The Day the World Stopped Turning

My whole world was turned upside down today. At approximately 10:30 am a doctor told us that Mark has acute leukemia. "My husband has leukemia", I truly never thought I would say those words. The emotion is indescribable. We cried - a lot. Then we tried to think positively. Then we cried some more. Then we had to tell family and friends, and we cried each time. Each time we said the word "leukemia" it stabbed like a knife, and made us cry again. Telling our moms was by far the hardest part. They were devastated, needless to say we all cried. For those who don't know, my stepfather died two years ago from leukemia, so this is hitting very close to home. Also, Mark's dad died a year ago from pneumonia, so we are still reeling from that only to have this happen.

Once we got the diagnosis, everything kind of jumped into warp speed. Very quickly Mark was transferred to Northside hospital to begin treatment. Northside has a Leukemia and Bone Marrow Transplant Center. We now reside in the Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) section. The entire wing was built specifically for leukemia and BMT patients. The rooms have a filter system to keep all the hallway air in the hallway, and all our air in our room. To enter the wing, you have to call the nurses station then press a button to open the doors. These doors lead to a small room. In this room you have to put a gown and shoe covers on and wash your hands very thoroughly. Once you have done this and the doors have closed behind you, you push another button to enter the BMT wing.

Anyway, tomorrow they are going to do another bone marrow biopsy and CT scan. The CT scan is to check for blood clots (I think) - the type of leukemia the preliminary tests show increases Mark's chances of developing blood clots, so they have to keep an eye out for them. The biopsy is to confirm the type of leukemia he has so they can finalize the treatment plan. I will be sure to update everyone.

So, today has definitely been emotional and the next few months will be a challenge, but we are determined to face them head on and beat this leukemia. We know God can move mountains and he will heal Mark's body. We will all rise from this whole experience with a greater appreciation for life, family, friends, and God.

Thank you to everyone for all your love and support.