Saturday, July 3, 2010

Strength, Dori

This morning I heard from a cyber-buddy in Tennessee. He was writing to tell me his wife Dori had relapsed with leukemia. She had a transplant a month after I did in 2007 and has been fine since. This is a very late relapse, but it happens. I know Dori and her family are devastated. I still remember the cold fear I felt when I found out I'd relapsed. It's arguably worse than initial diagnosis because you know exactly what's coming.

Dori will beat the leukemia down and perhaps have another transplant. She's certainly strong enough, and has everything to live for. It is a nasty experience, but doable. Ann has had two transplants. I've also had two. Ronni has had three MUDs herself.

For now, Dori and Jim are going to make no decisions over the holiday weekend, just be together as a family. That's the best thing they can do, the best thing any of us can do.

4 comments:

Chris said...

I'm just gutted. What can we do?

Anonymous said...

Hi PJ, I'm glad I got to catch up with you. Everything seems doable. Chronic GVH is not really chronic, mine eventually left me. I think you're doing really well.

Awful to hear about relapse that late. I really don't know where you folks get the strength from. But then you find it when you need it. Let's hope you will never ever need it again, and let's hope it will be the last time for Dori and her family.

Hugs, Brenda

Anonymous said...

hi pj,
I will keep your friend in my prayers. Did you go to DFCI this week? 11months :) Brian is heading back to work on Monday. We think of you often.
Happy friday,
MB

Jim said...

PJ, You are wonderful. We find great strength in your honesty and resilience. Dori mentioned your name a time or two today. Love from us all ... Jim