Feeling Strong and Hopeful

Mom and I thoroughly enjoyed awaking together this morning in her "dorm" room. Both of us turned towards each other, our eyes connected and we both had big smiles. We both shared what it meant for ourselves to be able to bring in the New Year together. We both treasured this experience of sharing.

Mom feels confident that she is ahead of the game and in control of her AML. This morning her Medical Team reviewed her blood reports and evaluated her physical strengths and weaknesses, and expressed what she may be experiencing in the next few days. All four doctors present had smiles on their faces.

Her lead Dr. began with "Ruth you are amazingly doing well. You are a rock! We are all very pleased."

He expressed her blood test are showing expected numbers to be dropping. Her red blood cells are below normal and her platelets are below normal. All of this is expected and she is receiving the appropriate IV's to resolve the below normal levels. Every day, Mom has her blood tests reviewed, her eyes checked, her balance & coordination evaluated and her emotional and mental state is assessed.

Today, Mom walked a good mile. She completed this triumph by walking several laps in the early morning, in the late morning, in the early afternoon, in the late afternoon, in the early evening and in the late evening. The medical staff is in awe of her personal focus and dedication to be in control of her AML. She continues to educate the staff on the importance of eating well, getting daily exercise, using their mind, and trying to keep stress in check. The staff simply adore and have adopted Mom. Her staff continue to visit her daily with smiles and hugs. Mom and they are enjoying each other so much. This is WONDERFUL for me to observe and be a part of.

Brian, Poppie and I joined Mom for dinner in her room this evening. It is wonderful that she is NOT feeling all the terrible symptoms yet. We all trust she will weather this re-induction well. After dinner, we all took a long stroll around the Nurses station and up and down a hallway with Mom. It really feels that we now have an extended family.

Well, hugs to you. Again, thank you for keeping in touch.

2010 is about reaching for all your dreams and creating new ones.

Karen