Happy re-birthday! Hard to believe it's been one whole year since my stem cell transplant and oh what a year it has been. So much has happened in life!  

They say that recovery is a year or even two long. I'm happy to say I'm recovering well. My immune system has rebuilt and is mostly back to a "normal" status. As far as any improvements, which is just a bonus after HSCT, I  can confidently say that I have seen some. The main thing I notice, is my stamina is much better. I can do more than one thing a day without completely wearing myself out. I can do house chores, cook dinner, and go on an outing all in the same day. A year ago, I would have only been able to do one thing and have to have help with the rest. My walking is still a challenge, but I've been adjusting as necessary by getting a walker in the house, walker in the car, and an electric wheelchair for bigger or longer outings. All to say, I've gained some independence back and it feels so good! I had my yearly MRI and it was stable! That means that so far as we know, HSCT has worked. I will continue to be followed by a neurologist and any other doctors needed for any follow-up care, including getting revaccinated with all my childhood vaccines.

Last fall, Jon and I purchased my Aunt Debi and Uncle Denny's motorhome and have been able to use it a few times already. We were trying to brainstorm ideas on fun things we could do with my current limitations, and the RV is the perfect fit. We've had so much fun already and looking forward to more trips ahead.

Andi is loving life as an almost 3 year old. Almost fully potty trained, and little Miss Independent. We registered her for preschool next fall! So exciting! She loves camping, swinging, running everywhere and anything outdoors. Summer will be so much fun this year.

Jon stays busy with work and building his businesses. We both benefit from being self-employed and the freedom that allows.

My support system has been incredible. My aunt going with me to Mexico, my mother-in-law coming from Texas to help while I was gone, my mom taking 2 months off of work when I got back from Mexico to help, my dad taking me to a million doctor appointments, my sister being there with a coffee or bottle of wine when the day required, the meal train, the well-wishes, the new friends, the old friends, my church family, and everyone in between that has stepped up to help me and my little family get through this whole process.

I can't write this and not thank the One who really has done everything. God has been so good to me. Even on the hard days, which there definitely has been, He's revealed Himself to me in astounding ways. Could be a simple song on the radio, or the recent extravagant northern lights. He's been with me every step of the way.

I am happy that I went through the challenging HSCT process to hopefully gain more stability moving forward and be able to live life to the fullest. I look forward to what this next year will bring!

Deuteronomy 20:4
"for the Lord your God is he who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies, to give you victory."