Wednesday, October 26, 2005

Gratitude and Going Home

Almost 7 weeks ago Susan and I met with my Dr. and reviewed with him, in detail, the informed consent for the two regimes of chemotherapy I was about to receive in the next month, as well as the stem cell infusion. The documents exceeded 10 pages, and my doctor reviewed each side effect in detail. Leaving the doctor's office that day, both Susan and I agree, was one of the low points of these past 7 months. And, while the option of "not having the procedure" was written on the document, Dr. Rifkin was quick to point out that was not really an option in my case. So many potential side effects, many of which can be fatal, and the absolute guarantee that I would get some of them but most likely I wouldn't get them all. I was scared. Susan was scared. When they delivered the first bag of chemo on Oct. 10th, I braced for the worst. We are 2 1/2 weeks from that last high dose chemo and stem cell infusion and my course, although not free of side effects, has been smoother than we ever could have hoped. Thoughts are very powerful, directed prayer is even more so, and love is the most powerful of all. You have all given of yourselves to bring healing and health to me and my family and we are so grateful for all you have done. I humbly acknowledge that my good course these past weeks is beyond anything I could have done by myself. Thank you.

My counts continue to rise (neutrophils are at 290, white count at .4)and my doctor says I will likely be discharged tomorrow or Friday. I am so excited to be going home. We are not out of the woods since I will continue to be immunosuppressed for some time, and I will have to continue on the strict diet, and limit contact with anyone or anything that might have bugs. I will have daily visits to the clinic for awhile, for blood work and a quick exam to assure I haven't picked up anything. But we are now on the road to recovery.

And finally, don't you love those Sox! It is their year. Susan's cousin Arlene, who lives in New York, managed to find Katie Kirby, White Sox PR Director, through the internet and email and apparently told my story to Ms. Kirby, who then posted on the blog. Arlene you're terrific.

Love, Dan

4 comments:

Seal Family said...

Great news Dan! You all deserve a great big hug for all that you have been through! Continue to feel the prayers, good thoughts and all the candles that have been lit for you all.

Remember that many of us from Colorado are there whenever you need us! Love to all. The Seals

Spike said...

Fantastic!!! Just 16 days ago you received your first heavy duty dose of chemo and, here you are, ready to go home! I find that nothing short of miraculous! Amen to the power of prayer and strength of the human spirit (especially yours)! I'm stopping to pick up a bottle of champagne on my way home tonight (yes, they do sell that stuff in the North Country). Mike and I will be toasting you, Susan, Catherine and Julia! You all remain in our thoughts and prayers!
Love, Lynne

shawnandjaike said...

Such great news Dan. You are a medical marvel!! We love you and send speedy recovery vibes.
Your Chapel Hill fan club.

Brother Ted said...

The Sox are going home as CHAMPIONS!You are going home a CHAMPION! What an October. Love you Dan.