It's hard to believe so much has happened...diagnosis, second opinion, third opinion, research, fourth opinion, three more phone calls, finding patients who had gone through BB's protocol, conversations with them, tests tests and more tests...and of course six months of intensive treatment leading to complete remission...
Along the way, many new friends made, and of course this blog which has been so fulfilling for me for a number of reasons...
Throughout it all, the support of my family and friends, including all of you who are reading this.
It's a testament to the success of my treatment that I'm about to go out to dinner with friends this evening rather than dwell on this anniversary...I had wanted to put together a lengthy post but there will be time for that tomorrow. I did want to mark the event, though, and I'll come back and put together some slightly more coherent thoughts on it soon.
All that said, hope you are enjoying your weekends!
Nick, one year from diagnosis, with hair restored. :)
How wonderful, Nick, to have turned things around so that you have plans for living again!!! Comparing the picture of you on your profile and the one taken today, it is easy to see that wonderful smile radiating across the page, and your words do the same - giving readers hope, and also the potential for a smile as well.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations, Nick!
ReplyDeleteWow! Watching your journey has been thrilling!
My one-year milestone is on November 21st. I am exceedingly grateful to be at CR after tackling the UAMS/MIRT/BB/Total Therapy life changing bootcamp. God Bless the dedicated scientists, doctors, nurses, support staff, caregivers and all others for their tireless sacrifice and passion in helping guys like you and me enjoy a brighter day with our family and friends.
A year ago IgG, kappa, hyperdiploid, thalidomide, hematocrit and a legion of other terms (and procedures!)had absolutely no context in my life. And though I have learned that Cancer neither owns me nor defines my existence, I am honored to march in lock-step with the worldwide band of brothers and sisters courageously battling Myeloma one precious day at a time.
It was a privilege to cross paths with you in Arkansas. I know that you're willing to keep fighting with everything that you have. So am I. This, I believe, is part of the legacy that we will leave.
My family and I will continue to hold you and yours in our thoughts and prayers.
Sean
Happy Anniversary Nick!
ReplyDeleteYou look great!
Happy Anniversary Nick!!!! I know it has been a long year and we are so blessed to have met you and Jill in Little Rock. We are here now almost done with consolidation 2 and met with BB yesterday. He already has him for SCT the first week of December. Anyway, BJ said we all need to have another night like at Ferneaus. Many prayers and blessings to a great mentor and friend.
ReplyDeleteBruce & Jan
Way to go! Hopefully, the worst day of your life was that day of diagnosis and it will only be up from here. That is how we feel ~ even at 2 1/2 years out.
ReplyDeleteLookin' good, Nick, and I'm so glad to hear that you're feeling well, too. :-D
ReplyDeleteCongrats on your Happy Anniversary, and I say that because given the news from a year ago, being in complete remission is certainly a happy way to celebrate this day. Stay well, and keep in touch.
Craig
How wonderful to see you looking so well and such a difference to one year ago. Congratulations to you Nick and to your dear wife Jill for her support and care also. We are celebrating too but in a different way. My Anthology " A Power Within" was published this week and can be purchased via
ReplyDeletehttp://www.susiehemingway.com/books/ proceeds are going to Multiple Myeloma. So if you know anyone who would like to buy a nice gift for Xmas, that's the place to go, it is a very good looking glossy book. Our very best wishes to you and your continued good health.
Best Regards Susie and Hamada