Ron's POZ Blog

I did not have a formal doctor appointment this time because of scheduling issues, but I did get my counts from the recent blood work – the viral load remains undetectable and the T-cells are 789!!!! From 653. My highest yet! The ID doctor isn’t overly concerned that I miss 1 or 2 appointments since I am doing so well. The office will mail me the papers for the blood work to be done in February 2007. I have to tell everyone that 7 years ago, I was told that I would be lucky if my T-cells hit 200 and my viral load would remain between 10,000 and 20,000. Well, I have been undetectable for over 5 years now too!

I have mainly been busy with my book. I got the book back from the editing service early September and had been reviewing the changes and re-vamping until mid-October. Then I had the service help me with my query, outline and synopsis. So, the last week of October up through November 8, I have been working on e-mailing queries (22) and regular mail (36 so far). I have done all those requiring simple packets and have saved those that request sample chapters and proposals for now.

I will print the book out for my sisters to read and get their opinions.

I have started using a shopping service just for groceries and household things. Now, when I go out to shop – it is just that – browsing and no real list! Oh, I still need my stationary stuff and look through electronics though.

Christmas is coming and I’ve cut back some of my gift buying for 2 reasons. The first is that I rarely, if ever get to see some and others never think to reciprocate are off my gift list. It sounds heartless, but it is necessary now especially that I am hoping to buy a mini-van. I FINALLY have straightened out the mess from Penn DOT, the rehab center and the driving school, so hopefully my permit is on its way. Then, if the weather remains decent, I would like to begin my lessons so I can get my actual driver’s license by the end of 2006. If not, well, spring then. I console myself with the thought that I’ll be able to save more!

Christmas this year, I am thinking of some changes, like a white tree even though I prefer a traditional green one. I have no idea why this thought has crept in – I guess something different after 48 years of green! I am always changing ornaments and themes every year like a good gay man, but need a new challenge. So, I bought a white tree with multi-color pre-lit style. I am also buying pine pre-lit garland for more accent on the tree and am using all traditional balls – blue, purple, red, gold, frosted white and clear – nothing unusual. A change.

Oh, and I hit 48 years-old this year. And, damn, for whatever reason, this year has been tough especially when I realize 50 is right around the corner. No, I know what the deal is – if HIV/ AIDS/ PML hadn’t sidelined me, I would be enjoying a fabulous career with a lot of traveling and bundles of moohlah. Well, I can’t dwell on it and am determined to fight off my old-age blues as I forge ahead in other endeavors.

Ron