Friday ~ Day 185

Morning family and friends,

Dawn and I made the trip to Chicago yesterday for my six month checkup. I first had a pulmonary test of which the results were good. Then I donated enough blood that the nurse told me not to get up from the chair too quick and drink plenty of water right away. Then on to the bone marrow biopsy where they got a little extra fluid and marrow and a more vocal reaction from the patient. My grandkids would relate that as a "Big Owee". You'd think after eight of 'em I'd be pretty much manned up. I think it's the Lords way of reminding us that we're still mortal this side of eternity. Then we saw Doctor Larson. My blood numbers were good, climbing slowly, but headed in the right direction. Kidney numbers still a little above normal but OK. He did stop my prograf, diflucan and nexium so that is half the meds I'm on. Will have to monitor my rash pretty close to see if it stays in check but the lack of prograf should be good for my kidneys. The big news will be in the results of the bone marrow tests which will take a few days. My next appointment is scheduled for June 28th and if I am still clean, my next bone marrow biopsy will be in six months at my year mark from transplant. Thanks to you all for your thoughts, prayers and kindness.....and to a faithful potter. Isa. 64:8

Steve (and Dawn)