...I was admitted to the hospital and a diagnosis of Acute Myeloid Leukemia was confirmed. Fifty-five pounds lighter, 19 months post transplant, divorced and feeling more like myself mentally, I am doing well. I am so grateful. For many things. To God for healing my body and mind and for the absolute stubbornness I in part attribute some of my success to. To my family and friends for being my rock as I have traveled this path. I cannot imagine what this road has been like for my children, who can only now sift through their feelings now that I am no longer sick. You were the reason I fought so hard. For the fantastic team of doctors, nurses, nursing assistants and specialists at both MD Anderson and Mayo. For the insurance my former employer had that, via COBRA, allowed me to be treated. To my pets for still loving me even when for so long I couldn't give you any "momma time." When given the opportunity, you still curl up with me.
For those of you just beginning this journey, FIGHT! With all that you have and are. SHARE how you are feeling on the inside as well as physically. No, most of your family and friends won't know how you feel but they love you and want to help...even if only to empathize. Be as PATIENT as you can - with your body as it copes with treatment and tries to heal, and with those around you who only want to help but feel powerless. ADVOCATE for yourself or have a trusted family member or friend do so on your behalf. If something doesn't look or feel right, tell someone. Tell everyone until you are satisfied. Be NICE to your medical team. Aside from your family/friends, they can advocate for you and will bend over backwards to make you feel more comfortable during the process...they likely have seen it all. TRUST and have faith in God. Pray and listen to Him. Follow medical advice. Keep fighting. You CAN do this. LIVE!
