Those little stem cells are waking up! This morning’s white blood count moved up from .3 to 1.2 and I am feeling much better. Amazing what happens on the left side of that decimal point.
Julie reported the last three days were challenging. I woke up this morning feeling better. My gut seems to have settled down and the cream concoction recommended by my night nurse has soothed that “unseen area of irritation.” Of course, my underwear has taken a serious hit – but we packed lots of Jockey shorts and there is a laundry area in our hospital hotel.
Butt paste is amazing stuff. Our granddaughter, Madeline, who is well on her way to a life without diapers, is very aware of its fantastic properties. I was introduced to its abrasive resistant as well as soothing qualities many years ago on RAGBRAI – the week long bike ride across Iowa.
Life on the left side of the decimal point holds the promise of more bike rides. Maybe not a week-long tour across Iowa or Nebraska, but certainly summer rides with Julie on the bike trails of Lincoln.
Life on the left side of the decimal point includes a trip to Salt Lake City to visit Andrew and Mary, taking in Mary’s art show, drinking a few cold brews at Squatters, and maybe a stroll through the farmer’s market. There is also a trip to Minnesota to hug Madeline, Courtney and Tim in person, see the remodeling project by Tim’s Dad, maybe a picnic, and quiet evenings of enjoyment being together.
Joyce Rupp is an author and spiritual guide introduced to me through my Prayer and Meditation Group. Her writings and meditations have been a steady companion for me during this journey.
She writes of liminality – “the uncomfortable ambiguity when we are standing in the middle of a juncture of significant change.” As Julie and I have counted the days since the stem cell transplant, we have been in liminal space knowing that significant change is occurring in my body but not yet able to see the results of the change.
Rupp reminds us: “Liminality requires acceptance of mystery and a heart full of trust.” At this time, I must accept the mystery of my body’s healing powers created by God and focus a “heart full of trust“ that those healing powers are well supported through the medicines and knowledge of my care providers as well as the prayers and encouragement of our friends and family.
Another way of saying this which I found humorous and shared with one of the doctors here at the Medical Center comes from the French writer and philosopher, Voltaire - “The art of medicine is in amusing a patient while nature affects the cure.”
I am grateful for the promise of life on the left side of the decimal point and for the creative, regenerative and comforting power that assures such a promise.
Grace and peace,
Tim.
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Hurrah! and Yipee Skipee, that sign and name tags did there job. Soon we'll see you strolling on LLC once again.
ReplyDeleteTim, you've always been a leftist! SO happy to hear of your progress. Can't wait to have you guys over for dinner!!!! Excelsior!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great day 11 blog. I am so jazzed for you and because of your kindness in keeping us updated I am jazzed with you as well. I was thinking about the term liminality and comparing it to luminosity. It would appear your study and faith have created a luminosity that certainly lights, inspires and helps lead those around you. Good job buddy.
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