April 21, 2010.  Today marks the 4 year anniversary of Casey's diagnosis of acute lymphocytic leukemia.  I will never forget that day.  I went to the hospital thinking I was bringing Casey home with a severe case of mono, when the doctor told me to have a seat.  I can picture Casey's face being very stoic, while his legs were twitching.  Gary getting up in the middle of the night to go into the hospital, because he felt so helpless.  And waiting until the following morning to call Stevie so that she could enjoy her formal that evening.  It seems like yesterday.  What a learning experience it has been.  I first learned how to spell leukemia so I could google.  I learned about central lines, blood counts, neutrophils, methotrexate, graft vs host, but mostly I learned that I have an incredible son.  Never once during this ordeal have I heard him ask why....only what do I have to do next to get over this hurdle.  He worries that his vomitting in the middle of the night wakes me. He has passed out on the bathroom floor, when he came to, he said he was sorry. Once I had to leave work to take him to the hospital because he had a fever and by the time we got there he was too weak to walk, but he wanted me to finish out my day.  These are just a few examples of times he has apologized to me for being an inconvenience.
Some good has definitely come out of this.  This experience has brought Stevie and Casey real close together.  Growing up they fought all the time.  Now Stevie is the one who takes him for most of his treatments, and runs his errands.  Mrs. Musser is donating her stem cells to a 43 year old person she never met.  And I got a great pedicure!
Another thing I learned is how wonderful family and friends are.  Thank you for all of your thoughts, prayers and continued support.
One last thing, I have never for felt inconvenienced by any of this.  What I have felt is proud to be Casey Coble's mother.  I love you Casey!
Peggy