Dear Friends,
Wow—2 years of remission!! That is something huge to celebrate!! Jana went to Toledo yesterday for her 2-year check-up. It was a long day of tests, drinking yucky contrast, needle pokes, etc. BUT the reports are great as usual. The oncologist has no worries about reoccurrence although we will travel to Toledo every 6 months for another year and then yearly thereafter for check-ups and tests. As she gets older, Toledo Childrens will make recommendations and she will continue her follow up with an oncologist for adults. With her type of cancer, chances are extremely slim that it will reoccur if it has not within the last 2 years. How blessed we are!
2 ½ years ago when she was diagnosed, I couldn’t even imagine being at this point. Although there are lingering effects of her treatment and may always be, she has been so very fortunate. That becomes more and more clear each and every day as we continue to follow other children’s journeys. Please continue to remember cancer patients in your prayers—especially the kids. We saw a new cancer patient yesterday while at the hospital--a 15-month old cutie. Heart breaking! I can’t even begin to express our appreciation for the support and prayers that have carried us this far. We have been so very lucky to have all of you by our side for our journey. THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!
An update on our family:
The school year has been going well for Jana and she is keeping busy with dance and other activities. Jana turned 14 on February 2! She sang a solo at a recent solo & ensemble contest and received a superior rating—way to go Jana!
Holly is finishing up her junior year in college and is studying abroad this summer in Paris. (Although don’t ask Jana or her mom about it…sniff, sniff) Emily is finishing up her senior year of high school and trying to make college decisions. She’s going somewhere—just not sure where yet.
We were very saddened by the loss of Russ’ mom on January 31st after a very long battle with breast cancer. We miss her greatly but Jana’s taking good care of her Papa :)
Jana will be confirmed on April 26. Her nurse, Laura, will be her confirmation sponsor. Jana will be taking the name Abigail as her confirmation name and Abbie’s family will be here with us on that day. What a special day it will be. We will travel to Columbus in May for another Team in Training marathon event to raise money for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Jana will speak to the athletes at their pasta dinner the night before.
Thanks again for your ongoing support, care, and prayers. We are so grateful!!!!!
