August 29, 2023 - An Ok Day

      Until yesterday I considered the stem cell transplant the fourth round in this fight against cancer.  After sending yesterday’s blog I realized that the stem cell transplant will be a 15 rounder all its own.  Yesterday was the first round in this bout.
      Though I was knocked to the canvas yesterday, today I have stayed upright and I am fighting back.  Today’s second round has been rather textbook.  It started with blood work—19 vials to be exact.   I am not sure if I have been light-headed today because they took that much blood or because I thought I ought to be light-headed!
      I slept great during the bone marrow biopsy.   I usually sleep well when sedated.  Other than a bit of discomfort at the sight, it isn’t the worst procedure.  I might as well get used to them.  I will have them the rest of my life.
      I went back to the motel for a couple of hours before a CT scan in the afternoon.   If all medical procedures were like CT scans I wouldn’t complain.
      It looks like Teresa is planning to come at the end of the week because of the surgery to insert the port.   Caryn is bringing her and then flying back on the weekend.
      Yesterday afternoon I ate at the restaurant that I often frequent, thanks to many of you.  Because I had sedation this morning, I am not supposed to drive until tomorrow.   The motel shuttle can travel only 1.5 miles from the motel plaza.   Outback is in that radius and I was planning to eat there this evening even though I felt a little like I was being unfaithful to Texas Roadhouse!
      I met a man who is scheduled for a transplant on the same day as I am scheduled.   It didn’t take long to feel connected to him.
      I had no major moments, easy or tough today.   Maybe the Lord knew a relatively smooth day might give me some rest.
      Some extra rest I found when I returned to the motel following the last appointment.  A two-hour nap.   That’s highly unusual for me.  Then again, the last few days have been just a bit unusual.
      I think I will eat in the motel restaurant and go to bed early.