Journal entry by Calvin Baker —
Over the past few years, I have posted many updates regarding my trials with cancer. Diagnoses of multiple myeloma: treatment, stem cell transplant, isolation, and recovery. Just over a year later a diagnoses of leukemia: treatment, another stem cell transplant from a donor, longer isolation, and longer recovery.
I am nearing the end of the latest phase of treatment/recovery. My 3rd full set of childhood immunizations is almost complete. The multitude of daily drugs are beginning to decrease.
Recently I had another bone marrow biopsy — the most accurate indicator of blood cancer status. Initial results from the Mayo Clinic lab showed no signs of either cancer. Samples were also sent to a lab at the U of Washington with equipment capable of detecting one cancer cell in a million. Results posted above. No evidence of even minimal residual disease (MRD). Awesome affirmation of wonderful, unearned blessing.
Maybe, just maybe, there will not be another diagnosis. Maybe “normal life” lies ahead. I hope not. I hope I remain vividly and profoundly aware of the fact that every new day is a gift … a “bonus day.” (Of course, there are not guarantees. Today is a “bonus day” for every one of us.)
So many of you stayed by my side and prayed for my multiple miracles through this long journey. All I can say is “thank you” … may you be richly blessed for your faithfulness.
James 1:2-4 “Consider it pure joy … whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
Photo Note: the choice of "Bonus days" activities include some wonderfully normal things ... like helping my great-nephew and "essentially grandson" do a cleanup project at church.