Day 100 - We Made It!! WAHOO! - June 17th

100 hundred days of happy: COMPLETE!  And we did not go out without a bang!  Several months ago my brother and sister-in-law asked me if we had plans for the evening of June 17th.  They wanted us to join them in going to a David Archuleta Concert that would be held in Layton, Utah. They knew how much I 'Idol'lized Davy, and were being so kind to include me in this wonderful outing.  Little did I know then, that this would be our 100 day mark.  There could not have been a better way to celebrate the 100th day of this journey! It was thrilling to say the least to be able to watch and hear this concert, he(Davy) is such a talented incredible young man, with such an incredible message to world. This was just the best way to end this journey with even a little more Happy!

I wanted to conclude this blog with the Dr.s report on the final results of tests that were done last week. I figured this would be a good ending for all those who have been so kind to follow along with me on this journey.

I am so pleased to announce that all visible tumors on my ribs and spine have disappeared.  The cancer did eat away at of one of my vertebra's so am actually 3/4 of an inch shorter than I used to be, all the more evidence that I've always been short a few cogs.  The pet scan showed there are no new lesions appearing, although it may be decades before the old lesions will disappear. The bone marrow biopsy showed only 1% abnormal cells, down from 15%. My blood tests showed that the kappa light chains that were very escalated before receiving treatments are now reading normal, although the lambda chains are below normal, something that they hope will equalize with a little more time.  All in all a very good response to treatment, which we are so happy for!

I have to admit when I was waiting to hear the results, there was a little (or big) part of me that so wanted to hear that this cancer was 100% eradicated. That the treatments had knocked it out of the ball park. So there was a little let down, when I heard there was still a little work to be done.  That being said, I will still be receiving the same maintenance therapy had all the numbers been perfect. Multiple Myeloma really isn't the same as other cancers and is more chronic in nature but treatments are highly effective. 

I am so grateful that things have gone so good, but more than that, I am thankful for multitude of blessings that have come to me because of this journey.  I never knew the magnitude of the love and care that could bless my life from so many beloved family members and wonderful friends, and even strangers! I have been cradled in love of my Heavenly Father and know he answers every prayer that is offered, in a way that will be the best for each of us!  

As I have contemplated this journey and it's results I have come to this conclusion:  Had I gotten the 100% numbers that I was hoping for, I might have felt much less compelled to be responsible for healthy life habits, which I do believe is the biggest component of a complete recovery. I know there are many improvements I could make in this area and have a long ways to go. Its very plain and simple; I'm just a work in progress, and I ain't done yet!  So I bid this blog good-bye for now, but hope you'll check back with me a year from now, for more happy news! 

Day 99 - The Number 1 Spot on the Gratitude List - June 16th

How do I even begin to express the depth of gratitude I have for my incredible, loving, selfless, tireless, non stop, diligent, caring, benevolent, kind, meticulous, faithful, hardworking, steadfast, most amazing care giver ever. I am sure there has never been a better one! I also am sure that there has probably never been more sacrifices made for one person on this planet ever!  I have been the recipient of sooooooooo many acts of love it is most humbling to me to realize someone could give so much of them self, to care for another so deep and complete! I can never come close to making up all that has been sacrificed for me, but one thing I know, is I certainly need to give my all to staying healthy, because I've got a lot of repaying to do! Thanks to the best Honey bunch ever! Love you more than words can tell!

Day 98 - And the Greatest of These, is Love! - June 15th

I have mentioned many times all of the incredible things my family has done for me,  but perhaps I haven't mentioned how much they mean to me.  I really can't imagine what this journey would have been like without them! Their love and support has made all the difference in this world! I have been so blessed to experience so many wonderful times with them these past months, as they have each sacrificed their time, talents, love and devotion, in their own individual ways! I can never thank Heavenly Father enough for allowing me this glimpse of eternity, no wonder they call it Heaven!  

Day 97 - The Love Only a Dog Can Give and Get - June 14th

Tonight was dog training class again and I have to say there was a significant difference in the way Kimba acted.  No, she wasn't by any means perfect, and yes, she was so excited when we got there, she had the strength of a lion (lyon) no pun intended, but with a little bit of work she was actually looking to me for direction! She even got one, 'Phenomenal' from the instructor! Oh happy night! It was so incredible to finally see a difference, and I totally realize this could have been a fluke, but I'm counting it as a win, and who doesn't love a win once in awhile!  

Which brings me to # 3 on the Gratitude List: I am so grateful for this puppy, that has turned into a teen-doggie, and will shortly be a full fledged dog. 

I found out about this cancer adventure just 3 short days, before we were to pick her up at the breeders, she was 8 weeks old.  My number one question to the doctor, was if he thought I would be able to still get her in lieu of my new circumstances. Sadly, he told me that it probably would not be the best case scenario in my situation. I was devastated as we had watched her grow from birth and were so looking forward to being able to bring her home. It was then that my children stepped in assuring me that they would fill in the blank spaces for me, watching and caring for her when I couldn't.  We brought our new puppy home with high hopes and high concerns.

I was able to be with her for the first 3 months before my stem cell transplant, she gave me so much love and comfort, and sometimes a little grief and frustration, but there were so many days that having her next to me brought a solace that was incomparable! 

Then it was time for my transplant and a loving, daughter and her family took Kimba in as their own. She became a part of their family as I began my journey.  They lovingly shared pictures as they began their own adventure, selflessly loving her and sharing their life with her. She had such a great time, no adjustment time was needed for her, but I'm sure there was plenty adjusting in my daughters household, although all they shared was how great things were!

30 days later, I was finally well enough to get her back. I was actually afraid she wouldn't want to come home after having such exciting company to be with, and I'm not all so sure she felt it was a good trade, but home she came. 

Now 67 days later, 670 attempts at jumping in the Murano, and 67,000 steps devoted to walks in the park, I am so thankful for the joy and life this dog shares with me. She has the uncanny ability to soothe and smooth over those down days, and makes sure that I don't stay complacent with being down. She also is good at teaching me patience, tolerance and helping me to realize that it takes a lot of work to over come some of our hang-ups.  It's a marvelous thing to be loved by a dog who never holds back on love even when I'm not at my best, and it's been great to love her even when she's not at hers!

From left to right, Kimba, Diane

Day 96 - The Best of the Best - June 13th

I have mentioned this before, but it wouldn't be right to go without expressing my gratitude for the unbelievable care and expertise that has come from the Huntsman Cancer Institute! From the Doctors, to the P.A.'s, to the nurses and their assistants, to the office staff to the physical therapists, none have been short of amazing! What an incredible hospital to have been able receive care from.

I was able to witness a little of the hiring process, as a few of the applicants (out of 100's) passed in and out of the gym while I was receiving my strength training.  All of the applicants that I met seemed so qualified and impressive.  I thought how could a hiring team possibly pick out of so many great individuals, what a difficult challenge. Then my trainer explained that the process wasn't as difficult as it seemed as the deciding criteria for those that were hired was the compassion and care they displayed for others.
No wonder this is the type of individuals that I have rubbed shoulders with these past 8 months! Truly they are the Best of the Best!   

Day 95 - Gifts Beyond Measure - June 12th

Gratitude list #5:  I will be eternally grateful for all the fasting and prayers that have gone up in my behalf.  I have felt those prayers and immeasurable love through this entire adventure! Thanks to all of those who have given of your time and sacrifice for me in such a sacred way!

I am also eternally grateful to a Heavenly Father who hears and answers all prayers that are offered up in humbleness and meekness.  I know he knows each of us and our unique situations, and answers our prayers according to what is best in our behalf! I am also so very thankful that we can lay our burdens and struggles at our Saviors feet and let him carry through those trials.  I love Them both with all my heart, and know Their gifts are beyond measure!

Day 94 - How Sweet it is! - June 11th

All I can say is it possible to get a day that is too sweet? I'll answer that,"Nope!!!" 

I had it all planned out to write about how wonderful it was to be able to wear make-up instead of a mask to church today, and to sit in the church pews pain free while remembering back to October of last year when it was difficult to make it through one meeting without excruciating pain that would last for the rest of the day and night! These are the things that were making it to my grateful list #6.  And I will still rate them in my # 6 spot, but the day just kept getting sweeter! 

I got to go to visit my cute little better twinner and her puppy today!  How great that was to have the freedom to visit the special friends in my life with out any special precautions! 

But.... the day just got sweeter!  While cleaning up our dinner tonight I heard little children's voices, and thought either we were getting a visit from the neighbors or there were some grandchildren that had landed here to make me happy! Was I ever surprised when I opened the door to see my children and grandchildren bringing all kinds of cute decorations to the the Bowery! They yelled at me to quickly shut the door, (I guess I was not to see their displays of joy yet) so I quickly shut the door and pretended I hadn't seen anything while Robert also snuck out.  Soon they were calling my name, and low and behold there was the sweetest 100 day celebration waiting for me!  Good thing for them they didn't see the 100 tears shed while I was waiting, knowing that they were being so sweet!  So we had a totally wonderful evening, topped off by eating, what else but SWEETS! 

Day 93 - Ahh, the Great Outdoors! June 10th

What an incredibly beautiful day! 

# 7 on the Grateful List!
Not only was the weather perfect today, but the company was perfect! I was able to work out in the yard all day, with the best of companions; Robert, the dogs, the lawn mower, the strawberries and the flowers! It was like heaven to be out and about, mulling around in the yard, but what made it even better, was the fact that because of the very kind acts of service and generous tokens of love that have been given to us, there was hardly a weed in the way of all that heaven. I'm afraid without those magnanimous offerings I might have felt I was visiting the other destination after this life ! Thank everyone who made my Heaven possible!   

Day 92 - Ummumm, Almost as Good as Sugar! June 9th

Grateful List: #8 - I'm sure grateful that Cafe Rio still makes the best Chicken Tortilla Soup around and that it definitely was worth the 93 day wait to enjoy it again! It's official today!  No more food restrictions! I can eat anywhere, travel anywhere and stay anywhere!  That being said, I finished my tests and met with Dr Sbarov today, which opens another VOLUME of things I am grateful for!  I'll be talking about those blessings as we continue our countdown! Stay in Tune........

Day 91 - 1 Down , 9 to Go! - June 8th


Definitely on my list of things to be grateful for:

#9 - I'm down to 3 medications that I'm taking right now - Happy Days!  I am also grateful for the other 11 medications that helped me to get here. How blessed I have been for the knowledge and experience that have led to the comprehensive treatment at the Huntsman.  Even more humbling, is thinking about all those that blazed the trail before me, giving of their time and health to benefit the treatment of those who followed. Most dear to my heart, is knowing that my mother was one of those that sacrificed so much in her own journey!  How grateful I have been to have felt her presence lifting and giving me hope through this incredible adventure!

Day 90 - Count down - June 7th

Can't hardly believe it - 10 days to go.  In Celebration, I will be listing a few of the things that have made this journey one to be ever grateful for - # 10 - Not having to shave my legs for about 80 of those days.  We are at about once a week now, so that is the other thing I'm grateful for,  hair is starting to grow back, although I probably never would have complained had it decided to stay away, it is nice to know my body is returning back to normal! 

More to come!

Day 89 - Power of Focus -June 6th

While I was having the bone marrow biopsy yesterday, the doctor had me use concentrated breathing during parts of the procedure. It was a lot like the type of breathing used for baby birthing, the only gyp was I didn't get a baby... on second thought at my age maybe that was okay! She also engaged me in conversation while she proceeded to do what needed to done.  I was thoroughly amazed at how much better things went.  I'm sure her experience and technique had a lot to do with how well things went, but I definitely felt a difference while I was participating in the breathing exercises. 

This reminded me of the talk given at Women's Conference in April by Bonnie H. Cordon.  Part of her talk was dedicated to sharing the true experience of sister who had been going through a very difficult time with her cancer treatments and side effects. Things had gotten so terrible, this sister had declared chemo therapy a human rights violation and told her husband she had had it and was done with it all!  It was sheer inspiration when her husband declared they needed to find someone to serve.  She couldn't believe what she was hearing; she was so ill and he wanted her to serve?!?

Miraculously, through the few better days she had, she was able to begin serving. As she continued, somehow she was even able to find ways of even doing small things on her worst days.  As she served she found the days going by much faster and happier. She said the days she focused on helping others her outlook was bright and cheerful but when she focused on her pain and suffering her days turned dark. She testified that service literally saved her life! It was the change of focus that changed her whole experience! What a important lesson I hope I can focus on also!  

Day 88 - Bye Bye Love - June 5th

Today I had appointments up at the Huntsman Center to begin the testing to see if this cancer has said "adios"yet.

We did  the bone marrow biopsy again along with blood and camp testing. We won't know the results on much that was done today, until this Friday, but there was a wonderful decree made that I did not have to wear my lovely masks public anymore!  HooRay!!!! I have so appreciated what they have done for me but I have to say, I really don't have a problem saying "Adieu" to them! (Except for when I mow the lawn, another restriction lifted!)  So if there is anyone out there needing a nose fashion statement right now, I've got you covered!

Day 87 - My Favorite Day, (Again) - June 4th

I cannot begin to express how much I need Sundays!  I need every minute of the uplifting 3 hours I spend in hallowed worship to my Heavenly Father and my Savior.  It replenishes me and puts fuel in my tank. My little (or a little longer, on some days) quiet nap doesn't hurt either.

I just wanted to share a few of the uplifting thoughts that were expressed today. For those looking for that missing piece in their life. "God manifests himself to all of us who are seeking to know Him, black and white, bond and free, male and female, he remembereth the heathen and all are alike unto God, both Jew and Gentile."  

Here's the key ingredient to that formula, It's our responsibility to bring ourselves to Him, he can't force us, but is waiting with His arms open, no matter what our condition!  I have felt His love and His mercy, even when I don't feel all that deserving, and Sundays bring an abundance of that!

Day 86 - Sunshiny Days - June 3rd

It was a beautiful day today, with sun shining bright, birds singing, butterflies flying, such a great day to be outside.  As the day carried on it definitely began to feel like summer!  

I was helping my hubby with a fence for the dog in the afternoon when the warm sunshine began to actually get hot.  As I was putting some little stakes in the ground to secure the fence, my mind drifted back to the beginning of this journey when we were staying up at the patient housing. We had been taking walks most everyday, most days were cool but a light coat was sufficient to keep us warm.  One day it was a little warmer so we decided to go to the Peace Gardens near by our room.  It was beautiful there but the sun was shining so bright it just melted me with every step. It took all of the pleasure out of being outdoors.  In fact at that time the sun could take me out anytime it was out.

Such a major difference between now and then, another reminder of how far this journey has brought me, and what a joy it is to be out when the sun is too! 

Day 85 - 15 Days to Go! - June 2nd

Even though it is 15 days to my 100 day Celebration, I begin all my testing on Monday, June 5th.  They will be re-doing all the tests we began with, including that nasty Bone Marrow Biopsy. I have to admit I have been hoping for some great new invention to circumvent that procedure, so if any of you medical students out there have been holding back, please hurry, we have still have 3 days left!!

By June 9th, I will finish the last of my testing and meet with the Doctor that afternoon.  I will be finding out where we sit as far as my immunity and cancer.  THEN,  GET READY CAFE RIO! IT'S TORTILLA SOUP ALA-MODE!😋 

Day 84 - Status Quo - June 1st

We've certainly come so very far in these 84 days! Tonight's blog has to do with some of the battles won and some of the challenges still to be conquered at this point in my journey.  I am so delighted to report that I feel officially over the cold that visited a couple of weeks ago, which is a giant accomplishment that I'm so happy about.  I did find that my level of fatigue increased substantially as my body fought that battle, and even have felt a little of the residual effects of it this week. To be honest, I didn't expect it would have effected me as much as it did, but I guess that is why they give you 100 days of recovery.  

As far as my strength recovery goes;  there are times I feel almost back to normal and ready to leap tall buildings in a single bound, yet, there are times I can tell I still have a ways to go. I know that the exercises they have me doing at the Huntsman have been a giant help besides being great therapy.  This has been such a great experience!  

As for the foods I am able to eat, Almost anything I desire goes, except raspberries and blackberries. Any of the other restrictions I really don't desire anyhow, so it all works.  I still can't eat in crowded restaurants, but I'm counting the days on my fingers and toes now.

Sugar; Is still calling my name, and I had to cut back on my popcorn as I guess you can really get a little too much fiber.........'nuf said! 

Hair regrowth; fuzzy wuzzy's not as bare, but you've got to look close to see the hair!

Best Happy of the day;  When we woke up this morning my husbands allergies were killing him, when I realized that this is the time when my allergies really kick in also,  I haven't had a hint of of sneeze or a sniffle yet, and I'm not going to tell those new stem cells a thing about it!