September is Childhood Cancer Awareness month, so we thought would provide an update on Claire.
In April, Claire finished her Neuroblastoma vaccine trial in NYC.
In May, Claire was granted a Make-A-Wish trip to St. Thomas, Virgin Islands. It was a memorable family trip. Claire had so much fun and was featured in a Make-A-Wish Wisconsin mailing. (See photos for the story) This trip was extra special for us. It was our first family vacation since Claire was diagnosed in October 2019.
In July, we decided we still had some catching up on living to do, so we traveled to London, England. We enjoyed seeing all the sights that London has to offer. By chance, we found the Cancer Revolution: Science, Innovation and Hope Exhibit. It was chilling to walk through the exhibit with our very own cancer warrior. There was a quote that hit home; “Cancer is relentless. So are we.” We are so thankful for the researchers that dedicate their careers to developing new and improved therapies.
This month Claire started 6th grade! She is loving it. September is also her 18 month post treatment scans. Claire’s MIBG scan was clear! We had no reason to believe her CT scan wouldn’t be clear. Unfortunately, the team called hours after the appointment to tell us the CT showed spots on her liver. It was determined that a liver biopsy would be the best route to gather more information. Last Tuesday, Claire was put under for a liver biopsy. Results took 3 days. One week ago, we received the great news that her liver lesions were benign! Focal Nodular Hyperplasia or FNH is common in children who have gone through stem cell transplants. (So much chemo)
It was a tremendous scare, but we got the news that we hoped for - Claire is still cancer free!
In March 2023, Claire will have her 2 year post treatment scans. In the meantime, Claire will be playing soccer, enjoying life as a healthy 11 year old and annoying her brother as much as possible. We wouldn’t want it any other way.
As Childhood Cancer Awareness month comes to end, we are continuously reminded how precious life is. As hard as this journey has been, we are grateful for each moment life brings us.
Wishing you all health and happiness.
-The Olson’s
