Nov 23, 2022 Update

Hello All!  

I realize it's been awhile since our last post.  There have been lots going on and yet it also seems like nothings changed.  November 4th was my 6 month post transplant date, boy did that fly and yet seems so long ago.  I had my central line removed mid October, and had my first round of vaccinations yesterday.  Just Influenza and Pneumococcal, but it is a start and I'm planing to get my Covid vaccine next week.  

I am still on most of the meds that I was on in the hospital including the three immunosuppressants due to Graft vs Host disease.  They are slowly trying to decrease these and by slowly we are talking over many months.  A couple of times we had to increase the dose and wait a month before trying to decrease again.  These meds have caused weight gain and I have started a new medication for high blood pressure.  My medical team is hoping this is temporary as my immunosuppressants can contribute to this but only time will tell.  

I am getting stronger each day and have been doing the Alberta Cancer Exercise (ACE) program virtually.  Some days I can do more than other days but its the little things that I have noticed improving.  I can walk up our stairs with a laundry basket (yes, with clothes in the basket) pretty easily.  When I first came home, just going up the stairs was a challenge.  I can carry heavier items and do not need naps most days.  My hair is finally starting to come back although right now I look like a sick chia pet plant.  

We have still limited our contact with others especially during this lovely time of the year when there is so much sickness.  I've have been able to have a few distanced visits with my brother and sister and their families as well a few friends so that has been nice.  But, it will be tough as we move into the social season as we miss getting together with family and friends.

Simon and Nate have been home a couple of times and both times they ended up isolated in the basement with colds.  They are doing well living together in Lethbridge and school is also going really good for both of them.  Katie is navigating the world of grade twelve and is getting ready for graduation.  She found her dress last week and I was able to sneak into the mall early on Sunday with her to see her try it on and buy it.  It was very exciting to get to be a part of it. I had an N95 on and we lucked out with very few people in the mall at that hour.  Mike has gone back to work this week and is working through that process.  Although, his work is very hectic right now, he has been looking forward to getting back into a regular routine.

Yes, there is hair coming back although it's hard to see 😜 
Thanksgiving with the family before the colds came!
Katie's Dress!





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