It’s been a year. A
year since we got the horrible news. The
lump wasn’t “just a lump”. It was cancer…a
rare type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Suddenly things weren't so simple and our lives changed. Its
odd how one year can feel like a lifetime ago.
Those first few months were the hardest. The not knowing and waiting was agonizing. The horrible (that’s putting it nicely) Oncologist
in Ogden was nothing but a hindrance. But
then there was renewed hope and the move to The Huntsman. Things started looking better. We all had a common goal…living.
Dad went back for his 100 day (post t-cell therapy) check-up few weeks ago. Initially the Drs. were happy with what they
saw but as they looked a little closer they discovered some “abnormal”
cells. His transplant Dr. was reluctant
to call them cancer cells but they are something that he would like to keep his
eye on.
They discussed a possible second transplant where his siblings,
if they were a match, could be the donors. My Aunt’s and Uncle are amazing. They didn’t give it a second thought and was quick to respond and be
tested. None were a match. Fortunately, The Huntsman has a registry and has
found matches if needed.
So, we are back to waiting and seeing what lies ahead. Cancer has a way of throwing curve
balls. No two cases are the same so you
never know what road you will be headed down next.
Dad has some wonderful friends in Washington
that have connections with the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance. He has made arrangements for his case to be reviewed
by their highly skilled team of Doctors. The Huntsman is a wonderful institution and he has full faith in his
care. He felt like it would be helpful to get a second opinion. Dad's transplant Dr. at The Huntsman was supportive of this decision.
Dad has been doing great. He was a little down when he received the results from the tests. He was hoping for a little different
outcome. His overall health has been good
and his counts are building without aide. This has enabled him to be out in public more. He even traveled to some merchandise markets
for the store. I think it was good for
him to get out and see all his retail buddies.
Now I think its time that he and Mom travel somewhere exotic
and relax…easier said then done. Is Washington considered exotic? ;-)
