Dean P. Demos

Last Thursday, Patty and I met with Dr. Solomon, my transplant physician, for the results of my 2 year bone scan and bone marrow biopsy. As he walked in the consultation room, I asked him if his smile was indicative of a positive report. He said, “Yes,” that everything looked good, and in one category, my numbers had actually gone down. The biopsy again revealed no detectable myeloma cells in my marrow, and the full-body bone scan showed no concerning progression of bone deterioration from the myeloma activity. Yes, I have lytic areas where the bone is weakened from the disease, but the progressive damage has been suspended through prayer and my medication.

I am grateful for the prayer support of my spiritual family. I want my days to be fruitful for the Lord.

On Friday, while taking my tests, I sensed the power of prayer lifting me up. I am so grateful, and want to give testimony that I have been living with a boost since then.

We are nearly done moving and getting our “stuff” out of the old house. Yesterday, I felt so good that I worked from 7 in the morning until 7 last night.

Another blessing was that the person performing my bone marrow biopsy did a fabulous job. Minimal pain and uncomfortableness. This process can be otherwise …

Again, thanks to my friends who have given me their prayer support. It made a BIG DIFFERENCE.

Tomorrow I return to the Blood and Marrow Transplant facility at Northside Hospital (on the north side of Atlanta.) I will undergo another skeletal survey to check for any lesions forming in my bones, and a bone marrow biopsy (extracting some marrow from my hip bone to be sent to lab to measure any cancerous cell activity.) It is now two years since my transplant. For the most part, I feel good.  I’m so grateful, considering that I have known of at least 4 men, younger and healthier than me, that have been diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma and have passed on. I still go in to work everyday and conduct a somewhat normal life. I run out of steam about mid afternoon, but usually get enough of a boost to get through the evening … until 8 o’clock, our bedtime.

A week ago Sunday, Patty and I attended a senior aged home group meeting where I expressed the need for some refreshing prayer. I had sensed the need all day for a spiritual boost. I was somewhat weary of dealing with this disease, and just needed some spiritual TLC. I began weeping, and the saints gathered around and began praying for me. It was so special. I thought of the Biblical expression, “Seasons of Refreshing.” I received one.

Although Dr. Goldklang had noticed a slight rise in one of the indicators he checks, I am anxious to see what the extensive tests at Northside reveal.

Please continue to lift me in prayer. I am willing to battle as long as the Lord can use me here.

I am grateful for those who care about me. Please communicate to me any prayer burden you may have, and I will return the favor.