Everett's page: Making the most out of this moment

Last Tuesday was the fastest clinic visit we have had so far. What a pleasant surprise for all of us. We left the hospital by noon with our headstrong, wobbly toddler attempting to lead the way.

At the end of our last two visits Ev has been determined that he is going to "run" out of the clinic and through the hospital. I really don't think he is so anxious to leave...I think he's anxious for his independence and freedom from his IV. The part that makes me reel him into my safety net is the fact that he still has drugs in his body that make him a bit off balance. The further along we get, again, in attacking his cells the more treacherous a fall. So, reluctantly and sometimes after a stand off, Ev decides to hold my hand while he "runs."

Ev continues to be a part of a study and, therefore, for the consolidation phase receives three drugs in his spine as opposed to one (the sedation for these spinal taps is what makes him wobbly). The study is trying to eliminate the amount of drugs that is necessary to cure the cancer. It's decided randomly, and Ev was selected to continue with what has already been proven to cure the cancer...he just might be receiving more than he needs. Thankfully, we are past the days of radiation for Leukemia patients which has been known to cause some developmental delays.

This was one of the easier decisions for us. I remember when they first asked us about participating, shortly after we found out he has Leukemia. The doc explained what information would be shared and how it would effect the treatment he received and so on. At that moment all I could think about was all the children that came before Everett and how they were saving his life. How many children were a part of a study to get to where we are today? How many lives have been lost to this cancer? How many children died without anyone knowing what was going on inside of their bodies?

Ev's story has not been an easy one. He is only two years old and has experienced a lot. But, he is making it through and with more smiles so far than I could have imagined. I've always known him to be a strong boy, and my protector even when getting tickle attacked by Ben, and now I am amazed at the depth of his strength. God blessed us with a boy that has strength and a great sense of humor...I am excited to see what else come out of that little man as he grows.