October 28, 2009 10:30 PM

Ahead of the curve!

That was the doctor's concise words to describe where I stand today.

My visit to the clinic today went exactly as I had hoped. I am now off all immuno-suppressants and the accompanying Lipitor that I needed to fend of the rise in cholesterol caused by the Rapamune. I am now officially off the wagon as well. I can have alcohol and, in fact, I had a glass of wine tonight for the first time in almost nine months. I most certainly did not want to overdo it - so one glass was more tha enough for now.

When asked, however, the doctor said that I COULD NOT GET A TATTOO! What a major disappointment that was!!!!!

My hemoglobin has now crept up to 12 - the highest it has ever been. Thirteen is normal - so I am almost there. As for my immune system, one particular number that he looked for was in the 500 range which he said was perfectly normal. Oftentimes, at this juncture, patients are in the 100 range.

But I did get some disappointing news. We visited friends from our church today for lunch and they told me that someone else in the church has been diagnosed with leukemia. Knowing this wonderfully kind lady, I am really bummed to hear the news. This is the 4th person to be so diagnosed in the past 2+ years. What is happening?

Another step forward and my miracle run continues...

Bob