Thank you Ruthann, Sharesa, and Ellie for your comments and support on the last post. My email, if anyone wants to write directly, is annebocc@sonic.net. Then I could answer personally.

Since it costs about $2000 to test as a donor, insurance only covers immediate siblings, who are the only real statistical likelihood. I do encourage people whose interest has been sparked to get on the registry - I will find out what that entails. The first test is just a blood test, and to be a donor for stem cell is mostly a couple hours of pharesis, where they take the stem cells from your blood and return your blood to you. The young make better donors.

I had the mylotarg last Thursday, and did have a reaction this time (chills, nausea, fever). I have really noticed my liver since, and have been a little queasy. I go back to the clinic tomorrow morning. I will see a local oncologist next week and hope to be able to have bloodwork and transfusions done up here.

My mental/emotional process is complicated, and somewhat subterranean. Last week I was processing mortality a lot, but I seem to have mostly moved on from that one. I am looking into a few practioners as alternative/integrative support, although around here that is a Pandora's box. I am also making more time to rest, meditate and listen to my guided visualization CD's.

My mother has sent me water from Lourdes.

Thank you all for your prayers. Please hold the vision of me in perfect health.

Anne