Love those counts!

Austin went to his regular BMT clinic appointment today. His counts are really improving, which eases everyone's mind, and improves spirits greatly. A final MRI appointment has been booked for this coming Saturday. This is an end of treatment check to ensure the chemotherapy has been successful, and that there is no new tumour growth in Austin's brain or spine. Austin also has a lumbar puncture booked for next Wednesday, along with another dose of pentamidine (to prevent pneumonia). There is talk of going home - initiated by me, of course (I honestly think these doctors would keep us here forever if I didn't persist). Because we live so far away from Toronto, they are a bit apprehensive to let Austin go. However, before we leave, arrangements will be made, in case of emergency, in both Geraldton and Thunder Bay.
Today brings thoughts of how blessed both Austin and I have been throughout this whole ordeal. Austin has fought so hard and been through so much. Thank God he has made it. On the other hand, I am saddened to think of the children we have met along the way whose journey has ended differently than Austin's. Although relapse is a word I will always fear, I cannot live with the thought that Austin will ever have to go through this again.
Right now we have our fingers crossed that Austin will stay healthy and fever-free, which will bring us another step closer to going home!