Moving in one direction, Forward....

Great news...I was discharged from the program yesterday! What a day. Del and I arrived at the Stem Cell Suite bright and early to avoid sitting in traffic. After labs and a full check up by Dr Seldin and Dr.Mehta, they confirmed my graduation.

Hayleigh made another tray of mini chocolate cupcakes for the staff. (this is the third one!) She had made a tray 2 weeks ago and they were gone in a flash, so she made another tray with 4 times as many for this past Wednesday and they disappeared in 10 minutes. So in celebration of my last day, she made even more cupcakes which we brought with us.(and no we didn't snack on the ride in!) Everyone in the Suite was thrilled of course with the "breakfast bars" and they didn't last long. If they weren't chocoholics before...they are now. (The Conways taught them a few things too while we were there!)

In some ways yesterday was bittersweet as well. While thrilled that I was being discharged, I will miss all of the new friends who have been by my side since May. I can't wait to see them again in two weeks...mmm, what should we bring them next time?? In this picture: Mary Kate, Jane, Anthony, me and Jim. Unfortunately missing from this picture are Teresa, Janet, Mona and Aura.
 
We also got a chance to visit with Brian and Tina, a new patient and his wife whom we met during the evaluation period in March. Brian is also an ironman, and ultra marathon competitor who was diagnosed with CLL and Amyloidosis. He is just beginning his Stem Cell Transplant program, and with much the same gusto and optimism as I did.My prayers will continue for them as well as Robert and Martha, Cila and Steve, as they continue on their individual journeys.

After hugs all around and a thankful, yet tearful goodbye, Del and I gladly made our way back home.
Lots of instructions to process as I begin 100 days of healing. (3 pages!)While I am recovering at home I will need to continue to monitor my temperature (anything over 100.5 requires a phone call to hematologist), my fluid retention, my blood counts, and my blood pressure. I cannot have outside visitors unless they have been immunized (no live virus'), no pets, small children, and I have to wear a mask in public places (should I even dare to venture out) to protect me from unknown lurking bacteria and diseases. The good news is that I can begin to exercise as I regain some energy (and Red blood cells!) and introduce thick skinned fruits and vegetables (Yeah!) to my diet next week (as tolerated!). I actually walked a 1/2 mile on the treadmill on Thursday and 3/4 mile Friday! I know that doesn't sound like much, especially for someone who is used to running several miles a day, but for now I'll take it. Baby steps...all the way to the finish! (I think Hayleigh is starting to get nervous...I'm not sure she really believed me when I said we would be running a marathon together someday...she obviously doesn't know her own mother!!)
Phase 3 will continue, 99 days and counting, but first I need a nap...:)
Love to all,
Cheryl