Day 1116 - Nearing the end of summer vacation

     It's been a fast summer so far and it won't be too long before the boys are back in school.  Between Aurora Day Camp, Camp Sunshine, Six Flags and White Waters the kids have been on the go most of the time.  We're very fortunate that Evan's health is in such a state to allow him to take advantage of the amazing opportunities that have presented themselves this summer.  Before the kids head back to school Cristy is also taking the kids to a cabin house in North Carolina for a week, compliments of Believe in Tomorrow.  Due to work commitments I won't be able to join this year, but I'm sure they'll have a great time.

     Last week Evan got to experience his first week away from us at Camp Sunshine in Rutledge, Ga.  Because of family camp we've gotten the opportunity to know many of the families that attend and counselors that volunteer so we knew that Evan was in great hands.  There were photographers that went around camp and captured special moments from the kids during the week.  With other kids being in the photos I'll post what I can here on the blog, but out of respect for those families I'll likely keep many of them offline.  Evan says he had a great time and wants to go back next year.  Cristy and I were thrilled to hear this since we were concerned that he would either get a) homesick or b) miss his gaming console too much. :)  Nolan was also a little lonely without his big brother and towards the end of the week kept asking when Evan would be back.

Greeted by a cheer line upon entering

The UGA football teams visits the campers every year

     Next Tuesday Evan has his monthly chemo appointment (second to last).  Nolan, Cristy and I have all been sick for the last couple of weeks, but Evan has managed to avoid catching it.  I really do wonder if the IVIG that he gets monthly keeps him healthier than us.  Every time I think I'm nearing the tail end of this cold it flares back up.  Cristy is in the same boat as me and we're having a hard time getting back to normal.  Since he's not showing any signs of illness I hope Evan's blood counts are in line with what we're expecting.  It would surprise me quite a bit if we made any changes to his treatment plan this late in the process.  No plan yet for the removal of the port.  Tentatively the doctors are thinking a couple more months of IVIG will be beneficial, so we'll leave the port in for the time being.

     Cristy sent me a link this morning for Shutter Magazine.  I don't want to spoil the surprise that I felt too, so I'll just say click on the link, navigate to the index at the front and read the article starting on page 28.

Shutter Magazine - July Edition

     Cristy and I are still discussing dates and details for a celebration marking the end of Evan's treatment.  I'm trying to remain calm as this is simply another step forward in our journey.  The fear of relapse is real and will always be with us, but it's also important to recognize the milestones along the way.  I probably won't elaborate much more in this blog post, but expect the one on August 5th to be a rambling mess of a lot of emotions from the past three years.

Cristy put Nolan to work while Evan was gone

     For those celebrating the 4th of July tomorrow, have fun and be safe.  We're taking the kids for the Kennesaw fireworks show tonight and then visiting a friends house tomorrow for pool time, grilling out and fireworks in the evening.  Should be a great time and I'm looking forward to the time off with the family.

Evan is bottom left in this photo (rainbow poop emoji hat!)