More setbacks.

On June 9, 2022, my father had a heart attack. My mother found him on the floor and performed CPR. He was rushed to the UMCG by ambulance, and after a 5-hour surgery and four bypasses, my father thankfully survived. There was some concern about possible brain damage due to oxygen deprivation, but his recovery went well, and luckily, he quickly returned to his old self.

Then, on December 27, 2022, we learned that my grandfather was terminally ill. He was 58 years old and he had colorectal cancer, and if the chemotherapy worked, he would have a maximum of 1.5 years with us. If the chemotherapy didn't work, he would have only 3 to 4 months. We had to wait for the start of his first chemotherapy session.

My check-up appointment.

Only 3 months left until I reached the 2-year "clean" milestone, which is significant because the chances of leukemia returning after being clean for 2 years are incredibly low. On January 12, 2023, I had my follow-up appointment, and I hadn't been feeling well lately, so I was a bit anxious about the results.

And then, my worst nightmare became a reality......the leukemia had returned! And now what?
When leukemia returns after chemotherapy treatment, the next step is an even more intense chemotherapy and, subsequently, a stem cell transplant.

Once again, everything came to a halt. Everyone around me was earning diplomas, passing their driving theory tests, getting their first cars, going on vacations, studying abroad, enjoying time at cafes, and having fun in life.

Not for me. I had to pause my education, couldn't pursue my driving theory, couldn't have a nice car, go on vacation or study trips, or enjoy time at cafes...