CLL

2020

532### September (2020) – CLL - Covid/ I was diagnosed with CLL (Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia. (Cancer of the Blood) This was my first ever visit to my Primary Care Provider doctor. He looked at me and told me, I have a big neck. I may have blood cancer. I thought this was an unusual comment to tell a patient at their first visit.

The doctor said many over age 70 have blood cancer. He would set up blood test and my first formal meeting with a Hematologist.

When my first blood test came back, my WBW / White Blood Count was at 15.0, considered high. My Hematologist requested a CT scan and another blood test. I started experiencing typical psychological, mental and emotional symptoms of stress. The reality of being on the “Cancer” list was an unexpected situation.

This took place at the beginning of COVID-19, in October 2020. With my positive CLL diagnosis, I began researching my disease. People with CLL have an increased risk of infection and autoimmune conditions. CLL affects the type of (WBC) known as lymphocytes. When COVID-19 became more active, I adjusted my public and social attendance of crowds. I jokingly say I’ve never had a problem with that. It wasn’t much of a reach or new lifestyle being anti-social. When the world shut down, I continued to maintain a secluded life.

My music and education teaching gigs ended. In Florida, everyone was mask crazy. One-way traffic isles and 6 feet distance lines appeared in Publix. I observed people riding bikes, walking and mowing their lawns with mask in 95+ degree temperatures. (Musicians with mask on bandstands)

533### (2021) September/ I injured my back. An MRI showed I had Sciatica from a herniated disc. It was quite painful and required rest and rehabilitation. I tried prescribed medication and became a walking bumbling zombie. After 9 months, it slowly improved. I also had a complete faith healing of my herniated disc. My healing happened one day when I walked downtown, my regular exercise routine. I casually ran into some missionary / evangelist. They greeted me with the question do I need some healing? I told them about my back issues.

They prayed and laid hands on me. After several days my back was completely healed. My spiritual faith, as I monitor my CLL includes the possibility that I could eventually be healed. All of that is The Lords Will, so to speak. I’ve grown to accept all options. Before my diagnosis with CLL, I was very self motivated and productive. During that period of time I was employed as an early learner music specialist. My 24 hour clock was dominated by work 16-18 hours and sleep 6-8. From 2013 to 2019, I created, authored and produced 35 books. I currently have 40 books on Amazon.

In 2025, my low energy and fatigue levels dominate my work and production. I hope to better the work and rest routine I’m currently experiencing.