Journal entry by Chris Huizinga —
It’s hard to believe that we are to Halloween already! Our family soared right through summer at way-too-quick-a-pace and now find ourselves covered in a thin layer of snow. Brrrrrrr. The boys are back to school and have already wrapped up their footballs seasons. Charlie played once again this year (4th grade tackle) and had a blast! His team got the chance to play at US Bank stadium too, just a few weeks shy of the one year anniversary of his Make-A-Wish. He was able to point out some spots around the stadium that he holds dear…”That’s where our friends Garry and Darla sit. That’s the tunnel where I met Adrian Peterson. There’s MY horn…” It’s terrifying how quickly all that time has passed.
Charlie got to revisit another “old haunt” in early October with his first post-treatment checkup. He did well with his IV blood draw (it’s always been from his port previously) and he enjoyed seeing Dr. Richards. His numbers all came back showing that he is, indeed, just a kid. Everything right in the range it should be. No hiccups, just the standard walk up the stairs, his Pokémon backpack bouncing as he forged ahead. It’s frightening how easy it all was.
It was wonderful news to receive before we set sail on a celebratory Halloween Disney Cruise with our dear friends the Olsons. We went over MEA, enjoying a day at the parks before we set sail from Cape Canaveral, stopping in the Virgin Islands and the Bahamas. It was our first Disney experience and it’s easy to see how people fall in love. Charlie went zip lining, snorkeling, playing in the sand, and splashing in the ocean. Our two families dressed as Snow White and the 7 Dwarfs (see picture) where Charlie sported his Dopey vibe. The ship was tastefully decorated for Halloween and definitely got us in the right spirit. A spooky fun time!
Which brings us to today, Halloween proper. It’s noteworthy for another reason too. Today was Charlie’s last dose of Bactrim, an antibiotic he has taken throughout his treatment and sort of an arch-nemesis in its persistence. He remained on it while his body bounced back to its full superhero status. Metamorphosis complete. So that’s it, no more meds at all. He has shifted his disdain now to the orthodontist as he preps for braces but that seems so much less intimidating than what’s behind him. Now he’s doing good. Real good. Scary good.
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The familiar walk up the stairs after his clinic appointment. ...
Return to US Bank stadium…to play a game this time. ...
Zip lining in the British Virgin Islands! We had a blast and saw ...
We paired with our dear friends the Olsons for an epic Halloween ...
Peeling the label off the Bactrim bottle before throwing it ...Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.Help Charlie Stay Connected to Family and FriendsA $25 donation to CaringBridge powers a site like Charlie's for two weeks. Will you make a gift to help ensure that this site stays online for them and for you?
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