Wednesday, May 6, 2009

Day + 8

Hi All,

Quick medical update: Best news was that my white cell count actually went up from the gutter today. Too soon to call, but it could be the stud cells working. Day 8 would be early (usually happens 10-12 days), but not unheard of. We'll see the next couple of days if the trend continues. Only negative was that these shots I get daily now (neupogen) which stimulate bone marrow activity, often have a side effect of causing bone pain while they work. I had some pain in my lower back, and resorted to Vicodin (Ricky, you're the expert on that). Actually got a little buzz!:) No worries about turning into Brett Farve (speaking of whom, is this getting obnoxious about another comeback, or what?). Speaking of sports, Blackhawks are down 2 to 1, but Cav's sure looked impressive! Felt terrible that Celtics and Lakers lost game 1 each (just kidding!)
Rich Gersh and Warren visited me today, which was great fun. They saw two of my female medical team members...check with them for unbiased opinion. Rich brought his backgammon set, itching for revenge from when we played a couple of years ago when I was stuck at home, and beat him badly. Between the vicodin, and feeling sorry for a great friend in such obvious mental anguish, I did let him pull out a victory! In addition, Rich suggested I try the chicken parmesan on the menu. I did so tonight, and in a real squeaker, the vote went to Rich's recipe over the Hospital version, so his reputation is secure!
Family update: brother-in-law Herb celebrated his 65th yesterday...Happy birthday to him! Also, niece Jen is home from the hospital, and doing well...we are thrilled for her and wish a continued speedy recovery.
That's all folks...keep it coming, and Love to ALL,

Mike

11 comments:

Marc said...

Hi Mikey,
Sounds like you're doing great! Keep It up. By the way, I always found you to be very patient but I'm not married to you. Stay strong and keep getting better.
Luv ya,
Marc

Anonymous said...

Hi Mike,
Sounds like the stem cells are doing their job! You are rebuilding yourself from the ground up! You sure have busy and full days for a guy who's staying put for now. You picked the best TV sports time- There's a different sport on every channel! It is a conspiracy. (Brett Favre is annoying - 'his' nickname should be Big Baby).
So happy your niece is home - she must love being in her own bed. She is in our prayers; wishing her only good health and happiness.
We know each day brings you closer to coming home!!!
love always, mari and barry

Anonymous said...

Hi Mike and Cookie. So glad things are moving along. GO WHITE CELLS! The Trib today had an article on how nobody's scared of Brett Favre and he's about the same as the quarterback who they already have. Sorry Boston and the Lakers won...we're sick of them already. Thinking about you all the time, love, Leslie and Norm

Anonymous said...

Michael Dear,
So excited about the "stemmies"...(little stem cells), showing growth. I'm so proud of you for showing patience and fortitude during this procedure. I'm coming to the hospital in cheerleading garb to help cheer those stemmies on. Don't worry! I promise to perform quiet cheers so I don't scare them. You are MY HERO and I'm so proud of you!
Love you to the moon and stars and back again...
XOXO Cookie (Your Number One Cheerleader)

Anonymous said...

Mikey, Ok the worst is over and you handled it like a pro, of course with all the sports you watch it would have to wear off. Your tenacity is inspiring and that is what makes our arguments so awesome. love you so much.
Cook, keep up the cheerleading and I will join you with my pom poms. Maybe we could clog dance for Mikey also. But we have to get Brook cause he is the best. love you, B.

Anonymous said...

Hi MIkey! Sorry I am slow with the email wishes, I have had serious computer probs. But you and the "Cooker""are in my thoughts constantly and I am sooooooooooooo happy your "stemmies" are behaving. Careful with those meds, a little buzz might be appreciated, but no talking to invisible people on the celing! My Mom's husband did that in the hospital and the first few minutes I thought he was serious and then I realized it was the meds and I laughed so hard, I cried. Anyway, sounds like things are looking up, and I hope you will be home soon. I would love to come visit and bring something yummy!
Thanks for keeping all of us updated, it really helps and you are getting so much writing experience, throwing in your personal touches, a little humor, etc. . I never knew you had all these talents. I just thought you were a really great guy, not a talented, really great guy. Do your stuff, inside and out. Go Mikey!
Love and kisses, Bonnie M

Anonymous said...

Dear Michael,
Why all the concern about White Cells?
Better you should be in jail with your own
kind;it's safer.
Rosanna Rosanna Danna
ps Glad to hear you're doing so well

Anonymous said...

Dear Michael,
It sounds like everything's on the right track. Let's hear it for those studs!
Jane and I are thinking about you, and rooting for your speedy recovery. Keep it up!
Love,
Andy and Jane

Anonymous said...

Hi Mine Mikey,
Keep those stud cells going!
Now, about me:) Today I had an out of body of experience. I was in the garden section of Lowes when I had an overwhelming desire to buy all of the plants and flowers, leave school, and go home to plant a garden. I suddenly realized that I must be channelling Cookie! Imanagine my surprise! I always walk through the garden sections without one thought of planting flowers. I often refer to my thumb as the "black thumb". Thankfully, I left the store with the 20 flowers I needed for my class. After planting the 20 plants, the desire for a garden did pass, thankfully. I wouldn't know what to do with all the plants, flowers, tools, and other stuff needed to make a garden. I realized that I must have some ability to channel thoughts. Cookie-stay out!!! I can't be the gardener you are! Keep the other thoughts coming through, especially all of the positive ones.
Love you both,
Bonnie B

Anonymous said...

Hi MC,
Such great news today! If anyone can make an early comeback, I'm glad it's you. Hopefully your aches and pains will start to subside too. Now when it comes to backgammon, my guess is that MW will triumph if it ever comes to a playoff. You know he has a horseshoe up his you know what. It seems that horseshoe is up yours right now. Maybe you're channeling him! Take care, keep strong and let those stud cells keep multiplying. See you this week-end.
Lanabelle

Anonymous said...

Once again, I have failed to check my typing before sending my comment. Sorry, imagine that!
Love,
B