Positive notes

I really struggle to find anything positive about Wyatt's diagnosis and treatment.  Many of the things you hear during difficult times - 'everything happens for a reason' or 'whatever doesn't kill you makes you stronger' - just don't work for me.  The latter seems to imply that I would somehow be better for having experienced it.  I have said to many people that this experience has not killed me but it certainly has not made me stronger or better.  Different, yes; but wiser or stronger, not so much.

But we have noted the amazing generosity and support from people all over the world!  Many of who we have never even met!  And this is where I find my 'positives'.  There were successful fundraisers held in both VA Beach and PA.  And two very successful blood drives held in Wyatt's honor.  I received emails from several people who were inspired by Wyatt's story and donated blood for the first time.   So, a big thank you to everyone who donated.  You surely made a difference in someone's life...you might have saved a life.  And I truly hope that you will continue to donate whenever possible.

Wyatt's cousin Cameron used his birthday party as a fundraising event for Fanconi Anemia.  It was a great success!  He received donations from all over the world - Italy, Guam, and Amsterdam.  Several kids came to the party and actually emptied their piggy banks.  One young girl put some of her clothes on consignment in an effort to raise money to donate.  Cameron's friend in New Jersey was inspired to have a fundraising party for his birthday as well.  He raised his own donation of $500 for Fanconi Anemia.  As a result of this generosity, Cameron raised $6,841 (and counting!) for The Fanconi Anemia Research Fund.  Amazing!  One small person with a big heart and goal....A huge thank you!  And again, this is where I find my 'positives'.

Wyatt is enjoying his three week break from clinic.  This is the longest he has gone without being pinched and poked since his diagnosis last July.  He is doing well.   We have been keeping him in the bubble to limit his exposure to colds and flus.  He is really missing his friends and is eager to see someone other than his parents (I am not that strong at playing army).  But he is, as always, accepting his fate gracefully.

But don't worry, parenting isn't all easy street for us.  We have our little Owen who laughs in the face of authority.  He has become a world class climber.  And he finds great amusement in our rescue efforts which often involve running and leaping over things to reach him just in time.   One good thing about being in isolation is that Owen and Wyatt have become good friends.  And that is a joy to watch...best buddies.

Wyatt has another clinic visit next week. We are crossing our fingers for good numbers.  His numbers need to keep increasing as he is still far from having 'normal' blood levels.  I am looking forward to the day when someone is able to say that his transplant is officially a success.