New Years Eve

I can't believe it's New Years Eve.  Today doesn't feel any different than any other day has since we've been here.  Every day, our only concern is Everett...how is he doing, how is he feeling, what are his blood counts...everything else is secondary and not so important.  We've already spent Christmas and our anniversary here in the hospital, and we've done our best to enjoy these days despite all that has happened, and we will do the same today.

Last night John and I went to Church Brew Works for our anniversary dinner.  Dinner was awesome and it was nice to be out of the hospital for a few hours, spending some alone time with John, but the most memorable part of the night was our cab driver, who was one of the nicest guys we've met.  He talked to us most of the drive to and from the restaurant, wanting to know about Everett and offering words of encouragement.  We learned that his wife is also battling cancer, for the SECOND time.  When he dropped us off at the hospital, he said the ride was on him and promised to keep Everett in his prayers.  So many times in the past 2 weeks, complete strangers have reached out to us, offering us words of support as well as prayers for our strong little boy.  Each day I am amazed at the generosity of our friends and family and I see how truly blessed we are to have so many wonderful people in our lives.  Finding out that Everett has leukemia was my worst nightmare, but if there is a silver lining in all of this, it is that we now realize just how loved we are!

The past few days have been quiet days for Everett.  The doctors are very happy with how he has handled the chemo and ATRA treatments.  So far he has had almost no side effects besides 2 episodes of nausea and vomiting.  Everyone here thinks Everett is the cutest little man, and are impressed with how easy-going and happy he is.  Mom and dad pray every day that he will continue to do as well as he has, as much for him as for us.  It's a little easier knowing that he is feeling good and he's his usual happy self:)

Wishing everyone a New Year full of nothing but amazing things!  God Bless you all.

Val