Every New Year is a reminder of what Sue went through, both good and bad, and how for now, every year further from the diagnosis and initial treatment is very much welcomed. It is now over two years from the last time Sue tested positive. And Sue is adapting to the "new normal," the term used for bone marrow transplant recipients and intense chemo patients to describe the new reality. The Bone Marrow Foundation sends out newsletters at key times in the recovery process. Sue just received the year past transplant one. The newsletter featured some of the things that patients must watch out for and how it is to adjust to this new normal.
One of the odd things to adjust for is normality. Sue came down with a cold (still is coughing). But except for a precautionary course of antibiotics, Sue could suffer through it like most of us. No need to run to the ER or be admitted for a hospital stay. And Sue even flew for the first time in over two years to visit family in Florida (which was wonderful to see so many in one place for a leisurely time).
As we pass yet another mark of recovery and further signs of normality, we rejoice in just being able to celebrate a new year. We also want to express our sorrow at the passing after a vibrant life of a dear friend of the family and who visited us in Baltimore and was always a joy to be with.
We wish every one a happy, healthy new year.
Love,
Sue and Daniel
[Raises glass] To the new normal! [Clinks glass in toast.]
The ER is a bother, glad to hear you don't have to go there so much. I spent 8 hours in the ER a couple weekends back, when the outcome--your son is allergic to Head & Shoulders shampoo--was determine in 5. Not that I begrudge them, running an ER is no easy task, but it's not a great place to be a patient either.
Posted by: Tenbroeck | January 14, 2009 at 01:53 PM