A 'new normality'

We had our appointment with the Consultant today and she is very pleased with Catherine's progress. Catherine's neutrophils were still too low to begin the next phase of treatment, so this has been delayed until Monday. The Consultant was really pleased that Catherine has had no infections during this intensive treatment and did not seem concerned by the number of blood transfusions and platelet transfusions Catherine has had over the past two weeks.

The Consultant also said that we should be able to travel on trains etc again soon, as the next stage of treatment should be managed so that she doesn't get too susceptible to infection. This has opened the horizon to us again, as we have been very restricted the last few months. It means that we now will need to get used to a 'new normality'; one that will involve fewer hospital visits, more freedom and more fun!

At the moment, Catherine always wants to be carried everywhere, and the Consultant explained that the chemotherapy will have weakened her and it will take time for her to build up stamina and muscle power again. She really wants ballet lessons, so we are using that as an incentive to inspire her to walk a little bit more every day. Even the fact that she is talking about wanting to do physical activities again is a big change! For ages, she has had no interest in any of the adventurous things she used to enjoy (she used to be a very competent climber and loved any physical activity). It means she is turning the corner.

We are so pleased that this phase has come to an end. Whilst she will remain on treatment until she is five, we feel such relief that she no longer has to deal with this intensive treatment. I will explain more about the next level of treatment soon.

Tonight, Catherine is sitting up in bed talking to her teddies and singing. In fact, she hasn't stopped talking all day! THIS is the Catherine I remember...