Hello from Sanford Children's Hospital in Fargo.  Today is a big day for Emma because she is set to have her central line port removed.  Having this done means she is finished with chemotherapy infusions.  She will continue her oral chemo for 3 more weeks, then we return to Roger Maris for her bell ringing.  That will certainly be an emotional day. 

As we sit in her pre op room, waiting for her to be taken to the OR, I think about how frightened we all were when this journey began.  The unknown was just about too much to handle and we had no idea what we were getting ourselves into.  The strength Emma has shown during her journey has been amazing.  She has complained very little about all the doctors visits, hospital stays, pokes and images taken.  I am in awe at how she has handled the last 2 1/2 years.  Not only has she navigated all sorts of doctor's visits, but she has also done her best to stay connected in school and keep in touch with her friends while frequently not feeling well.  She is my hero and her strength is immeasurable- a true warrior.   

Lisa continues her own cancer journey.  Last week she started her 2nd round of chemo which has turned out to be slightly more challenging than her 1st round.  She has experienced greater nausea and fatigue, but in true Lisa form she has complained very little.  She is set to have surgery at the end of August and is in the process of deciding what type of surgery to have, lumpectomy vs. mastectomy.   Last week we traveled to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester MN and to Sanford Hospital in Sioux Falls SD for surgical consults.  I'm sure she will keep you all posted with updates over the summer.  

I will share a few photos of Emma during her surgical prep time from this morning.  Today we exhale and feel grateful for Emma making it to this point in her journey.  It has truly taken a village to get us to this day.  God bless all of Emma's nurses and doctors, and of course our friends and family.  Peace be with all of you and we will share another update when Emma rings that damn bell... - Adam