"What Can I Say"

Happy New Year! 
These years, they do go by quickly. I was just thinking about life and the uphill and downhill rides we take- specifically how the past couple of years made the first 50 years seem easy. For the moment, I am doing well and hopeful that I can lower the stress I put on Yvonne and my family. I have been off of the last steroid I was taking for over a month now, so have no excuse for blowing up or being aggressive anymore! My blood tests continue to improve but there is always something out of whack. My white blood cells were up in the 8+ range this week (very normal) but my red blood cells and platelets were both below normal. I will try to improve nutrition and continue to exercise in hopes that normalcy comes sooner than later.

What can I say, it was 1976. Nixon was gone from public life in 1974, Watergate just a memory. The last helicopter carrying last minute Vietnamese refugees left the rooftop of the Saigon US Embassy in 1975. Jimmy Carter rode the wave into the presidency as there wasn't a lot of positive news for the U.S.A. The Cold War was freezing along while yours truly was enjoying my junior year of high school. For those who can remember the mid 70's disco was just becoming to get big, the Beatles and the English invasion impact was over. Popular music boiled down to easy listening stuff that was played on AM radio. As an example of the topsy-turvy times, one of the most popular songs of 1976 was Paul McCartney and Wings "Silly Love Songs" wow, how low could we go? I hadn't embraced disco yet, trying to find musical artists that still played catchy light rock or pop. I was stuck in a time warp myself, still accumulating Beatles and other 60's music as fast as I could via the used records stores.
Boz Scaggs came out with Silk Degrees and for at least a month or so my prayers were answered. There were many great songs including Lido Shuffle, Lowdown, and "What Can I Say." A song about unrequited love. I can say that 2011 will be different than 2010, I hope you and yours see improvements, peace, love, and as Elvis Costello said- understanding.     LH Greg 

"Happy Christmas"

Merry Christmas, or as John Lennon and company said, "Happy X-Mas, War is Over."

Mikhael, Yvonne, Greg, Sadie in the hills above Enumclaw

John wrote the song in 1971 and released it in the USA in 1975 on the Shaved Fish album. John's song is a Vietnam protest song, but the melody became loved enough for this tune to become a modern day Christmas classic.
I hope everyone has a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Our household grew to four today with our youngest son Mikhael joining Yvonne Sadie and I. Rain has encircled our western Washington locale. Sadie has already had her Christmas Eve walk, we are looking forward to playing Christmas scrabble, and maybe seeing a movie later. Santa has been here already and left a few presents. We hope you and yours remember the reason for the season this year. A nice little dose of compassion to our fellow man and woman sure goes a long way. Hmm... maybe that compassion and concern should last more than a week! My New Years resolution is being formulated but I know it will include being kind to others.
Thank you to everyone who has helped me through tough times. I owe my current health to science and your prayers, support, and kindness. 

"Dogs"

With Roger Waters being in town today for a big concert performing "The Wall" at the Tacoma Dome, I had to post a Pink Floyd song that is probably my favourite. "Dogs" was released on the Animals album in 1977. The concert tour at the time had to be the biggest production to date in the rock and roll world, with lots of pyrotechnics, and huge animal balloons floating around in the arenas. I saw the concert in the Portland Memorial Colosseum... I remember most of it- I do recall saying a big fat  "wow!" at the conclusion.The lyrics are written to describe how Roger Waters saw the corporate culture of the time. There are so many good lyrics that I had to relate two stanzas: "And after a while, you can work on points for style
Like the club tie, and the firm handshake
A certain look in the eye and an easy smile
You have to be trusted by the people that you lie to
So that when they turn their backs on you
You'll get the chance to put the knife in

You gotta keep one eye looking over your shoulder
You know, it's going to get harder, and harder, and harder
As you get older
Yeah, and in the end you'll pack up and fly down south
Hide your head in the sand
Just another sad old man
All alone and dying of cancer"

This group in the video is Roger Waters and friends, not Pink Floyd. My hope is we don't emulate the message, but learn from it and try not to act like dogs       
or sheep.
I am still doing fine, as is Yvonne as we go to her work Christmas party tonight. Merry Christmas, Live Happy! Greg

"You Can't Do That"

 Obviously, The Beatles did not subscribe literally to this song written by John Lennon and recorded in early 1964 as the "b" side to the "Can't buy me love" single. John's song was at least in part autobiographical and differed from the normal Beatles songs of the early days as the lyrics clearly talk about a jealous guy telling his girlfriend to quit talking to another guy. The song was considered as the "A" side of a single until Paul's "Can't Buy me Love" trumped it at the last minute. The video is from an early 60's T.V. show with a not so obvious lip sync. If you watch near the middle, John is shown playing the lead guitar part which was not his normal role. (At the time John was the obvious leader of the band.) I like this early rocker and can relate to the title. While I continue to improve every day I have to restrict myself from certain foods, etc. Yvonne can be heard telling me I can't do that once or twice a day.
I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving and shared good times with family and friends. We were going to travel to Utah to see my Father and his wife Alice- then the snow and roads changed our minds. We did get our house decorated including our two Christmas trees after our sons made visits and Andrew introduced us to his friend Morgan.
Yvonne is registering for the "Big Climb" very soon (it is March 11, 2011) we hope to form a team again and will be communicating more on that very soon. Living happily- Greg

" I and Love and You"

11-21-2010 Sadie in Enumclaw 2+ inches of snow!

I am posting a video from one of the best of the new bands out there. The Avett Brothers blend rock, country, blues, and their own americana into an eclectic very interesting sound. "I and Love and You" is probably about leaving a girlfriend and missing chances to start the relationship out on a better footing. I am also adding a nice forwarded e mail from my Oahu friend Valerie. It is worth a read and a forward if you are so inclined...

Yvonne, Sadie with Tree #1

I had a bone marrow aspiration done a little over a week ago and will discover the results tomorrow. I am pretty sure I am still cancer free as I am getting a little better every day with the minor complications from the transplant. My 24 year old son Andrew is flying in tomorrow with his friend Morgan, just in time to see the two Christmas trees Yvonne cut down for our house this past Sunday. I felt wimpy, she ordered me to stand aside and loaded the trees into the truck too. 

What if there isn't "anymore"?
 

  One day a woman's husband died, and on that clear, cold morning, in the warmth of their bedroom, the wife was  struck with the pain of learning that sometimes there isn't "anymore".
  No more hugs, no more special moments to celebrate together, no more phone calls just to chat, no more "just one minute."   Sometimes, what we care about the most gets all used up and goes away, never to return before we can say good-bye, say "I love you."

  So while we have it, it's best we love it, care for it, fix it when it's broken and heal it when it's sick.
  This is true for marriage.....And old cars... And children with bad report cards, and dogs with bad hips, and aging parents and grandparents. We keep them because they are worth it, because we are worth it.

  Some things we keep -- like a best friend who moved away or a sister-in-law after divorce. There are just some things that make us happy, no matter what.

  Life is important, like people we know who are special. And so, we keep them close!
 

I received this from someone who thought I was a 'keeper'! Then I put the whole message on my blog to reach as many people as possible.   Let every one of your friends know you love them. Even if you think they don't love you back. And just in case I'm gone tomorrow:
I LOVE YA!!!

Live today because tomorrow is not promised.

"Policeman's X-Mas Party"

John Ondrasik of Five for Fighting wrote a song about his experiences with the police after his housekeeper and her boyfriend tried to kill the housekeeper's husband at John's house. It's a bit of a jumble, but has some interesting lyrics that might ring true to other law enforcement professional's out there.  :)
Hello to everyone, I hope you survived yet another year of attack ads and all the political fluff. It doesn't get any better, huh? I think the electorate sent a message about the track we are on, hopefully the politicians get that.
On to other things! I am excited to announce that I am working with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (the same organization that does the Big Climb) to help raise funds by being an honored patient for a local Team in Training. The team is about to start training for the Victoria B.C. New Balance Half Iron triathlon June 19, 2011. (If I ever get a clearance to start swimming again, I might train for this event too.) I will know more this weekend after we attend a kick off meeting, if you are interested get a hold of me...
My back and neck issues are improving, other than having some bulging discs- I should be fine. I did develop some minor graft versus host disease (skin and mouth irratations) which mean my transplant is working as it is supposed to (no pain no gain). Work is progressing O.K., notwithstanding the bad news this morning that our agency is facing a large budget cut for 2011 due to the voters voting no to a sales tax increase that would've kept our funding intact.

"Yesterday"

Hey all! I hope everyone has a great weekend, even if it is in the rain. I realized after a relatively long day today that I have never written about one of the best loved Beatles songs of all time. What makes this song even more special is that it almost was not a Beatles song. "Yesterday" was written by Paul in 1964/1965.  It is a break-up song, at the time the Beatles recorded many love and break up songs but none were like this. For the first time in their recording history Yesterday was the first song featuring only one Beatle (the song did include a string quartet added by George Martin.)  Paul's band-mates did not want to release Yesterday as a single in the U.K., and in fact they didn't until after the break up (1976.) The Beatles did release the song as a single with Act Naturally in America where it went to number one shortly after release in 1965.  Paul stuck with his song eventually pushing his masterpiece to be included on the Help album in 1965.  The song ended up being the most covered song of all time, recorded over 3000 times by other artists.
We all have Yesterday moments, usually we come to be verified later. Keep at it, stay strong and when you know you are right- make it happen!

PS: I go in for an MRI on Monday to check out some back and neck issues that have cropped up. I will know more by November 1.  Happy the weekend is here- Greg

"Imagine"

Today is John Lennon's 70th birthday. Had he not been shot to death in front of his Dakota Apt. in 1980 who knows what kind of music and cultural change may have occurred since then. John was killed December 8th 1980, and coincidentally my Mother died on the same day, in 1992. If you go to Youtube or search with Google you already knew this was John's birthday. I can't remember if anyone has asked me who my favorite Beatle was, my answer is John. He is the most complex, was the early leader of the group, and I just happen to like more of his songs than those of Paul. (George is my favorite under utilized Beatle.) Check out the attached link or go to Youtube or Google yourself to check out some John videos. "Imagine" was written in 1971 just after the Beatles demise. It is an often covered and played song, full of interpretation and depth.

I had my Hickman catheter removed this past Wednesday, and am continuing to improve every day. After a few days of healing the hole that was in my chest, I plan on returning to water walking and eventually swimming. Have a great weekend!    Greg

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6GAHFrLAxzM&a=GxdCwVVULXduHu2wZH9k8kwu8BX_q2EQ&list=ML&playnext=1

"Keep Yourself Alive"

The rock group Queen released their first album in 1973 after working together since 1971. The first single from the self titled album "Queen" was "Keep Yourself Alive." In later years Queen would release many more hits that became rock standards. The attached video is from 1977 and an American tour in Houston. Queen continued to be at the forefront of rock music until Freddie Mercury's early death in 1991 of Aids related pneumonia. I can remember a high school friend talking about Queen in 1975 or so, so off to the record store I went to buy a used copy of Queen.  I ended up buying many more albums throughout the years.

In this instance, I am using a title that has obvious connotations to every one of us. How we keep ourselves alive differs for everyone, but the words of wisdom are relative to everyone.
I have been back to work for two weeks now- so far there has been no physical downside, and I am improving every day. Sadie is also improving, although we still have to limit her walking and running. We did a Dewey Lakes (Chinook Pass, Mt. Rainier) trail hike a couple of weeks ago, and a three lap 4.2 mile hike at Deep Lake today. We are getting ready for the real Fall season now too. Live Happy, Greg

"This Boy"

Yvonne and I went to the Puyallup Fair yesterday for the most part to see the Beatles tribute band, Imagine. Imagine is one of many  Beatles tribute bands, musically playing the exact same period instruments without extra production. We saw the early Beatles show, they also do a Sgt. Peppers era show. They are playing the Puyallup fair for another five days I think. We were able to talk to the lads before and after the show. ("Paul" and "George" with me in photo). Well worth the entrance fee for their one hour show.

After trying to enjoy the last few days of what has been 4+ months of sick leave and vacation I am returning to work Monday Sept. 20. I want to get back into the action even when we are facing some tough budget issues including demotions and lay offs. I wish a good weekend to everyone, this boy will enjoy my last weekend of freedom. The attached  video is a live performance of "This Boy"  as they performed it on a British variety show in 1963. 

"Octopus's Garden"

Richard Starkey AKA Ringo Starr wrote two songs while recording with the Beatles. The first was"Don't Pass Me By" from the White album. George Harrison helped Ringo write "Octopus's Garden" during the Let it Be sessions- the group went back and forth, eventually deciding to put the song on the Abbey Road album. Ringo wrote the song after taking a holiday with Peter Sellers on Seller's yacht. I particularly like the child like lyrics about being warm below the storm in our little hideaway beneath the sea.

There are times when we'd all like to be sheltered from reality, or rain like we are having here in the Seattle area. Things are going well, Yvonne and I spent a week in Palm Springs and San Diego and got home this past Sunday night. Yvonne went back to physical therapy work yesterday, officially ending her caregiver job she has held since April (helping me.)  I visited the doctor and am still waiting for some blood test results, but feel much better and ready to go back to work too if I pass a few more minor tests the doctor has for me. Living Happy, Greg 

"Wind Up"

Hello everyone, I hope the winding down summer is treating you well. It has been a strange summer for us in the Northwest, going back and forth between 85 degrees and hot to 60 degrees and clouds or rain causing gardeners heartaches and other problems. Since I can't spend a lot of time in the sun right now - it has worked out well for me.
We had to change our e mail address due to being hacked, phished, and having our old e mail address stolen. Part of losing the beatlefool@yahoo.com address meant losing all of my contact information including e mail addresses and phone numbers.  I am in the process of contacting e mail addresses I was able to save.   If you didn't get a message from me already about our new e mail address you can click on view my complete profile, then contact/email on the blog to send me an email- I'd appreciate it so I can stay in contact.

I met with my old oncologist this past week as we are now proud graduates of the Hutch and have moved on to life after transplant. So far so good, my blood chemistry continues to improve and my curls continue to grow.  Sadie is also healing well and has a lot of energy- we have to hold her back more than anything else. We had a a nice visit this week from Nadine and Julie, Yvonne's friends from Oregon, then it was our 28th anniversary Friday. Mikhael came home for a quick visit too. *We might be going to Palm Springs/San Diego to celebrate this week if all goes well at Monday's Dr. Appointment. 

Here it is, another Sunday. I haven't talked much if at all about one of my all time favorite musical groups, Jethro Tull. Ian Anderson and the Tull have been around since 1968, producing many hits, concept albums, and a Grammy for best hard rock/metal group/performance (a little controversial in 1989, as groups like Metallica were shunned.)  1971's Aqualung tops my list of their albums. I think the lyrics of "Wind Up" offer the best lines. The attached video begins with an interesting guitar solo by Martin Barre, then gets into the song with Ian playing acoustic guitar and singing.    Living Happy, Greg

"Learning to Fly"

Yvonne and Greg fighting over the remote control

08-23-10 UPDATE: I AM SORRY IF YOU RECEIVED A SPAM E MAIL FROM OUR E MAIL ADDRESS TODAY AROUND LUNCH TIME, WE ARE WORKING ON THE PROBLEM WITH YAHOO AND HOPE TO HAVE IT RESOLVED SOON.

We made it through day 99 Friday, not without one last extra infusion! I had a last day 4 hour infusion of Immunoglobulin-g medicine to boost one of my blood components that fell below the limit this past week. I thought I would show what happens when I have to sit and take an infusion- hence the attached picture.
I received all of the final reports, we shook hands with the team and we were done. As luck would have it Fred Hutch was having their annual picnic and we ambled over to the picnic site to complete the day with a veggie hot dog and burger.  (Guess who had the veggie dog!)
My song title/metaphor for today is a Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers 1991 big hit. Petty is one of those lucky guys who was heavily influenced by the Beatles, became a star in his own right and then in 1988 actually played in a group with one Beatle and the three other mega stars (The original five Wilburys were George Harrison, Roy Orbison, Bob Dylan, Jeff Lynne and Tom Petty.)  I was riding the bike Friday morning and "Learning to Fly" was one of my Ipod songs in the shuffle. The song made me think Tom and Jeff Lynne were writing a metaphor about growing up in the 1960's. Then I thought, it just might be my metaphor for the rest of my life. Check out the video it might bring back some memories.

"Well some say life will beat you down- Break your heart, steal your crown
So I've started out, for God knows where- I guess I'll know when I get there
I'm learning to fly, around the clouds, But what goes up must come down."

The original five Wilburys

Live Happy!     Greg

"I Need You"

Monday's bone marrow test with faked grimace

I need you, three simple words that have meant a lot for many of us. It has been especially important to me since October  2009, and will continue as I wind down towards getting back in tune. I am feeling much better today, I am not sure if it is physical or emotional, no arguing about it now! I hope I don't offend anyone, but there are some photos I have never shown that I will be highlighting in the next few posts as I wind down, as I am fast approaching the end of the bone marrow transplant program. I am supposed to graduate this Friday with some long term follow up scheduled further down the road. I see my oncologist in Tacoma on Monday the 23rd for the next phase and should be looking to return to work and living life  ASAP. Please accept my sincere thanks for the motivation, inspiration, and communication over the past ten months!

Mucositis after radiation/chemo/transplant May '10

George Harrison penned this simple love story directed to his muse at the time, Pattie Boyd.(They married in 1966.)  It was 1965, a great year for breaking out of the norm. The Rolling Stones' couldn't get no Satisfaction, LBJ  was inaugurated for another term in office, Bob Dylan unplugged. For those younger folks out there I'd say it is worth taking a look at the history, or we might be doomed to repeat some of the worst of it. The Beatles were still riding the wave to the top, and generally Paul and John allowed George to add at least one song per album. "I Need You" highlights one of the greatest under-appreciated musical instruments still played from time to time- the Cowbell played by Ringo.

"Glass Onion"

It is day 92 and we are down to the final week of my official bone/stem cell transplant relationship with Fred Hutchinson/Seattle Cancer Care. They have crammed daily blood tests,  clinics, reviews, and consultations every day this next week and then we/I graduate on August 20. I feel very happy for Yvonne as she can start to get back to normal and segue away from being my full time caregiver! I am sure I took advantage of that from time to time. There has been some downtime during this process, but also a lot of overtime especially for Yvonne.  I chose "Glass Onion" as my song of the day due to how confusing the song's lyrics are, kind of like my surreal ending of my 100 days with Fred Hutchinson.  I ended this past week in the clinic by myself Friday as Yvonne was caring for our Lab Sadie who just had her TPLO/ACL surgery. I was a little nervous leaving our house yesterday morning as I was used to having Yvonne take me to every clinic and medical appointment I have had for the entire transplant process. But I bravely got behind the wheel, and set off to Seattle solo at 6:30AM for what was supposed to be a fairly routine day. I was supposed to meet my new Doctor (they change every month) and end the day with my last intrathecal lumbar chemo at 2PM. I got home at 7PM due to delays, extra platelets infusions, and an almost psychedelic feeling at the end of the day. I had my last spinal fluid removal/methotrexate infusion take almost 2 hours when it usually takes 20-30 minutes. What goes around comes around too. My last doctor for what will be just over one week is the first doctor who we ever consulted with regarding bone marrow transplants. We met with her in November of 2009, her advice in Nov. was to NOT do a transplant. Now we end the whole thing together... The good news was how thorough she was during the clinic visit and actually added to my confidence with some good suggestions and making sure we do one more bone marrow test before I leave next week (to make sure my current white blood cell count isn't related to a relapse.)

Greg riding his bike with infusions,Ipod,(and some hair) Thursday

Yvonne the caregiver for Sadie

John Lennon wrote most of "Glass Onion" for The Beatles (White) album in 1968. He throws everything but the kitchen sink into the lyrics, references to many other Beatles songs including the timely Paul is Dead rumors stuff. It didn't make any sense on purpose. I am wondering if my last week will follow the same trend as my blood counts are doing similar things. My white count took a big dip down, so did my platelets. I was in transfusion for regular blood today and two bags of platelets yesterday. My red count is going both directions. Lots of unknowns. So- I have decided to continue to work on things I can control like good nutrition, exercise, having a positive attitude, and making the best of every situation.  And I will continue to be a renegade when I can.
Live Happy!

"Act Naturally"

Howdy world! I hope everyone is having a great summer and those holidays and vacations are paying dividends. Heck, some of you might just be heading out for the vacation in the coming weeks. One of my regrets is not being able to take Yvonne on a real vacation or real stress relief all summer. Now that I think about it, I really miss vacationing with the whole family. (I know, summer is still here for a bit.)
The Beatles recorded the Help album in 1965. The U. S. version was actually a movie soundtrack first, music album second. As the boys were finishing the album they had an unwritten policy of ensuring Ringo sang at least one song per album. Ringo's original song for Help was deemed not quite good enough, so off to Country and Western and after a just a day they produced a Beatles cover version of Buck Owens' "Act Naturally." Other trivia, "Act Naturally" was the last official cover song laid down by the Beatles on an album. This attached video shows a real live version, some great banter and real Ringo modesty.

As far as my cancer stuff, I am at day 87 today, getting very close to the official day 100 send off. I have developed graft vs. host disease of the mouth, and it might be starting in my skin in the legs. The good news is that GVHD means the new stem cells are trying to do their thing and establish in my system. I also developed a new (as yet) unknown blood infection, it is causing a little bit of an issue with my energy and strength. I am taking the maximum of I V anti-biotics to combat the new infection, and will find out this week if I need to have my Hickman catheter removed (the infection is in there too.) My best man Phil Wich from Oregon came up to visit this weekend and we had a great time catching up. Then Cam showed up with some of the best (and richest) cookies I have eaten (Thanks Kristin!) sometimes a guy is luckier than he deserves! Live Happy :)

Livestrong

Day 80 is bringing out some spiritual and thought provoking memories today, so please forgive my at times rambling offshoots.
Captain X you always seem to have a motivational tool at the ready for me when things could be going better, and today my subscription to Livestrong is official. Hank, my remembrances of your spirit evoke so many good thoughts. Mary my dear Mary, how lucky can my brother be ending up with your true kindness and love (it still amazes me. The care package we received in the mail Saturday made our evening!) The little things are all adding up to me now as I am coming to an end of the "acute" phase of this stem cell transplant. Yvonne continues to motivate when I need it (all of the time lately) and push me forward in the most supportive and adult way. Dad, Alice, Cathy, Les, Alan- if I sound less than positive it's temporary. I have realized with focus, nutrition, physical fitness, and knowledge I have the best fighting chance to return to normal. I am at Day 80 today, Yvonne was there watching them relax me, and complete the last bone marrow aspiration taking a little fluid in the clinic today all without pain. She smiled when I needed it and looked forward to our return trip to home so she could eat the leftovers pizza she made for me last night. She drives me every day we need to go to town or other locations, even though I have the I am the guy I drive background.
My best man is coming up from Portland to rock and roll with us this coming weekend as Rush is coming to the White River Amphitheater. Tony, thanks for the news and positive messages you've sent my way, you are a good friend. I have some pulmonary testing, some oral hygiene stuff, and just a few more by rote testing to complete before I am released to my original oncology doctor. The best news of all is I am tapering off of Predisone which cause weakness, puffy face, and many other ugly side effects. I should be done with that by early September!! In the meantime I am finding focus where I can to keep busy, making a buck or two in the stock market, etc. My platelets are a cause of concern and seem to continue to go down over time, that's where nutrition hopefully will help. Update over, enjoy a nice little ditty on me. Live Happy!

"You Should Be Dancing"

Oh those 1970's icons The Bee Gees! I vividly remember going from disco hating fire breathing "Ban disco" to wanting to be in the discotheque hoping to get lucky. My reason for the post today is while I am at day 72 I feel like I should be able to dance. Our dog Sadie should be able to chase a ball. We are both having issues, mine is a new bacterial infection causing me to be slowed to a near standstill, Sadie's is a probable ACL rupture. We are taking Sadie into the Vet tomorrow on the way to pick up some Cipro for me, when we return to town we should know if Sadie has to have a surgical solution. Poor Sadie, she can't bear any weight on her left rear leg and lays around a lot. We had a great if slowed a bit time this past weekend by the by. We drove to Crystal Mountain ski resort for a day trip picnicking on a bagel and cream cheese. We used to take Sadie up there and spend some real quality time hiking and swimming in some hidden high country lakes for her ultimate enjoyment. We had to leave her home Sunday.

Free as a Bird

A number of years after John Lennon was killed outside of the famous Dakota Apartment building in New York, the remaining Beatles finally got some unfinished demos together to record a few songs for the "Anthology" project. Real Love and Free as a Bird were the two new songs that were commercially released and were minor successes. I have some freedom now myself, for example I can grow my whiskers and even have some hair sprouting out of the top of my head now. With freedom comes some other side effects though. I contacted a virus called BK and am on an experimental 5 week study to determine the efficacy of an as yet to be approved by the FDA drug. I am also still being treated for GVHD which has caused some general weakness and fatigue issues. I just have to slow down and walk more and less bike for a bit I hope. Hopefully I can start to taper many of the immuno-suppressive drugs and get down to a manageable amounts so I don't forget to get my 30-40 pills in per day. Check out my whiskers, I seem to fit in in the Seattle scene. As 70 year old Ringo says, "Peace and Love!" 

"Lucy in the sky with Diamonds" (Love version)

Lucy was of course one of the most controversial Beatles' songs ever written. Most people go with the obvious L.S.D. acronym and say the song was an ode to acid. John and Paul differ as John had always maintained that his son Julian came home talking about a picture including many bits and pieces that would be turned into lyrics and the title. I choose to believe the Beatles version...
Today is day +62 post transplant for me. We had an interesting week, my new doctors diagnosed Graft Vs. Host Disease of the G. I. and mouth, they changed my meds a bit more. Along with Prednisone, I am taking some liquid beclomethasone  and some other new meds I can't even pronounce. On Monday the clinic doctor tried to complete an interthecal low back spinal procedure- he was successful at bruising the low back. I was in the clinic today, then forwarded to the U. W. to do the procedure under a scope- it went fine. I will begin to ween myself off of many of the drugs in the next few weeks. We did move home officially, this weather is sure therapeutic. Live Happy!

"Why Worry"

Howdy to anyone following my progress. If you didn't know, I have been doing pretty good since leaving the hospital in mid June. A few bumps in the road here and there... My most recent bump has been a low grade fever that has progressively worsened over the past ten days. It got to be more of a problem today so we went into the triage weekend clinic this afternoon. The on-call doctor gave his professional opinion that I have Graft Vs. Host Disease (GVHD) of the gastrointestinal system. They started me on prednisone and extra fluids for a bit. They will do some more exhaustive testing to make sure of this diagnosis Sunday and Monday. Like Mark Knopfler and Dire Straits said in 1978, why worry? GVHD strikes about half of the stem cell transplant patients. It is usually manageable with minor medication additions. My fever is already going down after the first dose of prednisone.  More later... Happy in Enumclaw- Greg

"Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In"

I did some research this morning and discovered that the moon is in the seventh house, and Jupiter has aligned with Mars a number of times since 1969. The 5th Dimension recorded this medley that originally came from the Broadway musical Hair. They ended up recording several other late 60's and early 70's hits like Up, Up and Away. We were still involved in Vietnam, there was some political unrest, and the end of the decade was fast upon the country. Different times indeed.
The Seattle area finally let the sunshine in today, we awoke to a blue sky and a promise of summer for at least a week. Yvonne and I just started my daily infusion of liquids including high doses of magnesium and potassium. I have been low in those two minerals for about ten days, taking supplements four time a day plus the fluid. It is day + 53 since my transplant. I feel fortunate that I have only had minor issues. Reaching out to other Leukemia patients I have discovered we all go through the loss of taste, feeling in hands and feet, hair, appetite, strength, and energy. The only differences are the level or severity of effects. So far, I am in the "handling it OK crowd" Other leukemia side effects include feeling cold (or hot) all of the time. I am in the cold camp, and will have difficulty not being able to fully enjoy the sun. (I can't be in the sun for any length of time while I am immuno-suppressed), I already have sun screen on and will enjoy the warmth with hat and long sleeves. 
John, our prayers are with you.   Live Happy-  Greg  

"Peace of Mind"

How come so many rock and roll stars end up dieing of drug overdoses, suicide, etc? They produce lovely music, and seem to burn out so soon (many anyway.) I was riding my stationary bike this morning and the first song on my Ipod was from Boston's self titled first album called "Peace of Mind." A song about the baby boomer generation and materialism with a nice workout beat. Boston's lead singer was Brad Delp, who just happened to grow up idolizing the Beatles and later formed a Beatles tribute band in the Boston area called Beatlejuice. Brad committed suicide in 2007 leaving a note saying he was a lonely soul, and that was that. There are some great lyrics from the tune penned by Tom Scholtz, the driving force behind Boston. "Now you're climbing to the top of the company ladder- Hope it doesn't take too long- Can't you see there'll come a day when it won't matter- Come a day when youll be gone." Is it me or has our pursuits in the workplace remained about the same (not counting the new I-Phone) since 1976?
Yvonne is doing a great job of making sure I follow my treatment protocol, I am improving every day. The POTS heart rate thing is even improving markedly. Today is day 47 since my transplant, I am almost half way to the magic day 100 when I can quit taking the immuno-suppressive drugs and move on to complete remission. Until then I will try to remember to stay in the zone where my peace of mind is just as important as everything else. Live Happy and please don't burn out!  The pic is Sadie and Yvonne relaxing a few months ago- Greg

"When I'm 64"

Some people may remember Cheap Trick from the 1970's. They are still working it, and were just recently asked to perform the Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band album for the 40th anniversary in 2007. They did- at the Hollywood Bowl with the L.A. Orchestra. Since then Cheap Trick went on to record the album and produce a DVD with proceeds going towards battling cancer. They are now performing live in Las Vegas at the Paris every night. "When I'm 64" was written by Paul in the very early days, it was never considered a great song just a simple love song about growing older. If I continue to get good news and improve in my post transplant days I feel much better about growing older every day. I did get a 90% clean bill of health from the cardiologist (just need to confirm that Monday with a blood test) as he diagnosed a condition called postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, which is four big words for  an unknown elevated heart rate after chemo or other trauma. P.O.T.S. eventually goes away with time and exercise. So, more reason to pick it up a notch and hit the road. I do seem to improve every day. We took Sadie to Deep Lake to let her swim as we walked around the lake today, no sun but a good time. My doctor is tempting me with reducing my 3-4 days a week clinic visits too, we might go down to once a week soon. Have a great weekend, I wish you happy times!   Greg

"I Get Around"

The Beach Boys' first number one hit in the U.S. was "I Get Around" from May of 1964. At about the same time as Beatlemania and the beginning of the British Invasion, the American quintet was touring England. The attached video is a great example of the differences between the two countries. In England, the groups appearing on Ready Steady Go! played live. In the U.S. American Bandstand was the premier show to showcase contemporary musicians, who for the most part lip-synced. Brian Wilson and Mike Love co-wrote the song, and Brian's chorus high notes sure made the song remember-able.

Lots of stuff has been occurring with me, all in all I am improving. For example; I developed a strange elevated heart rate condition that baffled the doctors. When I would go from sitting to standing my heart rate would go up 50+ beats a minute. They have tried some different drugs that helped a bit, but the condition persists. I will see a cardiologist Thursday to check on that further. My resting heart rate has come down quite a bit to almost normal, and I am working on conditioning by walking more and riding the stationary bike. I start a series of four spinal chemo shots tomorrow as part of the recovery regimen. It's the same thing I did during my Chemo days- they insert a needle in the low back and take out some spinal fluid to check that, then infuse some methotrexate to make sure anything bad in the spinal canal or brain is killed off.  We made it home today for a quick trip so Yvonne and Natalie can weed the yard and enjoy some sun. Many thanks to Dr. Kim Anardi and his wife Linda who met us in Seattle yesterday and took us to Lunch. Again, the best Dentist in the South end (Auburn.) Happier getting around- Greg

"There's A Place"

It sure was simpler in 1963, not that everyone remembers 1963. I remember watching black and white dial turning rabbit ear television and crying when our President was assassinated in late 1963. Before that tragic November event, the Beatles were just perfecting their craft and writing songs for their first albums. In Feb. of 1963 John and Paul got together to write a song with a bit more substance to it compared to their first offerings talking about "I love you." I didn't really get the message of "There's A Place" until some frustrating days this past week, and find the lyrics quite eye opening. John and Paul actually co-wrote the song about searching for healing in your own mind. They harmonize quite beautifully as well. I included the "Anthology" version on the post today to give some insight about the recording process, as this is a demo take (one of ten) and shows how the early Beatles recorded a song. My take away is I'm sure obvious- when I get down or blue I need to get in that place to get straightened out and more positive. I thought my place was home in Enumclaw- and now realize my place is wherever I am at the time. Deep huh! We visited the clinic this AM and discovered my bone marrow is free of disease and I am growing marrow and the associated blood cells normally. I have a few things like lower magnesium that are still keeping me tied close to the clinic for awhile, we will continue to work on that with fluid infusions and all of the drugs they have me taking. I hope every father out there has a great weekend, even if it is still winter/spring weather. Live Happy and enjoy every bit of life you can!

"What Goes On"

John Lennon wrote "What Goes On" in the early days before the Beatles even had a recording contract. They didn't use the song until the Rubber Soul (U.K.) and Yesterday and Today albums (USA) in 1965. It was deemed a good Ringo song and he was also given for the first and last time- a song writing credit for the tune. A simple country like song, also known for the Carl Perkins like guitar work of George Harrison.

Since my release from the hospital last Wednesday we have had quite a roller coaster ride. I developed a super high heart rate that caused me to lay down much of the time, and then to sweeten the pot a bit more a nasty bout of diarrhea Thursday-Sunday. Thanks to a lot of good care from Yvonne and the team of outpatient care providers I turned it around Sunday and am feeling much better today. Yvonne and I went on a 5 block walk Sunday night, and another walk this morning. We are in line as I write this to get my first bone marrow aspiration/biopsy since before I went in for the transplant. We are trying to make the best of our living quarters. Our daughter Natalie arrives from Hawaii this Friday for a week long stay, and I hope to sneak home over the weekend if I continue to improve. Thanks for the prayers and well wishes, one step at a time! Living Happy in Seattle, Greg

"Ambulance Blues"

Hello and and almost happy humpday! I am looking at a pretty quick release from the U.W. as soon as tomorrow but definitely by the end of this week. I set my personal hospitalization record a long time ago (day 28 today.)  This photo is from May 14, since then I haven't been able to get back on the bike and have lost about 15 pounds.  I have to admit that the hardest thing to deal with since day 5 or so has been a lack of positivity, for me you could almost say depression. It's hard to pin it down, I should be happy as things have gone pretty well for me, a few bumps here and there but no major setbacks. I seem to be tired a lot, and am frustrated that I can't lower my standing heart-rate, I get winded after ten minutes of walking (Arghh!). I have avoided personal contact too. The tie in to my song selection might seem weird until you listen to the song. "Ambulance Blues" is one of three "Blues" songs from the same classic 1974 album, On the Beach. However, Ambulance Blues is not a blues song, but continues to play in my head with it's story about confusion, ups and downs, and a seemingly endless round and round will this ever end? tone. It encapsulates a lot of my personal frustrations with lines like:  "I guess I'll call it sickness gone-  It's hard to say the meaning of this song.   An ambulance can only go so fast
It's easy to get buried in the past.   When you try to make a good thing last."
I am so thankful to Yvonne for being here every day prompting me to walk and get a move on- helping me to demonstrate that I want to leave the hospital moving to phase II of the post transplant treatment. I will get to smell some real Seattle rainy air tomorrow and can't tell you how good that will feel. My appetite is weak, I just got off the liquid IV a couple of days ago. It's a good thing I fattened up prior to coming here May 10th.  Please help me channel some positive energy and prayers for my Sister Cathy who is enjoying a trip to Maui right now but also received a very difficult diagnosis this last week. She still worries about me, stays positive and is the most selfless person I have ever known. Her blog is at http://mylifewithmnd.blogspot.com/
Back to Happy, Greg

Day 23 post transplant

Hi everyone this is Yvonne. Today is day 23 post transplant. Greg`s white counts are slowly on the rise along with his platelets the last few days.There have many 1 step forwards and a 1/2 step back.

Greg is still fighting nausea/ vomiting especially when trying to eat liquids or soft foods. Hopefully by tomorrow am they will take away the feeding through the central line. The swelling in the cheeks and throat is decreasing but the stomach and intestines must still be healing and causing the nausea.

His energy level will vary especially if he is nauseated, but he  will do a couple of walks a day. Some days can be very frustrating. Greg wants this to be further along. He is trying to keep motivated and upbeat. The good news is he will be discharged sometime this week to the out patient clinic. We will be living in apartment 4 blocks away so we can walk as long he can navigate a small hill. This will be one step forward since he has been in the hospital 4 weeks as of tomorrow.

Greg or I will keep updates coming. I hope the weekend was good for everybody. Our youngest son Mikhael was home for the weekend. It is always nice to have him around.

18 days post transplant

Hi everyone! This is Yvonne once again. Greg is now 18 days post transplant. It has been a rough 2-3 weeks for Greg but I wanted to let everyone know that Greg has a very small amount of white cell and neutrophil counts starting to show. This is very good news and it can be a sign the graft may be taking. As these counts increase and kick in, this will help reduce the mouth , throat, stomach and intestinal sores. These cells help fight off infection. We have heard the white counts can fade in and out initially. Of course we hope this does not happen.

I think the Doctors were pleased and possibly relieved. The main doctor was even worried a little. The team of Doctors see the patients all at one time along with any members of the health care team seeing Greg. There are also different doctors visiting from other countries. It is very interesting. There have been up to 7 doctors at one time seeing Greg in his room.

Today Greg is more alert and talking a little better. He had a bag of platelets transfused. One day and step at a time. He has a new saying` that he is not running a marathon in two weeks`.
( maybe four?)

We will keep everyone updated. Live healthy and happy.

The Stars and Stripes and Eagle Fly"

Time to represent our soldiers firefighters and police officers too, with Arron Tippin's post 2001 ode to this great Country. it made think another ten years will go even more quickly. If given an opportunity try to say hi,pass along a prayer or mayube something as simple as a smile for a couple of weeks. I had a good scare today at about 4Am. I was reaching for some sparkling waters that made me get sick Monday  What happened instead came from a totally boby order that seemed to say "Let's fix this thing:
Live Hqppy.

post transplant day 14

This is Yvonne again. Greg is now 14 days post transplant. He is past the stage where the mouth and throat sores get worse. This is beginning to stabilize. The sores when they break open are very painful. I really feel bad for Greg. There is not much that can be done.

Greg does have slight decrease swelling in his cheeks. He is able to talk a little better each day but this still takes a lot of energy. The walking has improved over the last few days along with a little longer distances.

Today Greg had one bag of blood of O+ due to low red blood cells, eventually he will turn to A+. The doctor feels the transplant is going very good even with the mouth sores and low grade fevers. He is receiving many different antibiotics to keep any infection away.According to one of the nurses, 75% people get the chipmunk cheeks and sores.

The sores will start to heal as the white cell/ neutrophils  start to show. This does mean the new cells are beginning to graft. This most likely will occur at day 20-24 but lets hope it will occur sooner.

I do give Greg everybody's good wishes as they come in. Hopefully he will be up to talking in the near future. Have a great Memorial day weekend. I hope there is some fun involved.

11 days post transplant

This is Yvonne , making a post for Greg. I apologize for lack of writing and musical skills. I wanted to let everyone know Greg`s progress is going just as were told it would by all of the doctors/professionals. He is still in the most difficult days post transplant. The mucositis that started approximately one week ago is  still in full swing. Greg continues to have severe mouth and throat sores. Most likely it goes through his entire gastric system, stomach and intestinal track. His cheeks and throat at this time are very swollen and puffy like a chipmunk.

There was a low grade fever that did resolve Sunday after the doctor started another antibiotic. Due to the mucositis Greg has been unable to eat for a little over a week. He loves to talk and losing that ability to compete has frustrated Greg. He is being fed intravenously in general a liquid slurry that if forced to smell it might remind folks about of rotten eggs, peanut butter and various vegetables, a V-8 like concoction for the blood.We are really asking for help and praying for a quick resolution.

With the above symptoms he has had severe nausea with occasional vomiting this is now getting under control. He takes a lot of cat naps and the pain meds cause relief and sleep at the same time.

It is amazing how fast Greg went from doing ok but feeling so-so to the severity of the current issues. This last week he has 3 different platelets transfusions, 2 bags of A+ whole blood and maybe more blood in the next day or two.

The short walks have been restarted the last 3 days so this is improvement. He will soon be back to his usual exercise routine. I can see why the better condition somebody is in before transplant the better tolerance a person has.

Everything that has happened so far is not unusual. As his white counts begin to show again the mucositis will improve. Hopefully this will happen by the end of the week. This is also a sign the graft is taking.

Greg and I thank everyone for all of their support. It means a lot. Live healthy and happy!

"Blue Sky"

Good Saturday to everyone, here's to a blue sky in your weekend plans! Sorry I am posting a little late about my transplant experience. As you can probably tell my title post today indicates that things went well. Other than what seemed to be endless delays in starting the procedure I did receive a small bag of a complete stranger's condensed bone marrow stem cells with Yvonne by my side. It took two hours to transfuse the cells into my bloodstream and we finished with a half hour to spare before the cells were expired. I will admit to some anxiety due to the delays and slow delivery.

"Blue Sky" is a song about Dickie Betts' and the love he expressed to his wife nicknamed Bluesky. Dickie of the Allman Brothers Band handled his first lead vocals for the group and the song is known for the dueling guitar solos between Duane Allman and Dickie. Duane died shortly after this song was recorded in a motorcycle accident. I just like the positive quality to the lyrics and melody.

"In The Living Years"

First of all, I have to share this super cool tattoo my Friend Phil inked to his ankle recently. He joined our "Big Climb" team and after the experience combined the Beatles Apple with our team mantra. Very special tribute I must say!

I don't stray into the 80's or 90's very often but had to after checking out my sister's blog yesterday. Cathy posted this Mike and the Mechanics' powerful song about love. I found another live version after the band reunited for a 2004 concert and am sharing it here. The song was co-written by Mike Rutherford and B. A. Robertson. Robertson wrote the personal lyrics about losing his father and their lack of communication before he died at an early age. Paul Carrack handles the lead vocals and he too coincidentally lost his father at an early age, his bluesy voice fits perfect in the lyrically intense song. Mike Rutherford created this band while on a break from his main group, Genesis in the mid 80's. They had quite a few hits including many played on MTV and VH1. My reason for posting this song to go with a Wednesday break in the action for me is simple. It is never too late to communicate more. Whether with family, friends, co-workers, etc. Thanks for making me think Cathy! Live Happy- Greg
PS: The cells from my bone marrow donor arrive in Seattle tomorrow at 9:34 PM at Sea-Tac, then they go to the Fred Hutch for some screening and finally to U.W. for infusion. So my new birthday might be in the early morning hours of May 14 instead of May 13.

"Long, Long, Long"

It seems like a long time since I learned about my cancer, debated some options, and made a decision about the best course of action to take... it's really only been seven months.  Now Yvonne and I sit in my new 8th floor room overlooking the Montlake Cut and Portage Bay at the University of Washington Med. Center for about the next month. I was admitted this morning, given the tour and am all settled in. The three days of TBI- total body irradiation went by smoothly until Sunday afternoon when my mouth felt like it was glued shut. I solved that problem by drinking more water more often. I receive Cyclophosphamide chemo today and tomorrow and then a rest day on Wednesday. I will receive the new marrow in the form of a transfusion Thursday, it is supposed to take about four hours to complete. The marrow is screened and looks very similar to whole blood. I am in the Cascade building, NE section room 8210. The phone number to my room is (206) 598-3904. 
George Harrison wrote "Long, Long, Long" in 1968 after the fabled trip to India. It was placed on The Beatles album between Helter Skelter and Revolution 1. While it might sound like a typical love song, George was talking about finding God. The song has a quiet start, a raucous middle and an eerie ending. Part of the ending notes come courtesy of a bottle moving around on top of a speaker (thanks to Paul.) John did not play on this cut, there is also a great Hammond Organ accompaniment played by Paul.

"I've Got A Feeling"

I've got a feeling that everything is going to work out. I have been able to sail through all of my pre-transplant procedures and tests, and begin the consolidation phase with three days of radiation tomorrow. Leukemia patients who undergo a transplant have a second birthday on the day of transplant, my new birthday will be May 13th. I will end up with a new blood type, and hopefully an immune system that will keep me going for a long time. I am sending my last post from home for probably three months, it feels strange knowing that I will be moving away for long enough that when I return home everything will seem new. I do have a nice new laptop so I can communicate from the hospital, clinic, or apartment. Thank you to everyone who visited or sent well wishes to me and my family during the chemo phase, these past 7 months. The support kept us motivated. Please consider stopping by to see me after my new birthday if you have a chance. I won't know my assigned room at the U. W. Medical Center until Sunday night or early Monday morning when I am admitted- and will post that later.

• The Beatles two lead songwriters Lennon and McCartney decided early in their careers to give credit to each other for the songs they wrote or collaborated on. The relationship quickly became singularly focused and as a group they would come together and finish a song usually written by just John or Paul. Let It Be was their last studio album release in 1970, when break up rumors were swirling. John and Paul actually collaborated and combined two of their songs into "I've Got A Feeling." Paul contributes his love story part- I've got a feeling (about Linda) and John is more about how depressed he was at the time- everybody had a hard year (he divorced his first wife Cynthia, was addicted to Heroin, etc.)  The rooftop live version is worth a view, especially the comments of your average Londoner.   Live Happy!  Greg

"Hello, Goodbye"

"Hello, Goodbye" was the first single the Beatles recorded and released after Brian Epstein, the Beatles' long time manager died in 1967. Paul wrote the tune and said it was about everything and nothing. He also said it was his way of showing a positive side when presented with something negative. "You say goodbye, I say hello..." The accompanying violas add something special to the song.
We have been busy of late, we just discovered that I have passed all of the tests I have been taking including a bone marrow and spinal fluid test. I meet with my transplant doctors Monday, and sign the final papers on Tuesday next week. I have some other things that need to be done like implanting another central line catheter. We found a temporary residence to stay in about two blocks from the main Seattle Cancer Care Alliance (SCCA) building where I will eventually receive daily outpatient services probably in early June. Our son Andrew flies in today to stay a month while he is temporarily laid off, and Mikhael is here for the weekend too. I start three days of outpatient radiation on Friday the 7th, then go to inpatient chemo at the U W Hospital for a few days before the transplant on May 13. Will keep in touch-

I say live happy, Greg

"Ask Me Why"

Good Tuesday Morning! The Beatles recorded "Ask Me Why" in the spring of 1962, it was later released in 1963 as the B side of the "Please Please Me" single. Mainly a John Lennon love song, it has proved to be an obscure Beatles song since the original recording tapes were destroyed. If you ask me why, I will answer immediately. If you ask our insurance company why- it takes two weeks to get a reply after they had made a decision, and only if you call them and press the customer service folks for an answer. So... the lead in to my cancer struggle is we finally got an answer to our appeal about using the lodging benefit under our insurance plan. The answer was no, which isn't surprising- the lack of customer service as we were making plans and trying to arrange for housing caused some unnecessary work and stress. The good news is we can handle a speed bump once in awhile.
I am still in pre-transplant testing every day which has included a head to toe evaluation. We had nutrition and prescription consultations and a upper body C. T. scan yesterday. We finish most of the tests by next Monday. So far, so good on the tests and I am scheduled for the start of three days of total body radiation May 7.    Live Happy-

"Another Country"

I was going through some old songs and found Tift Merritt in my catalog. I did some more research and discovered some good video from Tift's 2007 release  Another Country. The title tune is about chasing love. I chose the post title to describe the Fred Hutchison Experience so far.

I was used to the slow pace at St. Joseph's in Tacoma for the inpatient chemo and complication stays from October until very recently. I discovered that there is a big difference between Fred Hutchison and St. Joseph's, like being in a new country. Yvonne and I feel like we are back at school or at a well organized conference. We have a daily schedule which is updated as needed. They stay to the schedule but also are flexible when they can be. We arrive in the morning and check for updates. For example, today I started with a blood draw, had about an hour before the next scheduled event but went in a bit early for the bone marrow aspiration. I was taken in and after an hour I moved to the next test, a pulmonary exam. We got in early for that and were done for the day. We were able to enjoy a nice lunch in lower Queen Anne and back home in time to get some work done.

I have a tentative date for the transplant- May 13. As of now I will continue with testing until I go in for total body radiation May 7th. Three days of radiation and then two days of chemo happen just before the transplant. If all goes as planned that means my hospitalization at the University Hospital will be for about 20+ days after the radiation/chemo.  A lot of stuff needs to be done between now and then, so far so good. My hips are sore tonight, but should be better tomorrow. I hope you enjoy Tift, she has a new album coming out June 1. Live :) !

 

"I'll Be Back"

Yvonne and I just got back from a nice 4 day get away to Victoria and Vancouver Island B.C. We stayed at the Westin Bear Mountain just outside of Langford B.C. (a golf resort.) We were able to check out the Cowichan wineries, spent some time in Victoria, and even surprised some river otters in  Sooke on the Whiffen spit. We have our first appointment at Fred Hutch today, and will continue to go to the center the next couple of weeks. I won't know about the transplant for sure until I pass the tests and the potential donor is scheduled.
John Lennon wrote "I'll Be Back" in 1964 for the A Hard Day's Night album. Since I plan on coming back just like the protagonist in the song; today's post has special meaning to me. John's song showed a  mature, confessional style after early rockers dominated the first two albums. This was the last song on side two, ending the album on a strong personal note. The video is a demo from the Anthology album highlighting some raw moments.    Live Happy- Greg

Taxman

Happy Tax Day tomorrow! In honor of our USA official tax day, I chose to highlight the George Harrison anthem "Taxman." George wrote the song in 1966.  The song was the first song on side one of the Revolver album. It was one of three songs George slipped into the usual Lennon/McCartney dominated album. George was frustrated with the British progressive tax which was hitting people like him making a lot of money (up to 95%) than lower wage earners. Paul plays lead guitar for the solo, and John ended up helping George write some of the song.

I do have some news about the cancer fight. It's been a hurdy gurdy ride of late, a couple of weeks ago I thought I had a donor all worked out- she ended up being disqualified. Then the next day the Hutch found a new potential donor. The new donor (a 50 year old woman living in this country) had a blood test last week and today I found out she is a 100% match. She had a physical today and I find out next week how that works out. I am scheduled to go into the Fred Hutchison/Seattle Cancer Care Alliance center on Tuesday April 20 to begin my testing and administrative procedures to move towards a bone marrow transplant in early May. If I pass the tests, the new donor is committed to helping me out - all that needs to be worked out is the final donation/transplant dates being scheduled. I work tomorrow and then Yvonne and I are headed to Victoria B.C. for a weekend getaway before I report to the Hutch Tuesday. Thanks again for all of the support, prayers and well wishes. I am ready to take the plunge- Live Happy and Strong!   Greg