Mike started his growth stimulating factor shots today to boost his stem cell production.

Last Monday, Mike got his transplant workup testing. We finally have dates on a calendar. Things just got really real. Mom is in rehab regaining her strength after getting a rude Christmas gift - Covid. Blech!

On our anniversary last year, Mike was in the hospital with extreme back pain and was still undiagnosed. Looking back, that was the moment things got real, and the valley started sloping into greater depths. This anniversary, we will begin the process that will bring us to the mountaintop.

Good News! I’m thrilled to finally be able to report some excellent news in Mike’s cancer journey.

On Monday, Mike went to start Cycle #3 of his current regimen. He had been feeling pretty weak and lethargic with some stomach pain pretty much since he was discharged from Duke the week before. We just thought it was his low blood counts and his typical post-chemo stomach discomfort.

We’re in North Carolina again. Mike is scheduled on Monday the 25th to begin Cycle 3 of his current regimen. However, we had to begin this trip a bit early due to some concerning blood counts. All is stabilized right now. Read on for more.

This one is less a medical update and more an emotional/spiritual one. These are so much harder to write, but just as necessary to share because cancer journeys affect your whole life, not just the physical part.

On Monday, Mike received his first treatment of GemOx Cycle 2 and had an appointment with the doctor. We received promising news and know a little bit more about future plans. Mom is receiving her midway PET scan as I type this update, so we’re anxious to see those results

We’re leaving Sunday for our second Duke trip for treatment. Mom is recovering from her last cycle beautifully and has a “halfway point” PET Scan on Thursday. Mike got a blood transfusion today. Read on for the details.

Mike was discharged yesterday and is feeling much better. Still really tired, but much, much better. As of right now, he has no doctor’s appointments or treatments until Monday, so we’re enjoying some much-needed rest!