We're here ...

We arrived in Seattle yesterday with no problems. We took an early flight out of Burbank airport, which is a breeze compared to LAX. We walked right up to the ticket counter, moved quickly through security and fed Hunter breakfast before boarding our plane. Hunter was thrilled when we landed in Seattle because we got to take a train to baggage claim and ride a shuttle bus to the rental car lot. I could easily lose my focus here and take a moment to discuss our car rental company experience. However, I will spare you the details of Fox Car Rental!

We booked our first two nights at the Marriott because there wasn't any space available at the Ronald McDonald House when we called on Monday. Luckily, while we were in the air, we received a call from the RMH letting us know that a small room opened up. We jumped at the opportunity. The three of us are now in a very modest dorm style room. They told us that they will move us to an apartment in the newer building when one becomes available.

Honestly, we are just happy to be in Seattle after a health scare last week. Hunter ended up in the hospital with what they think was toxic synovitis, which is similar to catching a cold in your hip. Who knew that was even possible? Anyway, he woke up last Monday morning and wasn't interested in standing or walking. He had a temperature of 102.4 by lunch. Also, he wasn't interested in eating. Now I know that when Hunter isn't interested in eating there's a definite problem. We spent most of Monday afternoon and evening in the ER. They let us go after running antibiotics through an IV. However, Hunter's fever jumped up to 104 Tuesday morning so we were admitted. They ran a battery of tests including a pelvic x-ray, an ultrasound, an MRI and a bone scan. Everything came back negative and Hunter's fever subsided so they released us on Thursday night. His appetite returned Friday night and his walking is back to normal, as well as his running! Thank you to those who were able to visit Hunter in the hospital and those who kept him in their thoughts and prayers.

Today was the first day of Hunter's two week evaluation period prior to him beginning chemotherapy. The following days are filled with various appointments so that we, as parents, understand the entire BMT process and so that Hunter is found fit for transplant. He had his first blood draw this morning and he did very well. He continues to say thank you when the technicians finish. Eventually, a central line will be placed into his chest, making his blood draws much easier. Tomorrow is a busy day with back to back appointments. We will meet with a financial representative, the child life specialist, the nutritionist, the doctor on service this month and Hunter will have an EKG. Friday is much lighter since Hunter only needs a chest x-ray, which can be done between the hours of 8am and 5pm. The weekend is ours so we are going to find something fun to do!