Michael hit a milestone last weekend. His immune system is one year old! He did not appreciate my efforts to celebrate: I tried to sing "Happy Birthday!" and repeatedly commented about "what a big boy" he is now. He prefers to keep things a little more low-key.
Since all of us weren't even together much over the weekend, it was difficult to have an official celebration. We just spent every opportunity we had together remembering October 27, 2011--the events, the fears, the hopes, the intense physical struggles, the prayers, the people, the love and kindness, the blessings and victories. Each one of us had a different perspective on the bone marrow transplant and the months that followed, but we could all agree that the last year has been an amazing miracle.
A year ago, the doctors, nurses, and coordinators were teaching us about all the side effects and complications that could occur as a result of bone marrow transplants. In spite of all their promises and warnings, Michael has been free of complications. The worst side effect Michael has suffered has been a mild skin rash. It is simply hard to believe that the child I look at today is the same child who was so desperately sick one year ago.
I know I've shared before the prognosis that the doctors have given is that if Michael can remain in remission for two years, they do not anticipate the cancer ever returning. One year down; one year to go!
