Mark is eating more, gaining weight, getting more energy back and feeling up to doing a lot more things. The neuropathy in his feet cause him balance issues and pain but he is being strong and making the best of it. Mark's skin GVHD rash is holding steady, yet so is the steroid level. We started tapering the steroids this week and will continue for the next 10 weeks or so. Please, Please, Please stay away rash. I am holding on to the quote from our wonderful Blue team head nurse back in Seattle "..... eventually the new stem cells/immune system and Mark's skin will make nice." Oh I'm waiting for that day, because that will mean that the 34+ pills he has to take each day will be greatly reduced. He will be feeling better, weighing more, filled with more energy and mental/emotional stability - and that much closer to feeling "normal" again!
With twice weekly physical therapy and oncology/blood draw once a week PLUS daily IV's, doing lots to help out at home, eating well, drinking his water and working out - he is staying busy! One goal we have not just met but surpassed this month.... NO hospitalization in February! (I made the goal of no more than 7 days a month in the hospital after our infection/hospital stay in January.) We are on the right track for sure!
Meeting goals.... Beating the odds - that's my new motto.
I am renewed in my efforts to keep my JOY alive and TACKLE the life that is before us. I have always been the type of person that goes after what she wants. I'm a planner. I pick the goal and go after it with all I have. I'm not sure why I let myself think that I don't have to do that any more. Or that I don't WANT to?
I'm committed to do all I can to make my little family's life the best. I've said before - I don't like the odds that come with Leukemia (even if in remission) - or with bone marrow transplants! But they are just odds. Let's all commit to being people that beat the odds: who try hard everyday for their family, who don't fear the worst, who put their trust in an almighty power, not putting ourselves first, not giving up or giving in - BUT having hope for a future rich in love and joy from the LORD.
I plan on putting one more thing on my list of accomplished goals... Supporting Mark faithfully and doing all I can to help his body beat the odds!
Please keep praying for Gods touch. Some days are hard, but we are seeing more improvement all the time. Long road but I'm up for it and most days Mark is too.... but if you know me at all - you know that on the days he doesn't feel up for it - I'm dragging him along or carrying him if I have to!
3 comments:
God knew what He was doing when He brought you two together! We thank Him for all the progress and know He is faithful for the continued journey! The odds, the percentages or whatever mean nothing to God. Aren't you thankful He is in control and able to provide what we need for each day, one at a time! Continuing to lift you up in prayer each day! We love you guys! Bill & Donita
Great post! Make nice fast rash! (sounds a lot like Dr.Seus) I really like hearing about life after transplant. Awesome job on February goals!
Remember Jesus carries you when you are tired, so you don't have to do all the carrying.
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