One Year Ago Today

I simply can't let this day end without commenting on its significance. It was one year ago today that we learned Adam had relapsed. There really aren't any words to express the emotions, particularly fear, we felt when we realized Adam's cancer was back. I remember sitting outside the sedation suite at INOVA Fairfax Hospital, pleading with the Lord not to make Adam go through all of the chemo and subsequent transplant if it wasn't going to work. I couldn't bear the thought of him having to suffer through all of that treatment simply not to make it in the end. It has been a major roller coaster and we are still on the ride, but Adam is here and he is thriving. 

We have been pretty restricted since we were released from the hospital. Adam's GVHD (Graft vs. Host Disease) has required that he be on steroids and imuno-supressant drugs for the majority of the post-transplant period. It's been an intense experience to be stuck at home with a three year-old on steroids. We look forward to the time (hopefully later this summer) when Adam will be steroid-free and we can resume some normal activity. 



One of the things that has kept us busy is our garden. Adam is a self-proclaimed farmer, "just like Grampa." He loves to check the plants and see what new "baby" vegetables are visible. He is especially proud of his baby bell pepper. The first two pictures above are of Adam by the garden. The third is of Adam just outside of Russell's school. 

5 comments:

Susan said...

I love his chubby pictures. What a sweetheart. Give both your boys a big squeeze from their Aunt Susan. Hopefully we'll get to hug them in person sometime soon.

lbleong said...

Janna,
As hard as this year has been for all of you, I have to hand it to you for making it as pleasant for Adam as possible. For the most part (I know he has his moments), he has been a happy kid. We're thankful you all have made it through this year. Hopefully this coming year will be an improvement on the last one. Love ya! Laura

Janna said...

Thanks, Ladies!

Heather said...

Yes, those chubby cheeks are so very sweet! It is wonderful to hear Adam's health is progressing positively. You're an amazing mother and I don't know how you were able to go through all of this, twice, without just breaking down. I'm sure you had your moments but I'm proud of you for having the strength to be there for Adam and your family. I love you, Heather G.

John and Janet Primm said...

We are so very glad to know he is still well...and hope you, Mark and Russell are as well. You are a special family who has much yet to give to the world.

God Bless you!