Happy Holidays

Hi Everyone -

Belated Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!  I'm into my six session and so far things have been going relatively well.  There is some discomfort, so I've been watching the Legally Blonde series in the hopes that emotional trauma will replace the slight physical discomfort.  It's worked pretty well, with the side effect that chihuahuas now make me nervous...

Christmas was wonderful overall.  I was given the go-ahead to head back to St. Louis, so I got to see both the laws and the in-laws.  The only issue was right before Christmas half of Sam's family came down with the flu, so we unfortunately had to avoid those folks (her mom, dad and brother-in-law) on Christmas and Christmas Eve, but luckily we did get to see everyone before they came down with it. I went ahead and spent most of my time with Sean and my family, just to ensure I did not contract anything.

After this treatment wraps up this week I'll spend the next few weeks having some tests done to prepare for surgery on my shoulder and having the surgery done.  Hopefully that goes well, we shall see.

Until my next post, take care and have a wonderful new year.
Alex

Cells - Apparently you need them

Hi Everyone -

I had an unexpected hospital stay yesterday due to my cell counts being very low, especially my red cells and my platelets.  They gave me a transfusion of both during my stay, so hopefully that resolves the issue.  We'll find out tomorrow as I'm scheduled to have labs done to determine if the transfusion provided enough of a boost.

One issue with having treatment at a children's hospital is the bed I was using for the transfusion was designed for a child.  Not a major issue as for the most part I was sitting or standing, but it did make me feel taller than normal. 

Until next time,
Alex

Update (Finally)

Hi Everyone -

I just completed my fifth session of chemo, which went well.  I will admit the recovery is a little tougher every time, but so far no major health issues have come from the treatments (knocking on wood for my superstitious friends).  Mostly it's a lot of being tired and quarantined to the house because of "low counts."

When I'm feeling up to it I practice guitar (I'm currently terrible) and play around of SPSS programming (I'm passable).  I figured since I'm married I needed a hobby that repels women to counteract the one that attracts them.  I'll leave you to decide which repels and which attracts.

As always, thanks to everyone who has provided support while my family and I deal with this health issue.  Hopefully you all know how much it is appreciated.

Take Care,
Alex