Sawyer was home Oct. 11 - 14 for his mid-semester break. It was, of course, great to see him for a few days! He was able to catch up with a number of his high school buddies since their college breaks were at the same time. He did have to think about school work though since two of his classes were holding their mid-term exams the day after break... not very nice of them. He's doing really well. Enjoys the group of friends he hangs out with. Had all "A" grades in his mid-term report card. Must be planning on going to a Halloween party since he was talking about gathering items for some sort of costume. Many of his friends are performing arts majors and the type that like to perform and not be shy about dressing up!
The Monday of his break was the monthly trip to Rochester for his chemo treatment. That went well and was routine. He had an additional appointment to see the orthopedic oncologist for a check up on his hips. New x-rays showed they have gotten a bit worse. The top of the normally round hip joint has started to flatten out. The doctor said the stiffness he has is arthritis and told him to not do any running (for at least a year), and to expect hip replacement surgery in the next 5-15 years. Not news any running-loving, fitness geek, 19-year-old wants to hear. He was understandably bummed at the news but by Thursday said he'd come to terms with it. He can still lift weights, bike, hike, and do other general activities. He is going to sell the skateboard he purchased a couple of months ago since that does bother his hips.
Last weekend he got a chance to finally go hiking in the area around New Paltz. He's been wanting to do that for awhile. He'll probably take his car to campus next semester which will facilitate getting around easier and make it more possible to plan additional hiking/snowshoeing trips. This weekend he is going on a daylong geology class field trip. He's looking forward to that!
He comes home next for Thanksgiving break. Will get home on Tuesday evening, return on Sunday, with the next chemo appointment on Wednesday.
