As I prepared to write my weekly column, I must admit my mind drew a blank!  Why?  Sheer exhaustion, I think.

As most of you know, I underwent an autologous stem cell transplant this summer. Two weeks ago, I shared how the transplant had actually made my multiple myeloma worse.

Earlier this week, I learned that surgery will be required to remove an area of melanoma on my left ear.  That’s right — melanoma — as in skin cancer.

I need a vacation!

Instead, I’m heading out to attend and speak at meetings in Chicago; Columbia, South Carolina; and St. Cloud, Minnesota.  Now that’s a lot of frequent flyer miles!

And do you know what?  I wouldn’t have it any other way.

I think staying busy and helping my fellow multiple myeloma patients and caregivers is the only way I can find a way to get up in the morning.

Boy, mornings are tough for me lately.  By then, my pain meds have worn off, leaving me stiff and sore.  My peripheral neuropathy is always the worst in the morning.  And I’m always so groggy.  I find it very difficult to wake up these days.

But somehow I find the courage to roll to my left and slowly ease myself up and out of bed.

A few pills later, I feed the dog and our cats and help Pattie get ready for work.

Why not just stay in bed?  What is so important that I feel the need to get up and drag myself into our home office before 8 am?  You are!

I know there are important emails to answer, another book to finish, and a column to write.  Helping you helps me keep going.  Your kind words and prayers inspire me to hopefully find a way to inspire you.

We’re a team, you and I.  Let’s call ourselves “Team Myeloma.”

So when it’s time to catch that early morning hotel shuttle to the airport this weekend, knowing that I’m making a difference will make it so much easier to get going.

Without you — my teammates — I’m not sure I could make it another day.  But with your support, I feel like nothing can stop me, including my multiple myeloma.  And for that I thank you!

Feel good and keep smiling!