First of all, we want to thank Ted and Linda Hutcherson of Danville, Va for organizing a cancer benefit for Dave and opening their home for us. Thank you to all their friends and families for their generosity and kindness. We deeply appreciate and thank you so much.

It's been 2 weeks since we last updated. Dave had his chemo treatments on the 3rd and the 10th of July so he's off for the next 2 weeks. Other than being so sleepy and tired, he is doing good. The swelling in his legs had gone down. His appetite is back and he had gained most of the weight that he had lost during the first few months of being sick. His hair color is going back to normal for it was turning gray when he just started with this chemo regimen that he is on. We've been going back and forth to Va. every weekend and that's where he does all his fishing and playing cards all weekend long. He pushes himself too much and come back home tired for his doctor's appointment but he is happy.

We were supposed to be on vacation this week but we had to cancel it because of all the appointments he has for his retirement which is still up in the air. The navy is preparing for a Physical Evaluation Board which might put his retirement on hold. His medical benefits would be at its best but we are not sure on how it will affect his other benefits like on how the VA and the navy would work together since I didn't ask that question when I attended the DTAP (Disability Transitional Assistance Program) class for him while he was getting his chemo treatment. I was so lost with all those military acronyms that they were using. ( Well, I just have to call the VA guy who handles his case since I have been the one talking with him whenever Dave has questions about his application for VA benefits.)

The girls are doing just fine. Danica's job is to go with her Dad whenever he has appointments, baby sitting once in a while to have some cash. Melissa hasn't grown up yet, still acts like a five year old. And I am just enjoying my summer with less daycare kids. I will just start panicking when we can't make the house payments.

Thank you for all your support and concerns. Please continue praying for Dave's strength, physically and mentally to fight this disease.

Love,
The Hoskins

Saturday, July 1, 2006 was a wonderful day knowing that there a lot of people who cares and thinks about us. Ted and Linda Eanes Hutcherson of Danville, Va. had a "July 4th Cancer Benefit" picnic at their place for Dave and one of their friends. Linda is Barbie's sister-in-law whom Dave had never met? until that night. Aside from BBQ chicken, covered dishes brought by friends and families and the never ending dessert table that was served, live music was played on the side. Dave with the banjo, Angie with mandolin, Scott with the guitar, Barbie with the guitar, Robert with the base and Robert's uncle also played the guitar--- they played mostly gospel songs. Dave was able to keep up with them considering his situation but he didn't sing which Mother and I was a little bit disappointed. I have to leave for now, my baby is awake and I'm typing with one hand!