Wayne Gearhart

I have Leukemia (Acute Myeloid Leukemia [AML]). I've had two rounds of chemotherapy which has depleted my red and white blood cell counts to the point that I should not be in enclosed public spaces (I miss my meetings!) My immune system is very weak so if I encounter any virus, germ or bacteria, it could be deadly. I will be getting stem cell transplants starting around June 23rd, which will require a hospitalization of 3 to 4 weeks. Unfortunately, when I'm released from the hospital I will have virtually no immune system and I will be taking anywhere between 15 to 30 different medications each day. The medications may cause significant side effects so I will need caretakers to monitor and assist me 24 hours a day. Unfortunately, insurance does not cover 24 hour home care. I need friends who can volunteer to spend some time with me after I'm released from the hospital. I should be released sometime in mid to late July and will need care for perhaps 1 to 3 months. Also, I will need friends who can accompany me to medical appointments at the UCSD Moores Cancer Center in La Jolla. The doctors say I must have somebody accompany me to each visit. I will probably be going there 3 times per week for the first 1 to 3 months, depending on how quickly my body adjusts to the transplant. I am hopeful I won't have significant aftercare problems because my brother turned out to be a perfect 10 point match for stem cells. So, hopefully my body can adjust to the transplants in a timely manner. I thank you all for your support and help. I will be working with Carolyn to set up a sign up sheet for volunteers. I will post a notice on Facebook and Twitter when it is up and running.