Things have been pretty quiet here on this site, since I’m just slowly building my muscles back up, and there’s very little medical news to report. That’s a good thing. I’ve been walking in the neighborhood every day, and recently walked 3 miles in one stretch using trekking poles for balance and support. I’ve also begun driving short distances, which is liberating, but I admit I’ll miss all of the visits with friends and family who were kind enough to chauffeur me about town during the past several months (you know who you are; thank you!).
Another bit of progress is that I’m starting to work a little bit. I am very thankful for my law partner Lisa who has carried the workload for so many months. It’s about time I give her a hand.
I’m fortunate that I work at home, since the main thing that has been delayed is the return of my immune system. In early September I started tapering off the immune-suppressing drug Tacrolimus, which protects against chronic Graft-Versus-Host Disease. GVHD is where the donor’s cells are fighting my body’s (the “host’s”) existing cells. This can manifest itself in various ways.
My GVHD has been in the form of dry, patchy skin on my face, dry eyes, and an elevation of the numbers that measure liver dysfunction. Primarily because of the liver involvement, my taper was ended just a few weeks after it started and now I’m back on my original dosage of Tacrolimus. Unfortunately this delays my ability to get off the drug for an undetermined period of time. As long as I’m on Tacrolimus it would be risky to be in large crowds (especially during flu season) or riding in an airplane. So certain aspects of my life will have to remain on hold for the time being, like visiting my parents in Virginia and vacationing with the Hatlens in Mexico. That’s disappointing, but on the whole I’m just so thankful to be doing so well that I’m willing to postpone those things.
Thanks for all of your good wishes and support. It has meant the world to me and Susan!
A quick getaway to Whidbey Island last week-here we're at Ebey's Landing
Alan:
Glad no news is good news. Speak w/ you soon.
All the best.
Alan and Susan,
It all sounds good… in the big picture way, of course. I’m glad to hear that you are out walking about – and getting to Widbey Island, too!
If you want to talk to Anna about dry eyes, she is pretty expert on what is out there to try.
We’re pretty distracted here – as you can imagine – with Anna’s upcoming surgery on Thursday. But it is really nice to read some good news; we think about you often and send our best wishes for minimal GVHD and maximal GVL!
Love from the Robinsons
I’ve been so happy to see you in person, one of the best parts of being in Seattle these months! I was without a car some time ago (long story involving teen drivers, no collision insurance, their work commutes were longer than mine) and relied on friends and neighbors for rides. It was a remarkably good experience, deepening some friendships with the added benefit of getting to feel ‘green’. Thank God for your continued ability to see the positives – xo Ruth
Glad to see you doing well and able to work a little and drive. It’s a step in the right direction and Mexico will still be there when you are ready!
Our best to you and Susan…Linda & George
Hi, Alan. So good to hear from you and to learn of your continued progress. It sounds like you are making fine progress.
Funny how we are all so glad to get back to work. Really our work is living and living well and “work” is only a part of it.
Truly you and Susan are models of balance and patience.
Our hugs of support for your continued progress. Brenna & Bill
Great to hear about your steady gains and positive attitude despite the GVHD-related setbacks. We were just thinking about you and Susan. Thanks for the update. Keep up the progress! –Becky & Drew
It is good to get your updates, especially hearing how well you are doing step by step. Sis
Alan,
Thank you for the update. Even though you are driving a little I’d still be happy to be your driver whenever you want the company. I mean we all need a ride from time to time, dontcha think? Glad you are able to work and have that ‘normalcy’ back in your life. Best to you and Susan. Love, Lori
Alan ~ Thanks for the update. I’m so grateful that you continue to improve, inspire and educate us. Hope to see you and Susan soon. ~ Judy
It’s good to see you looking so strong!
Congratulations on your continued good news! Please be patient w/ yourself, you’ll be flying again in no time.
Hugs, Joan
Thanks so much for the update. Splendid news that you are gaining strength every day. I truly believe we are “healing machines”–we are designed to repair and heal (with the help of space in our physical beings fashioned for healing by gifted medical professionals).
Warmest wishes to you, Susan, and your wonderful family.
Glad to hear you are making steady progress! and you are correct, youdo not want to be out during flu season. Even with the flu shot, I have been dealing with some bug for the last week. If I ever figure out who gave it to me, I am going to wrap it with a big bow and let them have it back!
Take care,
–Ken A.
So thankful to hear you are continuing to walk the road of recovery! Last night in Confirmation we covered the story of Abraham & Sarah. One of our small group activities was sharing about our current day heros. Mine was an easy choice — I talked about you and Sue, your marriage, your two sons, your faith, and your journey twice-over with cancer. Thanks for being such a genuine role-model of a hero to my 14 tweenage Confirmation girls. We sure miss our weekly catch-ups with you at Lake Stevens. Hugs and always continued prayers – - Beth and Randy
Alan, I am looking forward to swimming with you on 8/17/2011 – and hoping that i can keep up with you!
-scott