Peeking Out the Window

Exercise Bands... woo hoo!

Right now I am sitting in my 3rd floor room at PSL and I can see the tops of trees still adorning a few remaining leaves, blues skies, the top of a pine tree, and various adornments of hospital roof top equipment (vents, generator, pipes).  If I crane my head around I can see other parts of the hospital including the multi-level parking lot.  Doesn't sound interesting?  Well, it beats being in a room and confined to a single fifty-foot corridor (my gymnasium).

Chemotherapy begins... what's ahead?

These first several days have been a wild ride.  There is so much to tell and I just don't have the energy to do so.  However, here are a few highlights.

1. I made it through all my chemotherapy regimen
2. My counts (white blood cell counts) are at zero.  That means my body is no longer capable producing the components of my immune system.  I am therefore carefully guarded and proactively treated with antibiotics, antivirals, and antifungals.
3. I have had the stem cell transplant (11/18).  Right now my  new blood making capability is in its infancy.  The stem cells are finding their homes and will eventually begin multiplying and generating blood cells.
4. The bone marrow (stem cell) drive was a success.  Thanks to all those who volunteered to help.  If I understand right, over 60 people signed up for the registry; more lives given a second chance!
5. I got my FIRST OFFICIAL follower of this blog!!!!

I wanted to thank everyone who has visited http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/mikewdoucette and left notes for me.  That has been extremely encouraging an uplifting.  Members of my family have cried when they've read your words.  You have touched us in so many ways.

I will write more when I can.