Expect the Unexpected

On Tuesday, I had a clinic appointment with my main and favorite Hepatolgist, Dr. Bzowej.  I brought my list of items to discuss and the first and most important one was that I needed a release note for me to go back to work. The goal since I was released from the hospital on January 18th was to return to work on July 5th. Since my liver counts have been perfect and my white blood count has been improving I had no doubt in my mind that I wouldn't be getting the note. Well, I was stupid silly and forgot that simple rule that I learned watching Big Brother.... expect the unexpected.

SHE SAID "NO!!" She didn't even pause or think about it when I asked. She explained that my white and red blood cells are not stable enough to go back to work. I do not have enough white blood cells to fight an infection and my red blood cells are low and not filled with enough oxygen. Basically, my bone marrow is messed up. Messed up from what you may ask?  The medicines keeping my liver counts perfect and the one that fights the dreaded CMV virus screwed up my bone marrow. She took me off the medicine used to fight CMV called Valycte and she thinks that will help. I am sure my insurance is celebrating that change since each bottle of 60 pills cost over $4600.

So the new goal is September 1st and she did give me hope that it is possible to return sooner. It all depends on my bone marrow. After consulting Dr. Google, I found that massages help bone marrow recover so my masseuse will love the extra business I will be giving her. Sadly, retail therapy was not listed.

The last couple of days I have been upset. I can accept the transplant, multiple hospital admissions, daily drugs and no alcohol but I was seriously having a hard time accepting not being able to go back to work. Luckily, the Rolo McFlurries are making me feel better. You should really have one if you haven't already!

PS.... HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my Brother!!!