Scarlett-Journal-Pages

"The dream was always running ahead of me.
To catch up, to live for a moment in unison with it,
that was the miracle."

-- Anais Nin

Custom Made Independence...

Scarlett is having custom-fit SMOs (Supramalleolar Ankle Foot Orthosis), to provide
her with the extra little bit of ankle strength she is needing, as her little body
does some catch-up with her determined little spirit
that just keeps grooving along.

The above photos are of the casting process. The custom
hard-molded orthosis will be ready in a few weeks.

Beautiful Girl

Poolside

The Un-Fun Stuff
(thankfully not very much of it any more)

Scarlett, waiting patiently for her 6-month immunizations.

Scarlett is gradually receiving her childhood vaccinations.
Now that her immune system is stronger, her body can better tolerate the shots.
The only shots we will have to wait on are any "Live" vaccines (ie. MMR, Measles/Mumps/Rubella).
Scarlett must be at least 2 years post-transplant prior to receiving live vaccines.

I am very nervous and hesitant to even consider Scarlett receiving live vaccines, even
when she is able. There are possible adverse effects associated with live vaccines, especially for
children with underlying neurologic disorders (we know this to be true firsthand). However, on the flip side,
there have been recent outbreaks of Mumps and Measles hitting close to home and this also
terrifies me as these conditions can also lead to neurologic complications.

I am still on the fence and need to research further.

Canuck Place Children's Hospice
"Gift of Time Gala" Launch
Garden Party

I was asked to speak at the Gift of Time launch and share our experience with Canuck Place
and what it means to our family (click here for written copy of speech). I was so nervous and sad,
however it felt natural and comforting to speak about something that is my heart and soul.
Chloe helped me along as I tried desperately to keep from crying. I felt even worse
seeing that I was making people in the audience cry.

Thank goodness for Scarlett & Frank, they are always great for comic relief.

Helping mommy get ready. As I prepared for my speech, I came upon
my mischievous little monkey and found that she was playing
with the contents of my underwear drawer.
She's absolutely lovable.

2007 Child Run
Running for a Cure for Childhood Cancer

Running in memory and in honour of all of the dear little souls
who have enriched our lives, angels in heaven and here on earth.

For Brenden, for Daisy...