Scanorama

Hi,
We are in Philadelphia. It's coldish and rainy here but not too bad so we are not complaining.

We got in LATE last night and today Hans got accessed for a lab draw and an MIBG injection and got a head CT. The day went very well. Hans is always a rock star getting his port accessed! I am not sure if I've described this process here. Hans's port is just under his skin over the left nipple. Getting it accessed means a nurse sticks a 3/4 " long needle into it. The needle is attached to a plastic head that tubing fits into. After he is accessed, he's all taped up with a dressing. When he gets deaccessed, the tape comes off and the needle and tubing is pulled out. Labs can been drawn through the port, and meds can be given. I think most kids with a port use a numbing cream or freeze spray before getting accessed. For some reason, Hans does not. Hans has had this port since he was four years old. He has never wanted any freeze spray or cream. He has always insists on taking it 'like a man"! On days like today when we are in an oncology clinic, Hans usually does really well. When we get accessed in the ER or, say, an ambulance, the accessing can go less well. Practice makes perfect. I think Hans is a pretty easy stick. We are kinda proud of him about this. Not usually a single tear. I'm just glad this doesn't have to be traumatic, since we have to do it at least monthly!

Most scans and other procedures go well for Hans as well. This Head CT today was a breeze. He had to be without food this morning, in case the IV contrast made him nauseous, but all went well. The CT is by far the best scan! Fast! No Sedation! Easy! And, we found out today that when you just get a head CT - no oral contrast is necessary. Hooray. This is good because drinking the contrast is icky and it takes like 3 hours! So - we had a pretty 'easy' hospital day today. in and out in less than three hours. MIBG scan and follow up office visit will all take place with Dr. Maris tomorrow. Needless to say, we are wishing up stars that these scans are as good or better than the last.

We had a special night. We were able to meet up with the Tenneson's for an early dinner. This sweet family lost their brave Braeden to NB. We've kept in touch and were finally able to meet up on a trip back. They are sweetie pies.

Thanks for checking up on Hans. Hope this is a good scan week all around. Our NB buddy Elijah is up here getting scans and Patrick is getting them back at TCH...

Peace, Love & Cure,
Lara