September 14, Day +228, Another voice heard from...

"Just the Facts"-- Driving, writing, and overall ready to get going with normal life.  Blood levels continue to hold or increase bit by bit.  All other markers look good!

I recently asked B if he would be interested in writing something on the blog.  He said he would and so today he has.  I will just note a few facts before his note.....1)  he is now driving on his own! 2)  we are going for the second 4 week cycle without blood! 3) this upcoming Monday will mark the first day off steroids! 4)  Docs hope to have B off all meds in about 2 months!  We are cautiously celebrating! :)

Just from the heart.

Karen asked if I would write the next blog since I have so much time on my hands.

Thank you all for your prayers and support.  It's hard to know how to react when someone you know is going through a difficult time like this, but just knowing you're there and can be called upon is the best support there is.  Thank you.

 

Karen has been an amazing wife.  I have completely relied upon her.  There's so much to do, I feel sorry how after she works a full day she just keeps on going when she gets home.  Keeping track of just my medicine is nearly a full-time job.

 

I just came back from infusion therapy and a doctor's appointment yesterday.  All is very positive.  I didn't need any infusions, and this makes the third or fourth time in a row  that I didn't need anything.  I've gone four weeks, this Thursday with no blood transfusions.  My bone marrow is producing blood on its own, and the doctor says I probably won't need more blood.  That was the whole goal of this amazing procedure. 

 

I'm still on a lot of medications that slow me down and make me have to stay out of the sun, which is the most difficult, because I love to go on walks, and I get too warm wearing pants and long sleeves and a hat.  I asked the doctor when I could start wearing shorts, and he said to give it a month.  Then I asked him how soon until I could go in the water, ocean or pool, and he was trying to work it out so I could go now, but should give it more time.  I need to have the catheter removed from my arm first.  So I'll try to be patient.  The doctor told me I will feel so much better when I get off these medications, which tire you out.

 

The biggest trial I'm going through now is that I feel sharp and strong, and not being able to work or do my favorite activities makes me very restless and feeling anxious.  I wanted to go to Sunday night's first evening service so bad the other night but couldn't because of the large crowds.  Karen and I walked to church and peeked our heads through the side door just to feel like I was there.  The isolation is causing some loneliness issues, which should end soon.  I can be with a small group if I know no one has a cold or has been around someone ill. 

 

Please pray for strength for Karen and that I stay busy during my long days.

 

Thank you all again,

B

Until next time,

Hopeful Believer.