It has been a long time since I have put fingers to the keys but felt tonight energy to give a little update. Time is moving along and I have been home in Urbana now for almost 2 months. My 100 day bone marrow showed no leukemic cells and 100% donor cells so that is great news. I am still wearing my blue mask when I am in a store and I have had the wonderful opportunity to meet friends doing so. The funny thing is, I know who you are, but nobody can really tell it is me unless I say something. This has led to a few awkward occasions that were resolved by phone calls after the fact explaining that it was me yelling and waving and so excited to see someone I knew, quite hilarious really when you think about it. Also, since I frequent very few shops, the checkers and managers have come to know me so it is much more comfortable than it was initially.
The record breaking warm weather in March necessitated purchasing all sorts of SPF protective clothing and hats. Dan and Shira from Champaign Surplus were so gracious to act as my personal shoppers so I did not have to try clothes on with my mask in the store.
The last few days I have 'something' keeping me very quiet and indoors with a mild elevation in temperature, but have started an antibiotic today so I am hoping it will resolve quickly. My lack of energy these last few days of course felt like quite a dent in my Passover preparations. However, during the first month I was home I cleaned every cupboard and drawer in the house with the thought of, why wait until after Purim to get started? This has really helped and we should be ready for Passover just in time.
I have enjoyed walking with friends in my neighborhood almost every day since I have been home and this is really the best way for me to visit with people at this time. Just give me a call or email to take a walk.
So happy to be able to wish everyone a happy Passover, a happy Easter and happy spring!!!
Hi Deborah,
ReplyDeleteI very much enjoyed reading your recent post... and especially glad to hear that (except for this "bug" you've got now) you are healing, gaining in strength (in fact, you've got more energy than I do if you've been thoroughly cleaning cabinets, etc...!), and taking daily walks.
I would love to take a walk with you some morning -- after you're over your cold (and I get rid of the annoyance at the back of my knee).
I will call.
Carol
Dear Deborah,
ReplyDeleteIt is so good to read that your 100-day bone marrow check was good, and that you are getting better and stronger. Continue enjoying this amazing weather and have a happy Passover.
sending my love and good wishes to you and your
wonderful family,
Michal Roth
Hi Deborah,
ReplyDeleteI'm Carl Alston from the Leukemia Research Foundation. The LRF, in cooperation with Loyola University Health System and the National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP) hosts a FREE conference Saturday, May 5, 2012 for leukemia, lymphoma, myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) patients and caregivers. The conference will be held at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel, 1551 Thoreau Drive, Schaumburg, IL 60173 from 7:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. Parking, a continental breakfast and lunch are provided, free of charge.
This would be quite a drive for you, but the info. may be of some help. Learn more at www.leukemia-research.org/TreatmentOptions. Our Patient Financial Assistance Program may be helpful too.