Our Journey of Hope

We are approaching the end of the year and I have been reflecting on everything that we have been thru this past year. It has been a doozie to say the least. I started a spreadsheet when Scott was first diagnosed to keep track of his appointments, tests, blood-work, deliveries, test results and the list goes on and on. I am now up to 23 pages. I think this is the single most important thing I have done for him. It is at least in the top 3 for sure. When you receive a diagnosis, you have no idea what you are in for. At least we didn't. Being a stay-at-home mom for over 7 years, my brain doesn't function as sharply as it once did so the original intent of the spreadsheet was for my benefit. You think you will remember certain things and you don't. Over time, you forget significant dates and important procedures.  Below is a compilation of what Scott has been thru since his diagnosis on that Halloween day in 2011.

23...the # of chemo treatments

4....the # of different chemo drugs administered

7....the # of CT Scans

1....the # of PET Scans

3....the # of ultrasounds

6....the # of blood transfusions

1....the # of endoscopy's (biopsy of tumor)

1....the # of surgeries (unsuccessful)

23...the # of days spent in the hospital

54...the # of TPN deliveries to our house (nutritional supplement)

Too many to count...the # of blood-work drawn and vitals taken

On a lighter note, we are anxiously awaiting Santa's visit. Our Christmas tree has been up since before Thanksgiving and I decorated the outside of the house with white lights. I am patting myself on the back as a few inappropriate words may have been said that brisk and windy day I got the hammer, nails and ladder out to string lites. I have a whole new respect for homes that are brilliantly decorated with perfect Christmas lites!

One of the best parts of the season is Katherine's 2 elves that watch over and report back to Santa. Their names are Alvin and Peanut and they are very active at nite. And very hungry! Recently, they made snow angels in the kitchen using flour (pics below) and that made our 7 year old giggle hysterically out loud. She wakes up eager every morning to hunt for the elves to see what mischief they have gotten into. For those of you who do not have elves visiting, I would be more than happy to send one of them your way next year! I must warn you, they are very active little elves. 

So...as the end of the year approaches, we are counting our blessings as many of us do. We are thankful God has guided us and kept us going throughout our long and grueling Journey. Our Faith is strong and we continue to believe that He will continue to guide us. We are overwhelmed with the generosity given to us not only during this time of year but year-round. We THANK-YOU for supporting us and praying for our family.

We wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
 
Love and Hugs to All ~ Kelly