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.
It's blood and platelets today to help keep me going.
I am worn down and smatterings of rash-like internal bleeds on the surface of the skin indicate I need some urgent attention.
Everything that has been achieved this week fills me with a sense of enormous pride and I have even more good news to share with you all.
But first, I noticed there have been a few requests to find out how I am doing.
The honest answer is each week it just gets that bit harder and harder.
My energy is low, the chest infection and cough are managed but not improving, I am generally tired but over the last couple of days I have grown particularly concerned about my legs.
This strange pain around my knees coupled with an uncomfortable sense of muscle weakness has started alarm bells ringing.
During my transplant I lost the use of my legs for about two days and we never really found out why.
Click here to watch my 'Isolation Video' where I talk about using a bad boy zimmer frame.
The pain can be controlled but it's just whether they will continue to bear the weight of my body.
I will chat to the experts today and see if they have any answers or advice. I suspect steroids are probably at the heart of this little conundrum.
At the moment stairs are only a slight problem.
Although I accept I have lost a lot of independence by moving back more permanently with my parents it was without doubt the right decision and they have been absolutely terrific.
In my own flat I was slowly losing the ability to look after myself.
Pots remained unwashed, small piles of odd socks grew into mounds of dirty washing, milk and bread went mouldy.
Some would argue that there was not much difference between that and before I got ill.
However, to be back with my parents, in such a warm and loving environment, and to have all that taken care of, has actually enabled me to do much more with my time and energy.
To say they have been, and continue to be magnificent, is a massive understatement and I hope they know how grateful I am.
Although these continue to be 'challenging circumstances' I do not feel upset, scared or lonely.
In fact, we are all actually having a pretty incredible time.
My gradual death, as long as the quality of life remains reasonable, is actually quite a liberating experience.
We sort of have an open-door policy at the moment where friends and family give us a call the day before, check how I am, then just rock up.
It's honestly been great fun.
As you are beginning to see more and more, I have had nothing but the absolute privilege of sharing my time on this planet with some incredible people, from all different walks of life.
People bring food, drink, cake - sometimes my mum cooks up a big meal - but it just seems to work really well.
Through this method of hanging out we also get random groups of people, who wouldn't necessarily turn up together, coming over and getting on really well.
As I keep saying - don't feel sorry for me. I'm having a blast.
European recognition
And now a little something from Milan.
A while ago I entered a European competition for the best cancer reporter. It wasn't really something I thought about winning because it was essentially about reporting breakthroughs in treatment and cutting edge research.
I got this email through from the judges yesterday.
"On behalf of the European School of Oncology and the judging panel for the 2008 Best Cancer Reporter Award I am pleased to inform you that you have won a Best Cancer Reporter Special Recognition Award.
"Although you did not win the main award, the judges were extremely impressed with your blog and the efforts you have made to raise awareness about the need for bone and marrow donations and wanted to acknowledge your tremendous work.
"You have clearly shown how powerful it can be when journalists, who are also patients, draw upon their communication skills to convey important messages to the public about issues that can have a huge impact on cancer patients.
"Congratulations on winning this special recognition award – we were very pleased that you were nominated and are delighted to be able to recognise your work."
Best wishes, Kathy Redmond, Co-ordinator, ESO Media Programme
Grazie molto!
Comments (142)
Yet more accolades Adrian!!! Not only are you a star in our country, you are applauded in Europe for what you have achieved, and no doubt there will be more awards to come. In a very short time you have done more for bone marrow donation awareness than the experts have achieved in their working lives! Enjoy every moment of your success with your wonderful family and friends, and remember that you have such love and support from all your "blog" fan club.
Lots of love
Sandra Shave
Posted by Sandra Shave | June 27, 2008 7:56 AM
Posted on June 27, 2008 07:56
Hi Adrian
Congrats on yet another well deserved accolade!
I have said before, you write about your condition in lay mans terms and with a clarity that is so informative and easy to understand that I have directed many people to your blog to save me explaining lots of what is happening to Dan! So again, thank you for that help.
I am so glad that you are 'having a blast' and it brings home that all our day to day worries re money, careers etc are insignificant.
What is important are family, friends, respect and love for others and experiences, not material things- that's what bring happiness.
Have you ever heard of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs? Every human needs shelter, food and security as a basis to build a fulfilling life upon.I think you have all 3 in bucket loads.
Also, the art of communication is the vital ingredient.So many people forget how to talk to each other. I think you have definitely nailed that one on the head as well! You have reached out to your global family and we have all responded.
love and hugs
Sally x
Posted by Sally | June 27, 2008 8:07 AM
Posted on June 27, 2008 08:07
Congratulations on that Adrian!
Thanks for the bulletin - we, your cyber friends, do worry! Enjoy this special time with your wonderful family and friends. You are in our thoughts and in our hearts too.
With love,
Elaine
Posted by Elaine | June 27, 2008 8:08 AM
Posted on June 27, 2008 08:08
The awards just keep on comin!!!
Your responses just continue to remind me what is really important in life. Love, family and true friendship.
Long may you continue to have a blast :-)
Mines a pint....
xxxreiki hugsxxx
dawny
Posted by Dawny | June 27, 2008 8:32 AM
Posted on June 27, 2008 08:32
You are phenomenal. My 2 year old had a bone marrow transplant last year, someone that we don't even know saved his life, so thank you donors everywhere and thank you Adrian for being you and making such a difference.
Posted by Catherine | June 27, 2008 8:34 AM
Posted on June 27, 2008 08:34
Fantastic news on the award Adrian!
Thanks for the update on how you're feeling. I think your typically British stiff upper lip attitude is an inspiration to us all.
Hope the platelets pick you up a bit.
Posted by Jessica | June 27, 2008 8:37 AM
Posted on June 27, 2008 08:37
You've made great achievements and I am so glad for you that you have seen the fruits of your labour. Hope you continue to have a blast with your family and friends.
India
Posted by India | June 27, 2008 9:06 AM
Posted on June 27, 2008 09:06
great news adrian once again you're proving to the world what a tremendous person you are
take care and keep strong
jane xx
Posted by jane bailey | June 27, 2008 9:27 AM
Posted on June 27, 2008 09:27
Morning Adrian
Yay! A new post! And a video to boot!
Very few things make me laugh out loud when I'm completely on my own, but your video did. Seconds later I was blinking back tears of pride again when I saw your latest award. It seems that every day is bringing you new surprises, and long may it continue.
Hope your new platelets bring you more energy to keep on blasting.
And also, thanks for keeping us updated.
Love, Amanda
Posted by Amanda, Kenilworth | June 27, 2008 9:47 AM
Posted on June 27, 2008 09:47
Inspirational. You truly are a great, great man....all power to you my friend.
Simon
Posted by Simon Baines | June 27, 2008 9:52 AM
Posted on June 27, 2008 09:52
Congrats on the award, read your blog for the first time today and im now sat in my office in floods of tears, my thoughs are with you and your family and friends. I hope you realise what good you have done and what a wonderful role models you are to all young people out there. i work in a school and will make sure your message gets across here. keep smiling that wonderful smile
Posted by Sian Badham | June 27, 2008 9:55 AM
Posted on June 27, 2008 09:55
hi fella
was that stella u was on
keep going mate
proud of ya
baz an dawn........
Posted by BARRY CLEMENTS | June 27, 2008 9:55 AM
Posted on June 27, 2008 09:55
Adrian, you rock! Lol...have I said that before? ;o)
Congratulations on yet more proof that you are making a truly remarkable difference :o)
Posted by gemmak | June 27, 2008 9:57 AM
Posted on June 27, 2008 09:57
When I get up in the morning, pre-stretch, I think about you and your family and friends.
Post-stretch I put my computer on to check up on you.
I rejoice that you are still here and surrounded by love.
Adrian, I too know the TRUE value of life itself - to be truly loved.
Aren't we fortunate?
Thinking of you ALL throughout the day, sending you love and strength
Yvette Price-Mear
xxx
Posted by Yvette Price-Mear | June 27, 2008 10:00 AM
Posted on June 27, 2008 10:00
LOL Adrian on your tip for keeping going it obviously works as you are doing a fantastic job!
So glad you have all your family and friends near you. Your strength in facing this is so humbling.
Sending you much love
Alisonx
Posted by Alison | June 27, 2008 10:09 AM
Posted on June 27, 2008 10:09
Hi Adrian, thanks for the update, with all the amazing stuff going on around you it was good to hear how you are. Hopefully a bit of the old vampire juice will perk you up a bit and let you enjoy the weekend.
Following your blog over the last few months has been really powerful for me and has made me think about my own spat with leukaemia. To be honest it has also scared and upset me at times, what you are facing could have been me last year and of course still could if it came back. However your approach to dying is the one I hoped I would have when things were uncertain last year; and if things did take a turn for the worse, I know now that I could face the inevitable in as positive a way as possible. That for me is as inspirational as the fantastic work you are doing with your campaign.
Your blog also helps me to deal with the much more minor hassles of ongoing check ups. It all seems very mundane and small fry, even if I still (and always will) hate needles. After a few choice words, I even managed to shrug my shoulders after being told they sent my last biopsy to the wrong address and so would have to do yet another one! The back of my pelvis resembles a tea bag, they should just install a small tap and be done with it!
All the best mate and thanks again for both the campaign work and all the individuals who you have never met but have touched and inspired with your blog.
Allon
Posted by Allon Stokes | June 27, 2008 10:11 AM
Posted on June 27, 2008 10:11
Congratulations! I wish I could bake you a cake!
Posted by Roobeedoo | June 27, 2008 10:15 AM
Posted on June 27, 2008 10:15
Congratulations on the award!
Love and best wishes to you and your family X
Posted by Clare | June 27, 2008 10:33 AM
Posted on June 27, 2008 10:33
Yay! Congratulations Adrian! Another well deserved accolade. Im doing my happy dance for you at the moment. Please continue to hang in there. My thoughts and prayers are always with you. XO Elizabeth
Posted by Elizabeth Solaru | June 27, 2008 10:47 AM
Posted on June 27, 2008 10:47
Hi Adrian
Wow another award - loosing track of them yet lol. Watched your wee film there and glad to see it to be honest. Your a pure insperation to the world and you deserve more than media awards! Was smiling with you having your beer -when i am out tonight i will have a wee dram for you! Glad your still keeping in touch and my very best wished to you and your family!
Have another beer mate - cheers
Posted by Derek Miller | June 27, 2008 11:29 AM
Posted on June 27, 2008 11:29
Congratulations once again, Adrian.
Ooooooh, everyone is sooooooo proud of you(my 'o' key is wearing out. lol).
It was both upsetting and heartwarming to see your clip this morning. At least we (your global family) know how you are today. Good luck with the medics.
Strength and peace and love is sent to you, your wonderful family and your friends.
May you continue to have a blast!
Loads of hugs and soothing thoughts.
Christine M.
Posted by Christine M. | June 27, 2008 11:46 AM
Posted on June 27, 2008 11:46
Hello lovely Adrian,
Congratulations on your latest accolade! Very well deserved.
Thank you for sharing your updates with us. To be surrounded by family and friends is a great thing, and I'm so pleased you are enjoying yourself despite facing such difficulties. As ever, I am awed and inspired by your attitude.
My mum died from cancer 9 years ago and we were able to look after at home for her last weeks. What a special time that was; lots of laughter and just being together. Although we knew time was short, I felt like we really LIVED during that time - might sound strange, but that's truly how it felt, as the trivial things were stripped away. We had lots of visitors, wine, food, random conversations, joy and hugs. Perfect. I look back on that time now and I smile!
Sending much love and hugs, to you and yours.
Kate xx
Posted by Kate | June 27, 2008 11:49 AM
Posted on June 27, 2008 11:49
Adrian
First of all may I say that what you have done and are doing by writing and campaigning to ensure more is done to encourage donors is a selfless act of any human kind. I do not know you personally but feel through your blogs that I and the rest of your cyber friends actually do know you. You write with such compasion and honesty that you have reduced me to tears and then laughter. If only all the good wishes that have been wrote could cure your awful disease then you would be cured a hundred times over. You were and are a young man with his whole life ahead of him and yet faced with this incurable disease you have shown such courage and dignity. Your parents love you and are proud of you for who you are, its what they call unconditional love but through your strength and dedication, the ups and downs, the highs and lows you write about I hope, in fact, I know they will find comfort when the time comes; for you will have left them and the rest of the world a lasting legacy. I wish with all my heart that whatever time you have on this earth may it bring you fun, enjoy yourself and take some time for you and your family, the memories are priceless. Sending much love to an inspirational young man. Amanda
Posted by Amanda | June 27, 2008 11:58 AM
Posted on June 27, 2008 11:58
A HUGE "WELL DONE" Adrian!!! Your a true inspiration! X Nat X
Posted by Natalie Willacy | June 27, 2008 12:33 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 12:33
Hi Adrian,
What a privilege to share this time with you and your friends and family.
That you can take the time to let your cyber friends know how you are is amazingly selfless.
I had a wry smile and raised a glass back atchya (cup of tea actually) and am so glad that you are really living. Some people live decades and never know how to do that.
So blast on my friend. You are never far from my thoughts and always in my prayers.
With much love,
Julia xx
PS Congratulations on your award, but it's only what we've come to expect!
Posted by Julia | June 27, 2008 12:35 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 12:35
Hello Adrian
Another award - Congratulations!
Thank you for updating us so honestly and with humour on how you are. Your video made me cry then laugh out loud when you picked up your pint! Brilliant - and so indicative of the person you are. We out here love you for the very special person you are.
Have a good weekend enjoying your wonderful family and friends, and thank you for everything you are teaching us. The effect you seem to be having not only with the campaign but on ordinary folks lives is quite phenomenal! As a previous comment above from Sally said, we feel like we are your global family. And what a great honour that is for us.
Much love
Barbara xx
Posted by Barbara | June 27, 2008 1:03 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 13:03
Another well deserved award Adrian! It's bizarre that I find myself booting up my laptop in the morning and going straight to your blog. Reduced to tears most mornings, even the tears of joy today are mixed with tears of sadness - if prayers and wishes and love from a global community could save a person you'd be that man! Feels as though I know you and I'm sure all your other bloggie-friends feel the same way. You've touched my heart and you'll always have a special place there.
Congratulations again Adrian! You and your family deserve the pride you are certainly feeling today.
Thanks for the update and the video. Keep having a blast!
Hugs from Trinidad
xoxo
Tash
Posted by Tash | June 27, 2008 1:14 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 13:14
Adrian, thank you so much for updating us all. I do believe I was suffering from "Adrian Withdrawl" after not hearing from you for ... what was it, 48 hrs?? ("My name is Lacey, and I have a problem. I'm addicted to Suds.") What a treat to be able to see your smiling face and hear that raspy movie-star voice this morning when I woke up! Glad to hear you are enjoying your time at home and to see you still have your sense of humor. Congrats on this latest acknowlegement, as well! Well done, as always. Keep on keepin' on.
Lacey
Posted by Lacey | June 27, 2008 1:17 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 13:17
I read your blog every couple of days and you are a complete inspiration! Please make sure you're giving yourself enough time to just chill out and rest- running about like a mad thing is all well and good but everyone needs a few hours P and Q! Take care- you're in my prayers.
Sarah xx
Posted by Sarah Shreve | June 27, 2008 1:27 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 13:27
Hi Adrian, just to let you know that your picture is in my window and the names are starting to collect on the petition. With regard to your leg problems, my brother experienced similar and they said that it was probably due to spinal taps that he had. Once again the illness versus the medicine side effects dilemma. I hope it does not cause you too much pain. Enjoy being spoilt by your family and friends and I am sure your mum loves washing your dirty socks! Keep strong. Chris
Posted by Christine | June 27, 2008 1:28 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 13:28
Congratulations are called for once again Adrian. So good to see you are still having a blast. Would like to leave you a little inspirational quote from St Augustine: Hope has two beautiful daughters - their names are anger and courage, anger at the way things are, and courage to see that they do not remain the way they are. Through all your courage and hard work Adrian, you have brought hope to people, who without you, would have none. What a cool dude.
Nikki ;)
Posted by Nicola Sloanes | June 27, 2008 2:08 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 14:08
Congratulations Adrian on another well deserved award!! Let me just say hearing you say that you are having a blast has made my day and put a smile on my face, thank you.Stay strong my friend, I believe the power of a positive mind is incredible medicine. We are all thinking and praying for you. Heres to you!!!
Michael
Posted by michael celiberti | June 27, 2008 2:08 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 14:08
Adrian
Hope you are keeping as well as you can, you are an inspiration, well done for all you have achieved, keep looking it in the eye and giving it socks.
Enjoy your weekend.
George
xx
Posted by George | June 27, 2008 2:26 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 14:26
Been reading for a few weeks now and think what you are doing to raise awareness is incredible.
What prompted me to write today were the images you evoked when you were talking about your parents and the open door policy. I can just picture it. As a parent (albeit only of a 3 yr old and a 1yr old!) I can just imagine the strength they draw from seeing all your friends and well wishers coming to see you. What an amazing family you have. No wonder you are such a strong character......you had incredible examples growing up.
Love to you all. R xxxxxxx
Posted by Rosie | June 27, 2008 2:34 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 14:34
Adrian,
I have been reading your blogs daily for a while now and I just wanted to say Congratulations on the award - it is great that you are raising awareness and getting great acknowledgment like this! You deserve it!
It is clear to me and so many other people that you really are having a blast. Adrian, I have never met you yet I have so much respect for you, I am utterly amazed at what you are doing.
You have done so much to raise awareness even when you have been at your lowest and I do have to stop myself sometimes if I let overwhelming feelings of "I feel so sorry for him" start to creep up on me. You have really amazed so many people with all your work!
You truly are an inspiration to me and many many others.
Love and Best Wishes
Rebecca
Posted by Rebecca Magowan | June 27, 2008 2:51 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 14:51
bless your heart Adrian, my prayers continue for you and your family that the remaining time you all have together is all you want it to be and more, huge hugs to you dear man
Oh and congratulations, you truly deserve it and more.
Posted by Kay | June 27, 2008 2:53 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 14:53
Adrian,
You are the BEST! That video is awesome. You just had me cracking up. Continue on the steady diet of hops, family and friends!!
Congrats on the continued success...what a ride you are on. Wow, so impressive. I don't think I will ever see anything quite like your story again...even though I hope to.
Lots of love dear Adrian,
Rachel in Connecticut
Posted by Rachel | June 27, 2008 3:00 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 15:00
Adrian,
Congrats on your latest award. Thank you for the update. Like a lot of your global family I find myself booting up the computer every morning and going straight to your blog for an update. It never fails I am always shedding tears, smiling, beaming with pride and often laughing all at the same time! Your truly an amazing person.
Hope you continue to enjoy your time with your family and friends, as that is most important. Having experienced a similar experience with my stepfather at home for his last weeks I can say it was truly a wonderful time for our family. Exactly as you have described it. Family and friends all around. Drinking, eating, laughing, just having a great time.
May peace and love surround you. Big hugs!
Tela
Posted by Tela | June 27, 2008 3:10 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 15:10
Many many congratulations on the award, thoroughly deserved in my humble opinion! Thank you for updating us all on how you are,all of us out here in cyber space like to keep our eye on you....! The beer is obviously working wonders, live,laugh and enjoy for as long as you possibly can!! Love to all you guys in the Sudbury household.
Nickix
Posted by Nicki | June 27, 2008 3:13 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 15:13
Hey there Love:
Picturing you having a blast with your folks and friends makes the days have new meaning to us all...Truly, isn't it what life should be about instead of folks fussing and fighting...My goodness but you bring us joy...
love,
Therese
Posted by Therese Prophet, Mesa AZ | June 27, 2008 3:30 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 15:30
Well, it's a jolly good thing that you moved back home before the socks got mouldy too!!! As grateful & appreciative as you are to have your Parents looking after you, they too are equally grateful to be able to help you.No matter how old our children are, they remain just that ....... our precious children ( mine are 25 and 22).
CONGRATULATIONS on the Campaign and awards! You are such a fighter. If only more people had your tenacity.
Hope you are comfortable tonight aand able to sleep well :-)
God bless. Love
Janet in South Africa
Posted by Janet reid | June 27, 2008 3:33 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 15:33
You do deserve the award. I'll never forget this sentence: "My gradual death, as long as the quality of life remains reasonable, is actually quite a liberating experience."
Posted by Ana Carolina | June 27, 2008 4:26 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 16:26
You are an amazing couragous person. There are so many bad people in this world, who would not have the guts to do what you are doing with all your campaigning. You are one in a million, enjoy your time with your family and friends. Wishing you all the best.
Caroline x
Posted by Caroline | June 27, 2008 5:23 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 17:23
A,
Congratulations on the special recognition! I don't think they could have worded it better as to why you deserved it.
I've been trying to find your blod for so long and today as the day at last.
Sending you all the good vibes my body has.
G
Posted by Gemma25 | June 27, 2008 5:33 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 17:33
I absolutely LOVED your video! Yes, Yes, YES!!! LIVE, really live until ... you have to go. Make some more memories, love some more. We did this with my mum and it was quite liberating for all of us. I'm not sure I would have truly understood where you are coming from if I hadn't gone through this with someone but I do now. Funny how so many of us are afraid to talk about dying especially to the dying. But in my mother's dying she taught us all some great lessons on living. You are doing this too and I thank you showing us all on how to live and live well, and how to handle the inevitable.
Posted by Gracie Snodgrass | June 27, 2008 5:34 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 17:34
CONGRATULATIONS ADRIAN! What a wonderful award! YAHOO!
I am glad to hear that you are having such a wonderful time with your family and friends. What a blessing to have that time. I hope the blood gives you a pick me up today. I also hope they can figure out what is going on with your legs and help you be comfortable.
Sending thoughts out to you every day.
Wishing you peace and comfort.
Posted by Caitlin Magee | June 27, 2008 5:40 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 17:40
Hi Adrian,
Firstly,Thank You! for all you have and are continuing to do.My daughter Stacey,23,( a fellow neighbouring patient of yours),received her double cord blood stem cell transplant on Feb 15th 2007.A first for the hospital and the first adult in Derbyshire and Yorkshire.She is well,its worked so far.We are having great difficulties in raising awareness of cord donations and blood and especially bonemarrow, but thank God we have you,you have made the right people listen.You have given us fresh inspiration and we will continue to raise awareness,Our thoughts are always with you
and your family.Thank you so much.
Kindest regards...Margaret
Posted by Margaret Hobson | June 27, 2008 5:42 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 17:42
Adrian my friend,
I call you my friend because although you have no idea who I am, I feel that you are one of my dearest friends that I care for deeply and check up on daily! Immense pride on my end for the latest and greatest awards you have achieved. Saying you are an inspiration, hero, courageous, brave, outstanding human being just seems so BLAH compared to the words my heart tries to say. I am sure by now these comments are getting a bit repeticious when all we really want to tell you is that we LOVE you and truly thank you from the bottom of our hearts for showing us what LIVING is all about. I may never hear from you personally, but I do know that you read these so I am content knowing that I have at least been able to share with you my thoughts.
May the comfort of your family, friends and BEER cheer you on for a long long time to come. I have a 6 month old daughter named Presley who I have taught the "Adrian" dance to. I hate to tell you that it's usually done after I change her diaper (haha) that she stands up and wiggles her little behind in your honor. :) Just thought you'd like to know that.
God bless you Adrian and cheers to you.
Xoxo,
Jill - Ca, USA
Posted by Jill | June 27, 2008 6:15 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 18:15
Good gracious Adrian, how many more awards? Congratulations you so deserve it.
I am so pleased you are happy to be back home with your Mum and Dad. It must be difficult to give up your home, but you need them to look after you, and they almost certainly need to do that for you.
I hope you are feeling revitalised after the blood and hope the problem with the knees is being sorted.
I enjoyed the video and as someone else said the voice is very sexy!
Hope you sleep well tonight. Take care of yourself.
My love and best wishes to you and your family.
Bless you
Ree
Posted by Ree | June 27, 2008 6:40 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 18:40
Super effort, by a Super human!!!
You rock Adrian!!
Stu
Posted by Stu | June 27, 2008 7:20 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 19:20
Hi Adrian,
You don't know me but my husband worked with your Mum so I have been hearing news of you for some time, and more recently I have been reading your blog and following you in the media. It was great to see you on video today and to hear how you are doing. Our children (13, 15, and 17) have all been made much more aware of the issues surrounding blood/organ/bone-marrow donation through your blog and campaign and two of them will probably be on the receiving end of the talks in school that your campaign will implement. You are in my thoughts and prayers every day Adrian. Keep on having a blast and sharing it with us! XXX
Posted by Laura | June 27, 2008 7:24 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 19:24
Adrian, You really are THE BOMB.
I was talking about you for hours last night and everyone in the room was just in awe of your plight and all you have done. The waves were crashing and there was a noisy helicopter running around outside but inside this little San Diego, CA house- it was all about Adrian. It seemed like even my crazy dog sat down and chilled when I was talking about you!
I'm so glad you're having a good time with your family. That is the perfect place to be.
Everyday I wonder about you and hope you are well. You have accomplished so much and it just never ceases to amaze me.
In my book, you have set the marker for the things that anyone can do if they have the passion and the will. It is hard to get annoyed now at the silly things in life when I read about how much beauty you live yours with.
I can't even imagine what type of world it would be if everyone was a bit like you. You're doing all the right things for all the right reasons.
Looking at your mug online is more mind-blowing than looking at a Botticelli painting. :)
Beth
San Diego, USA
Posted by Bethany | June 27, 2008 7:31 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 19:31
well done as always your just fab love to all xxx
Posted by pamela | June 27, 2008 8:01 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 20:01
Great to hear from you - you're never far from my thoughts and I'm never far from my laptop! I'll certainly be raising a glass or two to you tonight - probably along with most of your global community of cyber-friends!
Lots of love - and best wishes as ever, Charlotte xx
Posted by Charlotte Newall | June 27, 2008 8:34 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 20:34
Hi Adrian
Like you I'm on steroids yet again, on and off for over ten years. I've also noticed a lack of energy, and a constant dull pain in my upper legs, plus pain in my joints when I've been on them! My consultant in Leeds said it's normally down to the steroids tablets, but in my case its just old age! Cheeky sod 47 isn't old.
Can I say you have made a massive difference in what you have achieved with your blog, keep up the good work for as long as you can.
Carl
Posted by Carl Leggett | June 27, 2008 8:46 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 20:46
this is the first time i have left a message,my brother died from leukemia nearly a year ago.you might not believe it but you and him could be identical twins.it was scary the first time we saw your blog.he was very private about what he was going through, and he never really told us how he was feeling, so reading your blog is helping us to understand how he was feeling.anyway i think your doing a fantastic job, hope your as well as you can be.just keep enjoying yourself and have a beer for me. all the best dave.
Posted by david | June 27, 2008 8:53 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 20:53
Shine on, you crazy diamond! *S*
Posted by Denise | June 27, 2008 9:00 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 21:00
Adrian,
Not only have you done more for Leukaemia Awareness and Blood, Bone Marrow and Organ Donation Awareness than any of us can ever possibly achieve, but you also write with such dignity and courage, sharing your thoughts and your life with so many people who otherwise would never get any real insight into what devastation this terrible illness does to people, to their families and to their friends.
I hope the blood & platelet top up has given you some strength to enjoy your weekend. You obviously have a warm and loving family who want to love and protect you. You have an opportunity that most people dont have - an opportunity to spend "quality time" with the people you love and the people who love and care for you.
Enjoy this time together....
Sending you love, hope and prayers.
Diane x
PS Congratulations on another fantastic accolade - this campaign will be the blueprint for other countries to follow.
Posted by Diane Watt | June 27, 2008 9:36 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 21:36
Once again, Adrian, you're an inspiration. I get a bit down at times with health hassles (nothing like yours), but everything around you and your blog is so full of life that it lifts my spirits. I don't just mean because it makes me realise how precious life is - I literally mean there is such a good vibe around you.
Yes, I am an old hippie! so I'm allowed to feel good vibes. I'm also sending them to you with all my heart. Thanks for your wonderful spirit and all you give.
Love,
Janet
Posted by Janet | June 27, 2008 9:38 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 21:38
Adrian, you are amazing! Simple as that.
Saz
Posted by Saz | June 27, 2008 10:27 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 22:27
Adrian
Once again you honesty about what you are experiencing is humbling to those of us who complain about a cold.
I would like to say that today I met with Councellor David Sparson. I didn't know that David had been diagnosed with leukeamia in 1997.
He like yourself had a bone marrow transplant but two years after his diagnosis. Totally by accident I asked the right person to help your campaign.
David is going to speak to the director of children and young peoples services in Leicestershire.
I was wondering had you a plan for the talks? Or do we just do the best we can locally.
Adrian how can I thank you enough for all you give and for getting me off my back side to do something for other people.
Amanda
Posted by Amanada Nunn | June 27, 2008 10:33 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 22:33
Hi Adrian
Just to let you know, your petition's now got over 6,500 signatures...
We're having a drop of bubbly to celebrate and hope you're having a good evening too.
Here's to the next 6,500!!!...and beyond!
Love to you
Amanda
Posted by Amanda, Kenilworth | June 27, 2008 10:39 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 22:39
Good to hear from you Adrian!! :D
Glad your having a blast mate, your a hero. Also glad to see you sipping at a fine looking pint hahaha
Ive said it before and i'll say it again - your an inspiration and have changed my outlook on life considerably. For that i thank you and raise my very own fine looking pint to you :D
Cheers!
Darryl.
Posted by Darryl | June 27, 2008 10:47 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 22:47
hiya Adrian
I took a wide berth at this weeks ago and thought it was too much for me ( selfish I know ).But I am so proud of you mate.
i have read about you so much but i have to admit i have never been on your blog for fear of feeling sorry for you which i know is the last thing you want, anyway am in the house now ( your house ). Just want to give you all the support i can along with everyone else in da house, much love to you and your family
hudders xxxx
Posted by loretta | June 27, 2008 10:56 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 22:56
Congratulations on the award! You know if you need extra money you should look into offering your endorsement to a beer company. You look awfully sexy drinking it!
Melanie
Posted by Melanie | June 27, 2008 11:17 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 23:17
You are a very special young man, brave beyond words, we lost our beloved son Aidan Jude Wray, age 16 not long ago, handsome, crazy boy, a downhill mountain bike racer, just been sponsored to race, a member of the academy of gifted kids, not that he gave a damn, just wanted to race and live! He was loved beyond words, cancer is a terrible disease, shows no mercy, we have met such wonderful young people , like Aidan from nowhere their lives are changed forever, robbed of their dreams, robbed of their lives. Life can be very cruel. Respect to you young man. As Aidan used to say 'Shit happens' and remember top live life to the full, do what you love whenever you want because one day you may not be able to' Peace and Love
Posted by cher wray | June 27, 2008 11:37 PM
Posted on June 27, 2008 23:37