The second round of Consolidation Chemo went relatively well if you ignore that it started a day and a half late, causing a second COVID test in a week, and almost went extra long when discharge orders didn't appear. But the chemo itself went relatively smoothly and no bad effects. Yet. And how many can say they've had 3 COVID tests in a week because of Hospital and/or State requirements? Yep, fresh out the Hospital there was a third COVID test because of timing and the need for one before Thursday's appointment. 

Tuesday started a bit, well, rough as a TV episode we watched to pass the time  talked about a child who sadly passed away. Of Leukemia. Interesting reflection: the few mentions of her had me reminding myself "she isn't real, it's just a story" but even so, it IS real somewhere and HAS BEEN real for someone, many someones. Sobering start to the day, but that's life. We find a way to cope and continue forward.

Standard post chemo week, bit of bloodwork then back home. It was a beautiful day so we spent some porch time talking about our big appointment in Rochester Thursday, about life, who knows what else. Then a phone call simultaneous with a FedEx truck that set off the dogs causing me to run inside just to hear anything. 

"I meant to call Friday but didn't want to disturb you in-Hospital so I sent a note, or I thought I did but it's not there. So there's a 32 year old man who will be coming to donate on Oct 11th and you will come up on the 12th for a visit and COVID test, then start prep chemo on the 13th for your transplant.". 

What else is there to say, really? The match, as it were, is 10 out of 10 markers which is the best case scenario and why it was "... and you will come ... " instead of "is that acceptable to you." Had there not been a complete match we would have been asked if the numbers were acceptable to us. Allison was not going to mess around, she's got the wheels in motion and in high gear, I just hope we can keep up.  And there is a 32 year old young man who is giving this old-ish guy a chance at a new lease on life. We've all had heroes in our lives  of one sort or another,  now I have a new hero on the way.

This felt real before but now that it IS real, well, I guess it was real-ish. There is a lot to sort out but having a month's warning helps. Forgive us if we're pre-occupied for a bit while we prepare. However, knowing what and when takes a huge load off our minds even if it adds a new larger load. One with hope, one with promise, and a true answer to prayer. Thank you for all of your prayers, praise God from whom these blessings come and where our hope is assured. And pray for a young man who is selflessly going through pain and discomfort for the benefit of another.

Jeff and Wendy

Pray for:

Continued health

Clear minds as we get things in order

For the pieces to continue to fall into place.