A lot has happened in the 100 days post stem cell transplant.
After being discharged from the hospital ahead of schedule, I focused on trying to get my strength and energy back. This meant daily walks, rest and trying to eat a well balanced diet. It felt so good to be at home. Samantha has returned to Ontario to finish her last semester of school (Sam note: FINALLY I'll graduate in February!) , which has made our household a lot quieter (Sam note: Because everyone knows how much fun I am). However, summer has not been easy as I have encountered numerous complications (meaning: back to the hospital for periodic stays).
Now for some good news - A recent bone marrow test indicates I am still in remission and 100% of my blood has now been replaced with donor cells (thanks again to brother Don)...!
This is the best result we could hope for at this early stage and our family feels blessed, thankful and relieved. While there is still a long tough journey ahead, we have achieved our first major milestone. We don’t consider ourselves “out of the woods” yet, but it is a step in the right direction.
Right now I don’t feel " healthy" but the doctors remind me that recovery from a transplant takes a long time and I have to be patient. Also as my blood counts are still below the normal range it seems every virus within a mile somehow finds me, which is frustrating. But I am working to get better each day and with such good news feel re-energized. I will continue to remain under the care of the BMT Unit at the Tom Baker for the next phase of my recovery .
Keep the love, positive energy and prayers coming - it's working!
Jerry
Hi Jerry. Just wanted to let you know that your "former staff" at Cornerstone are rooting for you and are hoping for a complete recovery. Keep doing as the doctors' tell you and don't hurry back to the office too soon! You don't need the stress!
ReplyDeleteAll the best from Wendy Cunningham, Nicole Jones and Jordan Potiuk
Terrific news Jerry!!! Thanks for the update and LOVE the photos.
ReplyDeleteKaren
Hi Jerry, we just wanted to let you know that we think of you often and send our very best wishes to you, Kelly & Sam. We miss your quirky sense of humor and good company. Get well soon so we can get together. Keep fighting and we'll keep praying.
ReplyDeleteLots of love, Karen & Randy
A very special Thanks Giving for us all as I understand that you are in remission!
ReplyDeleteMy Gerald is also there!
We Count our blessings dear cousin.
Please send your regular email address.
Mine is: Lili.Kopala@DAL.ca .. Not case sensitive.
I spoke to your mother today. It is always a joy to hear her and share some stories. Love from us at Powell River. Daughter Rachel is here from Halifax
Stay Positive Jerry. Thank you for the updates. The photos are fabulous. Keep healing. You are in my prayers. p.s. I am at BLG now and guess who I am working with, Creedie Cooper! We are both cheering for you! :)
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