Myelofibrosis–A Personal Journey

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And So It Begins

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Little update here as we are now heavily into preparation mode for R’s transplant. Tomorrow, we meet with the finance team and a nurse at Fred Hutch. The following day we meet the transplant team–the doctor and others. After that, it’s constant appointments to check R’s health: ultrasounds, MRIs, heart tests, a dental oncology test and more. He’s admitted on November 8th for chemo and November 14th, he gets his transplant and a chance at a long life. Without it, data shows he’d have 1-2 years. No way!!!!

We recently went on a trip to Georgia–one last hurrah before the crazy begins. While we had some good moments, we also got the stomach flu; me first, R second. It was BAD, folks. Pretty much ruined the trip. Perhaps getting us used to what’s coming? Yikes.

We got home and visited with family last night. Good thing we did. The plan was to have an early Thanksgiving on November 1st with extended family and friends, but we’ve been reading that it’s wisest to isolate from others at least 2 weeks prior to chemo. R cannot get sick! His donor is already undergoing medical workups somewhere in Europe. It’s not an easy process for him/her. The last thing we want to do is to ruin R’s chance of having the transplant on November 14 as planned because he comes into contact with someone who has a virus (and doesn’t know it). So, no early Thanksgiving party. But, it’s okay. The whole transplant and the hell R is about to go through is so he can have LOTS MORE FAMILY time in the future.

And, so it begins. I’ll keep this updated as things move along. Right now we’re trying to wrap up all kinds of stuff at the house and thinking about what to pack. And holding on to each other as often as possible.

Your loving thoughts and well-wishes mean so much.

7 responses to “And So It Begins”

  1. Chari Goodnow Avatar

    Brodie and I wanted you to both know that your in our thoughts during this time! Sending strength and positivity! ❤️🌺💪

    Like

  2. Lin Russell Avatar

    Dearest Russ and Diana and all the princes and princesses in your noble family. I am writing this with BOLD font.

    I believe. May all the well deserved healing surround you and make you strong and make you well.

    Like

  3. Shelley LewisLeander Avatar

    sending you good thoughts, positive energy, and a whole lot of love!❤️. Shelley and Jim Leander

    Like

  4. Elin and Lasse Avatar
    Elin and Lasse

    Our Loving arms are around you both!

    Like

  5. robinpeleaz Avatar
    robinpeleaz

    I have very high confidence in Fred Hutch, having received my cancer treatment through Seattle Cancer Care Alliance at the UofW, which is now merged with Fred Hutch. My treatment coincided with COVID so I understand the fear of being exposed to a virus. Here I am 6 years later and doing great. I still have biannual scans due to the type of cancer I had. I am impressed how educated you are and understanding what is happening helps a lot. He is lucky to have a strong support team (you!) ❤️

    Like

  6. robinpeleaz Avatar
    robinpeleaz

    I have very high confidence in Fred Hutch, having received my cancer treatment through Seattle Cancer Care Alliance at the UofW, which is now merged with Fred Hutch. My treatment coincided with COVID so I understand the fear of being exposed to a virus. Here I am 6 years later and doing great. I still have biannual scans due to the type of cancer I had. I am impressed how educated you are and understanding what is happening helps a lot. He is lucky to have a strong support team (you!) ❤️

    Like

  7. robinpeleaz Avatar
    robinpeleaz

    I have very high confidence in Fred Hutch, having received my cancer treatment through Seattle Cancer Care Alliance at the UofW, which is now merged with Fred Hutch. My treatment coincided with COVID so I understand the fear of being exposed to a virus. Here I am 6 years later and doing great. I still have biannual scans due to the type of cancer I had. I am impressed how educated you are and understanding what is happening helps a lot. He is lucky to have a strong support team (you!) ❤️

    Like

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