Day 100

It is finally here.  Day 100.  It is surely a milestone, as it says I survived the ordeal of the bone marrow transplant.  My day 100 biopsy came back clean, so I am still in remission.  Next biopsy is December 13th.  

I’m not gonna lie and say my journey has been easy.  I am known as a putzer, and no putzing during this time.  So much downtime watching shows and trying to occupy myself.  I had many emotional ups and downs, but mostly just living day to day.  I had another setback that started on my birthday, August 7.  Off to the emergency room with a high temperature.  By the 8th, I was back in the hospital with a blood infection.  6 more nights followed by 9 days of at home infusion antibiotics.  I came out fine, but it caused me to say “What’s next.” Well, here I am at day 100, and I can get a bit of independence.  Unfortunately, my Doctor has recommended that I maintain the same precautions as my last three months.  No golf, no fishing, no hunting and no large crowds.  I am still on immune suppressant drugs, which still make me immune compromised.  Disappointing, yes, but she indicated that I have done so well up to this point and would hate for me to have any setbacks.  That said, we can go to the cabin.  Our solace place.

Even though I’ve had challenges, both physical and emotional, I’m here at day 100 because of all the support and prayers from so many people.  I’ve had people pray for me at Fatima, I’ve had a cousin light a candle for me in Mexico, and I get messages of prayer from so many people.  A friend from church organized a surprise rally in front of our house.  70 people marched down our cul-de-sac with messages and balloons and an energy that left me speechless.  Yes, you heard right.  Our family is so fortunate to have such incredible support.

My journey is not over, but I am going in the right direction.  I need to be on a chemo pill for 2 years as a preventative measure, and can start to get vaccinations again.  No childhood vaccinations until next June, so I won’t be able to substitute teach until next school year.  But as my immune system improves, I will become more independent.  And God willing will eventually become cured of this disease.

Once again, I want to continue to express such gratitude for all the continued prayers and support.  We can’t do this alone.  Thank you all.