The transition to the new regimen has been good. Not having any infusions has been a blessing. I just need to remember the rules of the new pills: not eating 2 hours prior or 1 hour after taking it. It has proved trickier than I thought, especially at work. But I have had none of the possibe side effects noted on the warning label.
I have, however, needed to have a blood transfusion about every 4 weeks. The long stint on chemo degraded the bone marrow's ability to produce red blood cells. By the end of the month, I have used up the red blood cells, and oxygen is not getting to the body. I lose energy. My walk has slowed to a shuffle. I can barely climb stairs. It's like moving in water, with weights on. So I need to re-fuel.
These transfusions have made me so much aware of the vital role of blood in our lives. The Bible tells us that the life is in the blood. I am living because someone else donated his/her blood to me. It is a communal transaction. I have no idea whose blood I have. But we live in a society that encourages this donation. We are so fortunate.
It has also made me more aware of the significance of Christ's blood shed for us. He is the donor, the only one that can make it for the entire world. Not only does it cover our sins, but we need it to revitalize our spirits. His life is in the communion drink. We need it to power our lives. These days I have a hard time holding back my tears as I take communion. Such a blessed provision.
So thank you for praying with me through this transition period.
I would appreciate further prayer that the body regenerate red blood cells to the point that I would no longer need the transfusions.
Thank you so much for your prayers. They continue to carry me through this healing process.
-Cal-
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