Friday Afternoon Update from Carrie

I called Carrie this afternoon and had a great conversation with her on how the Tuttles are doing- in a word GREAT! She has had the luxury of some time to unpack some boxes in the garage while Heath takes his morning nap. Ella Brooks is enjoying some time with "Ama" at school but especially enjoys having her baby brother home. At one point, Ella Brooks asked her "Ama", "Just what have Mommy and Daddy done with Baby Heath?"! Now she doesn't have to wonder any more-he is home and happy!

Heath continues to feel good and progress quite well. Currently his counts are a wonderful "zero" for the CMV infection. He is only receiving infusions for the port-related infection. Heath's counts for all his immuno-suppression meds are right on target. He goes back on Monday for his scheduled heart cath. They will stay in the hospital through Wednesday to complete the current course of antibiotics and check all his levels prior to going home.

Carrie and Chris continue to be so grateful to their parents for their tremendous help and support. Chris's parents have faithfully traveled back and forth from Black Mountain to help with the house, the children, hospital stays, etc. Carrie's parents have likewise been so supportive and feel fortunate to live nearby to help in so many ways. Their families have been remarkable in their willingness to do "whatever it takes" in the midst of jobs, school and their own responsibilities to help Chris and Carrie find their way in their new routines.

For now, the Tuttles are enjoying some time to settle in and just "be" as Carrie says! I expect more updates at the beginning of the week once Heath has his cath.

With continued gratefulness,
"Gran" Sarah