Welcome to our CaringBridge website. We've created it to keep family, friends & our church families updated on Dick's health while he is undergoing chemotherapy treatment at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis!
Visit often to read the latest journal entries, visit the photo gallery, and write us a note in our guestbook! Thanks for all the thoughts & prayers our family has already been receiving!!
Dad's journey began in June 2011 when he went to his local doctor with concerns that some of his daily medications may be contributing to aches & pains. The doctor decided to do a CBC (complete blood count) and wanted to continue monitoring the results, specifically, his white blood cell count; therefore, he underwent blood tests every 2 weeks. His white blood cell levels were constantly changing and he was eventually referred to a local Hematologist/Oncologist.
During the month of October, Dad and the Oncologist discussed having a bone marrow biopsy done. The doctor intended to continue monitoring his blood tests, but Dad insisted on doing the biopsy. He listened to his body & his gut telling him it needed to be done. The day after Halloween, Dad underwent the biopsy procedure. A week later (11/08), he was told he had "Myelodysplstic Syndrome Refractory Anemia with Excess Blasts-2," referred to as MDS- a disease of the blood and bone marrow, and a possible pre-leukemia cancer. This diagnosis came as a shock to all, even the doctors. He was referred to Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis.
The following Monday (11/14), Dad, Mom, John, Sarah & Dad's younger brother, Gary, went to Barnes. After a day of blood work & an abundance of information about MDS and bone marrow transplants, we left being told to "enjoy the holidays!" They scheduled him for another bone marrow biopsy after the 1st of the year. However, that all quickly changed. On Thursday (11/17) Dad received a phone call from Barnes. Their Pathologists had reviewed all the results from his tests and were upgrading his diagnosis to "Leukemia." He was told he would be admitted on 11/23 to Barnes for a 1 month stay and begin intense chemotherapy treatment immediately. So much for "enjoying the holidays!"
One year ago today I had my stem cell transplant. It’s hard to believe time has passed so quickly. I am doing pretty well, but tire more easily. I have some swelling In my feet, and still have a cough. I will be going to Barnes on July 8 for a check up so I will follow up on these isssues.
Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.
Help Dick Stay Connected to Family and Friends
A $25 donation to CaringBridge powers a site like Dick's for two weeks. Will you make a gift to help ensure that this site stays online for them and for you?
