Friday 18 July 2014

No Evidence of Disease (NED)

After nine month of chemo sessions, radiotherapy, operations and a stem cell transplant, Saskia is now once again in remission. This is a huge relief as prior to the radiotherapy, there was still active cancer in her C2 vertebrae. But now all is gone and we can all breath a little better and start focussing once again on a complete recovery for Saskia.
Although we are extremely happy and thankful, the fact that this is now the third time that we hear that Saskia is in remission, means that we are a little bit cautious to be over-joyful. We all know and realise that being in remission is not a cure. Being in remission means that there is no sign of any active cancer. This does not mean that is is not there, it just means that modern technology cannot spot any active cancer particles which may still be in the body.
However, this is the best outcome we could have hoped and prayed for and we continue in full confidence to the next stage. When this stage starts is still a little uncertain, but it will be within the next couple of weeks.
Meanwhile, Saskia will recommence school as of next week and she will receive some additional home tutoring so that the subjects taught are not overly foreign to her. She is determined to still progress to year 8 and we are sure she can do it. With the help of her school Cornerstone College, the Home Tutor Scheme through the Childhood Cancer Association and her home school tutor, Mrs Colleen Bradfield, we are sure that Saskia has all the assistance she needs to progress to year 8.
Please do continue to carry Saskia and us in your prayers as there is still a long way to go.