July 31

On the way into the clinic we stopped at the free hot dog stand outside BCCH and I asked Sam if he wanted one (he was carrying his bucket and didn't look too healthy) but he said, "Yup, might as well give it a try I think they're pretty good although I've never tried it. They always have this on Thursdays outside the clinic but I've never stopped for a burger before." He kept it down and that was a great surprise!

We went for Sam's Ara C IV injection and for the first time the nurse couldn't get a blood return (the VAD wasn't working). We weren't exactly sure why this happened but the nurse took out the access needle he got yesterday and re-inserted a new one in today. Sam thinks for sure it was when his mom tried to kiss him this morning and he wrestled her away from him and bumped his VAD needle. Anyway, the new one worked just fine. He had the new needle inserted without EMLA cream (skin numbing cream). It hurt a little but he wasn't keen on waiting around in there any longer than he needed to.

Tonight we're having Phil and Noni and their kids over for dinner before they head off to Manitoba for relative visiting... tomorrow, back to the hospital for more chemo.

It rained all day today so I guess our month of sunshine has come to an end. It didn't stop us from going through the woods today with Lucy though and having a great run through the rain forest near UBC.

I read this today in the book of Acts...

Acts 14:17 He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; he provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy."(NIV)

Each day, we have much to be thankful for as a family as we walk this road.

Thanks for your notes and prayers and support.

Ger