Luca's First Bath
A few weeks ago, the central IV line that was coming from Luca's back was removed, and replaced with an implanted port. The port's line and access point are implanted just below the skin. It's only accessed through a needle on the days when IV medications are scheduled, which thankfully have been fewer and farther apart these past few weeks. The rest of the time, the port is completely covered and protected by Luca's skin.
So, without an exposed line for the first time since he was 2-months old, Luca was finally able to take his first bath! He was initially skeptical of the whole concept, and made it clear that he wanted out. But within a few minutes he was splashing and laughing and looking in amazement at the bubbles and toys floating by. Bathtime is now part of Luca's nightly routine, and one more small, simple privelege for which we are extremely grateful.
This is such a good milestone to be happy about. The pictures are so cute. Thanks for constanly keeping us updated. God is always watching over you and helping you through whatever it is that you need help through. Grandma Reale is up there smiliing down at this precious baby that she never got to meet. Even though you never got to meet her Luca, she is always watching over you and your family.
Love and prayers always,
~ Nikky~ :)
Posted by: Nikky Cimino | February 20, 2009 at 01:41 PM
Those pictures are wonderful! It's amazing how big Luca has gotten. We hope we get a chance to see him soon!
Love,
The Sousous
Posted by: Tony, Kristyn, Madalyne, & Anthony Sousou | January 28, 2009 at 09:02 PM
i love it!...so glad u can enjoy the simple things that we all take for granite now! kisses to Luca!
Posted by: Jennifer Hafner | January 28, 2009 at 04:50 PM
Luca, you are too cute! I know exactly how you feel, there is nothing like a warm bath and a cuddly towel!
Hugs and kisses to you and mommy and daddy!
Love, Sue
Posted by: Susan Dufton | January 28, 2009 at 01:28 PM
Love It... Funny and strange how a port can bring so much happiness. Glad to see Luca so happy. All my best and love to you and your husband.
xoxo
Patty
Posted by: Patty & Joe | January 27, 2009 at 01:54 PM
Luca!!! You get cuter by the second, buddy. We folo your every move here in Syracuse and are so happy that you got to experience tubby time. It's still my favorite way to end the day. We love you, little guy!
Love Maggie, Lila, Jess and Dan Keating
Posted by: Jessie Keating | January 26, 2009 at 07:24 PM
Thank you, Luca, for reminding us AGAIN that we need to be thankful for even the most seemingly routine things in our lives. Continued blessings on all of you.
Posted by: Diane and Jerry | January 26, 2009 at 05:34 PM
Luca I noticed that you liked the toy that my family got you.the basketball toy. happy for you luca. you are always in my prayers.
you cousin
Jake Dippold
Posted by: Jake Dippold | January 26, 2009 at 03:18 PM
AWH!! Habibi! You look so precious in the tub with all your bath toys.I loved your pictures. What a smile!! SO PROUD OF YOU!!
Hugs and kisses
Love you,
Auntie Abie
Posted by: Abeir, Dave, Briana & Nick | January 26, 2009 at 01:50 PM
Luca,
Congratulations, buddy! Another milestone. Being a baby is awesome. As you get older you will find that, less and less, people want to take pictures of you bathing. Savor these tender moments.
Sincerely,
Josh
Posted by: Josh | January 26, 2009 at 10:20 AM
What a great way to start off a week seeing Luca's smiling face. There is not a day that goes by that we aren't thinking of you and praying for you all. Please give Luca hugs and kisses from us.
Love, Lauri, Kara, Mikey and Aunt Virginia
Posted by: Lauri, Kara and Michael | January 26, 2009 at 10:10 AM
What a wonderful thing to see to turn a Monday morning blah feeling into such happiness. It is truly a reminder of how wonderful the simple things in life really are. Once again you are all an inspiration and three of the most bravest people we know. Please know you continue to be in our thoughts and prayers always.
Love,
John, Kelli, Johnny, Jake and Jordan
Posted by: Kelli and John and boys | January 26, 2009 at 08:40 AM
What a remarkable trio you are! Through your journey we have come to appreciate the many "simple privileges" in our own lives. As a friend of the Vassallo's our entire family follows Luca's story and we marvel at your strength and dedication to his cause.
Posted by: the Dausman's | January 26, 2009 at 07:48 AM
Good Morning to all of you!
What a wonderful sight to behold on a Monday morning to see our beautiful boy taking his first bath. Hooray! What fun it must have been for all of you to witness. It's another great milestone in Luca's road to recovery. Thanks for sharing and may God continue to watch over all of you.
Love, Aunt Sari
Posted by: Sari Remon | January 26, 2009 at 06:54 AM
He is so beautiful! Love these pics!
Love,
Auntie Jo
Posted by: Brian, Joanne, Alexander & Alaina Craig | January 25, 2009 at 10:56 PM