Dear Family and Friends,
On May 2, 18 months post-transplant, Barry had a bone marrow biopsy and a PET-CT Scan. Dr. Miklos emailed us the results:
“Bone marrow biopsy showed no CLL.
FISH cytogenetics was entirely normal.
PET report shows no evidence of CLL, few old shoddy lymph nodes.”
When we met with David in May, he was very happy about Barry’s health and not at all concerned about the graft. He said it is likely Barry will continue with a mixed chimerism and that’s fine with him as long as there is no cancer. The results of the chimerism came in yesterday and it is still low.
So, bottom line, Barry has no cancer, feels (and looks) great, and he fought off a nasty infection about a month ago. We don’t have to go back to Stanford for another six months! If the doctor is happy, we’re happy.
We head off to Turkey next week to celebrate our 40th anniversary, a trip that did not become completely real until May 2.
Many of you have told me how much you appreciate my emails as a way of keeping you updated and in touch. This one-way correspondence has helped me as well, to put into words the process we were in, the feelings we were experiencing, and the connection with all of you. Your love and support has meant everything. We could not have made it without all of you and we are very grateful.
Much love to all,
Bonnie