I can truly say, it is wonderful to be back in Canada! As much as I felt safe and in great hands in Moscow, nothing is like coming back to the comforts of home. It was quite a reunion with my wife and kids at the airport. I actually held it together for the most part, but I think there may have been a few tears of joy on the plane home!
So where are we after two months? Well, as with most people, the first couple of months has been a bit of a roller coaster. In the early weeks of being home, my gait was much improved thanks to the steroids but as they wore off my spasticity slowly returned. I still experience the left foot drop, but find my ability to walk longer distances without it becoming a problem is improving.
I have good days, followed by not so good days. In general, however, I feel that every day I am getting better and better. MS symptoms are a strange animal and every person with the disease will tell you the same. I had two days about a month ago where my symptoms were absolutely terrible. I was fatigued, a lot of leg spasms and heaviness. I suspect it was a reaction to my over doing it physically ( I 've never sat still well) but boy did I pay for it!! Then, as if nothing ever happened, I awoke during the middle of the night, and it was gone! Very bizarre!
My energy levels are slowly improving each day. I have to respect the fact that I am still anemic (low red blood cells, hemoglobin, and hematocrit). While the treatment was aimed at destroying the white bone marrow (Leukocytes), there is collateral damage to the red marrow (red blood cells) as well. Every two weeks, my MD monitors my blood work and so far we are heading in the right direction.
I suppose the long and short of it is that I am recovering, but it is a slow process. The chemo is pretty serious stuff and I continually have to remind myself not to get frustrated by my body as it has only been two months. Not a long time when you consider the amount of recovery that has to take place. I am going to return to work on a part time basis in a few weeks to test the waters. I figure it is a good time to try it, followed by a nice long break for the holidays! I am very much looking forward to a bit of normalcy in my life!
In terms of the MS, no new symptoms, which is a good sign. I have always maintained that I hoped for remission and if I get some improvements that is a bonus. While some experience improvements early on, I still think it is too early for me to tell what may be gained.
I should also mention that for the first time in years, I am on absolutely no medications! No disease modifiers, no anti fatigue meds, and no anti spasmotics. What a great feeling!
My days are filled with gentle exercise, rest and recovery. Each day is better than the last and I look forward to all that my future holds. I will do my best to update everyone at the three month mark! Until then....
All the best from Ottawa!