We met with Mike’s doctor yesterday regarding his BMT and here is what’s happening: They have found several 8/10 and 9/10 matches in the National Registry. The doctors would really like to find a 10/10 match to reduce the risk of Graft vs. Host Disease. They continue to submit him weekly into the registry to see if any new donors are a better match. They are also searching cord blood registries and will continue for a few more weeks – praying that a better match comes available to him. She did not say exactly how long they will wait to see if one comes up and would settle for a 9/10, but the longer we wait, the higher the risk of relapse and less effective the transplant could be. If you are willing, please consider being tested and joining the registry. You could be a perfect 10/10 match for Mike! Please pray that we find one!! In the mean time, Mike will remain on the maintenance therapy taking 14 chemo pills weekly and getting a monthly infusion. He has been in good spirits and looks fantastic! He had a large hurdle to jump when he accidentally over-dosed on his chemo pills and his body had to recover, but he is doing very well now. His parents were so gracious to fly us up for a visit to MD for some intimate time with close friends and family. It was a much needed refresher for us!! Mike came home singing and smiling. His heart is lighter than I have seen it in a long time. I feel like I have him back. :-)

Thank you for all of your stories and testimonies that you send to me. I am continually amazed by each one as I read the things that so many of you have overcome. People tell me that they see us as “Survivors” and look to us for inspiration…but I look to all of you, because in one way or another, we are all survivors. Whether it is dealing with an illness, the loss of a dear loved one, a dysfunctional family or childhood, broken marriages, unforeseen tragedies, losing everything and starting over… the list goes on… We all have a story that makes us who we are. I truly believe that the human spirit is the most powerful thing under God. We carry so much potential and resolve within us that can only be seen when we are put to extreme tests and challenges and are tried to our very core. My inspiration comes from those who have remained positive but kept it real; not retreating under the burden or allowing bitterness to shadow their hearts. We are all over-comers in our own way….everyone has been through something and if you were facing what we are facing, I am confident that many of you would find the same strength that we have to carry on.

Mike’s doctor is projecting that the transplant could take place early–mid December which will put him in the hospital through Christmas but I am grateful that he will be around for Thanksgiving. I will probably update again before the holidays start, but if not, we hope that everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving and a safe & FUN Black Friday!! :-D Blessings to all!!