Allreds Must Miss Reunion

Subject: This Kills Me

Have really been delaying writing this note until I knew for sure that Lenore and I would not be attending our scheduled reunion. 

Spent the day with doctors, getting their input before I pulled the trigger on making this decision. 

As most of you know I have been battling cancer since first diagnosed 2007. The initial diagnosis and treatment addressed MM. After a couple of years of some pretty mean treatment, I began to "Smolder".

Once at this level we simply monitored my condition. Six years  ago and then three years later I had both knees replaced. All went well until last November when the cancer became most active and aggressive. The diagnosis was update to MGUS. So I began treatment for this type of blood and bone cancer. Finally the numbers indicated that the diagnosis should be MDS. Accordingly I began Chemo therapy treatments six months ago. The impact of Chemo on the human body is harsh. I began to get sores in my mouth which would bleed. This infected blood some how worked its way into my second knee replacement. Last week they performed an emergency knee operation to flush out the infection and remove any infected bone or parts. 

So I am presently in the Regency Care Center Oakwell Farms where I am recuperating. This stay is projected until the end of month. Accordingly, no Airborne Operation for me. 

Have cancelled airline reservations and hotel. Need now to cancel Reunion reservations. Any fees or charges that maybe refundable to me, should be turned over to the "Kitty" and used in support of the organization. 

I asked Lenore to mail the Airborne temporary tattoos to Jeff. So he should have them by the end of the week. 

Have been working on a couple of things -- Welcoming ceremony where I thought it a good idea to highlight a little Airborne history, requirements to be awarded  "Wings" at each level, etc. 

More to follow -- shower time!

Ray AAllred