Day 4

Last night Ian received his first dose of chemotherapy and a load of other drugs. Whatever they're pumping him full of is making him act all loopy and goofy. We'll take that over moody and bossy.

Here are some of the common and fun side effects he will most certainly have:

• Constipation
• Pain in jaw, face, legs or back
• Trouble walking, climbing stairs, muscle weakness
• Tingling and pain in hands, fingers, and toes
• Blurred or double vision, drooping eyelids
• Hair loss
• Trouble with fine motor skills (writing, buttoning, etc.)
• Hyperphagia (Feeling of starvation...will eat like a mamoth)
• Weight gain in face and belly
• Nausea, vomiting, anorexia
• Insomnia
• Personality changes, mood swings, anxiety, and depression
• Decreased reflexes
• And more...

Sounds like it's going to be a fun next 27 days.

The doctors have looked at the initial blood results since his first injection last night. They couldn't be happier with the results. The drug (vincristine) is destroying the cancer cells exactly as is expected. We're still on schedule to get out of here this weekend.

Interesting note, vincristine is made from Vinca rsea Linn (periwinkle). The color periwinkle happens to be Corie's favorite color. This is now her new favorite drug seeing how it's going to save her little boy.

We have continued to receive gifts, balloons, and flowers from friends and family. We appreciate all of the thoughts, prayers, and acts of kindness.

Ian's sisters were able to finally come and visit him last night with new toys from friends and family.
What an addict. Can't take his hands off that controller for a second to eat.

Again, thank you all for your thoughts. I'm already hearing rumors of collaboration going on to help raise money for leukemia charities. The response from everyone has been incredible. Sign me up!