Last Clinic Day-Sort of

Joshua last day at the clinic was a wonderful celebration. The nurses and doctors were excited with us. The "sort of" refers to the fact that we will still be going to the clinic every 4 weeks for about a year to make sure that that Joshua's blood counts begin to return to normal. BUT, this was the last day that chemo would be pushed through his port. Awesome!

Rebecca accessing Joshua's port. After an echocardiogram next month, we will be able to schedule surgery to have it removed. One step closer to normal life.

Dr. Ho checked Joshua out like he always does and then gave us the play by play of what post-chemo life looks like. Lots of details, but being there every month will help us get used to it.

Joshua found time to play with his buddy, Ben while he waited for the day to finish up.

Ms. Donna pushing his last syringe of chemo. I have always laughed at how the pediatric nurses are willing to give kids their meds wherever they are. Joshua was on his way back from the playroom and she just told him to stand still for a minute.

A quick family photo before we left. I'm holding one of about 6 gifts the clinic gave Joshua to celebrate this big day.

This is, by far, the best part of the day. The nurses sang Joshua a precious little song about his last chemo day. The last line say, "So pack your bags, get out the door, you don't need chemo anymore." I was weeping through my smiles.

We are so very thankful for each of these wonderful people. They have made our trips to Children's Hospital not only bearable, but sometimes, even enjoyable. They are gifted by God with patience, mercy, tenderness, compassion and love for all their patients. We are honored to have been entrusted to their care and know that God will continue to use them to care for Joshua and thousands of others. We love you all, VCH HEM-ONC!

Pictures of our big party and Joshua's last pills are coming very soon. Stay tuned!