12/11, Thursday

Today proved that we are still amateurs at this whole 'health care at home' process. We were trying to do a blood draw this morning and had a scare that Cole's catheter might be clotted again- blood seemed to not be coming out. This meant we'd have to go into the clinic and have them administer the solution into his catheter to unclot the catheter and then do the draw themselves which would take more time and be more stressful. Marta in the clinic advised us to try the whole process again in a couple hours- which we did- and we discovered that we just did not tip the line enough to make blood go into the tubes. It seems like we are learning so many new things every week.

The results of the blood draw showed that Cole's hemoglobin levels are at 6.7, low enough to require a blood transfusion. This will give him more energy and color and is part of the treatment. So Holly will spend the day Friday at the clinic with Cole while he gets his transfusion. It makes for a long day but is quite relaxing and makes a perfect opportunity to get her Christmas cards done! Holly's Aunt Heather is kind enough to take Ruby for the day and entertain her and Ruby will not miss her parents one bit! Because he is getting his transfusion tomorrow his chemo will most likely be delayed until Monday.

All in all, Cole has been doing very well. He has been out and about with Mom at the mall, Costco, and going to birthday parties like any other baby. He looks forward to spending his first Christmas at home in Oakland with his Grandma Joan and Grandpa Marty from Washington.