I am sitting in the Hutsman Infusion Clinic in the middle of my 7th round of Nivolumab and pondering how time has flown by since my last update.  This new normal routine of traveling to the hospital every 2 weeks has required some adjustments, but we feel like we are now into a somewhat predictable pattern.  

I completed my visits with Dr. Kwok (my plastic surgeon) in November when he declared my graft 100% healed. We are very pleased with the final result, considering the large hole that Dr. A left in my ankle after the initial surgery.  It’s not pretty, but I am assured that in time, the area will continue to return to a more normal skin color.  And, hey, this gives me an excuse to work up some magnificent "bravery in battle" story to go along with it, so no complaints here.  

My infusion treatments have been uneventful, but long days.  I arrive at the Infusion Clinic, where they start the IV and draw labs...and then I wait for the labs.  When the labs look good...I then wait for the pharmacy to prepare my drug.  Then, when the drug arrives...I wait for an hour while it goes in.  So, you see that the operative word is "wait".  It's not a frustration, though.  The staff and volunteers here are incredible, which makes my visits very pleasant and peaceful.  

So far, I have experienced no side-effects whatsoever.  Thank you so much for your prayers in that respect.  We heard that many people tolerate this drug well, but it’s such a blessing that I really don’t even know I’m receiving any treatment at all.  At this point, we can declare my treatments a success because my scans from yesterday are totally clear.  Even a few lymph nodes that were larger in my initial scans (most likely due to post-surgery swelling) have shrunk, so everything looks great!

Our family enjoyed a fantastic Christmas season, filled with wonderful times of fellowship with friends and family and many moments of gratitude to our Savior for His most precious gift of eternal life to us all.  One of the highlights of our holidays was a surprise (yes, we were able to keep this under raps for almost all of 2017) 65th Anniversary celebration for my parents.  All of my siblings, their spouses, children and grandchildren were able to attend and honor this exciting milestone.  We had a great time!

Again, we are so grateful to all of you for your support and prayers.  You helped us navigate a challenging journey in 2017 and we appreciate it!  

Praises:

• Completely healed skin graft.
• No side-effects from treatment.
• Excellent care from doctors and staff.
• Peace in the journey.

Prayer Requests

• Continued effective treatment with no side-effects.
• Opportunities to share hope with hospital staff and patients we encounter. 
• Peace as we continue working through the treatment routine.