Tomorrow I go into hospital to have my stem cell transplant. I will be on the ward for the first 5 days. On the 6th day I am given my stem cells back, the ones I had harvested almost a year ago, and moved into a private room. The procedure involves high dose chemotherapy called BEAM. All my bone marrow will be destroyed. I will no longer be able to make blood and therefore have no immune system. My stem cells are given back to me, through a drip into my blood stream, which will then kick start the blood production process.
My stem cells were taken from me just after having had chemotherapy last year, and I was in remission. Therefore it is hoped that the stem cells taken at that time have no cancer cells in them. If there are some in there, in this bag of about 500ml of yellowy juice, then the cancer could start up again in the future, or maybe it won't. I'm hoping not.
Today I have been slowly packing and tying up some loose ends, as I'll be away from home for at least 4 weeks. I've taught Imelda how to upload films to jimmyteenstv. I've fixed the toilet seat. It is strange feeling I'm about to go and do something that will make me feel so bad. In one way I'm excited, but in another I'm scared to death. There is a chance I won't come home and I've been thinking about who will have my bike, and all my stuff? Can people get access to my bank accounts? But then, there is every chance I am coming back, and although I'll be weak I'll be able to rebuild my life.
Thank you to every one who has sent me cards, emailed me, wished me well, and generally been there for me. I don't think I can express how much it means to me and how much it has helped. I'll keep you posted via text to this blog.
In about 4 weeks...
4 comments:
Hang in there Tom. Don't even think about leaving us I know you will make it.
Good luck Tom. I'll be thinking of you.
Good luck, Tom. Take care of yourself please!
Tom McNab
good luck tom!
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