On Monday, William and I will be meeting with the radiation team to start the measurement, marking, and simulation process. Simulation is the first step in William's radiation treatment and it is the method by which all parameters are set up and used for each and every one of his treatments. From what I understand, the day will be spent taking films and measurements and marking William's body with tattoos (Yes, I said tattoos). The actual radiation itself will start the following week on the 20th. The markings (AKA Tattoos) that William will be getting are really small and are used to mark the corners of the treatment areas. Due to William's immense love of needles (and I would assume tattoo pens/machines too) I have asked that they knock him out for the "marking" phase. The markings are essentially a guide to help the technicians line up the radiation treatment fields the same way each time.
We have been at the Pasadena Ronald McDonald House for almost a week now and as always we are enjoying life and making happy memories.
Even though we still have a lot of medical restrictions (diet, exercise, etc.) William and I have taking full advantage of the amazing weather and spending as much time outside of the Pasadena Ronald McDonald House as possible. Below are some of the photos -
Today, the adventure seeking, kind hearted firefighters of the Pasadena Fire Station 31 took William (and I) on an amazing adventure. William, named "Big Will" for the day due to his will power, had the opportunity to wear some the items associated with the uniform, demonstrate and operate a hose (with the proper hand signs), play football with the guys on the infamous Rose Bowl field (and partake in some other top secret cool activities on the field)We even went on two emergency calls and then got spoiled with a delicious Tri Tip BBQ lunch, and Ice Cream from Baskin Robbins. I want to give a special thanks to Sarge, Pipes, Cuz'n Larry, Zee, Tony and Ava for the extreme kindness, delicious food, customized T-shirt and hat, happy memories, and lots of laughter. Thank you for taking a special interest in my Big Will and allowing him the opportunity to share your day with you.
Here are some of the photos from today….Pictures say more than may words can.
For those that have been asking, YES the donations made on this site and on SirWilliamsCross.org do go towards William and the expenses related to his care, our travel, and our accomodation in Pasadena. I want to give a special THANK YOU to Linda in Hong Kong. Your kindness had me in tears of gratitude. I gave your nephew a big hug and asked him to please express our sincere appreciation to you.
This is William's journey. We will keep on, Keepin on.