Dean P. Demos

On Tuesday, April 15, I was officially discharged from the Northside Hospital Blood and Marrow Transplant group.  Dr. Solomon, my attending physician, gave me verbal and written instructions to follow to continue to keep me safe until my immune system gets back to normal.  For instance, I am not to be in schools, restaurants, church services, and athletic events for another 40 days.  LOL.  Those are about the only places I usually go. 

I have resumed my duties as Headmaster at Trinity Christian School “from afar.”  I rely heavily on email, phone conversations, and meet my appointments at home or in the Trinity Fellowship office wing which is on an HVAC system which does not recirculate the air used by students.  I am so grateful for the school’s patience and understanding while I have undergone this consuming medical journey.  Also, the fabulous administration team we have in place has not missed a beat.

Dr. Solomon referred me back to Dr. Goldklang for my continued care.  I met with Dr. G Monday.  He will wait until my bone marrow biopsy at my 100th day after the transplant to determine if I need any ongoing maintenance medication.

“Lord Jesus, my life and health are in Your hands.  I’m asking that every plasma cell in my blood be healthy and free from the abnormality of cancer.  Jesus, let YOUR BLOOD be in my body.  Let all your children walk in health and miraculous provision for their days here on this earth.  We trust You and the power in Your Name.”

1. FEET ARE BETTER.  The suspected infections were liberally treated with IV antibiotics.  There remains no trace of cellulitis or any other problems.  The x-ray and MRI both revealed arthritis, but no trauma damage.  The peripheral neuropathy (numbness and tingling pain) in my feet remain the single problem issue in my feet.  This is a side effect from the Velcade myeloma medication I’ve been taking since Nov., 2012.

2. DISCHARGE DATE: APRIL 15TH.  At this time, I will be released from the Northside BMT unit and turned back over to Dr. Goldklang, my hematologist/oncologist.  My transplant doctors will consult with him to recommend a maintenance medication strategy.  Also, I will have undergone another bone marrow biopsy which will reveal how effective and successful the transplant was.

3. CONTINUED SECLUSION.  Until my 100th day post transplant, I must still avoid being around the general population in places such as schools, restaurants, church services, indoor athletic events etc.  Wow, those are the main places I go.  This is a health precaution as I am still vulnerable to communicable germs and health issues.  Strictness such as this is probably a reason the Northside BMT unit has one of the highest survival rates in the nation.

4. EASTER AND TCS GRADUATION.  Because these two events will be held outdoors at our new Trinity football stadium, I hope to discretely be in attendance.  (Please don’t cough on me if you see me)

5. #1 CAREGIVER.  Patty is one of the best things that ever happened to me. In over 44 years of marital bliss, she has exemplified the wedding vow we took … “In sickness and in health, for better or for worse, ’til death do us part.”  I weep with appreciation as I ponder gratefully how blessed I have been.  Her heavenly reward may be bigger than most, because I can be a load.

Bless you all for praying for me.  I could never face this challenge without you and the LORD.