Day 100!

Well it's officially Day 100, and Brian has been released from isolation! When we first were told of the 100 day post transplant isolation period it seemed like this day would never come. We listened as doctors told us what he would have to endure throughout the transplant process. The treatments and countless medications, and all of the harsh side effects. The restrictions on everything from what he could eat, how close he could get to other people, where he could go, the 24 hour caregiving he would require. The risks. Those were the most terrifying. His doctor told us that if he caught the common cold it could actually kill him. It was completely unbelievable and overwhelming, and thinking back on it now still brings me to tears.

But here we are on the other side. Brian made it through the transplant and the isolation period and is home. We have to wait about two weeks for the bone biopsy results to know if he is cancer free, but right now we are celebrating this major milestone. We have had so many amazing friends and family helping us on this journey, and making it possible to get to this point. These selfless people put us first and themselves second these past few months, and we are forever grateful. We are so incredibly fortunate to have such wonderful people in our lives. Thank you!

My heart is full as I write this. Just being able to do everyday things together, and get our lives back to normal is truly a gift. Brian still has a long road to recovery ahead, and has gone through so much both physically and emotionally. I think back on those first few days and realize how much stronger we all have become. Now it's time to make some new memories to think back on. My new favorite? The looks on the kids faces when Brian came home, as they jumped into his arms, and Lizzie threw her hands up exclaiming, "he's better!!"

Day + 37

To say that Brian and I are feeling thankful would be an understatement. Most importantly, he is recovering from the transplant well. His tests and blood work are looking good, and the doctors are very pleased with his progress. He still has some residual side effects from the chemo, but overall is feeling okay.

Our Rip it For Rup fundraiser was a few weeks ago, and it went better than we ever could have hoped. Our gym members all came together to make the event a success, donating resources and time, and doing whatever they could to help. We had the incredible participation of the CrossFit community, many people who we had never even met, but who took the time to come out and support us. There were countless friends and family there, and I know we've said this before, but it was absolutely humbling to look around and see all these people there to support Brian.

We also finally got the go ahead from Brian's doctor to let the kids visit him. It has been a month since he's seen him. They read him books, showed him some of their Christmas gifts, and we played a game of Hi Ho Cherryo together. Although we were all wearing masks, and had to sanitize our hands constantly, it was oddly normal, and very much needed. Again, the kids impressed us, and kept their masks on the entire time, since the visit was contingent upon it.

Here's to having a healthy and happy New Year!