year.
We got the boys a kitty! It was originally going to be an outside cat to rid us of rats (they are under the siding, not in the house-good thing!). But Daddy took a liking to the little fur ball, not to mention Austin LOVES the kitty, and now it's an inside cat. Cameron doesn't mess with it much, so I'm not worried about the germ thing, AND the smart kitty only uses the bathroom outside! She's black and white and very playful now that she's used to us. What's her name? Let's see, Austin says it's Kitty Cat, Cameron says it's Mitty, and Tom calls her his little baby. I bet he'll end up taking the kitty on the truck with him.
Well, I better get going and pay some attention to my precious boys. Have a great weekend with your families!
Psalm 56:3-4 "What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee. In God I will praise his word, in God I have put my trust; I will not fear what flesh can do unto me."
Wednesday, July 10, 2002 at 07:37 PM (CDT)
Hello everybody! Cameron had his check up today in New Orleans and everything went well - all his counts were up - as they should be since it has been a month since he's had any chemo. Anyway, they lowered his dosage so we'll see how that affects his counts. The Thioguanine dose is staying the same, but the Procarbazine (the one that makes him sick) has been reduced by 1/3 and the CCNU has been reduced by 1/4. Cameron is not looking forward to another round of pills - I'll have to do some serious bribing for the next 4 days to get him to take them.
Daddy is having some extended time off while his truck is in the shop. We actually went to Chuck E. Cheese's 2 days in a row! It was lots of fun especially since Amber and Nick are still here to play with Cameron and Austin. They will surely be missed when they go back home on Friday. They are all at the Mall and then on to Hollywood Video - all except Austin...
Austin is sleeping early tonight - he had a rough day today while I was in New Orleans with Cameron - he missed me BAD! I guess he got used to going with us, but I thought he'd have a good day with Daddy, plus I never know when they are going to keep us overnight - they won't let him stay past 9pm in the hospital.
Well, I guess I'm going to sit back and relax while I have the chance. Our next appointment is on July 24 for Vincristine. Be sure to check the photo album this weekend - I'm picking up the kids' portrait tomorrow and should have it on by the weekend. Thanks for all the prayers - I do see them at work everyday! Until next time......
Romans 15:13 "Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost."
Tuesday, July 02, 2002 at 08:49 PM (CDT)
Looks like we'll have a "chemo-free" fourth of July! Cameron was scheduled to go to New Orleans tomorrow for his check-up before he starts his next round of chemo (the pills). I was concerned about the bruises that Cameron was getting on his legs, so I had his Dr. order a CBC for today. And since his ANC counts were so low on Friday, I wanted to see if they'd come up enough for him to start his chemo. Well, all his counts were great, all except his ANC - that needs to be over 1,000 in order for him to start his next round - he was only at 630. Even his platelets were good. The bruises are just normal "little boy" stuff. So instead of going to New Orleans tomorrow, we'll be going next Wednesday (7/10).
I was told that since he's been delayed, they may have to adjust his dosages. That doesn't sound too good to me. I've heard from other moms that that's when the hair falls out - and though Cameron would probably still look cute as a baldie, I hope he gets to keep his hair.
Cameron's older brother Nick is in for the week, and his older sister Amber will be coming in tomorrow. Now Cameron has someone else to play those video games with besides mommy!
Remember the swimming pool? Well, after it had rained everyday for a week, it became quite green and dirty. I took this opportunity to drain it (it's a small pool 10'X 30") so I could also clean out all the dirt Austin has been throwing in it. We're going to fill it up tomorrow, so hopefully it will warm up a little for the 4th. I'm hoping to have an "outside" day. Cameron gets to go pick out some fireworks tomorrow.
I would like to share a little something I got off another web page - it best describes how I was feeling about a month ago...
The Strength of an Egg By
> Juliet Freitag
> Parents of children with cancer,or really any
> serious condition, are often
> referred to or viewed as having strength "like a
> rock." Albeit flattering, it
> isn't quite true. It is more like the strength of an
> egg. An egg,you ask? Yes!
> If you'll think about it, you'll see my point.
> An egg has a polished, smooth outer appearance, with
> no cracks or weak spots
> visible. It seems almost inconceivable that the
> inside might not be so smooth
> or solid.
> Most children, at some point are shown the famous
> egg trick. An egg set at
> just the right angle can withstand enormous amounts
> of pressure and cannot be
> cracked or broken. Yet the same egg, tapped gently at
> an ever slightly
> different angle, will break. The contents, once so
> neatly concealed, will come
> spilling out. The no longer perfect shell will be
> crushed. It looks so fragile
> that it seems inconceivable that it ever held any
> strength.
> A rock, on the other hand, is solid all the way
> through. To break it is almost
> impossible. If you succeed, you will find that there
> is nothing inside but more
> rock.
> It takes a lot more than pure hardness to hold the
> hand of hope. Parents of
> children with cancer are not solid all the way
> through. We hurt, we fear, we
> cry, we hope. It takes a very careful balancing act to
> keep the shell from
> being shattered. "Balancing an egg" while running a
> household, going for
> doctors' visits and hospital stays, keeping the
> family together, and holding on
> to the constantly unraveling ties of your sanity can
> be very tricky indeed!
> Occasionally, the angle will be off and the shell
> will break, shattering hope
> and all the neatly secured appearances of a truly
> fragile existence.
> Unlike Humpty Dumpty, though, parents of kids with
> cancer will pick
> themselves up and put themselves back together
> again.
>
OVER and OVER again...........
...I'm glad to say that things have been "together" for me lately. I hope you all have a wonderful holiday with your families. Until next time....
Psalm 16:11 "Thou wilt show me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore."
Thursday, June 20, 2002 at 07:36 PM (CDT)
Well, I didn't think I'd have an update before Cameron's next Clinic appt., but as I quickly found out, there's more to this chemo stuff than I ever expected. Cameron was up at 4 Sunday morning with a nosebleed - it took a while to stop, and when he woke up at almost 10am, he had another one. I was figuring his platelets were getting low since it took so long to stop the bleeding. Then on Monday I noticed he was covered in bruises. I brought him in for a blood test Tuesday morning, and just as I suspected, his platelets were low. Not only were they low, but SEVERELY low. Arrangements were made for a platelet transfusion and then I found out Cameron would also need a blood transfusion, not to mention his counts were very low. We ended up staying the night at the hospital since they didn't finish with the transfusions until 5:30am. It's still hard for me to get ANY sleep at the hospital. I think I'm still tired from it.
Today we had a busy day. This morning we went to the Parent Center to get Cameron's results from the testing he did several weeks ago. He scored above average therefore not qualifying for special assistance - thank God! We then went to the Kettle for breakfast - Cameron's a celebrity, they knew who he was. (Probably because his Granny is there alot.) Then the boys had their picture made at Olan Mills - Cameron was very active and so full of energy - had us all laughing at his goofing off. I'll scan the picture onto here when I get it (around July 11).
This evening we went grocery shopping, or should I say Cameron went grocery shopping? He was doing the choosing - can you imagine what a 4 year old would pick for groceries? You guessed it - sugary cereal, cookies, and gum. He did choose some fried chicken from the "hot case", so it wasn't all junk - unless you consider chicken junk.
Cameron has started receiving mail from his "chemo Angel" Glenda. Thanks Glenda! It makes him feel important when there's something in the mailbox for him. I got him a few things from Ebay (games), but that gets expensive. And, thanks Uncle Rob for the movies!
Well, Hopefully Cameron's counts will stay up and he won't need anymore transfusions before his next Clinic appointment (July 3). I hope everyone is doing well and has a great weekend.
Isaiah 41:10 "Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
Friday, June 14, 2002 at 09:03 PM (CDT)
The last entry I made on here, Cameron was due for some platelets. He got them last Sunday as scheduled, and everything went fine. His Red Blood count was borderline, but Tuesday's blood test showed everything to be ok - still low, but not in need of any transfusions.
Today we went to New Orleans for his IV chemo of Vincristine. Cameron continues to grow, but has not gained any weight. We're going to add PediaSure to his diet to see if it helps put some meat on his bones! We are now finished with the 3rd cycle of his chemo. His next cycle begins on July 3. He is still doing so well - and so far has not needed as many transfusions as he did with his last cycle. My big boy still has a full head of hair that he gets cut about every 4-5 weeks.
Since Cameron LOVES to get mail, I signed him up at "chemoangels.com" and they assigned him an "angel" to send him some mail.(Thanks to Jessica at NCCS). I'm also thinking about trying to get him featured on the Make a Child Smile website.
I'm taking the boys to get their picture taken next week, so there will be a new one of my cuties! Well, it's been a long day, I need to get off of here. I'll post after Cameron's next doctor visit on the 3rd.
Thank you all for your continued prayers and positive thoughts you send our way. You are all much appreciated!
James 1:12 "Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him."
Saturday, June 08, 2002 at 09:25 PM (CDT)
Whew! What a week! Cameron was holding onto his low grade fever all week. Friday I called his pediatrician to set up his weekly blood count, and told her about the fever. She asked me to bring him in for a check-up. After his check - everything looked ok - we went for the bloodwork which included drawing blood from his port as well as his arm. He's beginning to feel the needle too much so we're getting a new kind of Emla cream. I noticed that day Cameron had several bruises, and it being day 21 of his chemo cycle, I knew he would be needing platelets. I got the call from his Dr. at 5pm that he needed a transfusion. We went right then to the hospital so they could access his port and do a cross/match for his platelets, then we came home. It was kinda scary being home and his port having a needle in it with a tube sticking out. He did very well though, except he said he couldn't get comfortable to go to sleep.
At noon today we were at the hospital for his transfusion. After a few minutes the nurse came in with "the news" - his bag of platelets had ruptured while they were preparing it to send up to us. I wasn't mad or anything, just concerned for Cameron. Having such low platelets is not a very good thing to sit around with - especially since his nose bleeds so easily. So, we came home to take it easy and we will go back at 7am. These platelets are being flown in from North Dakota - thanks whoever you are!
Please continue to pray for Cameron - his health has been so good - his only side effects have been the low counts and transfusions.
Thank you all for reading, and signing his guestbook. And especially thanks for the prayers.
Isaiah 58:8 "Your light shall break forth like the morning, your healing shall spring forth speedily, and your righteousness shall go before you; the glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard."
Tuesday, June 04, 2002 at 11:51 AM (CDT)
Finally, a new update! My computer was down for a while, but I'm back online!
Cameron finally got to start his chemo again a week after his MRI. He did real good taking his pills - as far as not getting sick. He suddenly doesn't like to take the big capsules - I guess he's getting tired of it. He did take them after a little coaxing though.
Last Friday we went to New Orleans for his Vincristine, what a day that was. When I woke Cameron up that morning, he had a nosebleed. After about 20 minutes, I thought I had it under control so we left to go to New Orleans. Well, halfway through town I looked back and noticed the rag he was holding on his nose was quickly turning to red. He then coughed up a lemon sized wad of blood. I stopped at a gas station and got a cup of ice and held it on his nose for about 5 minutes - that seemed to do the trick. I was thinking his platelets must be low since it took 45 minutes to stop bleeding.
When we got to clinic, Cameron's temp was 100.2 - ugh! I was told he may be admitted if it went up any more. I was not prepared for a 3 day stay as I only brought my overnight bag, not my 3-day bag. I said a prayer, and his next temp check was 98.9 - thank God! And, his counts were great! His platelets were fine - as I should have known from what he coughed up.
The next few days Cameron was still running a low grade fever - up to 100.2 again, but I figure it's because he was cutting 2 molars - he told me yesterday - "mommy, I have new teeth!"
Two weeks ago Cameron was evaluated by the school to see if he had any special needs, like if he had any learning or comprehension disabilities from the tumor or chemo. He went for an hour a day for three days and did very well. He scored well above a 5 yr old (he's only 4) and was superior in number concepts - I guess those video games don't turn your brain to mush! I was so proud of him. Austin got to go too, and he helped a little deaf girl to "come out of her shell" so they could evaluate her better.
Cameron gets a mid-treatment blood test on Friday and gets his next Vincristine on June 14. Yes, the day Scooby Doo comes out.
I will try to keep this updated a little better since my computer is back up. Thanks for reading, and as always, thanks for the coninued prayers!!!
Wednesday, May 08, 2002 at 08:21 PM (CDT)
Today Cameron had his MRI - the tumor or "enhanced area" is still the same - no bigger (thank God!), no smaller. I guess the chemo is keeping it at bay...
Cameron woke up from the sedation too fast and had a bad time - cried for over an hour before they gave him Benedryl to knock him out again. He was then able to wake up at his own pace - which wasn't until we got home.
Cameron's platelets and red blood cells have recovered, back to normal, but his ANC is way down to 70. When his counts go under 500 he is at risk for infection so he has to stay in. Right now I don't mind staying home, I'm way tired from our "day".
Since Cameron's counts are so low, he won't be starting his next round of chemo until next week (if his counts get up to 1000 by then). I guess all these set backs is why they say chemo lasts 18 months instead of just 12.
I was thinking about getting the boys some swimming lessons, but it looks like Cameron would miss alot due to his counts being low so much. I guess I could teach him, at least I'd have a good excuse to be in the pool - ha ha!
I hope you all have a great weekend! Thanks for reading and thanks especially for your prayers.
Thursday, May 02, 2002 at 08:51 PM (CDT)
The chemo is really taking a toll on my baby. In a span of only 12 days Cameron had 3 transfusions - 2 platelet, 1 blood. He had to have another blood test done today to see if he would be needing a 4th, thank God his counts were up from Tuesday.
This being the "week after" his Vincristine, he's very emotional and irritable. He woke up from a nap today and cried for the longest - he didn't know why, and he said he couldn't stop. It's not a whiney cry either, it's a full fledged cry with lots of tears - poor baby, has all these feelings he doesn't know how to handle.
Naps - Cameron hasn't taken naps since he was 2. Now everyday around 5pm he's out. He still has lots of energy throughout the day, but it's not constant like it used to be. The other day I had to carry him from the car into the hospital when we went for his transfusion - his legs were hurting. I see his strength lessening - sometimes he'll curl up in the chair and not be able to get up because his arms or legs are too weak to push himself up, and he's had more trouble climbing into the car.
Cameron's MRI is still set for next Wednesday (8th) - I'll update when we get back - pray for good news!!!
Wednesday, April 24, 2002 at 08:50 PM (CDT)
Another day, another transfusion....We went to New Orleans yesterday for Cameron's chemo. And wouldn't you know, his counts were low and he needed a BLOOD transfusion this time. OK - blood is easier to come by than platelets, so it shouldn't take long....wrong!
Cameron was admitted for short stay and got his own room - with a nice orange sign on the door "neutropenic precautions" - meaning since his counts were so low and at risk for infection, everyone entering had to wear a mask. Cameron was not too thrilled with this part since it also meant he could not go out of his room to play in the playroom down the hall. Which also meant that Austin was confined to the room since he was with us. Thank God Granny came to get him at 9pm. We ended up staying the night in his room since the transfusion didn't start until 10pm and finished around 1am. He was very ready to get out of there at 8:30 this morning.
We got home shortly after noon and immediately started setting up Cameron's pool. He got in it right away while it was filling up. Then we got a call from Granny, her mom (Nana) passed away. I'm glad she was able to be there with her family during this time.
Cameron's MRI is scheduled for May 8, which is right in the middle of Brain Tumor Action Week. Please remember Cameron on this day and pray for good news for him.
Thanks for signing the guestbook and as always, thanks for the prayers you send our way!!!
Lamentations 2:19 "...pour out thine heart like water before the face of the LORD: lift up thy hands toward him for the life of thy young children..."
Saturday, April 20, 2002 at 10:15 AM (CDT)
We finally got Cameron's platelet transfusion. And it only took 7 hours being at the hospital yesterday. Cameron's only complaint was that it was taking too long. His ANC is only 190. I guess this round of chemo is taking a toll on my poor baby. When the ANC gets below 500 there is a great risk for infection, so he's confined to the house for the weekend. His next chemo is on Tuesday. Hopefully his counts come back up so he won't have to postpone it. Because if that gets post-poned, then his MRI will be post-poned and I'm anxious to see how the chemo has been working.
I am so thankful to God for giving me the strength and His peace to endure this, and for Cameron's strength and courage he has in facing this ordeal. I am also thankful that Austin is being so good through all this. The last 2 days while we've been at the hospital, Austin was a very good boy for his Granny.
Thanks again for all your prayers and positive thoughts sent our way.
"The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their cry." Psalm 34:15
Thursday, April 18, 2002 at 05:32 PM (CDT)
What a week this is turning out to be. Yesterday Cameron had his between-treatments CBC and his platelets were low. We went to the hospital here in town for his transfusion - at 8 this morning. At 11:30 they accessed his port and drew some blood for a type and cross. At 1pm we found out the platelets they had ready for him were wrong - Cameron is "B+/CMV-" and the platelets they had were "CMV+". Good thing they checked before they gave it to him. The doctor here didn't have all the specifics of what exactly Cameron needed. Now we know.
At 4pm they discharged us only to return in the morning for the transfusion. Apparently, "B+/CMV-" is rare. The closest place to have it was Arizona (we're in Louisiana), and it wouldn't arrive until early morning.
Another early morning and long day tomorrow. I hope the boys will turn in early. Will post again later. Thanks to all for signing the guestbook and reading my ramblings....
Wednesday, April 10, 2002 at 06:38 PM (CDT)
We just got back from New Orleans, Cameron had his chemo today (vincristine). His counts are way up and he's doing so good. We got his Pokemon hat today from the "Caps for Kids" program at Children's Hospital - it was signed by Pikachu! He was very excited to be getting it. After that we went to the "Carnival" they were having in the courtyard at the hospital. There were clowns, puppeteers, and firemen! Cameron got a Fireman's hat and his picture taken "driving" the fire truck. Then he played some carnival games and won a bunch of cute little toys. He made a spin-art picture and ate cotton candy. Cameron and Austin even sat still long enough to get a caricature made. It is so cute! Whenever I get my scanner working again, I'll add it to the photo album. Needless to say, I'm worn out as I didn't get to sleep all the way home. Keep up with those prayers, I see them being answered every day! Cameron's next chemo treatment will be on Tuesday, April 23 and his MRI is scheduled for March 8. I will update again later. Much love to all!
Wednesday, April 03, 2002 at 04:04 PM (CST)
Cameron finished up his chemo Sunday afternoon. He did really good taking his pills, and he didn't get sick this time. I guess the Zofran was working. Cameron's counts were still up when he was checked on Monday. He's been feeling good and staying quite active. We go to New Orleans next Wednesday for chemo (vincristine), I'll let you all know how it goes. Thank you all for your prayers, "...and pray for one another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." James 5:16.
Thursday, March 28, 2002 at 09:48 PM (CST)
Cameron didn't start his chemo yesterday as planned. His counts were a little too low, so we were in New Orleans today to get a new count and his check-up. His counts were back up and he's doing good. He still has trouble with his left side - eye/hand coordination, but you couldn't tell by the way he plays those video games. His next MRI will be set for 6 weeks, if everything goes well between now and then. Thanks to all for the entries in the guest book, it's comforting to be thought of so much. We hope you all have a Happy Easter.
Sunday, March 17, 2002 at 09:07 PM (CST)
This page has just been created. This entry will give you a run down of what's gone on so far...
Last Fall, Cameron - just turned 4 - started having bad headaches almost every day. After a few weeks of this he started holding his head to the right constantly. Several weeks later the headaches became so severe he could not even sleep. A CAT scan on Nov 9th, 2001 showed Cameron to have a large tumor in the back of his brain. We were transported immediately by ambulance to New Orleans Childrens Hospital - this was on a Friday night. After his first shot of Decadron (steroid) his headaches were gone. The tumor was causing a build-up of fluid in his brain - this was relieved the next morning by a VP shunt placed in the back of his head with the drainage tube running under the skin into his abdomen.
A week later, on Nov.16th, he had the big surgery to remove the tumor. Surgery went well and Cameron woke up asking mommy for a drink of water. What a blessing this was since typically the patient needs weeks of therapy to learn how to talk, swallow, and walk again. He was in PICU for 2 days then went back to his room for a few days - we were discharged on Thanksgiving Day!
Sure that this ordeal was behind us, I was surprised when the Surgeon told us his follow-up MRI on Jan.16th showed "residual tumor" that would require radiation. OK - so we'll radiate, and THEN it will be over - wrong! The radiologist said Cameron was too young for radiation. Back to the Tumor Board - they decided on chemo - even though it's benign - for a year.
Cameron's chemotherapy started on Feb.8th - he takes 3 different pills (thioguanine, procarbazine & CCNU) over a 4 day period then 2 weeks later he goes to New Orleans for his Vincristine IV, 2 weeks later he gets the Vincristine again. Then it starts all over. The pills made Cameron sick (Zofran takes care of that), but the Vincristine seems to be ok for him.
Cameron still has all his hair, although the texture has changed to baby-soft. He's a real trooper and has a good attitude about it all. He never complains - even when he has to wake up at 4AM to take pills.
He's had 1 hospital stay because of fever and 1 transfusion for platelets. Cameron starts his 2nd round of chemo on March 27th. I'll probably update then, if not sooner.
Please sign the guestbook, it will make a nice addition to Cameron's Scrapbook. Please pray for Cameron - and for me, for strength, as this is hard...Thanks for taking the time to read our story, God Bless!
Click here to go back to the main page.
----End of History----