About Me

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Bakersfield, CA, United States
Hans was a busy, happy, sweet and fearless three year old when he was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma. He fought his disease like a "gladiator" for nearly 6 years. Hans was an animal lover to his core. He was 'guarded' at home by his three cats, Black, Orange and Cotton. He also had his Golden Retriever, Honey, to keep him company. Hans enjoyed swimming, biking, gardening, grilling (he had his very own grill!), horseback riding, playing video games, building Legos, and flipping between Nickelodeon, Cartoon Network and Animal Planet. Hans loved all members of his family and he was a loyal friend. He had to go through a lot of treatment in his life. But Hans powered through it. His attitude was let's get this done! His motivation was always to get back home, to his family, pets, favorite foods and pool.

Sunday, January 30, 2011

Mid Cycle




Things are going really well for us here, mid cycle. Hans is actually usually doing fine when he is actually taking his med, it's the week that follows (Days 8 - 15) where he can have a hard time. I'm thrilled with how he is doing and my fingers are crossed that we'll sail through next week. Scans happen just after Valentines Day back in Philly.
These two pics from Saturday morning - grooming Ginger before Hans and I got to do a trail ride. It was awesome - the only thing that I was nervous about was that I was the one holding the lead. Hans took the reins, but moms or dads hold the lead! Yikes - but it went well. We are at the Conroe YMCA Equestrian Program...it's great! He seems to have had more energy lately. We spent all afternoon doing yard work and then went out to our friend Dana's 40th b'day celebration, and he was up and 'partying' until 11 ;) Pretty good!!!

Aunt Susy asked about Elle - let's see - the big news is she won her student council bid last week! She's also on one of two teams of kids that reads the announcements on the Wilkerson News Network, she just had her last volleyball game of the season thru the YMCA, and soccer is gearing back up. They played their first 11 v 11 scrimmage yesterday...the kids play 8 a side til the age of 13, then they go to a bigger field, more players, etc. We are all excited about that change next year. AND... we had parent info nite for the incoming 7th grade class at her Junoir High. I understand our choices a lot better. We figured out how many Pre AP courses she'll take (3 out of 4- we decided not to do Pre AP Texas State History) and she has decided to go out for Cross Country since there is no "real' soccer at the Jr. High level. She just joined Running Club at her school she's loving it. She is also selling girl scout cookies, well, sort of! We're kind of slacking at that this year.

Kevin and I keep trying to squeeze rides in, but the hardest part is keeping huge chunks of our schedule open for the long rides!!!

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

So glad to hear that things are going well. Hans looks like he's having a great time with that horse! Love to you all!
Roxie

Anonymous said...

Hans, you are doing a really good job brushing Ginger. I'm glad you had fun on your trail ride - lucky you!! Jack came and trimmed all of the horses feet last week. I'm waiting for our mud to dry up so I can ride too!
Elle - you are one busy girl!! Good for you. How's the sax going?
Glad that you are all fitting some fun into your busy lives.

Love,
G. Kathy, G. Dale xoxo

Anonymous said...

WOW,Hans! It looks like you and Ginger have been best buddies all of your lives! Horses are such special friends...they are magical! I am so glad you have learned how to stand next to your horse, too! Great work!

Your photo resembles what Buzzy and I looked like yesterday! I always spend weekend mornings at the barn with him, and yesterday we tackled all of his loose hair! Yes, he is already shedding...a spring optimist!! Like you, we had the best time!! He looked as handsome as Ginger is pretty!

WOW, Elle! I am glad I inquired about an update! A leader, athelete, AND scholar! Sounds fun and interesting, too!

Get those rides in Kevin and Lara!

Love and hugs,
Aunt Susy

Anonymous said...

Gosh - I am worn out just thinking about all you guys are up to.....I will send these pictures to Papa for him to see. Keep up all the fun and happy stuff. Love you all, pl