Hiking Franklin Canyon With My Friend Emma

I had such a great time in Malibu (see Christmas Day Malibu Style) and look forward to more reasonably paced exercise as I regenerate my new red blood cells (RBCs). My weakened body has rested from my first beach outing during this latest Immune Mediated Hemolytic Anemia (IMHA) occurrence. Today, my dad took me for a hike at Franklin Canyon, one of my favorite spots in Los Angeles. My dad refers to Franklin Canyon the “anti-Runyon,” as it is much cleaner and less populated by both people and pets. From the hike’s peak, I can able to see the massive estates of Bel Air, the urban center of Westwood's Wilshire Boulevard, and all the way to the gleaming ocean (when not obscured by haze). During my recovery, I enjoy the opportunity to spend time with my dog friends (see RBC Regeneration Confirmation Coincides With My Girlfriend's Visit). My canine companion today was Emma, the energetic Weimaraner. Emma has also been plagued by health issues milder than mine as she approaches her senior years. I like spending time with Emma, as she lends me emotional support as we compare stories of our afflictions. Emma and I have previously had fun times together hiking, hanging out at our respective houses, and accompanying our dads for brunch. I started the hike very slowly and cannot go up hills with the vigor I exude during my healthy days. My ability to exercise has been compromised by my low RBC level and the Prednisone's side effect of atrophying my muscles. My dad nicely picked me up and carried me when I motioned to him that I needed assistance. Emma ran circles around me, but her excitement motivates me to keep walking and eventually return to my formerly active self. I had more energy on the way down and walked a great deal of the trail without my dad’s help. My RBC and reticulocyte (new RBC) levels are going to be rechecked very soon, so I hope to get some good news about my continued improvement from a laboratory perspective. I certainly am feeling much better than I did over the past few weeks.