Hi Everyone,
Its been a month (as of yesterday) since I was diagnosed and admitted to the hospital. I have now officially completed my first round of chemo, known as the induction round. Aside from a few complications that are considered common side effects of chemo, and the shock of the diagnosis, I am now feeling much better . This first round went well and was successful in killing the cancer cells. We are moving in the right direction, but we know we still have to fight this battle one day at a time.
To help prevent the cancer from returning, my next round of chemo, known as the consolidation round, will start in 7 to 14 days. We are in discussions with the doctors regarding our future steps: a third round of chemo (another consolidation round) or potentially a stem cell transplant, depending on the availability of a donor match.
I would like to acknowledge and thank everyone who has sent cards, notes, emails and voicemails with messages of support. Through this experience I am learning alot, and that an important tool for recovery is a positive outlook.
All your support, words of encouragement and prayers are helping me maintain a positive attitude. I truly appreciate your messages and want you to know that it does make a difference.
Much to our surprise, we have discovered the hospital is a very busy place and there is little down time. Its a beehive of activity and I am constantly challenged with finding a few hours to sleep, but I have been keeping up with your messages. Fortunately, I have been able to slip away on day passes home over the past two weeks for some needed quiet and relaxation.
I would like to thank Samantha for doing this blog so everyone can be informed as much as possible. As my primary caregivers, Nurse Sam and Nurse Kelly have alot on their plate.
I look forward to talking to you all in the near future.
Jerry
Hi Jerry, We've been reading your blog and hope everything goes okay for you. Sam and Kelly sound wonderful and good luck - we'll be praying for you.Hope to see you soon again, in PEI. Allan and Jan Ling
ReplyDeleteHi Jerry and Kelly, We've been following the blog and sending good energy your way. We're meeting with Bev plus 3 tomorrow. We'll do everything we can there, know you are doing everything possible on your front. I've always thought highly of the Bruce Willis / Andre Agassis club. Nice job Nurse Sam. Our best to you all, Ross and Andre
ReplyDeleteSo good to hear Uncle Jer.
ReplyDeletePearson prays for your health every night. And he even donned that silly Flames jersey for you (though it made him cry).
Sending lots of love,
briegh, trev, and pearson
Hi Jerry, it's Nancy Olson. Bonty has been keeping me up-to-date on your progress. It sounds like you are in great hands. Stay positive. My mom was diagnosed with colon cancer 2.5 years ago and she had the surgery to remove it and had to go through months of chemo. I take her to all of her appointments/check-ups and so far so good (fingers crossed). You were so kind to me during my short time at MA and I am grateful to know someone as strong and positive as you. Please let me know if I can do anything to help. Anything at all, just name it. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Stay well and kick that cancer in the ass!
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