100 day report - Bald yet Bold
 |
| Bald yet Bold |
Completed 100 days since Transplant on Nov 22nd, 2019. Had a Bone Marrow Biopsy and a Lumbar Puncture procedure to check for any diseased cells as well as to check for how well the donor stem cells have grafted in my own marrow. Good news is that I do not have any cancer cells lingering in either my marrow or in my spinal fluid. The news causing concern is that the Stem cells did not graft in my marrow; seems my body rejected them.😢 So my frequent visits to Johns Hopkins will continue for transfusion of RBCs, Platelets and injections of Filgrastim, (stimulating factor to increase growth of WBCs), since my body is unable to produce blood cells.
Now I would be needing a
second transplant. Likelihood is that I cannot use the same donor (my daughter)
and have to go through the National Registry to find a matching Donor. The
procedure this time around will be Peripheral Blood Stem Cell (PBSC), almost like a Dialysis without general anesthesia. The pre-transplant treatment plan will be with different chemo and a stronger dose of radiation than last time.
More
details on the process involved and for people interested in registering to be
Donors can be found on this link
https://bethematch.org/support-the-cause/donate-bone-marrow/donation-process/donating-pbsc/
Unlike last time the
treatment would be shorter since right now I am in complete remission and the Transplant
process can be started the moment a matching Donor can be located. This window
of opportunity is limited since the diseased cancerous cells could reemerge and
then that would require Chemotherapy before any transplant can be undertaken.
I was hoping that come December, there would be a respite for Srishti and Sonali but it was not destined to be so. Sonali has been constantly at my side last 9 months caring for me despite her work, cooking, looking after the house and our Social calendar 😜. My sister continues to keep a hawk's eye from Sydney demanding daily reports of the progress.
 |
| A happy moment at Guneet-Amit's house |
So the winding road to recovery and treatment continues beyond 8 months but at least one good thing that has come out of this is the Bald Pate – the new look I have acquired and so far most kind souls have liked it.😀
 |
| Some people have started calling me Bapu 😲 |
This has been a long journey so far and it wouldn't have been easy for Sonali, Srishti, Vivek and myself but for the support we have received from all of you. You each have been a source of immense inspiration, encouragement and motivation for me. Please continue to send abundant positive vibes, love, wishes and blessings my way.
Happy Thanksgiving !!
Good Evening Sudhir Bhai. I am not good in expressing myself. All I can say is you are a fighter. You will come out strong. Thinking about you everyday. Praying for your speedy recovery. Please be strong and think positive. If there is anything I can do, please do not hesitate. I am one phone call away. Please take care of yourself 🙏🙏
ReplyDeleteSanjay Mathur
You are doing a lot Sanjay bro, keeping me in good humor throughout the day via Whatsapp ;)
DeleteYour humour, your look, your family's support and resolve, your arduous and consistent fight is remarkably inspiring ~ hats off! Good that the cancerous cells are arrested for now. I hope you find a matching donor for the second transplant soon enough. Your zeal for life and your will are essential ingredients here -- keep them strong!
ReplyDeleteHave seen most of these processes first hand in life, so I totally understand what your family is going through. I wish you power, strength and all the courage in the world! Now that I have relocated up North, will definitely meet you and Sonali when I am next in DC.
Take good care and my warmest regards,
Rohee
Thanks Rohee
DeleteDear Sudhir aka Bapu, the road to recovery got longer. The intrepid road warrior that you are, may Victory be yours. Your army of fans is behind you. We enjoy your writing. On full recovery We suggest you become a blogger and regale us with your literary flourish and flair. Thanks to Nitin for this update. Regards Ashis & Piu.
ReplyDeleteDear Piu and Ashish, thanks for the kind words and wishes. Glad you find my silly musings funny :)
DeleteSudhir my friend may God bless you because you are a good human being and a friend who I cherish. From 6R to Ronkonkoma we have enjoyed your and Sonali's friendship. Your bald look is amazingly good and you should keep it even after your hair starts growing. Love you man and we will party soon.
ReplyDeleteReza bro, it really has been terrific to have had you and Bonna in our lives - 'Party soon' is a good incentive to get better ASAP :)
DeleteYou are amazing Sudhir. Wishing you the best in finding a new donor match. I am on the registry and i hope i am of use to someone, someday. Your new hairdo is very cool...bapu or hindi filmi style - shakaal shetty! Hugs my friend!!
ReplyDeleteShakaal Shetty, ha ha. Aapney to Bapu se Bhai bana diya. Wish you and the 3 men in your family the very best. Do let me know when you are coming this side to meet your sis
DeleteWarrior friend, your family, your attitude, and, your resolve will help you in your fight. Keep on keeping on Jeejaji. 27th lots if respect and love, Chef.
ReplyDeleteSnehal and Sanjeev
Thanks Saaley Sahib. Wish you and family Happy Holidays and a fantastic 2020
DeleteHi Dad!! We are praying for you and your speedy recovery. I cannot imagine the tough few months you have endured. But your resilience and positive attitude is of no surprise. You will overcome this moment. We love you and send you warmest hug from Chicago.
ReplyDeleteHey Diana, so nice to hear from you. Trust you all are doing well and having a great time this holiday season. Wish you, Angel and the boys the very best for a fab 2020
Delete