Day 5 of CAR-T: Gratitude Changes the Game

When You Lead With Gratitude, Life Shows Up for You

Before sunrise, the day began with special blood draws and a quick glance out the window hoping to spot my friend in his cement truck. I missed him, but that’s okay — it reminded me that life keeps moving, and I’m moving with it. Gratitude isn’t about what’s perfect; it’s about seeing the good that’s already here.

One MS Patient in a Unit Full of Fighters

Here in the stem-cell transplant unit, I’m the only MS patient surrounded by incredible cancer warriors. Instead of feeling out of place, I feel honored — part of a drug study that might change what’s possible for people like me. Hope fills every hallway here, and it’s contagious.

The Team That Keeps Hope Running

Healing takes an army. My nurses, patient-care techs, doctors, and pharmacists are the heartbeat of this place. Today I had two nurses named David — one from the research team who’s followed me since day one, and another as my day nurse. Both legends. And Angel, living up to his name, snapped a photo of me getting my caricature drawn and brought extra masks for visitors. Every one of them reminds me that gratitude is a two-way street.

Family, Netflix & Normal Moments

When Mom visits, the whole room changes. We stream The Good Cop, adjust the blinds like interior designers, and laugh at things no one else would find funny. Those simple moments keep me grounded — proof that joy doesn’t wait until you’re home.

A Card, a Plane, and Perfect Timing

In the afternoon, I opened a card from my sister-in-law Janine — it had a plane on it. Outside my window, real planes were landing at Teterboro Airport, where my son Sean took his very first flight. That can’t be coincidence; that’s alignment. Gratitude opens your eyes to the signs already there.

Pumpkins, Sunsets & Small Victories

I painted a pumpkin while the sky turned gold and orange, the same shades reflecting off the city buildings. Dinner was surprisingly amazing, and I even squeezed in a minute at the gym — enough to feel my legs working again. Progress isn’t always loud; sometimes it’s a quiet “yes” inside your own head.

Hope Is Built in the Details

Today was a masterpiece of small things — laughter, kindness, movement, color, and care. Gratitude didn’t just make the day better; it made it meaningful. Strength grows where thankfulness lives.

Send a Little Light

The love and support people keep sending mean the world to me. If you’d like to send a note or card, here’s where to reach me:

Hackensack Meridian Hospital

30 Prospect Avenue

Hackensack, NJ 07601 — Room 8908

Every bit of encouragement brings warmth into this space and keeps the gratitude flowing.

Question for You

What’s one moment recently where gratitude completely changed your perspective — even on a tough day? I’d love to hear your story in the comments below.