Life Together

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Living with the disease
Author

Colin C. and Tina C.

Published

September 9, 2024

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Victories and concerns

  • The cancer has grown (as of Sept. 3 CT scan).

  • Sam is looking to fight on despite continued growth of the cancer. He will continue with his immunotherapy – have another dose of Nivolumab. It is our hope that 1) The therapy will be effective, and 2) That there will be no further complications that could restrict the use of the drug.

  • Our energy levels, or lack of energy, come in waves. Sometimes the waves are strong enough to knock you over. We need strength for this journey.

  • Sam’s heart is healthy and strong despite having had fluid around his heart – a pericardial effusion. We are thankful that the surgery to drain all of the extra fluid went well. Recovery from this procedure was challenging but Sam has made it through again!

  • We are celebrating the success of Sam’s stent surgery (see here). The outcome was far better than we had hoped for resulting in a return to near-normal blood-flow! (for that particular major vein)

  • To date, the medicines and interventions that have been tried have not had any significant or lasting effect at controlling this disease. We need something that will work. We need a miracle.

  • It was amazing to see Sam join the Ness Lake Bible Camp team (July 28 - 31) . He served, ran, talked, played – he got to be fully there! Many thanks to the NLBC team who welcomed him in. When Sam needs to think of a happy place he returns here in his mind and he is quick to share stories of these days.

  • We are thankful to the medical team here at BC Childrens’ Hospital who have explained things incredibly well and who have worked professionally and confidently. Your clear communication, compassion, and medical care give us great confidence. Sam has never lacked for incredible care.

  • We are thankful for the gift of a place to stay so close to the hospital. The Ronald McDonald House (RMH) has provided us a home away from home. This place is an amazing example of charity at work.

  • Thankful for friends who have chosen to meet regularly to pray for Sam (we are also thankful for everyone praying for Sam wherever you are). If you would like to join them talk with Beth H., Krista C., or contact the Westwood Church office.

  • Thankful for such supportive family and friends caring for us all through this journey.

  • We long for the day when Sam is free of this disease.