July 2nd, Day +68, Home to the RV

Hunter has been working hard lately!  He got his 4th and last dose of Rituxan yesterday.  Soon after, we got his new list of medications to take at home, got his groin line pulled (hallelujah!) and headed to the RV.  Hunter spent 28 long days and nights in the hospital and was more than ready for some fresh air and sunlight.

Trying to build back some strength!

His list of pills has grown quite a bit.  He is on two huge doses of steroids, two antibiotics, two antifungal, two antiviral, as well his anti-rejection medication and medicine to sooth his stomach.  To combat all his blood clotting issues, he is taking a shot in his stomach twice a day.  Some of these were given via IV, so he is having a hard time adjusting to all this orally.  His stomach stays upset almost all day and night.  We are praying that some of his meds are cut back so he can be more comfortable.  Despite the constant nausea, he's happy to be back to the RV!    

All loaded up, leaving his room behind

Outside air!

 It has been a hard hospital stay on Hunter's body.  He lost about 10 pounds from his first month during chemo and waiting to engraft.  After almost constant bedrest for a month, he's down another 15 pounds.    The high doses of steroids attacked his muscles, especially his legs, leaving him very weak.  He is working hard to eat lots of protein.  We ask for prayers of strength physically and mentally as Hunter recovers.

Our first morning home was beautiful!  It was glorious to wake up next to Hunter, then Mark cooked a pancake breakfast.  There was a cool front here in Houston, and we sat outside in the shade for a couple hours enjoying being beside the lake.

Meanwhile, back in Abilene, the kids have been busy!  Benton attended soccer camp last week.  He moved in with Chase, Macey, and Hudson for the week so she could get him there easier.  Benton loved it!  He learned lots of soccer skills which he loved to show off in the evenings with Uncle Chase. It was a fun week for him.  Macey got really brave and had them all spend the night Friday and Saturday.  They watched a movie, played outside, went swimming and then to church.  She's a keeper! 

Caleb and Clayton enjoyed having the run of the house during the week!  Ernie went to Florida with her family, so my Aunt Janet, Grandma, and Auntie Michelle filled in with the twins.  Everyone said it was so quiet without big brother there.  My cousins Jayden and Jillian took them on a bike ride, and they went to supper club with Honey and Poppa.  Michelle was superwoman and took the twins plus her three on a playdate.  She said she got some looks walking around with five kids.  These boys are loved!  

Don't grow up so fast Benton!

Busy table at Bueno!

Movie night

I will continue to ask for prayers for Hunter.  Now that his hemolytic anemia is stable, his doctor will begin reducing his steroid dosage.  We ask for prayers for wisdom for Dr. Carrum as he begins this process.  Hunter would love to be taking less medicine because of his nausea.  We also ask for prayers that Hunter can stay free from infection and be home to our boys sooner rather than later!  Operation Fatten up Hunter is underway!