[Denise H]

Albert S. Johnston, Jr., my ultimate warrior

by Denise H on Tue Sep 06, 2016 2:11 pm

The love of my life, Al Johnston, passed away from this wretched disease on September 4, 2016. He went through every treatment known in multiple myeloma circles, including two autologous stem cell transplants, with his last treatment being Darzalax (daratumumab) and thalidomide. The treatment was bringing his light chain level down, but he had to go on dialysis and was receiving frequent blood and platelet transfusions. In the end, a nasty upper respiratory infection wore down what little stamina he had left.

Al died in hospice care, which was loving and kind, yet he suffered intolerable pain even with all the meds at hand. The last pain med was a morphine pump. His last night, I was up all night hitting the pump as often as every ten minutes. His last moment, he slipped away peacefully. His eyes had half-opened and looked very cloudy. After his last breath, his eyes became suddenly clear and beautiful. I kissed him from his head to his toes.

I am wrecked right now. I have faith in God to help me walk this most difficult walk.

[Nancy Shamanna]

Re: Albert S. Johnston, Jr., my ultimate warrior

by Nancy Shamanna on Tue Sep 06, 2016 8:21 pm

Denise,

I am sorry for your loss of your loved one. It sounds like you did everything you could to help, but as you say, myeloma is still a dangerous disease and sometimes cannot be halted. It is a bitter time for you, but hopefully in time the warm memories you had of the time spent together will be what you remember the most.

[Denise H]

Re: Albert S. Johnston, Jr., my ultimate warrior

by Denise H on Thu Sep 08, 2016 6:04 pm

Thanks, Nancy, for the kind words. I have followed your story here on the Beacon. You are one courageous woman. Keep up the good fight.

[Kaew]

Re: Albert S. Johnston, Jr., my ultimate warrior

by Kaew on Thu Oct 06, 2016 6:42 pm

Denise,

So sorry for your loss. Hope your good memories and good times you had with him give you comfort and strength during this difficult time.

Kaew

[Denise H]

Re: Albert S. Johnston, Jr., my ultimate warrior

by Denise H on Sat Aug 19, 2017 12:36 pm

Almost a year has passed since I lost my beloved Al to multiple myeloma. Grief and mourning have been intense for me. Al's graceful, dignified handling of his disease, his glorious passion for life, the love he showed me for 41 years – these things are deeply etched in my heart forever. May you all receive God's hope and blessings wherever you are on your journey.