Olivia commenced her first round of cis-retinoic today. This is the same medication she took for 11 months post-transplant. She tolerated it fairly well and the doctors felt that there may be some benefit in taking it. The most obvious side effect is the excessive skin dryness, which can at times be very sore and itchy. It can also cause joint and muscle pain which can be a worry for James and I as cancer can cause similar complaints. Again, Olivia takes her medication without complaint. Her doctors would like her to remain on it for about six months.
James took Sarah to Kidstart while I took Olivia to the Governor General’s Christmas Party at Government House (only one parent and no siblings were allowed). A group of us met at Camp Quality headquarters in Weston and took a bus to the party. We all sat in a marquee and feasted on fruit, party pies, cakes, etc. Santa paid a quick visit and handed out lollies to the kids. The GG also spoke briefly and then spent some time meeting some of the children and their families. Unfortunately, we did not have the opportunity to meet her, as Olivia, Caroline (our friend from CQ) and I spent the majority of the time queuing for the jumping castle and face painting. Nevertheless, Oli seemed to have a good time.
When we arrived home, we raced around to do our last minute packing for Melbourne as our flight was only a couple of hours away. We had to make sure we were at the airport on time as Tiger Airways has a very strict policy regarding passengers arriving late. We actually made it with a few minutes to spare. On my way through security, one of the security staff pointed out to me that I used to teach her when she was in Year 5 or 6. Geez, it’s moments like that that make you feel old! It was good to see her anyway.
By the time, we arrived at our apartment in Melbourne it was getting quite late. The girls had been very well behaved though Sarah was becoming a little grisly (only because she was tired). We found a lovely little restaurant nearby and grabbed a bite for dinner, though it turned out to be a very late night for the girls.
