One Year Ago Today!

It is one year ago today that I was diagnosed with leukemia. Many of you remembered and I thank you for that. Now, I guess I can honestly say that I am a one-year cancer survivor. My next goal is May 26th when I can say that I am a one-year bone marrow transplant survivor.

Yesterday I went for a bone marrow biopsy (ouch), some blood work, and an appointment with Dr. Carraway. She is so wonderful - I can't believe my luck in getting her when I was admitted to JHH 12 months ago. She is patient and kind, caring and understanding, and smart to boot!

While I don't have the results from the biopsy, I do have the results of my blood work and everything looks fantastic. Good, good news since I went to this appointment a little down in the dumps and very anxious. Dr. Carraway talked with me at length about my fears and apprehensions, and let me know that what I am feeling has been felt by countless others - it's all perfectly normal. She also reminded me of what my body has been through, that I shouldn't expect more from myself than what I am able to do right now. I didn't know this before today, but the chemo that I was given prior to my bone marrow transplant is considered one of the harshest chemo regiments imaginable and what my body has gone through with the chemo and the bone marrow transplant is one of the most difficult. No wonder I'm still reeling from the effects, even after all these months. Why did I think I was supposed to be doing more and feeling more energetic? Perhaps a little self-imposed pressure, perhaps some unrealistic thinking, or maybe just some old-fashioned foolishness. Who knows! The point is I'm OK and I need to remember to not expect miracles. This is a long, long road and one that takes self-forgiveness, patience, and the ability to cut myself a little slack!