Progress to Report in the Progress Report

When last I reported on my condition, I was breaking up with my constant companion of 6 weeks, Vicodin, and was in a world of hurt because of it. Well, the good news is that we are now at the end of the second round of velcade chemotherapy, and the chemo is reducing the pain associated with the myeloma. The pain is still there, I can assure you, but it is getting more bearable as the chemo progresses. I am now able to do things I haven't in quite some time, such as drive a car, at least for short distances. This is an improvement in my life; as to whether it is an improvement in the quality of life in Kalamazoo, I'll leave it to wiser heads to decide. I'm still woefully short on stamina, and as out of shape as the early 70s Elvis, but I am at least making tentative forays back into the land of the living, and that feels good. What feels especially good is that Florence no longer has to spend every waking moment caring for me, which gives her the opportunity to get some of her life back, too. Round three of velcade therapy begains next week, and I'm asking Santa for a pain-free Christmas. Thanks to all of you who have been writing, e-mailing, and sending the occasional cuneiform clay tablet. You are all wonderful, thoughtful, and much appreciated!