#14 Peasant Stock

So much of how I view the world has to do with how to be a good person; what does that even mean? A few things come to mind. Having a set of values and priorities that are in line with helping the world. Living and taking actions that are in harmony with those values. Being kind to those dearest to us and also to those whose paths we cross only here and there. Sometimes it’s the small things we do. Sometimes it’s the Big Gestures of Kindness.

I think about this as I contemplate receiving a bone marrow transplant sometime in the coming months. After the first round of chemo, there is inspiring evidence that therapy is effective. It will be some weeks before we know results from this second round which informs our next steps. I may have a third round of treatment because research shows zeroleukemia cells in the marrow is better than any leukemia cells in the marrow with regard to long-term successful transplants. Enduring hardship now with further confidence going ahead is probably the right road. While I hit some bumps along the way, but not that many and none of the really gnarly ones. In other words, I tolerate treatment well enough — hallelujah! It will be intense times leading up to transplant where I am knocked further to a semblance of smithereens, which I am conveniently and appropriately not thinking about. As you know by now, I work to stay in thismoment!

But one thing gives me extensive pause.

I have thirty perfect matches for a bone marrow transplant. Considering I only need one, this is a remarkable number and…