June 7, 2004

Main Page • John's Journal (2000-2003) • CLL Information • Contact John • Seattle Cancer Care Alliance • MD Anderson

I lift up my eyes to the hills, where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip, he who watches over you will not slumber·The Lord watches over you, the Lord is your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The Lord will keep you from all harm, he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.

Psalm 121:1-3, 4-8.

I have to open today's journal with a big congratulations to my oldest son CJ who found out today that he was elected ASB Treasurer for his junior high school. Mom and Dad are so proud of you! Way to go CJ!

My clinic team doctors rotate each month. Today, my clinic team was joined by Dr. Storb.
(Dr. Storb is the gentleman over my left shoulder) Dr. Storb is one of the pioneers of the mini-transplant procedure I am currently undergoing for the treatment of my CLL (Chronic Lymphocyctic Leukemia). He definitely knows his stuff. He did such an excellent job of sharing the marrow results with me in a clear and informative manner, yet with an obvious sincere concern for me, his patient.

Last Friday's microscopic results showed no signs of Leukemia in my marrow. That was excellent news. However, that does not mean my body is completely clean of Leukemia. The mini-transplant procedure I am going through does not completely eradicate all of the disease immediately. The actual cure will come over time as my new donor cells gradually take over my immune system and my new immune system eventually destroys all of the remaining Leukemia. The entire process of destroying all residual Leukemia in my body can take anywhere from six months to two years. The good news Dr. Storb shared was that even though further results from my biopsy did show some leukemia, there was a already a significant decrease in disease. The amount of reduction in disease that Dr. Storb saw in my test results typically takes at least six months, meaning I am having an excellent response so far and the mini-transplant is going in a very positive direction. I just need to be patient and let my body's new immune system do its job.

Michelle and her dad, and my mom were with me during today's clinic visit. I was so thankful to have them there supporting me.

There was a lot to take in today, so it was nice after the appointment to go for a walk and just release the tensions of the morning. Being with Michelle today was huge for me. I receive so much comfort and love from her. It has been tough not being together everyday. However, we know the ultimate goal here is worth the short-term sacrifices we are having to make. I am so fortunate to have such an incredible wife. I love you Michelle. You are the absolute best wife, mother, and friend any man could have. I thank and praise God for you.

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