Adrian Sudbury was a reporter for both the Huddersfield Express and Chronicle Series and the Huddersfield Examiner. In November 2006 the 25-year-old was promoted to digital journalist, effectively editing the new-look Examiner website.
Just two days into his new role he became seriously ill and called in sick. A week later he drove himself to A&E and was eventually diagnosed with leukaemia.
It was then identified that he actually had two distinct types of the disease running at the same time. According to the medical literature he was the only person in the world to have this condition. As such, it was not possible to offer Adrian a prognosis.
Here he shared his experiences of the disease and his treatment up until his passing.We have been through quite a lot together now but I imagine for many of you this post will make for uncomfortable reading.
We have journeyed through the ups and downs of leukaemia, its treatments, living and dying.
There have been a few laughs in between the infertility, my fiancee leaving me, my skin crumbling off and the recent death sentence.
Lavish award ceremonies, outrageous media tarting and all of us being involved in a massive campaign that will hopefully benefit thousands of people around the world for years to come.
But a time comes when you have to be honest with yourself.
After last night's shenanigans it's time to sacrifice a bit more of my independence and move back in with my parents.
Time to catch up.
We are never going to know exactly but it looks like I am reacting very badly to the new drug Dasatinib.
Thanks to everyone who posted their experiences about this medicine.
I started taking these new pills on Friday and by Saturday was having piercing headaches.
Not only that but I vomited twice on consecutive days.
Obviously, having had the pleasure of being sick on quite a number of occasions over the last 18 months, this wouldn't normally bother me too much.
But I have never experienced anything like it.
The pressure and velocity was such that it felt like my eye balls were going to burst out of my head.
All over my eyelids were spots of blood caused by minor internal bleeding.
The worst thing was that it gave me what looked like two black-eyes.
They really hurt, were starting to swell up, and I was struggling to see out of them for days.
Friends came and stayed but it was becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.
Last night my parents looked after me in Sheffield.
The headache was getting out of control and, determined to avoid a stay in hospital, I suggested we try out of hours doctors service.
The first doctor rolls up, now whether this is due to a language barrier I don't know, but I asked him if he was prescribing pain relief. He said yes and injected it into my arm.
I should add that he seemed rather keen to make the injection into my buttocks. I challenged this and the arm was then deemed acceptable.
Turns out though he gave me a sedative leading me to wake up in the middle of the night, ranting, babbling and devouring two bowls of fruit.
That, it turns out, is how mental I get.
The headache returned, and having had these sorts of extreme pains on the ward, I know the only answer is something along the lines of morphine.
The second doctor eventually appears, prescribes the drug, but there is nowhere to collect it until the pharmacies open about three hours later.
Great out of care service guys.
So despite everything my dad ends up driving me into the Royal Hallamshire Hospital again for treatment.
Unsurprisingly, the morphine always slips down quite well and within about 20 minutes I was feeling a lot better.
But my head was now swelling up on the underside and around the jaw.
Apparently this could be caused by a small blockage meaning blood is not returning correctly.
As you can see from the picture, I'm run down, exhausted, cannot stop coughing and have a massively swollen head.
Here is a bit of irony for you though, one doctor suggested treating this new facial swelling with steroids!
Seriously, he described it as maybe helping to clear the blockage and returning things to normal.
The nurses were so worried this morning that they were concerned I wasn't going to make it until next week.
After this evening - apart from the massively irritating cough and vanity issues - I reckon I've got a bit more time left than that.
I'm hoping friends and family will break up visits and come throughout the week.
I have also got some excellent palliative care medicines at my disposal too which means there should be no more repeat performances of last night.
Comments (176)
Hi Adrian, so sorry to hear your feeling so rough. You are in my thoughts and prayers and hopefully you will be feeling better very soon.
Best Wishes
Nikki ;)
Posted by Nicola Sloanes | June 19, 2008 8:19 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 20:19
Adrian,
No words...just thinking of you and your family.
Take care.
Diane x
Posted by Diane Watt | June 19, 2008 8:25 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 20:25
Hi Adrian
Not a good few days, to say the least. Have you stopped taking the new drug? You don't know until you try I guess. Glad you are going back to your parents, a good decision, let them be there for you. Let's hope you feel better over this weekend. You've done so much over the past weeks, achieved so much, anyone would be exhausted! Now please rest. You know we're all there with you in spirit, hearts full of love and caring. Have all the help you can, feel as comfortable as you can. You are so so special to us all, it's like you're family, and we're with you all the way. So please rest up and enjoy being with your wonderful family. Your mum and dad look lovely people, your sister too. Thinking of you constantly, as I'm sure are many others throughout the world. Thank you for your honesty throughout. I hope I'd have even a little of your courage...I've learnt a lot from you you know...a lot. Wishing you a peaceful weekend. My love to you and your family, but especially to you. Till we hear from you again.. Barbara xx
Posted by Barbara | June 19, 2008 8:26 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 20:26
Hi Adrian,
I am fairly new to your blog, and I just wnated you to know that you are truly inspiring to me. I really hope you get to see your quest through...and I think it is a GREAT thing. I will be checking back to see how you are doing and wishing you only the best!
Beth
Posted by Beth | June 19, 2008 8:32 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 20:32
Hang in there mate. I cant imagine how difficult this must be for you, but from reading your blog entries over the past few months i know your a very brave guy.
Spend as much time as possible with your family and friends (obviously) and try to stay positive (you seem to be doing just that anyway).
Take care,
Darryl.
Posted by Darryl | June 19, 2008 8:41 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 20:41
Hi Adrian
I have been following your blog and your story for a few weeks now. I have laughed and cried (a lot!) but I wanted to say that I think you are truly amazing! I don't know where you get the energy from for the campaign while you are feeling so unwell. So many people are thinking of you and wishing you well and I am sorry to hear you have had a rough couple of days.
While it must be hard to feel you need to go back home you are not on your own in looking to family and friends for help and comfort - thats what families are for!! I am sure they are really pleased to have you around so that can look after you!
I wanted to let you know that the campaign has made a difference - YOU have made a difference and this will have a direct impact on lives in the future. Today I have signed up to be tested as a bone marrow donor - this is solely because of you. I have also been spreading the word about your blog and the underlying message - especially to my male friends under 40.
All the best, Adrian. Be proud. I hope you feel better over the few days.
xx
Posted by Jo | June 19, 2008 8:43 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 20:43
Adrian,
I am glad that you are surrounded by family and friends. You are in my thoughts.
Michelle
Posted by Michelle in Florida | June 19, 2008 8:43 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 20:43
Hi Adrian,
I'm sorry things are bad at the moment. I'm halfway through my first Vincristin and steroid cycle and the old side effects are beginning to resurface (tummy troubles, tingling fingers, jaw pain) but I'm aware that this is nothing compared to what you are going through.
I admire you for keeping your independence as long as you have and I hope you keep it for a long time yet.
You will always be a great inspiration to me.
Take care
Stephanie
Posted by Stephanie Wheatley | June 19, 2008 8:50 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 20:50
The out of care service is at times unbelievable!! I am thinking of you Adrain, You keep writing for as long as you can...it is a great release for you and wonderful for us readers -that you allow us into your life! I have learned many things from you Adrian and read your blog with admiration and a yearning for a miracle cure.
Glad you are back with those that love you...I recently lost my sister to AML and know my parents loved having her home for her last months with us here - Yet, my sister hated some moments of the over protective built in parenting mode!!!
Hope your parents have restocked the fruit bowl?
keep strong...still a handsome chap!!
Jo
x
Posted by Jo | June 19, 2008 8:54 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 20:54
Oh Adrian, I'm so sorry that it didn't work out for you! I just read this quick article on MSN and I know it probably won't relate to you in anyway but I thought of you when i read it and wanted to pass it along. Perhaps someone reading can get something from it. They've found a new way to cure Melanoma by simply boosting the immune system - no chemo, just immunity building.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/25246644/wid/11915773>1=31036
Good luck with the 'rents! It might be better than you think :)
Posted by beth | June 19, 2008 8:57 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 20:57
Hi Adrian,
I am so sorry you are feeling so ill. I had a feeling things were not good, having looked at your blog several times today and found no new entry. Let your family look after you now because you need a bit of pampering. They will want to do this for you and you deserve it.
You have touched so many lives through your illness. It is difficult to say anything that hasn't already been said, but I for one wish you peace and serenity.
Bless you
Ree
Posted by Ree | June 19, 2008 9:02 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 21:02
hi adrian...
again, i find myself checking up on you... you continue to amaze me with your courage and grace.
i hope that you begin to feel a bit better, enough that you can enjoy what you have left.
xo k
Posted by KarenS | June 19, 2008 9:03 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 21:03
adrian,
still thinking of you daily, and at a loss for what to say here...everything seems inadequate. i am happy you are with the comfort of friends and family. so many people are with you in spirit, including me. we'll be cheering you on through whatever happens next.
gillian
NE, USA
Posted by gillian | June 19, 2008 9:08 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 21:08
Adrian,
I'm very moved by your honousty. All you write is so familiar for me as a clinical haematologist.
A few minutes before reading your text, I've placed on our weblog words written in 2006 by a 36-year old patient, IT professional, musician and world traveller, with early relaped leukaemia after MUDSCTX, thanking his parents, family and good friends . He was touched by the great and unexpected human warmth and empathy he found during his 10 months of illness.
After we've put your diary recently on our Antwerp Haematology website, a lot of readers were moved by your courage. They wrote me 'We keep on fighting...'
So I try to do my best here in Belgium.
I've suggested your blog for an article in 'De Huisarts' (The General Practitioner) and De Artsenkrant (The Physician's Journal). I hope they will see it's value and importance. In Belgium a lot more people should be reached as candidates for stem cell donation.
http://makr.roularta.be/epaper/ShowPage.do?nextPage=true
http://www.cmpmedica.be/nl/mediavillage/journal_rubriques.htm
Adrian, I wish you many days without pain and I hope you can stay at home as long as possible...
Best wishes and a very big THANK YOU, Ann
Posted by Ann Van de Velde | June 19, 2008 9:10 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 21:10
I would totally come visit you. I would bring dirty magazines. Even though I've never met you.
You've been through so much, and your story has had such an effect on people. The impact that your life has will continue to ripple around the globe.
I can't imagine what you and your family and everyone who's ever met you is going through.
Sending you good vibes for good drugs.
~Yo
Posted by Yolanda | June 19, 2008 9:24 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 21:24
Adrian,
Sorry you are feeling rough, :-(
You have got the best care, your family and friends around you and you are not alone.
We are thinking of you, Lots of love Dawn xxx
Posted by Dawn Aldridge | June 19, 2008 9:26 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 21:26
My heart goes out to you, your family and your friends. (((((((Hugs))))))
Posted by Jessica | June 19, 2008 9:32 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 21:32
Hi Adrian,
I really don't know what to say - as usual, I haven't got a clue how you must be feeling right now. I just want you to know that you are in my thoughts daily and I am so amazed at how much awareness regarding bone marrow donation you have single handedly managed to create within the last few weeks.
You are an inspiration.
Sending you best wishes
Dawn xx
Posted by Dawn Doran | June 19, 2008 9:37 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 21:37
Hi Adrian,
I check up on you everyday. There is not a day I don't think about you & how you are doing. Sorry to hear you have had a rough few days.
I am glad that you are with family & friends now. Hopefully they will give you the comfort that you definitely deserve. Their are so many people out here that you have touched. You have made an impact on the world.
Thinking of you
Julie
Posted by Julie | June 19, 2008 9:39 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 21:39
Sh*te. More swear words. Thinking of you. xxxxx PS I think you look gorgeous and must confess to a few "Florence Nightingale Does Dallas" type thoughts...
Posted by Hannah Patterson | June 19, 2008 9:44 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 21:44
Hello Adrian
No words now - just let family look after you and go with the flow.
Don`t be afraid of the morphine - it keeps the pain away.
You are a star and forever in our thoughts.
Best Wishes to you and your family
Liz
Posted by Liz Boffey | June 19, 2008 9:48 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 21:48
Hey Adrian,
I am so sorry that you are going through so much. Adrian, you have really struck a chord with me in my life and wish I could take some of your pain away. Since Christmas I have been reading your blog but have only recently sent you a comment,wish I would have done this long ago. Adrian you are a special spirit as I know I could never be as courageous as you are. My friend you are making a huge difference in this world,touching and saving many lives for years to come. Your courageous blog has gotten me off my lazy butt and I am proud to say I am now a donor here in the states!! Adrian you are a gift to this world and always remember that.
Your friend Michael...
Peoria, AZ USA
Posted by michael celiberti | June 19, 2008 9:52 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 21:52
Hang in there mate. Just... hang in there.
R
Posted by Richard | June 19, 2008 9:53 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 21:53
Adrian,
You amaze me. Truly. Thank you for all that you're doing to make the world a better place. I'm donating blood next week and my husband and I are both registering with the National Marrow Donor Program here in the U.S. I've donated blood in the past but hadn't made it a priority recently. Your story has touched me...and educated me on marrow donation. Thank you again. My thoughts are with you and your loved ones.
Sheri
Burbank, CA
Posted by Sheri Simmons | June 19, 2008 9:57 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 21:57
Bless your heart. I'm so sorry to hear that you've been suffering. Here in Texas we jokingly refer to "Out of Hours" doctors services as "Doc in a Box" so I sympathize with you for having to deal with them. I hope you feel better and can get some rest.
Sending you a huge hug across the miles....
Posted by Lacey | June 19, 2008 9:57 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 21:57
Well - I bet your Mum is glad to have you home, even if it's just to hold you tight and tell you she loves you. Chin up boy, though not like yesterday :-); like everyone else that reads your wonderful, uplifting and brave blogs I am rooting for you.
Hugs
xx
Posted by Rosemary T | June 19, 2008 10:00 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 22:00
Adrian,
Can't seem to find any words, only that you have created so many lifechanging moments for me. An inspiration beyond any human belief.
I actually think you still look very good looking so don't worry about any of us girls out here being put off!
Hang in my friend.
Sally XX
Posted by sally | June 19, 2008 10:02 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 22:02
Hi Adrian
still here lurking in the background following your every move. congrats on the latest award. all the patients are asking about you. love
Maggiexx
Posted by MAGGIE | June 19, 2008 10:04 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 22:04
Hi there Adrian,
I hope that you are not too uncomfortable today. I was only introduced to your blog the other day and I really feel for you. My friend kept a blog whilst his son was fighting "ALL" from the ages of 2.5months until he passed away at 13 months. That blog was written describing their daily lives and what Freddie went through, eventhough he wasn't able to explain how he was feeling. Your blog says it as it is, fantastic. You really have done a great thing in promoting the Bone Marrow Register and this blog just raises awareness brilliantly.
Well done you and I hope you are provided with adequate pain relief in order to make your time special with your family.
All the very best and well done, your family should be very very proud.
Best wishes,
Em
Posted by Emma Lethbridge | June 19, 2008 10:06 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 22:06
Thinking of you........
XXX Reiki hugs XXX
dawny
Posted by Dawny | June 19, 2008 10:07 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 22:07
St Sudders, I joined the register yesterday - because of you. No other reason. There are potentially hundreds, if not thousands, of people you will never meet who will owe their lives to you. Forget Forsyth, you deserve a knighthood.
Posted by Sam | June 19, 2008 10:20 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 22:20
Stay with us Adrian and keep fighting - we all need you. xx
Posted by Caroline | June 19, 2008 10:23 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 22:23
aww dear Adrian, my heart goes out to you, you go through so much and there's not a whine out of you, just a realisation of how things are, you're a real inspiration to the whingers of today.
I'm glad to hear you're back within the arms of your family, as a mum I gotta tell ya your babies never really stop being your babies, they just get bigger LOL, my prayers continue to be with you and with your family and friends
hugssssssssssss
Posted by Kay | June 19, 2008 10:24 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 22:24
Adrian,
so sorry to hear ur not feeling well. Just want to let u know im thinking of you and wishing u feel better with the meds.
Lots of love
claudia
xx xxxx xxxxx
Posted by claudia | June 19, 2008 10:29 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 22:29
Adrian,
don't really know what to say except my thoughts are with you, your family and friends. Donna had a pretty dismal experience of the out of hours doctor service too. She was given a pain killing injection that reduced her immune system even further...yeah thanks a lot!
I think the best thing to do is just what you did and go to the hospital where they know you. I understand your reluctance to go back there but they have the best idea of how to look after you...
Take care, Adrian, we've never met but you are always in my thoughts
Greg XXX
Posted by Greg Iredale | June 19, 2008 10:31 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 22:31
Hi i just read more of your blog.........hugs and prayers be with you,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,and i wish for you to have atleast a day pain free ..................................but many who have gotten to know you will always be keeping you in their hearts as i will..................................................Hugs,,,,,,,deb
Posted by debbie38552002 | June 19, 2008 10:39 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 22:39
There's no place like home. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Hang in there.
XX Elizabeth
Posted by Elizabeth Solaru | June 19, 2008 10:48 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 22:48
Hi,
Have been following your story on Five Live over the past few weeks. You are an amazing guy and an inspiration to many. Let your mum look after you. Will sign your petition now.
Love,
Tracey
Posted by Tracey | June 19, 2008 10:50 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 22:50
Thinking of you
Posted by Mark | June 19, 2008 10:53 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 22:53
God bless you Adrian. I pray for you not to be on so much pain.
chanel
Posted by CHANEL FIRTH | June 19, 2008 10:55 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 22:55
Adrian,
I hope you feel better very soon. Maybe you can enjoy the days and friends and family if the Dasatinib gets out of your system quickly. I have lost a friend and an aunt to different advanced cancers who both lived at or beyond what anyone with their stage of cancer had ever made it (5 years each) but as much as they got more time from the continual chemo all those years, their bodies eventually started throwing signs of toxicity at them with the last chemos. The body knows best and I hope with all my heart that the solution to some comfort and unsedated quality time with your loved ones is to stop the drug. May the nasty side effects evaporate from your body and your memory and may you feel comfortably like Adrian again.
Although a rambling fruit bowl monster is a very vivid image, I don't want any repeat performances! I mean, think of it, if that continued, all of England would have to hide its fresh fruit. :)
You have an incredible attitude and sense of humor, telling even your horror story of your night last night with such wit and perspective. I know it helps us readers to laugh between our tears. I hope your sense of humor helps you as much.
My suggestion is to settle in to your parents' loving care and soak up the love that I am sure is lining up to see you at the door.
Wishing you only peaceful slumbers (no fruit monsters) and bright, loving days ahead.
Margaret
Posted by Margaret (USA) | June 19, 2008 11:08 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 23:08
Hey Adrian,
So sorry to hear you've been in so much pain, it sounds awful and I can't imagine how you're feeling. The fact that you can still articulate yourself in such a brilliant way here is testament to how awesome you are!
Glad you finally got the treatment and pain management you needed, even though it took way too long.
I say it every time but it's no less heartfelt - I am thinking of you lots.
Love from Catherine x
Posted by Catherine | June 19, 2008 11:24 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 23:24
This is my first comment, I've been following your story since I saw you on the Television in England (while I was visiting) I am from Montana. I don't know what to say besides you have been in my thoughts and prayers since I saw your story. I will continue to follow your story.
Posted by charity | June 19, 2008 11:26 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 23:26
Adrian,
Like many, I have followed your blog for quite a while. I have laughed and cried and been utterly moved by your courage and strength. Until now I have never given donation a real consideration, but am now registering to become a marrow donor. On a funny note - I told my family last night that this was the plan and they all balked at me telling me how painful it was going to be, should I need to donate. Well I'll have you know that I argued with them for hours assuring them that this was myth and that if they were well EDUCATED on the issue, they would know that this was not the case. And in all honesty, even if it hurt - I would do it a million times over if it meant helping someone like you. You have moved me and I will continue to spread the word as far as I possibly can to get people to go out and donate. You are in my constant thoughts and prayers and I hope you know that you will live FOREVER in my heart, as well as MANY others'.
God Bless You,
Jill - CA, USA
Posted by Jill | June 19, 2008 11:31 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 23:31
Hello Adrian,
I hope that being back "home" will bring with it peace and comfort. You remian in our best thoughts and prayers. My 2 year old daughter has added you to her bedtime song "He's Got The Whole World In His Hands". And you should feel honored because you come before her favorite stuffed animal and our cat. There are times when even I don't rank that high. =)
Have a Happy Day,
Alyce
California,USA
Posted by Alyce Toombs | June 19, 2008 11:41 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 23:41
Hi Adrian,
There's not much I can say but I just wanted to let you know that there are always people thinking about you and hoping the side effects ease up on you, you've not had it easy!
Sara x
Posted by Sara Davies | June 19, 2008 11:44 PM
Posted on June 19, 2008 23:44
keep going big man, everyone's thinking of you.
take it easy
georgeyboy
Posted by georgeyboy | June 20, 2008 12:11 AM
Posted on June 20, 2008 00:11
I can't believe how much you are going through. I am so sorry that you are in so much pain and that the this drug didn't work out for you.
I'm really glad you have such fabulous family and friends who can help you during this awful time. Lots of young adults return home to the safety and comfort of their parents' love and care and nest during tough times and I can't imagine times could get much tougher than what you are going through. They must be so frustrated that they can't cure you pain but I bet they value every opportunity to try and make things a bit better for you.
In your darkest hour, remember there are lots of people around the world who care and pray for you.
All the best
Embi
Australia
Posted by Embi | June 20, 2008 12:22 AM
Posted on June 20, 2008 00:22
Hi Adrian, I'm new to this blog and haven't got time at the moment to read through all the replies you've received, so I apologise if I'm just repeating what others have already said.
I wonder if you have considered going into a hospice for some respite care. I volunteer at a London Hospice and I see patients admitted who are in a pretty bad state, their medication all over the place, loss of appetite and in a lot of pain. Within days, the hospice staff have ususally transformed them, they have sorted out their medication and pain relief and the patient is then sent home with a new lease of life. I've seen it so many times. Once you have been a patient, they are always there to support to you and your family. I hope you consider it as it could make a big difference.
Adrian, I wish you love and peace. Reading what you are going through is truly humbling and puts my own minor troubles into perspective. I am praying for you and your family.
Posted by Lee | June 20, 2008 12:24 AM
Posted on June 20, 2008 00:24
Dearest Adrain
Sorry to hear you are having such a bad time.
I hope there are drugs that will at least keep you pain free.
Stay brave.
love and good thoughts. xxxxxxxxx jm
Posted by jane-mary | June 20, 2008 1:05 AM
Posted on June 20, 2008 01:05
I can't say how glad I was to read your latest post and also to see that you have turned to your family and closest friends. Sounds silly but your Mum and Dad were there to comfort you at your birth and it is so comforting to think of them caring for you right now; it must be unbelievably hard for them to see you like this, I hope they take comfort in being able to help you directly.
I must admit I have worried so much about you since your last post. Odd how you are so accepting yet strangers find this whole nasty process to difficult to grasp!
I hope these new drugs keep you as pain and suffering free as possible! That out of hours service sounds a right load of rubbish, did they not put you under hospice care or a palliative care or pain specialist for something like this (you know, for emergency pain relief, that kind of thing)? Sucks that you had to go into the hospital itself!
Anyway, I hope you are sleeping like a baby right now, please keep going and keep posting!
Caroline x
Posted by Caroline | June 20, 2008 1:09 AM
Posted on June 20, 2008 01:09
Adrian,
Just another random stranger who wanted to say how much you have impacted on my life. You are incredibly brave.
I'm pregnant so can't register for the bone marrow register until the little tacker arrives. I've made arrangements to have the cord blood donated though so hoping it will help someone. This is all down to you and your campaign.
I know you shy away from such accolades but you are an inspiration
Lano (Sydney, Australia)
Posted by Lano | June 20, 2008 1:32 AM
Posted on June 20, 2008 01:32
Adrian thank you for having ALL of us realize what is important really important in this world..and being home and surronded by the ones that love you so much is just what you need to do....enjoy the time with them...they also need to be with you...once again you are thinking of others...their love, your love, will overflow....peace, prayers,and Godspeed to you and your family..
Posted by a friend | June 20, 2008 1:40 AM
Posted on June 20, 2008 01:40
Adrian,
No need to post this unless you want to.
I was just wondering if there is a P.O. Box or some way I could send you something? I don't want to invade yours or your family's privacy in any way, but I would just love to send you a box of goodies.
(No, it won't be knickers or dirty mags.) Unless that's what you want. :)
Lacey
Posted by Lacey | June 20, 2008 2:20 AM
Posted on June 20, 2008 02:20
hey adrian ,
i came into work tonight hoping that you'd be doing the night shift with us like old times .
we've had a delicious kebab party too , which you could have joined ,if only you'd have booked in for an extra night at the hallamshire hotel .
sending lots of big hugs and kisses your way
love from your special night nurses xxxxx
Posted by super h | June 20, 2008 2:47 AM
Posted on June 20, 2008 02:47
Adrian, I've been reading your blog for a while but have never commented, but couldn't not say something this time. Please know I and so many others around the world are thinking of you and holding you up in our thoughts.
Helen
Canada
Posted by Helen | June 20, 2008 2:53 AM
Posted on June 20, 2008 02:53
You are so often in my mind, always in my heart..
Quality of life is what it's all about. I hope you get as much of that as possible and then some.
Sending you positive, gentle thoughts. Always
Love and light
Annie
Steven's mom
http://livingwithcml.blogspot.com
Posted by Annie | June 20, 2008 3:16 AM
Posted on June 20, 2008 03:16
Hi Adrian,
You are an inspiration to many people, and as someone above wrote - YOU deserve a knighthood!
One question, are you religious? I see several people, but not too many, mentioning prayers and god, but us English people are usually too well educated to have such nonsensical beliefs. Just wondered if such comments offend you in any way, or if you care?
You are in my thoughts, and congratulations on everything you are doing.
Posted by Robert | June 20, 2008 3:46 AM
Posted on June 20, 2008 03:46
I'm sure your parents are plenty happy to have you coming back home, and honestly it will probably be a real relief and comfort to you as well.
Very happy you keep us updated on your progress, I know it can't be easy for you. Lucky for us you're a journalist at heart! Now that you've adopted such a cult following expectations are high! lol
Seriously, take care of yourself Adrian, as always we wish you the best and most pain free existence possible.
Love and prayers across the pond.....
Beth
usa
Posted by Beth | June 20, 2008 3:52 AM
Posted on June 20, 2008 03:52
Dear Adrian,
Thank you so much for keeping all of us posted on how you are doing. So much responsiblity you take under your wing - not only do you have your friends and family that want to love and check on you, but you now have the world wanting to check in on you as well.
I think and pray for you and your family everyday. You absolutely captivate me and I don't think you realize how truly special (and handsome)you are. I can only guess what an absolutely amazing family you must come from. Your mom and dad and sis must be so very proud. You have made such a difference and because of your selfless sacrifice you will be single handedly responsible for saving countless lives.
I am so happy to hear that you are now much, much more comfortable this evening. Enjoy every minute with your family and friends. You deserve it my friend.
Love,
Rachel in Connecticut
Posted by Rachel | June 20, 2008 4:30 AM
Posted on June 20, 2008 04:30
Dear Adrian,
We're thinking of you daily and keeping you close in our hearts and prayers. Thank you for allowing your parents to care for you. As Ryan's mom, I consider caring for him an honor and the most important action I have ever done. I am sure your parents feel the same. I know you treasured your independence but I am so proud of you for letting them take over when you need them. I am glad you have a loving family in which you can rest. We love you and will read anything you post, difficult or not. We are here with you - no matter what - through it all.
Love to you my dear young man,
Amy Patrick & (Ryan's whole family)
Posted by Amy Patrick | June 20, 2008 5:01 AM
Posted on June 20, 2008 05:01
Praying for you. I've been following your story from Texas and just hate what you're going through but I'm so impressed with what you've done with this platform you're on.
Posted by Randi | June 20, 2008 5:03 AM
Posted on June 20, 2008 05:03
Hey Adrian
Sorry you feel so rubbish and the out of hours care was less than useful. This is a problem. Dan is now mainly under the care of the community team and when we rush back to the ward for an emergency, the nurses are great but we always have junior doctors, there for 6 months (not their fault) who don't know his case from adam and we have to start right from the beginning EVERY time, which is a lot of info when you have been receiving treatment for 1 and half years already.it is frustrating and time consuming but the community team finish at 5 and there is no where else to go.
You have created a global family who don't know you personally, but wish they did because you are such a great guy and we are all thinking of you, will continue your campaign and root for you every second of the day.
Love to your parents and of course you,
Sally x
Posted by Sally | June 20, 2008 7:52 AM
Posted on June 20, 2008 07:52
Stopping by to say Hi, and thank you for keeping us all posted, this huge community is with you in spirit every step. Hope your pain relief is working and I am sure you are being well looked after by your fantastic family and friends. There is no place like home!
Love to you and yours.
Nickxx
Posted by Nicki | June 20, 2008 8:06 AM
Posted on June 20, 2008 08:06
Hi Adrian, I am in awe at how you have managed to bring about this global community all joined in their desire to wish you well and promote your cause. When reading your blog and comments I feel part of this amazingly warm family who will forever hold you in our hearts. Whatever the outcome of this Adrian it must give you such a lift to know that the whole world is rooting for you. Keep strong Chris
Posted by Chris | June 20, 2008 8:30 AM
Posted on June 20, 2008 08:30
Think of the positives - Bet your mum volunteers to do your washing (mum's always do), decent food without the hassle of actually having to make it. Shared bathroom cleaning duties. It's not all bad!
Keep smiling and remember you're making a hige difference to many people's lives.
Love
Vicola
Posted by Vicola | June 20, 2008 8:40 AM
Posted on June 20, 2008 08:40
Hey Adrian,
Lol, I can just imagine your reaction to the suggestion of having more steroids. Just wanted to let you know that I'm thinking of you, and I hope that the reactions stop.
Best wishes,
Kim
Australia
Posted by Kim | June 20, 2008 8:41 AM
Posted on June 20, 2008 08:41
Take care Adrian - thinking of you
Posted by Angela | June 20, 2008 8:54 AM
Posted on June 20, 2008 08:54
Adrian - massive respect for all that you are doign for others with your campaign, it is truly inspiring. Not great news on this post but being closer to those that care the most is the best place to be :)
cheers
Rob -