Happy new year!! Hope it’s off to a wonderful start for everyone.
Can’t believe it’s been nearly a month since we shared an update on Nate. No news is definitely good news – we enjoyed a magical, healthy holiday … the best gift we could have possibly received. Once again, we were reminded how very blessed we are.
Nate was in fine form, reveling in his new toys, sparring with his sister, charming the grownups, and nobly fulfilling his role as Big Cousin to my sister’s 11-month twins. Other than daily meds, it all felt incredibly normal.
Today he went in for his monthly clinic visit. It was a standard visit – vitals, exam, IV chemo, etc. His counts are about where they should be, though his ANC is now a little low at 640 (target range is 500-1500). Our doctor wants to recheck his counts next Monday to make sure that number is going up rather than down. We’re actually a bit relieved that it’s low … it tells us the chemo is doing its job and means that they won’t have to increase his dosages, at least for now.
Next week he’ll also see an orthopedist. He’s been complaining about pain in his ankles and feet for a few weeks, and his ankles are really rolling inward. This was a problem for him before he was diagnosed, but it’s become significantly more pronounced. Hopefully next week we can rule out some steroid-related nastiness and figure out whether we need to step up his orthotics and/or physical therapy.
Oh, and we started this month’s 5-day steroid pulse tonight. Fasten your seatbelts!
Needless to say, we’re incredibly happy to put 2008 behind us, and so hopeful that Nate will do well this year. Thank you for helping us get through some pretty dark days last year, and for continuing to keep our brave boy in your thoughts and prayers.
Shannon & Spence
