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Written by Tamara Fowler
Today was the end of the first leg of my journey towards transplant, and we can see the upcoming fork in the road. Monday, we head back to MD Anderson for a bone marrow biopsy and meeting with Dr. O’Brien and the CLL team. Wednesday, we’ll get the results of the biopsy and meet with Dr. Shah and the transplant team. At that point, the decision will be made whether to continue on the Campath road for another round or to take the path directly to transplant. It all depends on the level of disease left in my marrow. Having been near 80% diseased marrow, Paul’s bet is on another round of Campath. I’m ready to move on. But this part is not our decision.
The past week or so could be classified as “side effect of the day.” Some days I would have a rash. Others I would have some light nausea. Many brought increased fatigue, intestinal distress, or a return of the headaches. Some weren’t bad at all. And none have been as bad as the first week! So for that I am immensely thankful.
I have taken time to read. (I’m on my third book in four weeks.) I have talked and Skyped with my kids and grandkids. I have spent quiet times with my sweetheart. I had a wonderful visit from a dear friend. (Love you, Cheryl!) I have enjoyed several mornings with my cousins, Al & Bonnie, who live around the corner from where I get my shots. And I even felt well enough last night for my mom and Maxine, her neighbor and buddy, to come over for dinner and a game of cards. I was pretty pooped out by the end of the evening, but it was a nice tired.
I have come to care deeply for the team at the good doctor’s office. They are not only efficient but also very compassionate and caring. It was a little sad leaving today not knowing if I’d be back anytime soon. I’m sure that the same level of connection will happen with my transplant team on MD Anderson’s 11th floor. Prayerfully, a year from now, these will be memories of a time when…. Memories that I will never forget. Memories that will mold my future.
About the Author:
My name is Tamara Joy Fowler and, in the summer of 2011, I was diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia with 17p deletion, ZAP 70 positive, IGHV unmutated. This all came as quite a shock! I was a healthy, happy 50 year-old lady who ate right, exercised, and took Geritol everyday. Just kidding about the Geritol, but you get the idea. I have been married since 2010 to my high school sweetheart and have had every intention of living and loving to a ripe old age. I still do. There just seems to be some complications that have to be taken care of first. This is the story of our journey. It is “our” journey because I am not alone. My sweet husband Paul, our children and grandchildren, and our entire family and many friends are part of this journey. Each one touches my life in a different way, and I have had the blessing and opportunity to be a part of theirs. I am one of God’s children and rest my faith and trust in Him. I have seen miracles galore over the years. I, and thankfully many others, am praying for one more.
