DAY + 1 YEAR, 3 ½ WEEKS

Hi All,

It’s been quite a while since my last journal entry and once again I do apologize.  I know it makes some very nervous not hearing anything, thinking the worst.  However, I made a decision, a while ago, that if I’m not feeling well or if I don’t have something important to say, it’s easier for me to tuck it away and lay low.  I hope you understand.

As many are aware, I was diagnosed with Leukemia in February, 2003 and after a number of rounds of chemotherapy, I was told that I needed a Bone Marrow Transplant, in order to survive.  I was placed on the International Bone Marrow Transplant Registry and after a very nervous wait, which seemed like forever, a match (and I understand it’s a perfect match) was found.  My donor is a 23 year old young lady, who I now know is from the East Coast.  She had very innocently walked into a Health Fair at her university, which had a Transplant Registry, and had signed up. WOW!

Last May 15TH marked the 1 year anniversary of my transplant.  It’s been a very challenging year with numerous hospital stays, some difficult health battles and some scary (they now tell me) episodes.  BUT HERE’S THE GOOD NEWS:  On my 1 year anniversary, my doctor ran a special blood test, another CT Scan, to analyze my lymph nodes, and most critically, a Bone Marrow Aspiration to see if there were any Leukemia cells in my marrow.  All 3 tests were negative and I just received word from my doctor that I AM IN A COMPLETE REMISSION.  I love saying that.  I AM IN A COMPLETE REMISSION.  I’m still dealing with some very important side issues involving my skin, lungs, muscle mass and bone density, but my Leukemia is well under control.  What a wonderful moment to be able to share.  I feel really, really good, enjoying getting back to work and planning for the future.

Everyone asks if I’ve talked to my donor yet and unfortunately, the answer is no.  We’ve written anonymously to each other, but because of a paper work snafu on the east coast we haven’t yet spoken directly.  As you can imagine, I can’t wait to tell her I love her and how much I appreciate the incredible gift she has given me.  She truly saved my life.

Once again, I want to thank everyone for the wonderful love and support I have received during this difficult period of time.  I don’t know what I would have done without it. 

Love-Scott