Day +264

Posted on: 17/12/2014

Last night we returned to Milan for Ava's 9 month post-transplant checks. Our schedule is less demanding than at the 6/12 month checks, so we are staying in town instead of by the hospital, as there will be more to do. The duck pond and gelato parlour definitely hold less appeal in this cold weather... having said that it is actually quite a bit warmer than London. We had a full day at the hospital today involving routine blood work, an abdominal ultrasound and a Gross Motor Function assessment. It was great to see the wonderful team of doctors and nurses again (above left psychologist Francesca; right Dr Laura). It was also fantastic to hear about more children being treated with Gene Therapy, as there are currently three in the isolation unit (Ava was the only patient during April and May this year), with more being lined up for treatment in January. It is very heartening to know that the trial can now help children who are more symptomatic than under previous criteria, giving fresh hope to those newly diagnosed. After a long day at the hospital Ava fell asleep in the car before reviving herself for a quick swim. This is great therapy for Ava, especially at a time when we are missing our usual daily sessions of OT and physio. More tests tomorrow and possibly a few results before we leave on Friday. Wish us luck.