Wed., Jan 3rd. 6 pm. Just got back from MSKCC. Checkup was excellent, no real problems, so, Dr. Berman wants me back in hospital asap to do new Chemo, next Thursday, Jan.11th. 5 days Chemo, then home for 5 or so weeks, checkups 2 or 3 days a week back to MSK. We will need help during those times transporting me. This round is 5 times as strong of ARC (1st round 500 units per day, this round 2500-3000 units per day) 1st, 3rd and 5th day. Complications could result in kidney function problems, or Cerebellum problems (balance etc.) either (probably) temporary or permanent. Docs have to warn you of all possible problems. I don't expect any of these problems. So, CB and I will get away Sun-Tues., probably to Brandywine area (Longwood Gardens, Winterthur, Brandywine River Museum etc. Either a BnB or a hip hotel room with amenities.)
Also, a prelim search for possible Bone Marrow Donors cameup with more than 20!! A high number to begin with. We may not need this, but we might, so Docs are starting the process, and we'll try to move to a position of strength in possibilities. We're really a long way off from this. Probably a year, but wise to get started now. I just saw my bill from the 1st round, over $120,000. So...get your health insurance in place, you never know when something hits. This past week our family found out about a 6 year old (Bruce and Judys grandchild Raswan) who also has Leukemia. 2 in the same family within months of each other. He's in Col/Pres Childrens Hospital and needs our prayers. I'll get his address so we can send cars and games for him.

So, I'm trying to enjoy my strength and freedom. Driving to Big Band rehearsal tonight. John H, Gerry C and I played Blues for an hour this am. Hot!! Then tomorrow we got NYPhil rehearsal with Johnny S and Jerry T, then over to MSKCC for a conference with diet doctor (probably to read me the riot act).
Gotta go eat. Later. JIMBO