As a last salute to a summer that went by way too fast, we took a cruise with some friends to the Bahamas and visited my mom and family in Charleston for 8 days of sun, food, and fun. I decided to leave my militant TSW rituals at home for the week to see how Brian’s skin and scratch would fare (see Log dated 8/30/15). Maybe it’s just a summer thing–like last year–but his skin got better and his scratching was no worse despite heat, sweat, sun, and water. See pictures dated 8/27/15. It was a nice vacation from our TSW routine and “itch-think”, and Brian spent all his waking hours playing ping pong, eating soft serve ice cream, and having a blast with his friends.
We’ll continue the experiment of no vitamins/supplements while monitoring energy, function, skin, and scratch. Hopefully, we’ll be able to discontinue the daily vitamins and supplements (which is like pulling teeth to get him to take anyway) which will simplify our routine.
TSW is very unpredictable, especially in the later months like 22 and 23+ months out. You think you’re finally done with the cycles and are healed, then BOOM! the full-body symptoms are back again, as if you were in the horrific early months of TSW. For this reason we are thankful for any and all good skin and itch times.
October 2015 will be Brian’s 2-year anniversary of stopping TS. Beyond the itch, he has definitely come a long way. Praying for strength, endurance, perseverance, peace, and healing for all TSW infants, children, adults, and caregivers. Never lose hope!
“Those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.” Isaiah 40:31
Sunset in the Bahamas from the highest deck on the ship (taken by Brian) 8/26/15
8/26/15 Paddle boarding in Freeport
Paddle boarding without a paddle
Ping Pong on the beach
God’s gift of good friends
