Decision has been made

I want to thank all of you for your support the last one and a half years since I was diagnosed with Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS).

I've been able to function well during this time. The most noticeable aspect of my condition would have been my color. MDS typically shuts down the bone marrow production of red blood cells so I may have looked kind of pale or seemed out of breath at times. MDS progresses at various rates, but eventually shuts down all red, white and platelete cell production. Until recently my blood counts have been remarkably steady. I've been going in for red blood transfusions every 5 weeks.

My last 2 blood counts have shown a decline in marrow functions. So, while I am still otherwise healthy, I've decided to move ahead with the only viable option, the only known possible cure; a stem cell transplant.

I will be working for another 2 weeks. After that I will be going in for extensive testing. Immediately following that, probably in late October or early November, I will be undergoing a stem cell transplant. 2 donors have been found that have 'near-exact' matches for my own cells. The doctors will destroy my stem cells and inject new ones from the kind donors. The new stem cells will set up shop in mymarrow and hopefully like their new digs. If everything goes well, my blood counts will raise to normal after 2-3 months. Then I'll need to be Mr. Clean, because my new immune system will be unfamiliar with all the nasty germs out there.

My medical disability will last 3 to 12 months, depending on how well my new stem cells like my old body and how rapidly I can gain strength. When I am healthy again I will try to re-enter the workforce.

Cathie, Dylan, Maddie, Bill and Teresa (Dad and Mom) have quite an interesting road ahead and I would be lost without their love and support.

Thank you for you continued support and patience.