Spine Dr. and misc stuff

We had an appointment with Dr. Hartman, the spine specialist, today. Before I update you about the appointment I need to mention that he is by far the most real doctor I've ever met, someone you could sit down and have a beer with. He has constantly reminded us that he is family and we should call him anytime and that he is thinking and praying for us constantly. He even admitted that he was floored when he heard the diagnosis and it really rocked him. Has anyone else ever had a doctor show any vulnerbility like that? That being said, this was just a check up to see how Gavin's pain was and to be available to answer any questions. Gavin was excited to get the all clear to do some moderate exercise. He has been told that physical activity will make him feel better during chemo so that was great news. We have another appointment in 3 weeks and that schedule will continue throughout the chemo process.

We are looking forward to spending some quality family time this weekend before chemo begins. Keeping busy with the kids will be a nice distraction as Monday looms on the horizon. I'm surprised as to how much anxiety I am feeling about the start of chemo. I guess this is my reality check.
Chemo schedule next week:
Monday - We have to be there at 10:45 but I don't think it actually
starts until 11:15, it should last around 5 hours
Tuesday - 1:00
Wednesday - 1:00

Those of you who have been around me know that strange things can pop into my head. The past year I have been running the PSAA Babe Ruth concession stand with Patty. As you can see, that's a pretty hefty title to have to say or type so I have been trying to come up with a new name. Patty I'm sure thinks I'm crazy but the only name I can come up with is Earl. I don't know why, maybe I need professional help. My point is that cancer is such a scary word and sometimes it's difficult to get the word out. So I have been thinking of a name I can call it (I know I'm strange). The only idea I have come up with so far is Goliath. Some of you are thinking why would she ever want to call it Goliath so here is my line of thinking...Goliath was supposed to be this scary giant who made all of the warriors tremble and no one was brave enough to stand up to him. Lo and behold came a humble shepherd boy named David, who stood strong in his faith and with a simple stone, felled Goliath. The cancer is our Goliath...big and scary. We are choosing to be David, a man after God's own heart. We will stand strong in our faith, look Goliath right in the eye, and tell him our God is bigger and better then anything he can throw at us.

One last note...Drew auditioned for Ardrey Kell's musical, Guys and Dolls, this week. Today he found out he was cast as Skye Masterson, the male lead. Jokingly I told him if he has the lead as a freshman what does he have to look forward to the next 3 years??? We are very proud of him and will let everyone know when the dates for the performances are.

Have a great weekend and remember yall are a blessing to us every single day!

Maria

P.S. Thanks for the cookies Patty, they are delish!