October 29, 2009 10:50 PM

Leukemia!

One year ago today I was given that diagnosis by my doctor who was surprised by it as much as we were. On the way to the doctor's office I said to my wife that it couldn't be that bad because a simple blood transfusion would get me back on my feet again. How prescient of me!!!

With a disease like this, they waste no time. They asked if I wished to go to Dartmouth-Hitchcock in Hanover, New Hampshire or Dana-Farber in Boston. We chose Boston for a number of reasons and it is a decision that we have never regretted. Having made the choice, an appointment was set up for Friday(2 days away). The doctor then layed out the probable course for my treatment.

She also asked if we wanted any counseling - which we declined. There was no point in feeling sorry for myself or asking why me? We were now in the hands of God and the doctors and that's what really mattered. I would follow their lead.

I came home and telephoned my boss with the news and we agreed that I would go into work the next day for a while to say my goodbyes - whether permanent or for some period of time we did not know!

Of course, I had to begin calling family members and friends with the news.

The rest of my world was now becoming aware...

Bob