I’m delighted to be writing this blog posting from the comforts of HOME. That’s right! I was released from Northwestern Memorial Hospital yesterday, April 6 — exactly two weeks after my stem cell transplant. When I was told to expect a 3-4 week hospital stay after the transplant, I thought that I could do better than that. I have to admit, however, that even I was delightfully surprised to be "sprung" so early. The doctors feel that my blood counts and other keys tests indicated that my recovery could continue safely in the friendly confines and comforts of home. Although it means more work for my home "caregiver," Cookie is delighted not to be making those daily treks to the hospital followed by hours upon boring hours sitting by my bedside, while I slept most of the time.
Generally, I am feeling pretty good and am in no pain. However, I have virtually no physical or mental energy (or hair). I have had absolutely no appetite but have somehow managed to put on weight! Considering all that my body has been put through and the remarkable rebuilding of my entire blood system with the stem cells of my donor, I’m feeling much better than I would expect. There is still a lot of repairing and healing that must take place over the next several months. As a matter of fact, I really won’t be considered completely cured until a year from now. I am a strong believer in the old adage: A job well begun is half done.
I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Dr. Jayesh Mehta, Dr. Kamran Rashid and the entire transplant team at NWH. And then there are the nurses on 15-East — Wow! What a remarkably talented and companionate team. They provided much invaluable TLC to get me through some challenging times. I cannot thank you enough, ladies. All of the above, of course, are under the direction of my fine and trusted friend Dr. Steve Rosen, Director of the Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center at NMH. Steve’s outstanding leadership, management and compassion are evident throughout the entire Lurie Center.
I doubt that if thirty-three years ago when she said "I do." to the innocuous question: "Do you take … in good times and in bad … in sickness and in health … ," that Cookie had any idea of what she was getting herself into the past seven years. Nevertheless she has addressed the challenges with her usual love, compassion, tenacity and dedication. Never flinching at any task or allowing herself to wallow in self-pity, she has provided me with every bit of love and support that I could ever hope for. I love you, Cookie. The love, support and strength that our kids, Anje (and Nathan), George (and Molly), Mary Eileen and Bobby, have demonstrated has been incredible. I am so grateful for you all "being there" and so proud to call you mine.
THANK YOU for your continuing thoughts, prayers and wonderful support. I can’t imagine going through this without you behind me. Please keep it up. One request please, NO GIFTS, food, publications, videos, etc. We are more blessed than we can cope with. Within the next couple of weeks I'll let you know something that you can do if you are so moved.
With Love & Gratitude — George
