2012 has undoubtedly been one of the most challenge years we have ever faced.
On 5 January, 4 days after Sean's 1st birthday, we were rushed to the Sydney Children's Hospital Emergency Department for scans and treatment for Sean's suspected pneumonia. Further tests resulted in a diagnosis of Severe Combined Immunodeficiency, a genetic disease that we had never heard of, let alone knew what treatment plans were available. The only cure, it seemed, was via a bone marrow or cord blood transplant. Our wonderful medical team embarked on a worldwide search for compatible donor, and one was quickly identified to be near-perfect. Our brave little man had the unenviable task of tackling an aggressive course of chemotherapy, followed by the stem cell transplant, before fighting his way down the long road to recovery.
If we thought the hospital part was tough, we weren't expecting how much harder it was to be at home after we were formally discharged. For much of this year, Gloria and Sean were in "quarantine" to prevent Sean from contracting any illnesses that his immuno-suppressed body would not be strong enough to fight. For much of this year, Sean was prescribed medications to keep the germs at bay. The isolation was debilitating for us, but we persevered and were rewarded with only ONE hospital readmission. The doctors had warned us that typically, transplant patients bounced in and out of hospital post formal discharge, with the first readmission typically after the first 2-3 weeks at home. In Sean's case, he was home for almost 3 months before a glitch landed us back in hospital for a short spell. Needless to say, the doctors are surprised and totally delighted with Sean's resilience and speedy recovery.
Our little wonder is today a picture of glowing health. No longer requiring medications, Sean is an active, inquisitive, playful, lively, loving, cheeky, funny little boy. He is showing no ill effects from the lifesaving treatments from earlier this year, and aside from being a bit on the skinny side, Sean is your typical almost-2-year-old. We are truly blessed to have our strong little man in our lives.
The year has been a bit of a blur for Jonathan and Gloria. Jonathan continues to chip away at work, leading his small team in IT Product Support. Unfortunately, the much anticipated professional development opportunities that were discussed last year did not eventuate this year. However, there are some interesting work opportunities in the not too distant future, which we are both quietly excited about. Gloria had to delay her return to work by 12 months, and fortunately, her managers have been very understanding and helpful. With Sean given the all-clear by the doctors to be enrolled into day care, Gloria will be back in the workforce by mid January 2013.
This year wasn't without some fun moments. We went away for a short break to Canberra for Floriade (an annual flower and entertainment festival). We also spent a weekend at Wiseman's Ferry (about 2 hours north of Sydney) for our friends' beautiful wedding. We enjoyed a wonderful week with Jonathan's parents, who visited us in November. We caught up with lots of friends throughout the year, and saw many more at Gloria's recent 40th birthday party. And Gloria's has especially enjoyed hosting her Mothers Group mums and bubs for afternoon tea every Friday once Sean was given the all-clear to mix with the general public.
We are hoping for a much more relaxed 2013, and now wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year. May 2013 be good to you and yours!
