Thursday, September 11, 2014

Our Next Steps and 15 Smarties

I left Seattle emotionally drained and a bit frustrated by the miscommunication between our Boise and Seattle doctors.  But I am glad we now have the right information and can move forward.  

Here is what we learned:  nothing will change from Zach's current course of treatment if his scans look good in early October.  We will only change treatment if necessary.  

There are 2 clinical trials that Seattle offers.  Option #1: a clinical trial is open but only 10% of patients qualify to participate.  Zach must carry a necessary protein.  (We had thought from our Boise team that the necessary testing had been done several weeks ago.  It has not.)  So we wait 2-3 weeks for the test results to return.

If he does not qualify then we wait for option #2--another clinical trail.  It is not open but he is currently on a waiting list and no word on how long he would have to wait.  

Both trials require that Zach receive treatment in Seattle and he travel up 1-3 times a month, depending on the trial requirements.  Not ideal with the little boys and Zach's teaching schedule but we will make it work!  It is definitely better than having to move to a new place for an extended period of time.  

Option #3 is to receive a 3-drug regiment in Boise.  Zach's body has seen variations of 2 of the drugs before.  So they are not completely new drugs to the system (which is unfortunate) but they are somewhat different (which is better than nothing.)

Lots of information and lots of options.  We will have word by October 3 of Zach's latest scans and we can go from there.  

We are very grateful to the Vizzutti's (my extended family) for opening their beautiful home to us.  It was nice to have a "home" away from home.  Zach and I flew home late Wednesday night.  While we were gone Oliver earned 15 smarties for using the potty.  So thankful my mom got the process underway--I admit I have been a lazy potty training mommy.  Diapers are easier in my book!

Earlier this month the Boise Hawks treated us to a memorable evening.  We are so grateful for the wonderful seats and that the players signed baseballs for Oliver and Max.  I am not entirely sure that a baseball game even took place however because Oliver and Max kept me very busy.  But I heard they won in extra innings!


We met my dear friend Quyen and her husband Pat for dinner in Seattle.  They treated us to a fun evening!

 Oliver highly dislikes hats.  Always has.  I had to change his 1st Halloween costume hours before Halloween because he wouldn't wear his hat--which was an integral part of the costume.  BUT he loved wearing his Arizona Wildcats hat (thanks Uncle Ben!) to the Hawks baseball game.  

 All smiles!

 Uncle Nate and Oliver!

 Oliver was invited down to the Hawks dugout where he sat and waited for the players to come out.  

Oliver was terrified of his new friend!

But he warmed up to him enough to take a signed baseball.  

Playing catch--Oliver's got a good arm!




Oliver proudly showing off his signed baseball!

Zach and Oliver!

Family picture on the pitcher's mound before the game.

Max enjoyed watching the game from my arms.  

Stylish Oliver!

Uncle Nate and Max!

Nate got the boys Chive shirts!

Obligatory slide pic!

This picture is priceless!  Max was crying because Oliver was chewing on his hand.  Zach and I were clueless.

A proud Chive fan!

Chick-fil-A hosted a mommy/son date night.  Oliver and I enjoyed a delicious dinner and a limo ride around Kleiner Park after.  We had such a fun night together!

Oliver enjoying his CFA dessert!

2 comments:

  1. So sorry there was miscommunication-at this stage I'm sure it's more than frustrating :/ I'll be hoping for the best for his October scans. Your kids are so adorable! (And neither of my boys were potty trained before three - you're golden ;))

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  2. So appreciative for your posts and updates and now will be so prayerful/hopeful for a good plan by Oct. 3. You guys all look so great too by the way! You have a beautiful family inside and out! Loves!

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