Thursday, February 07, 2008

Excellent News!

Well, we continue to try and occupy our time the best we can without daddy. I must admit it is very difficult and we miss him so much. This has been a tremendous change for our family and we are trying to adapt the best we can. We know it is very hard on daddy and not a minute goes by that we don't wish we could all be together.

Although, things have been different for us, we did receive some very encouraging news from our doctor a couple of days ago. Last week, Parker had blood drawn to check the function of his T cells. We have all been very pleased with how well his lymphocytes have been rising and with that the doctors wanted to ensure that they are actually working. We are thrilled to report that when Parker's T cells were tested, they do in fact measure to that of a normal control group. Although, Parker's numbers are nowhere near normal yet, it is extremely encouraging to know that the T cells he does have are actually functioning. This was the best news we could have received and the best possible scenario for where we presently are post gene therapy.
It has given us as parents more hope and assurance that the gene therapy is actually working and for this we are incredibly happy. Now, we will continue to do what we always do- protect Parker and make sure that he is never in danger of being exposed to unnecessary germs which could potentially make him very ill.

We are really looking forward to meeting with Dr. Aiuti and the medical team when we return to Italy in the spring for Parker's one year follow up. It is hard to believe that in a few months we will return to Milan. We are actually really looking forward to our trip. We have been missing Italy very much lately. The lifestyle we created and our daily routine are things we have begun to really appreciate since our return to Canada. As strange as it may sound, it felt like we lived a much more "normal" life in Italy despite the stress we had. I am sure that when the warmer weather approaches, we will be able to do a lot more and establish a nice routine here. I guess it is more the boredom and lonlieness of being confined to our home all day that can be tiring and draining.

Anyways, staying on a positive note, we are extremely appreciative of the medical team that we have in Canada and Italy and are forever grateful to both teams for giving Parker a fighting chance at eventually leading a normal life. I have no doubt that all our dreams are about to come true! I would like to leave you with a few pictures from our baking session yesterday. Parker had a blast and it is something I am going to try and do a few times a week with him. Don't mind the pajamas- who says the Christmas spirit can't overlap with Cupid!

Baker Parker in action. Mixing is a very important step in creating the Perfect muffin!


Are you sure this is what it is supposed to look like Mom? I am not sold on this yet!


Parker smells everything before even considering taking a sample!


O.K that was great. When are we baking again?

3 comments:

Nonno and Nonna said...

Hey Parker,

Great news! News like that is what we all have been waiting for.

You looked like you really enjoyed baking with your mama, I bet those muffins tasted yummy.

Looking forward to spending some time with you on Sunday.

Stay strong big guy!
Love you tons

Nonno & Nonna

Auntie Natalie said...

Mmm Parker Pants....muffins...they look so good that I want one!

I am so happy about your superhero T-Cells! Yippee! You mommy is right...that is such fabulous news. I can understand as well why your Mommy and Daddy might be missing Italy a little bit...it was such a beautiful place to be. Lots of sunshine, walking and yummy food.

I hope that you have a WONDERFUL weekend. I wonder what you will bake next...hmmmm...can I make an order...

Lots of love,
Auntie Natalie xoxoxo

Kari said...

Hi Parker!!

What good news about your T cells! The doctors & your pretty nurses are all going to be amazed when you go back to Italy!

Tell Mommy to buy you & her matching aprons so you can really get your hands dirty while baking with her!!

Love Auntie Kari :0)