Colby had a blast at camp. He made new friends and really enjoyed 'his' time there. When we dropped him off he told us that we could leave as soon as he was in his cabin. He made the most of his time and they even had a 'surprise' fire works night. Colby was excited to see us when we picked him up but I also think part of him wanted to stay. On our way back to the car, Nick & Colby started singing camp songs together and talking about each other's experiences, the counselors and friends they made. The moment for me was surreal in a way. We are so proud of them and having the opportunity for this experience. It is one they both will remember.
When we got home, Colby went and took a shower. When I checked on him he looked really upset. I asked him what was wrong and he said: "I miss my friends already. I wish I could see them again, I had so much fun." Another successful week.
For our final summer vacation we are heading out to Camp Sunshine tomorrow. The boys have been asking when we can go again and the only weekend available for us was Labor Day. I am looking forward to the trip and the kids enjoying their camp time. This weekend's theme at Camp Sunshine is 'Oncology Off-treatment program. I am looking forward to the group discussions and learning how other children are doing off treatment. My particular interest is in the side effects from chemo and radiation and wondering if kids are experiencing this.
I know I have said this before but we are truly blessed to have Nick off treatment and having the ability to be a normal kid. The 'C' word will always be part of our lives but Nick has conquered it so far and he keeps enjoying his life.
Nick's clinic on 8/18/11:
WBC: 10.4 -normal
RBC: 11.8 -normal
Plts: 340 - normal
ANC: 4,500 -great
The doctors say all the chemo is out of his body now. I have asked about re-immunizing him because we do not know for sure if the chemo has killed his immunizations. The doctor said they typically do not re-immunize because they do not know the facts about it.
-Karen
