Paul Walker MAYO Marathon

In a message dated 1/4/2008 12:37:01 P.M. Central Standard Time, grandmalindawalker@gmail.com writes:

We made our drive to Mayo in the frigid, windy temperatures on New Year's Day. The car was really blown around, but at least there was no snow. ,We met with our doctor on Wednesday morning ay 9:30 and she had already read through the files that we had hand carried up here. We really liked her and she spent quite a bit of time with us. Then we were off to the races with tests and appointments which really wore Paul out. He had an EKG, urine test, chest X-ray, bloodwork, and an appointment with the social worker on Wednesday. On Thursday, he had a bone marrow biopsy for which he was sedated - Yeah! He also completed his 24 hour urine collection. That pretty much completed all of the necessary tests since we had brought up copies and/or CDs of all of his past tests. He felt up to going out to eat last night which was great.

Today we had an appointment at The Gift of Life Transplant House which is where we would probably stay if we decide to have the transplant here. They said that the usual stay for a stem cell transplant is 6-8 weeks. The bedrooms are pretty small with a double and a twin bed in each and a recliner and small desk. TVs are not allowed because they want to encourage mingling and gaining support from others. There are common rooms with TVs and lots of sitting areas. You are provided two sets of towels and sheets and are responsible for your own laundry and cleaning. There are kitchens to cook in and numbered cabinets, freezer space, and refrigerator space. The cost is only $25 a night. It would be pretty close quarters for such a long period of time. Good thing Paul and I like each other.

Anyway, the big decision will still be where to have the transplant. We have been so impressed with Mayo. They really do put the patient first. KU, on the other hand, has a strong pull because of being at home. Hopefully when we meet with the doctor on Monday afternoon to discuss test results, there will be something that will help us make the decision.

We plan on driving home on Tuesday, weather permitting. Right now the weather channel shows snow for Tuesday, but that is still pretty far in the future.

Thanks for all of your prayers and support. We know that they are helping and bring us a lot of comfort. -- Linda(Calvin's grandmother!)