Tuesday, May 29, 2012

Mantle cell lymphoma remission continues

We are continued to be blessed by many around us. Last night a group of youth assisted with window washing and weeding. Although we have not been with this group for over a year, several consistently stop by. We appreciate the friendships. The days bring more health to Dale. He completes many projects he sets for himself and able to get ready for the next. He rests frequently, although, seems to recover more quickly.

Doctor visit today went well enough that he does not need to go in again until September. She is letting him go to a dentist, go back to work, and be as active as he thinks he can handle. He needs to be wise in infectious potential situations so he will don his surgical mask occasionally. Work begins on Monday. I do not know his plans on how much of a day he will be able to handle, however, I do know he will need resting periods and planned eating times. Dale's mind is clear and productive--the "chemo-brain" subsides.  The next stage of the mantle cell lymphoma journey is about to begin.

Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Flowers for life ahead

It is good to see Dale progressing each day for the better. He feels healthier each day, diarrhea in check (still some issues, but better), energy increasing, and his mind is clearing. Returning to work in a few weeks brings on the next chapter of unknowns. I think he will be fine as he adjusts to his work mode again. He will need time to update his mind, stamina, and schedule but I believe work for him has been understanding and will appreciate his needs.  He is a good guy to have around and they will enjoy him one more year.

We made it through this chapter in the journey of mantle cell lymphoma. With the endless prayers, continuous acts of service, supportive friends, and progress in science we held together through it all. Although many sleepless nights and days of minimal existence prevailed for both of us, Spring brings hope, new buds, and flowers for life ahead.

Tuesday, May 15, 2012

Day 132

I do not feel compelled to report any more. That means progress for both of us. I go to work and feel I contribute instead of take up space. Dale stays home and works on projects he feels need to be completed.  He plans full days and has built some stamina, but it is slow. He is doing quite well, actually. If we did not know better, it would be just regular days, however, Dale must plan when he eats and where he can be within the hour because the food processes too quickly and causes issues. That limits being in public places for a time span. Doctors have not given much information on his constant diarrhea issues. Going back to work in about a month, will bring discomforts and careful consideration. When he speaks to his supervisor, he feels they are willing to accommodate his needs. That certainly helps the anticipation of getting into the work world again.

This is day 132 since bone marrow transplant. It almost seems like it happened to someone else. Immunizations begin in July, gently begin work mid-June, and Dale's oldest daughter and her family are moving back to the state! How sweet it is.