Saying Good-bye
August 13th, 2007
We saw some fireworks last night from our hospital window. They were brief– lasted less than five minutes, but were pretty impressive for a private show. I wonder what they were celebrating?
Jim spent his last official day in therapy yesterday (Saturday), and he and James took a stroll around the entire 20th floor, Jim walking unassisted except for the grab bars which line the walls. Walking is slow and difficult for him, so the mere fact that James gets Jim out of the wheelchair and up on his feet each day is a minor miracle. We’re going to miss his diligence and encouragement, “Dui, dui!”
We said good-bye to Jim’s doctors and he presented Dr. Mike with a San Francisco Giants ballcap and Dr. Mary with a box of Sees chocolates. When thanking Drs. Mike and Mary for the important work they are doing, Dr. Mike had this to say: “We all need to be working together to understand and end these diseases. Thank YOU for being part of us.” Teamwork.
There’s that collective consciousness again…so different from our individualist ways. The Chinese are very good at sharing: technology, space, the road, even time. No one gets steamed up if someone else cuts a line here, it’s just not important. There’s very little, if any, road rage even though horns are used often. They’re more of a reminder; “I’m coming up on your left” or “watch out,” than an expression of anger or aggression.
China is beautiful, and thriving. The people we’ve met have been so gracious and kind. Regardless of Jim’s outcome, we are honored to have been part of the stem cell program in Hangzhou. The next few months will tell if the stem cells are able to grow and repair any of the damage to Jim’s brain. But in the meantime, we plan to live life according to the wisdom on the back of this t-shirt I saw today:
“Live Life Treasurely”.
That about says it all.
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4 Comments Add your own
1. Mary | August 13th, 2007 at 10:48 am
I think the fireworks were for you and Jim……..and all your new stem cell buddies! You are a beautiful writer, Billie, and I’m looking forward to you and Jim’s arrival back home!!!! Sending our best to you both!!!!
Love you lots,
Mary and Mike
2. Holly Bast | August 14th, 2007 at 9:37 am
Thank you, you both have changed lives.
3. naureen tama tasley | September 8th, 2007 at 10:55 pm
“Live Life Treasurelyâ€Â. Thank you for sharing that wisdom I need to remember. Especially since I am blessed with still having health and a safe place to live, a thriving business and a healthy, loving son.
I have been following the blog and my feelings are deep, without words adequate.
I send much love.
4. Vi Vasilash | September 15th, 2007 at 5:46 am
Dear Jim;
My name is Vi I live in Alberta, Canada. I was diagnosed with MSA earlier this year, although I have had symptons for about the last 3 1/2 years at first they thought they were caused by minor strokes. How did you first hear about the hospital in China & get in touch with them. Its some months later do you really feel improvement?
I’m so excited to read about your journey. If at all possible please e-mail me and fill me in on some of the back ground of how you got to where you now are.
God bless and give you many good days.
Vi
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