A Star is Born (well maybe)...

Today's chemo went better than last week (as far as side effects). I talked to Dr. Kennedy about Michael's reaction last week and she was concerned. She told Michael's nurse, Sharle, to give him the Carboplatin a little slower. That means chemo took a little longer, but that seemed to help. Michael did start coughing and his ears got a little red, but it was nothing compared to last week. Dr. Kennedy said that if he develops a more severe or frequent reaction, she will have us give Michael a steroid for a couple of days ahead of time. She said that seems to help kids.

As I said last week, Britney and the nurses got Michael some birthday presents. When we arrived today they gathered and sang "Happy Birthday" to Michael and then he opened his gifts. They got him "The Incredibles" DVD, a set of Lego's that makes construction vehicles and a puzzle. He really enjoyed them and we made a Lego bulldozer before Michael fell asleep.

Dr. Kennedy also told us that University Hospital is starting an advertising campaign for their new Children's Hospital that they are building. They asked all the units to "nominate" kids to appear in the campaign. She told them if they wanted a cute kid, that "they don't come any cuter than Michael V." So she asked if we would consent to Michael having his picture taken by a professional photographer to appear in some of their ads. We said "yes" of course! She said that she didn't know who they would wind up picking but she will tell them that we gave our permission for them to contact us. I'll let you know if anything comes of it.

Also, remember a couple of days ago I said that someone was going to a lot of trouble to make Michael's dreams come true? Well, I don't want to give away the surprise just yet but the "event" is happening Monday at noon. And, it is going to be on the local TV news and in the local newspaper. My Dad joked tonight that we are going to have to get Michael an agent!

My little buddy is laying quietly on the couch beside me. He just finished 5 freeze pops and half a bagel with cream cheese and now it is time for bed. He was terribly cranky and out of sorts today. He & I are going to go into his room now and watch his new movie while he falls asleep. Please keep Michael in your thoughts and prayers, JoAnne