Fri the 24th of Jul – The Soldiers have arrived

Mara texted Dad: “I am now running on your immune system”. Some activity was identified in her blood and her neutrophiles are increasing each day. Apparently this is irrefutable evidence that Dad’s stem cells have found a home base and are multiplying. On Tuesday there were 40 per mm3. Yesterday there were 160. Today 320. A healthy person has 5000 per mm3. Mara is relieved that Dad’s soldiers have finally arrived and the troop is now patrolling her organs to counter any terrorist movement. I am a little more cautious. I know the Gods can be capricious (courtesy of Greek mythology). I do not wish to tempt their fickleness with my euphoria. As I write this, I already hear Richard’s reprimand: “Paula, embrace every moment of optimism that is given to you. Keep faith. Worry is one acquired family trait you can very well do without!” He’s right, of course, and I must let go of the painful disapointments faced in the past. This is a new beginning and we rejoice in it!!!

Even though Mar's spirit stays very strong, her body persists in rebelling. Her organs take turns in expressing their displeasure at all the poison they’ve been subjected to. Her hair is falling out again. For the last week, I stay overnight. The first few days in a chair and then I was upgraded to a bed. Quel Luxury. Every morning, Mara thanks me for being around. She says she’s lucky that I’m her sister. Every morning I respond with how thankful I am. All that I ever gave to Mara, I always received tenfold from her. I am the lucky one. Always have been.