Day 464 - Cancer Awareness Month

     Apologies for the rehash on some of the content on today's blog, but I wanted to make sure that I properly highlighted Cancer Awareness Month and the struggle that many families face.  As some of you know Evan was in a dire spot last year.  Despite all he's been through we're so fortunate that he's still with us and improving daily.  Far too many children lose their battle and more can be done to ensure that no family has to suffer this painful reality.

Spending time with his cousin at my parent's house.

     Over the last month I've read story after story on CURE's Kids Conquer Cancer page.  Some stories are uplifting and others are absolutely heart wrenching.  Reading their journeys reminds me that the cloud of uncertainty will always be with us as we will have to wonder if Evan's cancer will return.  We need a to find a less toxic cure and I hope it happens during Evan's lifetime.  

CURE's Kids Conquer Cancer

Evan's Story - Donation Page

     To those that have donated so far, from the bottom of my heart I want to say THANK YOU!  Speaking from experience I can tell you that CURE does some wonderful things for the children battling and their families.  When we were in the hospital last year they served us countless meals, brought us overnight toiletries, snacks while confined to our room and they provide much needed financial support for cancer research.  If you're looking to donate, CURE is certainly a worthy cause. 

Apple picking with Camp Sunshine at Hillcrest Orchards.

     For the month of September Evan's school has been having fundraisers and other events to help raise awareness.  We're very fortunate to have such a strong support system among our family, friends and community.  As it turns out, one of the teachers at his school also battled leukemia as a child.  Yesterday the school asked if we would be willing to participate in a photo opportunity and we happily agreed.  

#FightLikeAKid

     This past Tuesday Evan went in for a CT scan to check on the fungal lesions in some of his organs.  We weren't sure when to expect the results, but last night Cristy got a call from his primary oncologist around 8:45.  As you can imagine, this later than normal call caused Cristy to pause bracing herself for the worst.  Because of Evan's infection history she immediately was thinking that another emergency surgery was in his future.  However, despite the late call we're pleased to report that he received a clean bill of health.  In fact the infections that had been showing up in his liver and spleen are now gone, replaced with scar tissue.  His lungs looked healthy.  We were beyond thrilled to hear this.  Now our next biggest obstacle will be when he receives his steroid treatment in a couple of weeks.

Drinking some contrast before his scan.

     Also of note, Cristy's aunt Ru was able to visit us this week.  Because it was during the school week we didn't get the chance to do our typical touristy things, but hopefully she enjoyed the chaos that is the Pruitt household.  I know they were excited to see her and sad for her to leave.  

The boys with their Aunt RuRu.

     Today Cristy was invited to attend a fundraiser with CURE called A Tribute to Our Quiet Heroes.  Its purpose is to raise money and recognize the moms who are in the trenches helping their fighters soldier on.  I'm so happy to see her get out of the house for a bit and relax.  Seeing her all dolled up was great and she deserves the attention for all she does for this family.

Heading out to the fundraiser.