Hello family and friends, We took a couple of weeks break from our original stem cell transplant schedule so we could attend the multiple myeloma conference. More importantly though, Dave was hoping to get the pain he has been in under control before undergoing the grueling next several months. Unfortunately, the pain has continued to get worse! This has been a terrible blow to the exciting news of being in complete response. He is in more pain in remission that he was with cancer. I'm getting really frustrated because it seems that nothing is working and I could really use all of your positive prayer to get over this hurdle. I am so grateful that we got the response we got, but the drugs used to help him have in actuality hurt him in terms of quality of life.
Me, Dave, my mom, Cory, Aunt Wanna, and Clifford got together a couple weeks ago to go over all the information we learned at the conference and to discuss all our options. We all agreed that we probably should proceed with the stem cell transplant. This really wasn't an easy decision and the fact that Dave wanted us to be a part of his decision was a wonderful, memorable, blessed family moment. After the decision, we all joined hands and grandpa said the most beautiful, loving prayer I've ever heard. There really isn't anything like seeing the love of a mother and father for their son. It doesn't matter how old we get or our children get, they will always be our baby. I saw my grandma and grandpa loving their baby son in that moment and I will hold that memory in my heart forever.
Wednesday, mom and Dave will be in Standard for a few days getting blood work done, meeting with a pain managment specialist, getting the catherter placement inserted, and having a first round of chemo. He then heads back home where he will begin the neupogen shots. You can review the entire stem cell process by clicking on the February 8 blog update. The schedule is pretty much the same, but pushed back a couple of weeks. Most likely the actual transplant will occur mid to end May.
I want to thank everyone who has been so loving and helpful during this time. You truly learn who your real friends and family are when you are in need. I know my mom and Dave appreciate everyone's concern, phone calls, emails, and drop bys. I want to personally thank my closest friends: Cory, Donna, Michelle, and Sue who have supported me, prayed with me, listened to me vent, and hugged me when I cried. My relationship with Dave has grown so much over the last few months and I cherish our connection and our ability to express to each other what we feel. Every day should be that way, shouldn't it? We shouldn't let pride and fear stand in the way of truly connecting with people.
Please pray for my mom and Dave. Pray that God wraps his healing arms around Dave and gives him mercy from the pain he is enduring. I know Dear Lord that your are in control and it is you that we all need. Much Love, Jeana.
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