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Day +108: Back home in Colorado

 “Country roads, take me home, to the place, I belong”

We arrived in Houston on October 28, 2020 during the aftermath of Hurricane Zeta and finally left Houston on February 19, 2021 during the cleanup of the worst winter storm to hit Texas in decades.   That’s 114 days for those counting, like Connie and I.  The winter disaster in Texas was as crippling as you read - millions including us were out of power, heat, water and even internet for several full days.  Even the hospitals were closed for a full week, primarily due to a lack of running water.  Houston really showed it’s true colors with neighbors helping each other and even “Mattress Mack” opening his mattress showrooms to help those in need of a warm place to sleep.

The big Day +100 milestone (from the donor cell transplant on November 6th) came and went as it was overshadowed by the winter disaster.  We had remained in Houston for a final blood test in order to leave with confidence that my White Blood Count was back under control.  But after it being pushed out several time and consulting with my doctor, she approved our leaving since I’m feeling very good and my recent blood tests were good.  I have a blood test and checkup on Monday with my doctor at UCHealth in Colorado.  The process will continue for at least 2021 with regular checkups and return trips to Houston every 3 months.

The drive home was over 17 hours long as we decided to drive through Kansas to avoid potential winter driving conditions in western Texas, New Mexico and into Colorado.  Having two drivers and our excitement to get home powered us through without any problems.  We’ll be making this drive a few more time this year and driving straight through will be our plan. 

We were greeted back across the Colorado state line with a classic Colorado sunset and home to an wonderful welcome home from our amazing neighbors.  We are truly blessed.

Gary






Comments

  1. UnknownFebruary 21, 2021 at 8:04 AM

    Well done. Congratulations. FIGHT ON!!!!!!!!!
    Much Love from Mike, Belle, Cameron, and Casey❤️

    ReplyDelete
  2. Mary Kay De SpainMarch 1, 2021 at 5:08 PM

    Gary, I am so sorry you both had to endure that storm here, but glad you have progressed so well and have finally made it back to your wonderful home and sweet Goose. I know he was over the top excited to see you both. Thank you for walking us through this journey...and our very best as you continue to move forward. So thankful that you now have so much of this process behind you, as I know it was looming large in your minds for a long time. Enjoy being home :)

    ReplyDelete
  3. Kris RowellMarch 11, 2021 at 6:00 PM

    Hi! For some reason I still don’t get email updates for your blog. I’m so glad your home now and continued improvement is happening.
    You should really think about writing a book on this journey. It would really educate and help others. All the unspoken challenges of finding a place to stay as well as the driving. Providing hope is always important when one is traveling uncharted territories.
    Thinking of you all and sending positive thoughts for a complete recovery.💕

    ReplyDelete

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