The Thomas family

The Thomas family
From left to right, Tania, Dave, me and Corina

Thursday 18 August 2011

Life is quiet

It's been a while since I've updated my blog so I have a few things to tell you.

Firstly, I've had my latest results on the level of leukaemia in my blood and the results are great!  They came in at 0.006% which is getting to super low levels so I'm delighted with my progress.

I came off my antiviral drug about 3 weeks ago which means I am now vulnerable to viruses and had a 40% chance of developing shingles.  I'm pleased to say that there has been no sign of shingles although I have had a mild virus which was not much at all but did leave me with an ulcerated palate (yum!) for over a week.  That's just about gone now.

I have had my hair cut for the first time since it regrew. Anyone who knew me prior to 2 years ago will know that I have had long straight hair most of my life.  Therefore it is a bit strange to now have very curly hair.  I have attached a couple of pictures to show the transformation.  I am enjoying the novelty for the time being.


I am in discussions with my colleagues about returning to work in early September.  This will be a gentle phased return which is the norm when someone has been off for a long time.  Also, I am planning to return for only 3 days a week, at least to start with.  I have worked full time all of my working life and thought it would be nice to have a little time for myself (I've got to rather enjoy it to be honest).

Michelle's second period of chemo has been totally effective and she is now in remission from her blast crisis and back to chronic phase, like I was.  She has been out of hospital for a couple of weeks and is enjoying the freedom.  We met for lunch yesterday and she is on good form, making a fashion statement with her lack of hair! She will be going back into hospital at the end of next week for her bone marrow transplant on 2 September.  Because of the blast crisis she will have a full transplant, rather than a reduced intensity one like mine, which involves full body radiation!  As always, I'll keep you posted.

I still have over 2 weeks to my next appointment as it has been moved by another week to 6 September.  I'll give you another update then.

All the best.