Hi everyone,
Just wanted to let you all know of some further developments.
Yesterday Tim met with Professor Andrew Grigg at the Austin for his usual check up. Blood counts and tests are all good. As some of you might be aware, a bone marrow donor search commenced last year for Tim. This is protocol for acute lymphoblastic lymphoma/leukemia suffers, as relapse is a high possibility for most adult patients, and if it does occur a transplant is required immediately. As none of Tim's siblings were a match, a search was conducted nation wide and then overseas. A match has been found for Tim in America, so it is nice to know that even if the worst case scenario eventuates, there is a plan of action for a cure.
Tim and I were very curious to know if they was a danger period for cancer cells to begin to reproduce again in his body. We were anxious to know what would happen at the end of all the oral chemo and if that might be a time to be on alert for symptoms. Prof Grigg explained to Tim that the cancer cells could begin to reproduce at any time even whilst taking chemo. However, in Tim's case, it has been for quite some time that his body has been producing normal, healthy cells, and because of this he estimates Tim has a 20% chance of the cancer rearing it ugly head again, but the percentage drops the longer he stays clear. He also explained to Tim that most adult patients do not make it through the intensive intravenous chemotherapy phase that he went through last year. In fact he labelled Tim as his NO. 1 draft pick!! He is in the top 10% of patients world wide to get through his treatment protocol to present. An absolutely brilliant accomplishment and a true testament to his positive frame of mind.
This news has helped subside his daily side effects and given Tim an enormous boost and the will to continue with the treatment for a further 18 months.
He is thoroughly enjoying the Gawler program and gaining so much from Seikan, who facilitates the course. He is a wealth of health knowledge and has so much spiritual wisdom that Tim is completely inspired and energized at the completion of every session. John has thoroughly enjoyed and benefited from being in the presence of Seikan (and somehow I think the small group might benefit from having the Hamilton lads in there to share). It is so wonderful for father and son to bond and connect in such a special way...
If you did happen to watch the documentary on Jim Stynes, then you have seen a snippet into our world too. Tim and Jim have travelled a very similar journey, in fact so similar that it was difficult for us to watch. Even though they are being treated for very different cancers, they have both chosen to give themselves the very best chance at recovery through integrating their treatment (white coat & natural therapies) and they both have that incredible frame of mind. As hard as it was for us to watch, we were completely inspired by the Stynes family and the dedicated support of his friends especially Jules. That type of support goes a long way and is paramount to the recovery of a patient.
I hope that you are all aware that you are Tim's secret weapon.
Thank you......
Andi
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