Home Time
Skye continued to make good progress over the weekend, and following a 'reality check' visit to the John Radcliffe (JR) Hospital Oncology Ward on Monday afternoon followed up by a meeting with the Consultant Paediatric Oncologist, Skye was discharged from Robin's Ward, just a week after his surgery. We are amazed at how well he has done. He is still having co-ordination difficulties, especially down the left hand side of his body, and is not yet able to walk unaided. Yesterday afternoon saw some play therapy (Sally is rather brave) with a very big piece of white paper and painted feet!
<img src="https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/52f80273e4b0c80880f13246/1393649973753-E6LS0NV993XIEIUSX9Z0/IMG_2173.JPG" alt="I will be contacting the Tate Modern! " />
I will be contacting the Tate Modern!
Today, we are back to the JR for some pre chemo blood tests, followed by a series of GCSF injections Fri through to Mon. GCSF is 'granulocyte colony stimulating factor' which encourages the body to produce more bone marrow and stem cells. Marrow and stem cells will then be harvested on Tuesday 17th under GA, for potential future use, (if he needs a marrow transplant at some stage it is better to use his own cells - providing they are free of malignant cells - biopsy also being done), at the same time they will insert a Hickman Line (central venous line catheter) directly into the heart so that when the chemicals are introduced to the body, they are flushed/transmitted as quickly as possible throughout the body. He will then remain in hospital to receive his first phase of chemo (methotrexate and vincristine), which is likely to be until Sunday 22nd September.
This is the start of an 11 week cycle. Which will then be followed by radiotherapy, which will be followed by another cycle of chemo. Skye is so excited about being at home, and is on pretty good form most of the time. We dread having to take him back. Last night he drew us a picture of himself, with a sticker ladybird in the middle of his head to show us his 'lump'! He is incredibly brave! Sally is gradually finding it easier to accept help on offer as we both begin to realise how tricky the road ahead is going to be to juggle Skye's needs while still giving Jesse some 'mummy time'. Meals on wheels have been a godsend and we are so very grateful to all involved. If anyone local can offer the odd shop to Tesco, popping in for an hour to help with cleaning or coming with a craft activity/game to keep Skye's mind occupied while we catch up with some jobs, all would be much appreciated. He is sitting next to me right now and has just said, "I have one hundred sticker books now!" Thank you for your continued support, prayers and kindness! Jesse remains with Granny for the time being, as he has the sniffles and we don't really want to pass that on to Skye at this stage.