Touching Letter From Dr. Sibia

After the good news from the MRI many have received the bonus of a nice letter directed to all. I had not posted publically until now due to the fact that tomorrow is Dr. Sibia's birthday and his anniversary on Sunday, but instead sent it out in my regular group email so it would be a surprise. Many of you who read it instantly sent well wishes to Dr. Sibia which he enjoyed. I just received this email from him I would like to share.
Thanks for your email and the greetings and warmth in it. Treating Jake has been a mixed experience – the sorrow of seeing a brilliant talented youth having tumor in the brain, the satisfaction of being in a profession where we can give hope to life and the pleasure of receiving birthday greetings from you. The least I can say is that Jake has increased the circle of our extended family.
Today is the 28th day of treatment and I have just returned after seeing the MRI report and discussing it with Dr.Bakshi, the Chief Radiologist in charge of the MRI.
I could not receive a greater birthday gift than the report that the tumor of Jake is no more progressive – NO GROWTH, SOME REDUCTION. This is on expected lines as even an inactive tumor will be visible radiologically. It can be compared with a dead tiger – not growing but visible that will decay over time. Tumor regression after Cytotron will be gradual affair and previous experience has shown that the tumor remains take about 3 years to disappear.
I once again thank you for your greetings and take this opportunity to invite you to visit India. India may not be a well known country to you and I assure you that you have nothing to fear – not even the traffic as videoed by Daniel and put up on http://jakepastel.blogspot.com !!!
Have a nice day. – and if you have a party to rejoice at the MRI report remember I am with you and the party is not only for Jake’s health but also my birthday.
Regards to you, your family and your colleagues.
Dr.Sibia
I had talked to Dr. Sibia earlier before the MRI, with his wife Dr. Harpreet Kaur Sibia as we pondered what today's results would be. I mentioned that I hoped he would take tomorrow off for his birthday. His wife told me that in India they believe it is more important to celebrate each day of life and that by practice they minimize their birthdays as not more than just another day. Everyday that I am here I learn something new about myself and the world and I like it.