Dean P. Demos

Twanya from the transplant office has issued a schedule to me for the proposed Collect and Store (stem cell harvest) which starts the process on June 5 and concludes on the 28th, just before we leave for our family vacation at Lake of the Ozarks.  Patty has suggested another plan which has me doing the collection procedure when we get back.  It might work in that they need some time for Blue Cross HMO to approve the procedure.  The main problem with Twanya’s timeline is that I would go on vacation with the port wound, near my neck, still fresh and recovering.  I wouldn’t want to get lake water into it, and I am looking forward to some hot tub time.

Then, fall school preparation gets into gear late July and early August.

Between Dr. G and Dr. Solomon, the transplant Dr., I will find out what my medication schedule will be.  These side effects are wearying, especially the personality change that happens when you take a big dose of steroids once a week.  (Merely step out of the way if you see me coming on a Saturday)

That’s my summer.

If your summer is easier, enjoy it.  Thank the Lord for your health.  Pray for friends who have health challenges.  Visit someone in the hospital.  Offer to mow somebody’s lawn, or paint a room for them.  Gestures of love and support mean so much.

Christ came to serve, not be served.

Actually, I just received a Velcade injection yesterday, and did not see Dr. G.

This is an interesting period in the treatment … a C&S looming, reduced schedule of visits, questions about “where do we go from here.”  I guess Patty is the one who has the most questions.  I always say, “Write them down, Honey, and I’ll ask the Dr.”

The things I don’t question: I am in the Lord’s Hands; I am going to be OK; I have a unique perspective on life that enables me to focus on what’s really important – people; how many more years I have are up to the Lord, not medical professionals.

If you are reading this, please know “I LOVE YOU, I VALUE YOU, and YOU MEAN ALOT TO ME.”

Today I will see Dr. G.  We will consult on the looming Collect and Store (stem cells) process.  Also, I will ask about the med strategy for the summer.  Believe me, it’s not a chore any of us want … taking meds to live … but for the time being, I’m going along with it.

Some sad news.  Kristi Bannister, one of our former TCS mothers and employees, passed away yesterday afternoon after a long struggle with cancer.  Dr. G was her doctor also.  She leaves behind three children, one just graduating from HS.  That is a very painful side of life … when children their mother.

“Lord, our hearts go out to the Bannister family today in their time of grief and loss.  Comfort them, and give them grace to face the future without one who sacrificed so much for their wellbeing.  Jesus, fill the void in their hearts.  Overwhelm them with Your Great Love today.  We trust You for their future.  We ALL trust You for our future.  In Your Mighty Name, Amen.”

I’m sorry I’ve been negligent to post on this blog.  Here goes for some updates.

Yes, my numbers have been steadily improving.  Also, Dr. G. has lowered my medications somewhat.  I will see him again tomorrow.  We will probably discuss a Stem Cell C&S (collect and store.) 

End of the year school activities have kept the TCS staff very busy.  Hiring new teachers for the fall has been a priority.  I have sensed a prevailing guidance and buoying from the Lord’s Spirit that has kept everything moving.  Our new grand daughter, Boston Noelle Caldwell, has also fully engaged our heart and mind to complement our focus on normal duties.  So, the blog and Myeloma matters have not been on the front burner of my life.

Look for an update soon.

God left inhabiting tribes in the promised land to occupy until Israel could focus on removing them.  As soon as school lets out, I intend to see some pesky inhabitants removed from my land.  My (our) utmost for His highest.  Join me.