A birthday, a check-up and the gift of a year
You may already know that the American Cancer Society is the "Official Sponsor of Birthdays." This week, as we celebrated Steven's 16th birthday, I couldn't help but remember a time six years ago during his treatments when I wondered if he'd ever make it to this age. Along with the birthday celebrations this week, Steven also had his annual check up. Scans are over, and now the docs just do a chest x-ray and some blood work. Everything looked great--he is the picture of health. A perfect birthday present, but more than that, it feels like another year and most likely a whole life. Is there a better gift? As we get a little farther out from the experience, I find myself with answers that I couldn't have when we were in the trenches. The puzzle is only sort of coming together, but this week it felt more clear than ever. Here are some of the pieces: Steven's pediatrician is retiring. As we received the invitation to his retirement...