We spent three days in Seattle, going through preliminary tests with nurses and doctors to make sure I can physically handle the transplant process. We also signed a lot of papers, it felt a little like buying a house!
The doctor on Thursday let us know that we'd be pushing the procedure start date back a week and that we could go home during that week if we'd like. They need me to recover some of my levels from the last round of chemotherapy. So we drove back on Friday to surprise our kids Saturday morning. The first thing our 3-year old Norah asked me was, "Daddy are you better now?" It brings tears to my eyes- I so look forward to the day when my answer will be "YES!"
I have mixed feelings- it would be nice to get this over with and it will be hard to say goodbye to my kids a second time. On the other hand, it doesn't feel like I'm in an assembly line where the goal is to get me through as quick as possible. I'm glad that the staff in Seattle are taking into account my health status and what dates would give my optimal chances for success. I also feel like I know a little bit more what to expect.
We had a fun time with my brother Jared. He is a very limber guy- always jumping over banisters and the like. We got to spend a few hours at the Experience Music Project on Friday, which was really cool. I'm looking forward to living in downtown Seattle for a few months, especially those months where I'm recovering. I wouldn't want to live there long-term, but I've always thought it would be great for a short period of time. I'm glad that I'll have Christina with me and I'm hoping that this experience will bring us even closer together.
I was telling my son Michael last week that this experience feels a little bit like when I left for my mission. I felt strongly that it was something I should do, but it was still really hard to leave my family. But I felt then and I feel now that God is watching over us, that he has a plan for me, and that these experiences will be for my good. I believe that is true for everyone, but it's nice to feel a witness of it in my heart.
2 comments:
Thanks for the update, Nate. I hope and pray that this week and the next few months will do what you need them to do. You're definitely in my prayers.
Will (AKA Elder) Carr
You inspire me Nathan!!! Your friend Joe J
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