Wow, where has the time gone? It’s been 38 days since my transplant and more than three weeks since my last blog posting on April 7 (below). In general things have been going well.
I should have been knocking on wood as I was previously gloating about my speedy recovery and release from the hospital. Shortly thereafter I was put back in the hospital for another week. I was experiencing one of various forms of Graft Versus Host Disease (GVHD) that are not at all unexpected and, in moderation, are a positive sign that the transplant will be effective. In my case the GVHD has been mainly digestive and bowel related (don’t worry, no more details will follow). I’ve been visiting the hospital once or twice a week as an out-patient as the docs run various tests, monitor my condition and tweak the 15+ medications that I’ve been taking. They are very happy with my progress and I’m learning (slowly) that I just have to be a more patient patient. I’m learning that I can’t control everything and that I have to put myself in the care, love and trust of others. I’m in absolutely no pain but am very weak and fatigued. I have to say that this challenge is a very positive learning experience for me. Bottom line, things are going in the right direction with only occasional bumps in the road.
My pre-transplant plan (NOT the doctors) was for me to be back to work and semi-functional by today, May 1. Boy, was I ever wrong there! I’m no longer setting deadlines on myself or my recovery. I remain, however, 100% confident that my recovery will eventually be complete. The doctors do support this opinion of mine although they will never use the term “100%.”
Without getting too sentimental or emotional, as I have been inclined to do lately, suffice it to say that I am more gratefully than ever for the wonderful support that I have received from family, friends, co-workers, medical professionals and, of course, our Creator. THANK YOU ALL.
Love – George
P.S. — I wish to apologize for this impersonal form of communication but it’s the best that I can do for now — see, I am learning my limits. I’m sorry that I am unable to respond to your many kind notes, cards, blog comments, emails, phone calls and well-wishes. Thank you for your understanding.
May 2, 2006 at 4:28 am
George:
It’s great to read your very positive update. Keep up your good fight. In the meantime, we’re all there for you with our prayers for your continued strength and perseverence to see you through to your complete recovery.
Love,
Bob & Annette
May 2, 2006 at 8:10 am
Cuno, we waited a long time for this Good News. OK,OK…you waited longer to send it. We’re now back in sync. Whew! Stay strong, amigo.
I’ll cancel the Teddy Kossoff appointments, curly.
Warmest best wishes,
Reddo & Maich
May 2, 2006 at 12:12 pm
Thanks for the update. For a Cubs fan you are looking good!
Take care,
Liz
May 4, 2006 at 10:02 am
George,
We’re happy to learn that you are making progress in a tough battle. We keep you in our thoughts. Your positive attitude is an inspiration!
May 5, 2006 at 3:08 pm
Hi George,
I’ve been thinking of you, hoping and praying that all goes well in your batle with the big fish. Your blog seems upbeat, it is so imprtant to keep a positive mind set when dealing with issues so far beyond your own control. When Peter made the nets he made yours larger larger than most, it didn’t catch that many fish (I’m still working on that with you) but it caught an amazing amount of friends and there all cheering for you.
Get well soon,
Billy, Bob, Bernie, and Jon,
May 25, 2006 at 2:45 pm
Dear George and Cookie,
We are proud of you. You must be driving the atheists to unbelievable distractions.
God bless.