Saturday, July 15, 2017

A Happy 9 Year Anniversary

7/17/17 – On July 17th 2008 I posted “On July 17th, I met with the surgeon to get the results of the mediastinoscopy. This is when I was given the news that I had Mantle Cell Lymphoma.” This led me on an internet search that returned grim and discouraging results. I am absolutely thrilled to say “Never believe what you read”. Here it is, my 9th Anniversary of being diagnosed with Mantle Cell Lymphoma and… 
I”M STILL STANDING after all this time!!!!

Even better yet, I am healthy and strong. To make things even more exciting and encouraging, I had my port removed this past Tuesday. Now how great is that???
True, my 9 years has been full of twists and turns and ups and downs but…
I”M STILL STANDING better than I ever did!!!!

My Adventures with Mantle Cell Lymphoma has been one that has truly been full of Hope, Faith and Love… and I could have never gotten to where I am without my incredible wife who has been by my side every second of my journey. I hope my journey is seen as an example of why you should never give up… and how by having faith and keeping positive will lead to good things.

As a follow up to my last post, it appears that the scan of my lungs is showing improvement. The hope is that a few IVIG treatments will clear things up. I’ll be getting additional IVIG’s every three weeks for a while. My next scans are scheduled for December and I am confident they will be just fine.

So now that I have no port… I have no disease… and all my ailments are on the mend… What will I do with myself???? I will simply Live, Love and Laugh. Most of all… I will enjoy the wonderful life that that God has gifted to me.

To mark my 9th Anniversary, here is a YouTube link for the Elton John classic “I’m Still Standing”. Enjoy!

Here is another YouTube link for a fantastic song by Peter Gabriel, it’s called “Don’t Give Up”

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
1 Peter 5:7


4 comments:

Cristina Marvelli said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Rich Franco said...

Hi Cristina,

I am so sorry to hear about your MCL diagnosis. I will certainly keep you in my prayers, that the treatments are effective and that your scans show excellent progress and even a full remission. And please do not have second thoughts, treating your MCL is to first step to good health. Throughout this process, it is just so important to keep positive. Know that you will get through this and be great.

Lastly, if you want me to contact me privately please feel free to contact me by email at: RichFranco317@gmail.com.

Rich

Anonymous said...

Rich, I am so happy to read this post. You are exactly right on all fronts here. I, too, am still going strong after 5 years. You are here to spread the Good News And all glory is His!

Continue to be well!
Janet kohler

Rich Franco said...

Hey Janet,

It is always awesome to hear from you. I’m am so glad to hear that you are doing well.
Be well and be happy. God is Good!

Rich