Good news from NYC

Our older son called this morning to deliver the good news. He has been told that he will be discharged either tomorrow or Wednesday. He has been hospitalized in Manhattan exactly four weeks today.

His first week of chemo and blood transfusions were quite difficult, but he soon turned the corner and began feeling like "his old self" as he put it. His eyesight is still diminished but the oncologist told him that should improve gradually.

Ironically, when he was first hospitalized, there were only about a dozen cases of COVID in NYC. It was one of the first things they tested him for before diagnosing his leukemia.

Our big concern now is him being released "into the wild" with a compromised immune system. But the hospital needs his bed. And after four weeks he is quite anxious to get the heck out of there. Unfortunately he will not be able to travel to visit us in Florida, and it has been hard on us being unable to be with him during his ordeal. Plus he still has eight monthly infusions ahead of him, so there will be no "Escape from New York".

This is so strange that just six weeks ago, my wife and I were at Disney world. Needless to say, it was very crowded. Who knew what was about to come.

Great news Rob.

Thats great Rob. Hope the best for him.

good news, but yes it's scary out there.

Crazy. Best wishes for continued success in treatment.

Good news there, Rob! No doubt he will be wearing a mask- home made if need be - and washing those hands often.

So good to hear some great news!!

Hello RobLee,

I give THANKS, hearing of your son's good news.

I have a story for you, to share with him ...

My dad stands alongside me as a fellow prostate cancer patient ...

But going back, 25 years ago, Dad was suddenly diagnosed with acute leukemia.

In a race against time, he was rushed to a hospital and began chemotherapy.

Many of the chemotherapy components then were new ... cutting edge. His doctor was visionary, and we held on with HOPE!

Dad is now a 25 year leukemia SURVIVOR.

He participates in Relay For Life charity events for survivors. We marked my parents' 50th wedding anniversary a few years ago, and celebrated another milestone birthday with my dad last fall.

I sat by his bedside, that summer at the hospital, watching every drop of chemotherapy, drip by drip ---- 25 years ago now!

It was a day to remember when he was released from the hospital and returned HOME.

His determination and personal courage have inspired many, including me.

I share Dad's story with you, in hopes it will encourage your son. Can't wait to see what kind of cake Dad wants for his birthday THIS year!

Look for the LIGHT, hang onto HOPE, and stay STRONG !

In 1981, Steve Perry and JOURNEY sang, "Don't Stop Believin' " and that's the theme of my message today.

Thought my dad's story might be encouraging for your son to hear,
Cyclone - Iowa State University