Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Day 0, a new start!

To all of my dear friends and family:

It has been a long, wonderful, and very eventful day for many reasons! As many have told me, I have a new Birthday to celebrate. I'm not sure I quite have a handle on it yet, but the good news is that my donor came through, and I was given my new stem cells this morning. All has gone smoothly so far, and I am feeling pretty good. They tell me the next week will probably be the roughest, but I am prepared for almost anything, I think. The good news is that the only thing I know about the donor is that it was a 21 year old male. So not only do I get young again, but I get to keep my manhood (forget the sensitive side...etc.)! Cookie is already concerned about keeping up with me! Speaking of my true love, let me note how wonderful she has been, and I sometimes think this is harder for her than for me. Between her and my sister Barbara, they are logging lots of hours sitting around here, and are simply the best!
Speaking of Barb, this day has been great for another very important person in our family. Some of you know of my niece Jennifer (married to Barb's son, nephew David) and her long standing battle with cancer. Well, ironically,today was surgery day to remove a tumor from her, the fourth surgery she has endured in this fight. We got word she came through with flying colors, and the surgery was much less invasive than they thought it might be. Imagine how relieved Barb and her family are today. (Jen, Dave, Sandy and Len...I am so happy for you today as well, and thank you for all your support in the midst of your battle).
The day could have ended totally perfectly, if only I had not just watched my Bulls lose in another overtime heartbreaker in Boston! What a game, and what a series...I am proud of them to for their spunk against great odds.
The fact is that I remain overwhelmed by many things today: The actual science of what has been done for me is amazing and hard to grasp. And it all has been made so much easier due to the incredible support of all of you reading this now. I still have not figured out what I ever did to deserve all the wishes, love, and prayers that I have received every day. I am so lucky to have all of you in my life, and words will never express my gratitude.
I think it's time to rest for the night....love to you all!

Mike

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

Ummm...I didn't realize there was confusion about me. Yes, aka Nurse Mylove is here, and no, I am not a figment of Mike and Cookie's imagination. :) Thanks to Cookie for letting me keep her title temporarily while Mike is in our care.

To Mike, whom I've taken care of the last couple of days, KUDOS for having finished your transplant. I am sorry to have missed it, but I am sure you did a tremendous job as you did with your chemo and the infamous cryotherapy. Sorry to keep you tied to Daisy May Pole 24/7. She is not as bad as you think, just clingy.

To Cookie, oh what a pleasure it is to meet you and the rest of your wonderful family, esp Grandma Dee. You do a wonderful job of taking care of your Love.

Stay strong and continue to think positive thoughts. You are in my prayers. We (6NW) will march along with you on this journey. See you on Thursday!

Anonymous said...

Dear Mike,
What an awesome day 0! I really can't think about the wonder of it all or I get too emotional. I am just so thankful for the wonderful medical advances that are allowing you a new beginning. It's a beginning that we will all benefit from. I am really going to miss you and Cookie and thank you for always opening your hearts and home. Mattie thanks you too.
Love you,
Kim

Anonymous said...

Way to go Centro! Keep up the great work, and super spirits! So you didn't find out if the Doner was jewish did you? We'll see if the Rabbi brings you the Kosher Grape Juice this weekend!

Anonymous said...

Dear MC,
With your wonderful sense of humor, I think MC is the absolute right name. I'm writing on the morning of day 1. This year I have managed to send "belated" birthday wishes twice! MW has been telling me all about you-all good. All our prayers for you are working. Your spirit is strong, your attitude is great and your smile is as big as ever. And if MW attests to it, it has to be true. Even he can't exaggerate when it comes to you...you are truly "the best." XOXO Lana

Anonymous said...

love you Mikey and can't wait to party with you as a 21 year old. the only thing is How do I remember your new b-day when I have a hard enough time with the old one. love you and stay strong B.and R.

Anonymous said...

WE LOVE GREAT NEWS!!

Sending you and all connected an endless supply of love and support.... but how will we all keep up with you??

xxxooo Cathy & Randy