Week 2

Thursday's appointment only took 5 1/2 hours...progress! (ha ha). J.D. and I have learned it is best for us both to be there for the first part, when we review Clay's blood counts and meet with the doctor to discuss the plan for the week and ask our questions. It is also the most stressful for Clay since they have to "access his port" which is more frightening than painful, but somehow seems better with both parents nearby. (He did tell me very seriously when we were discussing the upcoming visit "Today I am going to smack someone..." to which I did not know how to respond since it sounded like a good idea to me.)

This week the doctor decided to halve the dose of one of the chemo medicines, since last week Clay had some pain overall and in his jaw in particular. We see the impact of this already -- on Saturday Clay rebounded well and overall had a really good day. Today he is his happy self.

Last week the doctor seeing us said "welcome to medical school" and she was not kidding. To think only 2 months ago we were clueless to much of our current conversation and focus. Blood work means watching about 20 items to see what negative impact the drugs are having on white blood cells,red blood cells, platelets, etc. So far not too much decline, and in fact he gained a half pound last week.

Thanks to my good friend Maria for joining us for several hours on Thursday and brightening up the visit for both Clay and me. Also to the Jackson's, for the Cars flip flops for Clay and the ravioli dinner. And the Gillick's, for the bringing us several more meals this week and likely contributing to Clay's weight gain as he loved the meatballs.