Well I have been waiting all day for some sort of inspiration but.......
I guess the good news is nothing much is happening with Bill.... the bad news is I have nothing much to blog about!
Today was another day of the about the same. A little more sleeping and a little less appetite. The nurses all love Bill because he is so low maintenance. He did have a visit from a Eucharistic Minister from Holy Name Cathedral which was very nice for him to be able to receive communion. I know one of biggest things Bill has missed is being able to go to church regularly. There have been many weeks when his white counts have been too low to chance being out in public. I have been bringing him home communion but my homilies have a lot to be desired!
We did have a moment of great excitement last night when Drea sent a text to his phone with a picture of an ultrasound and the caption: You are going to be GRANDPARENTS!!!!! It put a big smile on his face and definitely made my day!
Bill and Kay
Monday, April 30, 2012
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Day +5
Well........ I have been trying to come up with something interesting to report but........as Dr. Olga said this morning "Sir, there is nothing interesting about you". Of course she was referring to his medical condition and not his personality.
He is still doing remarkably well. His hemoglobin held so he escaped one more day without receiving blood products. He is extremely tired so the walk around the hall was a little slower than yesterday and he is on his 2nd nap of the day. Other than that no real news to report. I took advantage of him feeling pretty good along with the light Sunday traffic and took the car home. It has been sitting in the parking garage racking up a nice bill so I dashed home, did 2 quick loads of laundry and took the train back into the city.
As Bill and I were walking the hall this afternoon we met a gentleman receiving treatment with his wife helping him try to get around a few laps. We were once again stuck by the incredible positive attitudes all the patients seem to have. He had a joke each time we passed him in the hall and he told us he loved having a captive audience for his 1 line jokes!
The theme of the stem cell transplant program here is "Celebrate Life". Bill received a goodie bag filled with some fun things so I thought you might like to see the note of explanation.
Poster signed by the transplant team.
This group of individuals truly work together as a team from the housekeeping staff, patient care techs, nurses, to the laboratory staff who take care of the precious stem cells. It is very uplifting to see this amazing group working together in ensure the comfort of these very special patients!
Blessings,
Kay and Bill
He is still doing remarkably well. His hemoglobin held so he escaped one more day without receiving blood products. He is extremely tired so the walk around the hall was a little slower than yesterday and he is on his 2nd nap of the day. Other than that no real news to report. I took advantage of him feeling pretty good along with the light Sunday traffic and took the car home. It has been sitting in the parking garage racking up a nice bill so I dashed home, did 2 quick loads of laundry and took the train back into the city.
As Bill and I were walking the hall this afternoon we met a gentleman receiving treatment with his wife helping him try to get around a few laps. We were once again stuck by the incredible positive attitudes all the patients seem to have. He had a joke each time we passed him in the hall and he told us he loved having a captive audience for his 1 line jokes!
The theme of the stem cell transplant program here is "Celebrate Life". Bill received a goodie bag filled with some fun things so I thought you might like to see the note of explanation.
Poster signed by the transplant team. This group of individuals truly work together as a team from the housekeeping staff, patient care techs, nurses, to the laboratory staff who take care of the precious stem cells. It is very uplifting to see this amazing group working together in ensure the comfort of these very special patients!
Blessings,
Kay and Bill
Saturday, April 28, 2012
Day +4
Happy Saturday!!!
Bill woke up this morning with a big smile and said " It is the weekend so we can just relax today"
I received a lovely compliment yesterday about how positive it is that I am numbering the days! I had to confess that this is the way the transplant program works. Everyone is not only connected with a name but also what day in the transplant process they are at. So today is related to 4 days after the transplant. But, thanks Barb for the beautiful compliment!
Bill is still doing well. He escaped a transfusion today by .3 so tomorrow he will definitely begin receiving blood products to get him through til his body starts making those blood cells again. He is getting some IV fluid today so he is connected to his IV pole for some of the day. So far he has been pretty IV free which makes getting around and showering much easier.
He is slowing down a bit more so I fear that I may need to motivate him to walk those halls. So far the stickers have worked because if I forget to put one up after our walk he definitely lets me know!
We received a visit today from the head of the Oncology department wanting to know our thoughts about the hospital, staff etc. She asked Bill what he would change if he could and he struggled because we have been so pleased with the care he has been receiving both physically, spiritually and emotionally. I did suggest a few things: A small chapel on the floor since the patients can't leave to go downstairs; coffee and shower for family on this floor. I have to go up to the 16th floor and it is a bit of a pain to go through 5 sets of doors and wash my hands twice for my morning coffee and the doors are locked until 7:00 a.m.
So the rest of Bill's day will be spent relaxing, watching some television, a few walks and maybe a a game or 2 of poker! Wishing you all a very relaxing weekend as well!!!!
Bill and Kay
Bill woke up this morning with a big smile and said " It is the weekend so we can just relax today"
I received a lovely compliment yesterday about how positive it is that I am numbering the days! I had to confess that this is the way the transplant program works. Everyone is not only connected with a name but also what day in the transplant process they are at. So today is related to 4 days after the transplant. But, thanks Barb for the beautiful compliment!
Bill is still doing well. He escaped a transfusion today by .3 so tomorrow he will definitely begin receiving blood products to get him through til his body starts making those blood cells again. He is getting some IV fluid today so he is connected to his IV pole for some of the day. So far he has been pretty IV free which makes getting around and showering much easier.
He is slowing down a bit more so I fear that I may need to motivate him to walk those halls. So far the stickers have worked because if I forget to put one up after our walk he definitely lets me know!
We received a visit today from the head of the Oncology department wanting to know our thoughts about the hospital, staff etc. She asked Bill what he would change if he could and he struggled because we have been so pleased with the care he has been receiving both physically, spiritually and emotionally. I did suggest a few things: A small chapel on the floor since the patients can't leave to go downstairs; coffee and shower for family on this floor. I have to go up to the 16th floor and it is a bit of a pain to go through 5 sets of doors and wash my hands twice for my morning coffee and the doors are locked until 7:00 a.m.
So the rest of Bill's day will be spent relaxing, watching some television, a few walks and maybe a a game or 2 of poker! Wishing you all a very relaxing weekend as well!!!!
Bill and Kay
Friday, April 27, 2012
Day +3
Things have been going so well I keep waiting for the shoe to drop.............
Bill became walking buddies today with Scott, a fellow patient. I met his wife, Betty, the first time we were here when Bill received his 2nd round of inpatient chemo. Betty and I have stayed in contact these past few weeks so it was nice to see a familiar face.
I asked Bill what he wanted to do today. Passing the time, so far, has been the hardest part of this process. Game shows can only take up so much of the day! During his morning nap a nice volunteer stopped by: She brought Courage, Strength, Hope, Warm Thoughts, Determination, Angel Wishes, an Original Poem, and many well wishes.
Thank you for taking the time out of your busy day to lift Bill's spirits with your cards, emails, texts, facebook postings and calls. We feel surrounded with love!
Bill became walking buddies today with Scott, a fellow patient. I met his wife, Betty, the first time we were here when Bill received his 2nd round of inpatient chemo. Betty and I have stayed in contact these past few weeks so it was nice to see a familiar face.
I asked Bill what he wanted to do today. Passing the time, so far, has been the hardest part of this process. Game shows can only take up so much of the day! During his morning nap a nice volunteer stopped by: She brought Courage, Strength, Hope, Warm Thoughts, Determination, Angel Wishes, an Original Poem, and many well wishes.
Thank you for taking the time out of your busy day to lift Bill's spirits with your cards, emails, texts, facebook postings and calls. We feel surrounded with love!
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Day +2
Today looks like it will be another pretty good day!
Maintenance adjusted the temperature so the room last night was not so stifling hot! The filtration system here is I believe is what they call a negative air flow? The air is EXTREMELY dry! My challenge today is to keep Bill hydrated. His doctor confirmed today what I have been telling him that he needs to drink more! He told his nurse that he needed a case of beer!!!! Pretty funny coming from a man who doesn't drink!
His numbers although still going down are still pretty good! It takes until day 10 or 11 for these new stem cells to get where they needed to go and do their thing! So the longer his numbers are still in the good range the shorter the time he will feel crappy and need transfusions!
This game show routine I fear will drive me crazy!!!! I found though while they are on it gives me time to get some work done!
I will check back in this afternoon...............
7:00 pm
Bill had another number of laps around the halls followed by a nap. During his nap I decided to talk a walk outside and headed toward Holy Cathedral Church. Sitting there reflecting I couldn't take my mind off of this wing we are on in the hospital. It has a total of 18 rooms. 18 completely occupied rooms. Everyone here is either getting a transplant or chemo for some type of blood cancer. Every once in awhile someone leaves and immediately the room is thoroughly cleaned, disinfected and a new patient is moved in. Every one's treatment is different because I am learning how many different types of blood cancers there are and how each person responds differently to the treatments. What has hit Bill and me so hard is the many young patients here. Today we met Amy, a beautiful young woman in her 20's as we were walking. Her transplant is scheduled for next week. She reminded us so much of our neighbor Kelly who lost her battle with Leukemia not very long ago. Kelly was also a beautiful young woman both inside and out and was the first to welcome us to the neighborhood. We also were blessed today to witness a young man in his 30's going home after his transplant. What a joy that was to see the excitement on his and his wife's faces as they were leaving the wing. It is difficult not to question the whys of this disease. Earlier in the week when we were speaking with Chaplin Jeanie and discussing some of this she shared with us a quote, " Leave the unknown to the known God". As Bill is anticipating his body to start feeling the side effects of the very potent chemo he received and his fear of the unknown we try and remember to leave this in God's hands.
Maintenance adjusted the temperature so the room last night was not so stifling hot! The filtration system here is I believe is what they call a negative air flow? The air is EXTREMELY dry! My challenge today is to keep Bill hydrated. His doctor confirmed today what I have been telling him that he needs to drink more! He told his nurse that he needed a case of beer!!!! Pretty funny coming from a man who doesn't drink!
His numbers although still going down are still pretty good! It takes until day 10 or 11 for these new stem cells to get where they needed to go and do their thing! So the longer his numbers are still in the good range the shorter the time he will feel crappy and need transfusions!
This game show routine I fear will drive me crazy!!!! I found though while they are on it gives me time to get some work done!
I will check back in this afternoon...............
7:00 pm
Bill had another number of laps around the halls followed by a nap. During his nap I decided to talk a walk outside and headed toward Holy Cathedral Church. Sitting there reflecting I couldn't take my mind off of this wing we are on in the hospital. It has a total of 18 rooms. 18 completely occupied rooms. Everyone here is either getting a transplant or chemo for some type of blood cancer. Every once in awhile someone leaves and immediately the room is thoroughly cleaned, disinfected and a new patient is moved in. Every one's treatment is different because I am learning how many different types of blood cancers there are and how each person responds differently to the treatments. What has hit Bill and me so hard is the many young patients here. Today we met Amy, a beautiful young woman in her 20's as we were walking. Her transplant is scheduled for next week. She reminded us so much of our neighbor Kelly who lost her battle with Leukemia not very long ago. Kelly was also a beautiful young woman both inside and out and was the first to welcome us to the neighborhood. We also were blessed today to witness a young man in his 30's going home after his transplant. What a joy that was to see the excitement on his and his wife's faces as they were leaving the wing. It is difficult not to question the whys of this disease. Earlier in the week when we were speaking with Chaplin Jeanie and discussing some of this she shared with us a quote, " Leave the unknown to the known God". As Bill is anticipating his body to start feeling the side effects of the very potent chemo he received and his fear of the unknown we try and remember to leave this in God's hands.
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
Day +1
Getting into the Routine! I am glad Bill is a morning person because the day starts between 5 and 6 just like home!
5:30 am Weight Check
7:30 8 laps around the halls
8:30 Transplant team visit ( Doctor, Nurse practioner, pharmacist and PA)
addiing general antibiotics, something to lower his phosphorus, and new antibiotic for his toe
9:00 Breakfast
DEAL OR NO DEAL
10:00 PRICE IS RIGHT
more to come......................
11:00 nap
12:30 6 laps around the hall
1:00 Lunch
2:00 JUDGE JUDY
2:30 8 more laps
3:00 Afternoon smoothie
4:00 FAMILY FEUD
THIS IS GOING TO BE A LONGGGGGGGGG COUPLE OF WEEKS!
5:30 am Weight Check
7:30 8 laps around the halls
8:30 Transplant team visit ( Doctor, Nurse practioner, pharmacist and PA)
addiing general antibiotics, something to lower his phosphorus, and new antibiotic for his toe
9:00 Breakfast
DEAL OR NO DEAL
10:00 PRICE IS RIGHT
more to come......................
11:00 nap
12:30 6 laps around the hall
1:00 Lunch
2:00 JUDGE JUDY
2:30 8 more laps
3:00 Afternoon smoothie
4:00 FAMILY FEUD
THIS IS GOING TO BE A LONGGGGGGGGG COUPLE OF WEEKS!
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
Day 0 "This is the Day the Lord has made. Let us Rejoice and be Glad!"
Today is the day we have been waiting for!!!!!!
They are giving Bill back his stem cells at 4:00 p.m. today!!! The chaplain is going to bless them first!
They will start an IV of hydration at noon and continue it until about 8 pm. This helps his kidneys handle the preservative they are stored in better. The actual transplant will only take about 1 hour! Pretty amazing stuff!
Blood counts today:
White 6.1
Red 8.7
Platelets 185
Down a bit from yesterday but still in a normal range which tells us the previous 2 chemo's helped reduce the disease. The chemo yesterday will wipe them all out so they will start giving him transfusions when he drops dangerously low.
More to follow........ It is time for a few laps around the hall.
4:00 pm
PICTURES OF TRANSPLANT
Stem Cell Storage:
Coming out of Storage
Defrosting Stem Cells
Ready to GO
Stem Cells being Infused
Bill enjoying a popcicle during transplant
Transplant Team
Chaplin Jeanie Blessed Bill's Stem Cells before Transplant
They are giving Bill back his stem cells at 4:00 p.m. today!!! The chaplain is going to bless them first!
They will start an IV of hydration at noon and continue it until about 8 pm. This helps his kidneys handle the preservative they are stored in better. The actual transplant will only take about 1 hour! Pretty amazing stuff!
Blood counts today:
White 6.1
Red 8.7
Platelets 185
Down a bit from yesterday but still in a normal range which tells us the previous 2 chemo's helped reduce the disease. The chemo yesterday will wipe them all out so they will start giving him transfusions when he drops dangerously low.
More to follow........ It is time for a few laps around the hall.
4:00 pm
PICTURES OF TRANSPLANT
Stem Cell Storage:
Coming out of StorageDefrosting Stem CellsReady to GOStem Cells being Infused Bill enjoying a popcicle during transplant
Transplant TeamChaplin Jeanie Blessed Bill's Stem Cells before Transplant
Monday, April 23, 2012
Day -1
9:00 a.m.
He is all checked in to Northwestern Prentice Hospital room 1563. A beautiful view of Lake Michigan.
3:00 p.m.
They inserted his pic line and just began his chemo. This is a short infusion, only 30 minutes, but very potent. It will take out his entire bone marrow. He started chewing on ice chips 30 minutes before they began the chemo which is suppose to help limit the mouth sores associated with this chemo. They also brought him some orange sherbet. Carolyn was the chemo nurse that delivered his chemo. She was his very first nurse when he was here 3 weeks ago for his 2nd round of chemo. There is something reassuring about seeing a familiar face. Wow I guess I am a super slow typist because chemo is already finished!!!!!! They said to try and keep the mouth cold for at least 2 hours again to limit the extent of mouth sores down the road! This is a bit of a challenge because all Bill wants to do is sleep! He didn't get much sleep last night with the anticipation of everything! So..........when I see the snore start I know it is time for more ice chips!!!! :) Well they are kicking me out so they can give him a breathing treatment. I will check back in later!
6:00 p.m.
I think Bill is still feeling pretty good because he asked me to bring him chocolate and potato chips!!!
Nothing else for the rest of tonight except for this bad chemo to work it's magic killing everything off and anticipation for the BIG DAY tomorrow. They will give him approximately 4 million of his stem cells at roughly 3:00 p.m. tomorrow and that will be the BEGINNING of his new immune system!
Wish us luck on getting some sleep tonight!
Love,
Kay
He is all checked in to Northwestern Prentice Hospital room 1563. A beautiful view of Lake Michigan.
3:00 p.m.
They inserted his pic line and just began his chemo. This is a short infusion, only 30 minutes, but very potent. It will take out his entire bone marrow. He started chewing on ice chips 30 minutes before they began the chemo which is suppose to help limit the mouth sores associated with this chemo. They also brought him some orange sherbet. Carolyn was the chemo nurse that delivered his chemo. She was his very first nurse when he was here 3 weeks ago for his 2nd round of chemo. There is something reassuring about seeing a familiar face. Wow I guess I am a super slow typist because chemo is already finished!!!!!! They said to try and keep the mouth cold for at least 2 hours again to limit the extent of mouth sores down the road! This is a bit of a challenge because all Bill wants to do is sleep! He didn't get much sleep last night with the anticipation of everything! So..........when I see the snore start I know it is time for more ice chips!!!! :) Well they are kicking me out so they can give him a breathing treatment. I will check back in later!
6:00 p.m.
I think Bill is still feeling pretty good because he asked me to bring him chocolate and potato chips!!!
Nothing else for the rest of tonight except for this bad chemo to work it's magic killing everything off and anticipation for the BIG DAY tomorrow. They will give him approximately 4 million of his stem cells at roughly 3:00 p.m. tomorrow and that will be the BEGINNING of his new immune system!
Wish us luck on getting some sleep tonight!
Love,
Kay
Sunday, April 22, 2012
Address
I was asked to post the address of the hospital where Bill will be residing temporarily:
Prentice Hospital
250 E. Superior St. Room 1563
Chicago, IL 60611
He won't be allowed to have any flowers or food sent but he sure enjoys receiving cards.
Prentice Hospital
250 E. Superior St. Room 1563
Chicago, IL 60611
He won't be allowed to have any flowers or food sent but he sure enjoys receiving cards.
Day -2
MIRACLES!
The miracle of modern medicine is giving Bill a future with a stem cell transplant, which is amazing.
But today I want to tell you about the REAL miracle in Bill's life. 24 years ago we were told we wouldn't be able to have children. Bill looked at me and said "That is OK. You have 3 beautiful kids that I love and if Gods wants us to have a baby He will give us one." Well 20 years ago tomorrow, with only help from God, Molly was born. We have always referred to Molly as our Miracle Baby! She has brought a special joy to Bill's life that is indescribable. For those who have spent considerable time with us have witnessed that certain twinkle in his eye when Molly is around. There is nothing that gives him more joy than being able to do something for her. Whether it was to take her to a festival, finding buckeye trees,playing catch in the yard or now giving her advice he truly loves every minute of it. I know there is always something about little girls and their dads but I see a unique mutual respect and admiration between the two of them. We recognize how fortunate we have been as parents that Molly has not only embraced the many geographical moves we put her through but learned from them how to be independent and flexible. Molly is just finishing her second year at Xavier University in Cincinnati. When she began she wasn't quite sure what she wanted to study but her love for science and math put her on a biology track. It didn't take long for her to declare her intent to become a physician. Everyday we are amazed at how hard she is working to attain this goal. She learned this strong work ethic, her strong sense of faith, and getting back up after being told no from her dad. I often tease her and call her Little Bill, especially when she tells me she is 100% Italian. I know our Miracle will be successful no matter what because she has had a beautiful and loving example in her dad.
Tomorrow will be one of those bitter sweet days. It will be the first time we have not been with Molly on her birthday. But we truly believe in miracles and wish our Miracle a very blessed day tomorrow and pray that she experiences the kind of joy in her life that she has brought to ours.
The miracle of modern medicine is giving Bill a future with a stem cell transplant, which is amazing.
But today I want to tell you about the REAL miracle in Bill's life. 24 years ago we were told we wouldn't be able to have children. Bill looked at me and said "That is OK. You have 3 beautiful kids that I love and if Gods wants us to have a baby He will give us one." Well 20 years ago tomorrow, with only help from God, Molly was born. We have always referred to Molly as our Miracle Baby! She has brought a special joy to Bill's life that is indescribable. For those who have spent considerable time with us have witnessed that certain twinkle in his eye when Molly is around. There is nothing that gives him more joy than being able to do something for her. Whether it was to take her to a festival, finding buckeye trees,playing catch in the yard or now giving her advice he truly loves every minute of it. I know there is always something about little girls and their dads but I see a unique mutual respect and admiration between the two of them. We recognize how fortunate we have been as parents that Molly has not only embraced the many geographical moves we put her through but learned from them how to be independent and flexible. Molly is just finishing her second year at Xavier University in Cincinnati. When she began she wasn't quite sure what she wanted to study but her love for science and math put her on a biology track. It didn't take long for her to declare her intent to become a physician. Everyday we are amazed at how hard she is working to attain this goal. She learned this strong work ethic, her strong sense of faith, and getting back up after being told no from her dad. I often tease her and call her Little Bill, especially when she tells me she is 100% Italian. I know our Miracle will be successful no matter what because she has had a beautiful and loving example in her dad.
Tomorrow will be one of those bitter sweet days. It will be the first time we have not been with Molly on her birthday. But we truly believe in miracles and wish our Miracle a very blessed day tomorrow and pray that she experiences the kind of joy in her life that she has brought to ours.
Saturday, April 21, 2012
Day -3
Yesterday was a busy day of getting the house in order for Bill's return from the hospital trying to get everything as clean as possible. Today it is the yard and garage's turn followed by a few little errands. Then we are just going to RELAX and enjoy being home.
Today I just want to say THANK YOU. Thank you for the emails expressing your love and prayers. Thank you for the phone calls offering your help. Thank you to our wonderful neighbors who are taking care of our dog and yard while we are away. Thank you for the text telling us you are thinking of us. Thank you for supporting Molly. Thank you for all the cards being sent. Thank YOU for being here for us. One of my biggest concerns about this journey was how can we get through this with just the 2 of us. Your emails, calls, and texting continue to remind us that we are not in this alone. We know YOU are right there for us giving us just what we need, peace of mind, moral support, love and prayers.
Friday, April 20, 2012
Day -4
Super Hero!
One of Bill's goals while in the hospital is to walk the halls as much as possible. He knows there will be days which he won't feel up to it but knows how important it is to help him recover quicker.
One day I jokingly said "How about if I make you a sticker chart like we use to do with the kids to give them incentives to to their chores? What kind of stickers do you want?" He actually liked the idea and said "Super Hero stickers" I mentioned this to our very dear friend, who shall remain anonymous, and a few days later in the mail arrived Super Hero Stickers!!! So .........
We had a bit of a concern Wednesday when I discovered my throat was getting scratchy. I wasn't sure if it was allergies or I was getting sick. The last thing we need right now is for Bill to pick up something. I am 99.9% sure it is allergies but will continue to see what happens. We certainly don't want to postpone the transplant but if need be will to be on the safe side! I am having the house power washed and the windows and screens cleaned today so we will see if getting rid of the pollen helps!
The chart is ready and Bill is already a SUPER HERO in my book!
One of Bill's goals while in the hospital is to walk the halls as much as possible. He knows there will be days which he won't feel up to it but knows how important it is to help him recover quicker.
One day I jokingly said "How about if I make you a sticker chart like we use to do with the kids to give them incentives to to their chores? What kind of stickers do you want?" He actually liked the idea and said "Super Hero stickers" I mentioned this to our very dear friend, who shall remain anonymous, and a few days later in the mail arrived Super Hero Stickers!!! So .........
We had a bit of a concern Wednesday when I discovered my throat was getting scratchy. I wasn't sure if it was allergies or I was getting sick. The last thing we need right now is for Bill to pick up something. I am 99.9% sure it is allergies but will continue to see what happens. We certainly don't want to postpone the transplant but if need be will to be on the safe side! I am having the house power washed and the windows and screens cleaned today so we will see if getting rid of the pollen helps!
The chart is ready and Bill is already a SUPER HERO in my book!
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Day -5
It is the Little Things that can mean so much!
A phone call hearing the love and affirmation from our niece!
Getting the mail and finding Super Hero stickers
Coming home to find your garbage cans put away
A text message.....
A coworker just there to listen
A smile from a complete stranger
Knowing your children and siblings are there for whatever you need....
A neighbor bringing flowers or food
It seems so strange that it takes the REALLY BIG things in life for us to sometimes take the time to appreciate the little things!
A phone call hearing the love and affirmation from our niece!
Getting the mail and finding Super Hero stickers
Coming home to find your garbage cans put away
A text message.....
A coworker just there to listen
A smile from a complete stranger
Knowing your children and siblings are there for whatever you need....
A neighbor bringing flowers or food
It seems so strange that it takes the REALLY BIG things in life for us to sometimes take the time to appreciate the little things!
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Day -6
Afternoon at Northwestern!
Met with Lucy, the transplant coordinator first. She went over all the details of the chemo and transplant. A lot of information, some a bit scary, but also some very reassuring answers to our MANY questions.
Upon arriving we had a wonderful gift bag from Carolyn, a fellow transplant recipient, waiting for us before our appointments! It contained an example of a modified t-shirt that her sister made her with snaps to help make showering and dressing easier, along with Bill's favorite hard candy. ( I am not sure how she knew). And a beautiful card of support filled with tips for Bill to survive the hospital stay and tips for me of nearby places in case I need a change of atmosphere from the hospital. How extremely thoughtful and so very much appreciated! You never know how the people you meet one day will greatly touch your life years later!
Next he had his blood drawn and was so happy to have Sam in the clinic to do it. Sam gave him his mozabil shots everyday during the harvesting! Sometimes I wonder if these clinicians realize how much their kindness, their reassuring smiles, or taking just an extra minute of time can mean the world to the patient . We have experienced the most amazing nurses, technicians, doctors, volunteers, etc who have made this journey so much easier!
Finally appointment with Dr. Mehta, the transplant doctor. He is an extremely intelligent and personable doctor. And also very patient with my 101 questions! So they collected 11.16 million stem cells during 4 days. These cells have been separated into 8 bags ranging from 1.5 - 2.5 million in each bag. Then doctor Mehta decides which bags to infuse for the transplant. He explained they can transplant as few as 2 million or as many as 5 million. Any thing over that is overkill. The difference is how fast of a jump start they give your immune system before it kicks back into gear. He has decided to transplant 3 bags totalling just over 4 million. This then allows the other 7 million to stay frozen for 2 more future transplants if needed. So I am sure you are wondering , just like me, how they defrost the bags of frozen stem cells! Dr. Mehta's response was "VERY carefully", with a slight chuckle! They put them in bath water of exactly what your body temperature is for about 15 minutes!
So............ we are a GO for Monday morning!
On the way home we stopped for dinner ( white blood count in the normal range) at Uncle Julios followed with a stop at Marshals for bargain T-shirts that I can put snaps in. We had more fun at the clearance shirt rack. We found a lot of VERY ugly shirts but some that will work great! Even found a Northwestern t-shirt!!!! How very appropriate and only $5.00.
Sorry for rambling tonight but thank you for joining us on Bill's journey! We could not do this without each and everyone of you!
Kay
Met with Lucy, the transplant coordinator first. She went over all the details of the chemo and transplant. A lot of information, some a bit scary, but also some very reassuring answers to our MANY questions.
Upon arriving we had a wonderful gift bag from Carolyn, a fellow transplant recipient, waiting for us before our appointments! It contained an example of a modified t-shirt that her sister made her with snaps to help make showering and dressing easier, along with Bill's favorite hard candy. ( I am not sure how she knew). And a beautiful card of support filled with tips for Bill to survive the hospital stay and tips for me of nearby places in case I need a change of atmosphere from the hospital. How extremely thoughtful and so very much appreciated! You never know how the people you meet one day will greatly touch your life years later!
Next he had his blood drawn and was so happy to have Sam in the clinic to do it. Sam gave him his mozabil shots everyday during the harvesting! Sometimes I wonder if these clinicians realize how much their kindness, their reassuring smiles, or taking just an extra minute of time can mean the world to the patient . We have experienced the most amazing nurses, technicians, doctors, volunteers, etc who have made this journey so much easier!
Finally appointment with Dr. Mehta, the transplant doctor. He is an extremely intelligent and personable doctor. And also very patient with my 101 questions! So they collected 11.16 million stem cells during 4 days. These cells have been separated into 8 bags ranging from 1.5 - 2.5 million in each bag. Then doctor Mehta decides which bags to infuse for the transplant. He explained they can transplant as few as 2 million or as many as 5 million. Any thing over that is overkill. The difference is how fast of a jump start they give your immune system before it kicks back into gear. He has decided to transplant 3 bags totalling just over 4 million. This then allows the other 7 million to stay frozen for 2 more future transplants if needed. So I am sure you are wondering , just like me, how they defrost the bags of frozen stem cells! Dr. Mehta's response was "VERY carefully", with a slight chuckle! They put them in bath water of exactly what your body temperature is for about 15 minutes!
So............ we are a GO for Monday morning!
On the way home we stopped for dinner ( white blood count in the normal range) at Uncle Julios followed with a stop at Marshals for bargain T-shirts that I can put snaps in. We had more fun at the clearance shirt rack. We found a lot of VERY ugly shirts but some that will work great! Even found a Northwestern t-shirt!!!! How very appropriate and only $5.00.
Sorry for rambling tonight but thank you for joining us on Bill's journey! We could not do this without each and everyone of you!
Kay
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Day -7
Looks like everything is still a go for next week. We have an appointment tomorrow with the transplant coordinator followed by blood tests and appointment with transplant doctor. So another big day in the big city! Bill is beginning to get a bit anxious about the process! The sooner next week gets here the better!
Thanks for keeping those prayers coming!
Thanks for keeping those prayers coming!
Monday, April 16, 2012
Count down to Transplant!
Well I wasn't going to post anything today but.......
This week we are just tying up loose ends before heading back to Northwestern. Windows washed, screens cleaned, house power washed, dog groomed, etc. I went to work this morning and Bill was going to spend the day relaxing and trying to get some mild exercise in. Early in the afternoon while sitting at my desk I received this beautiful basket of flowers. How very lucky I am to be married to such a wonderful man. In the midst of EVERYTHING he is going through he still takes the time to spoil me! On my way home I spoke with a Northwestern transplant recipient from March of 2011. She gave me some wonderful tips to help make the hospital stay more comfortable and ways to pass the time!
This week we are just tying up loose ends before heading back to Northwestern. Windows washed, screens cleaned, house power washed, dog groomed, etc. I went to work this morning and Bill was going to spend the day relaxing and trying to get some mild exercise in. Early in the afternoon while sitting at my desk I received this beautiful basket of flowers. How very lucky I am to be married to such a wonderful man. In the midst of EVERYTHING he is going through he still takes the time to spoil me! On my way home I spoke with a Northwestern transplant recipient from March of 2011. She gave me some wonderful tips to help make the hospital stay more comfortable and ways to pass the time!
Sunday, April 15, 2012
Good Day!
Wow...... Bill has started feeling a bit more like his "old" self today! His toe is on the mend, his neck is healing and his energy level is up! He isn't quite up to the crowds at church but I did take him out for a brief trip to the grocery store. In case you don't know grocery shopping is one of his greatest pleasures in life! We kept our distance from people so as not to take any chances of him getting sick at this point. After returning home he wanted to make a new recipe he found "Meatball Stew". It smells absolutely delicious! The day has worn him out a bit as he is now snoring on the couch!
It has been such a nice day, seeing Bill once again in the kitchen. It feels almost like everything is back to normal! I know our new "normal" is very different than before but in so many ways better! We have been and continue to be blessed with so many people sending warm thoughts and kind gestures. Last night just as I was trying to figure out what to fix for dinner our neighbor stops by with bratwurst! How truly blessed we are!
It has been such a nice day, seeing Bill once again in the kitchen. It feels almost like everything is back to normal! I know our new "normal" is very different than before but in so many ways better! We have been and continue to be blessed with so many people sending warm thoughts and kind gestures. Last night just as I was trying to figure out what to fix for dinner our neighbor stops by with bratwurst! How truly blessed we are!
Saturday, April 14, 2012
Home after the Harvest
Simple Pleasures in Life:
Sleeping in your own bed!
Having man's best friend home!
Driving up to the house to find the mulch has been spread!
A quiet day to catch up on work!
A care package from Phil Friends!
Bill has been enjoying a nice relaxing day watching some television and an afternoon catnap. What he is REALLY looking forward to now is a real shower. He was unable to get his catheter wet so his showers were a bit of a challenge this past week. He is anxiously awaiting the 24 hours to remove the dressing and take a long hot shower!
I probably won't have any updates until we go back to Northwestern on Wednesday afternoon and meet with his transplant doctor. But please continue to keep us in your prayers!
Love,
Kay
Sleeping in your own bed!
Having man's best friend home!
Driving up to the house to find the mulch has been spread!
A quiet day to catch up on work!
A care package from Phil Friends!
Bill has been enjoying a nice relaxing day watching some television and an afternoon catnap. What he is REALLY looking forward to now is a real shower. He was unable to get his catheter wet so his showers were a bit of a challenge this past week. He is anxiously awaiting the 24 hours to remove the dressing and take a long hot shower!
I probably won't have any updates until we go back to Northwestern on Wednesday afternoon and meet with his transplant doctor. But please continue to keep us in your prayers!
Love,
Kay
Friday, April 13, 2012
FINAL RESULTS
11.16 Million Grand TotalJust getting a transfusion of platelets then they will take out his catheter and we will pack up and go home! Just in time for the Friday night rush hour traffic!!!!!
Final Day of Harvest
Today is the final day for Bill to harvest his stem cells. His transplant doctor, Dr. Mehta decided to run an extra 5 liters through the harvesting machine in hopes of getting some extra cells on this last day. Today's estimate based on a formula of his white blood and the cd34 marker is somewhere between 1.7 and 3.75 million. I am hoping with the extra 5 liters we will be at that upper end or maybe even more!!! His platelets have been rebounding each night which has been wonderful that he hasn't needed any transfusions all week. They will check them one more time and make sure they are high enough before removing the temporary catheter that was placed in his neck for the harvesting process. I am suspecting he will need a transfusion first by the looks of the bleeding from the skin tear on his neck. The good news is platelets can be transfused at a rapid pace to it will only add maybe an hour on to the day!
It has been a long week and I know Bill is ready to be home and sleep in his own bed. We have enjoyed some nice time together in the big city with some walking down Michigan Avenue and a very nice Italian lunch yesterday. When this is all said and done we will return for a weekend of pure enjoyment without the medical interruptions! Will post later on the FINAL stem cell count collection!
As always, thank you for your continued support and prayers!
Kay
It has been a long week and I know Bill is ready to be home and sleep in his own bed. We have enjoyed some nice time together in the big city with some walking down Michigan Avenue and a very nice Italian lunch yesterday. When this is all said and done we will return for a weekend of pure enjoyment without the medical interruptions! Will post later on the FINAL stem cell count collection!
As always, thank you for your continued support and prayers!
Kay
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Thursday Results
Well..... not quite what we were hoping for! But another 2.62 million today!!!!!
Total collected 8.24 million.
So....... today's plan: Bill will get his last dose of mozabil today. 4 days is the maximum one can take mozabil. So the doctor said tomorrow is definitely the last day for harvesting. Stem cell collection typically goes down each day of harvesting and without the help of mozabil there is not a good likelyhood of collecting very many cells. So even though he wasn't able to collect the 20 million there will be more than enough for the transplant and enough in storage for 1 more transplant if needed in the future.
So the prayer for the night is for mozabil and neupogen to work their magic and help produce at least 1.76 million cells tomorrow!
Total collected 8.24 million.
So....... today's plan: Bill will get his last dose of mozabil today. 4 days is the maximum one can take mozabil. So the doctor said tomorrow is definitely the last day for harvesting. Stem cell collection typically goes down each day of harvesting and without the help of mozabil there is not a good likelyhood of collecting very many cells. So even though he wasn't able to collect the 20 million there will be more than enough for the transplant and enough in storage for 1 more transplant if needed in the future.
So the prayer for the night is for mozabil and neupogen to work their magic and help produce at least 1.76 million cells tomorrow!
Harvesting Week Day 4
Well........it is beginning to feel a little bit like Ground Hog Day!!! Machine is going! We are waiting for Doctor to advise whether or not after tomorrow we should keep going! The magic number we want is 20 million! Today's estimate is about 1.5 - 3 million. After today he may be close to 10 million. They will transplant 5 million but want the reserve for future transplants. The chemo they will give him before the transplant will make it impossible to ever harvest again so the more they can get now the better. I am praying the estimate is low and we see a better result! Bill's skin is extremely thin and sensitive from all the chemo drugs. When changing the dressing on his neck today the skin ripped and now he has a very sore looking wound. We keep being reminded, by seeing others here, as difficult as things are for him they could be much worse! I will post the actual numbers later!
Kay
p.s. The ipad that I thought was a big mistake is now getting well used! He loves listening to the music Molly put on it and he is becoming fond of solitaire and angry birds. I am still working on getting him to play Words with Friends!
Kay
p.s. The ipad that I thought was a big mistake is now getting well used! He loves listening to the music Molly put on it and he is becoming fond of solitaire and angry birds. I am still working on getting him to play Words with Friends!
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Harvesting Week Day 3
Bill is back on this amazing machine! His white count is up nicely and platelets holding their own! His calcium and magnesium are down so they add those into the mix of blood returning to his body. They are estimating he will be able to collect about 2.5 million today. Yesterday he collected almost double the estimate so if that holds true he should be able to collect about 5 million today. They give us a new plan everyday. Today's plan is....... be on the machine just under 4 hours. His body is retaining fluids again. The good news with that is the more you weigh the faster they can run the machine so less time connected. After that we go back to the clinic for another shot of mozabil (they can only give him a total of 4, this will be #3) and tonight 3 more injections of neupogen. Keeping our fingers crossed he will be able to collect close to the 20 million by Friday. If not they will need to admit him into the hospital and keep going.
Today we met Mike. He is staying at the same place we are and his wife, Kay, received her transplant 14 days ago and doing so well they may be able to return home in a few days. He was very encouraging about the transplant process and experience. She was one of the very fortunate ones who was able to collect 53 million stem cells her very first day of harvesting! All of us who know and love Bill know he likes to take his sweet time with everything he does!!!!! But that is ok he will get there eventually! We have a bet going on the number of cells collected today. The winner gets to choose what we have for dinner tonight! I will post later what the actual collected count is! Please know how very much we continue to appreciate every one's good thoughts and prayers!!!!! Love Kay and Bill
Today we met Mike. He is staying at the same place we are and his wife, Kay, received her transplant 14 days ago and doing so well they may be able to return home in a few days. He was very encouraging about the transplant process and experience. She was one of the very fortunate ones who was able to collect 53 million stem cells her very first day of harvesting! All of us who know and love Bill know he likes to take his sweet time with everything he does!!!!! But that is ok he will get there eventually! We have a bet going on the number of cells collected today. The winner gets to choose what we have for dinner tonight! I will post later what the actual collected count is! Please know how very much we continue to appreciate every one's good thoughts and prayers!!!!! Love Kay and Bill
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Let the Harvest Begin!
After 9 injections of Neupogen and 1 super booster of Mozobil, Bill's stem cell count is still low but high enough to start collecting. 
They expect to collect about 1.5 million stem cells today with a total goal of 20 million by the end of the week. He may not reach the total goal but they only need 5 million to transplant. The extras are for future usage. They circulate 20 liters of his blood which I guess is about 4 times his total blood volume through this machine which separates the stem cells and they collect in a separate bag. He should be finished about 4 this afternoon then we will go back to the clinic for another super duper booster shot and 3 more Neupogen injections tonight. He is resting comfortably through this process and doing GREAT! There is a sense of relief that they have finally begun the process of collecting his stem cells and although not plentiful they are sufficient to collect! They will call us tonight with an actual count of each and every cell collected! Pretty amazing stuff!
They expect to collect about 1.5 million stem cells today with a total goal of 20 million by the end of the week. He may not reach the total goal but they only need 5 million to transplant. The extras are for future usage. They circulate 20 liters of his blood which I guess is about 4 times his total blood volume through this machine which separates the stem cells and they collect in a separate bag. He should be finished about 4 this afternoon then we will go back to the clinic for another super duper booster shot and 3 more Neupogen injections tonight. He is resting comfortably through this process and doing GREAT! There is a sense of relief that they have finally begun the process of collecting his stem cells and although not plentiful they are sufficient to collect! They will call us tonight with an actual count of each and every cell collected! Pretty amazing stuff!
Monday, April 9, 2012
Disappointing Day
Today started bright and early for Bill to get his special catheter inserted for the harvesting process. As he was getting ready one of his toe nails ripped off. All his nails are thin and brittle. Not knowing how low his platelets or white blood count is we always worry about excessive bleeding and infection. Molly and I did a bit of make shift first aid to stop the bleeding and proceeded to the hospital. All went fine with the procedure and then they took some blood work to see if his stem cell count was up high enough to begin harvesting. A disappointing phone call was received that said counts are too low. We will go over to the clinic this afternoon for a shot of some super duper drug to tell these stem cells to quit hanging on and spill into the bloodstream! We will try again tomorrow. As our friend Elaine told him "Don't be stingy with those cells so you can hurry up and get home" After that I think we will take a short walk along Lake Michigan and find a nice place for dinner. His white count is high so it is safe to go out in public as long as he is careful. Molly is on her way back to Cincinnati for a very busy and intense 3 weeks of studying before finals! Please say a couple of extra little prayers today for her safe journey back to school and this new drug to do it's thing!
Saturday, April 7, 2012
Holy Saturday
What a joy to wake up and see the clarity on Bill's face. The chemo fog has finally lifted!!
Still waiting for the plumber............... I know he will show up eventually since I have not paid him yet!
What a joy too to have such wonderful neighbors. Georgia and Wayne have an Easter get together every year for the neighborhood. Molly and I walked down to for a quick hello and thank all our neighbors for their continued prayers. All of our neighbors are amazing, each and everyone have asked "How can we help? What can we do?". I wish I could adequately express how appreciative we are for taking care of Maxwell, the help with the yard, coming over and praying with us, and just knowing they are there to call for anything! How very blessed we are!
Molly is off to training for work this summer, meeting friends for lunch, Starbucks to finish her paper( too many distractions at home), then home to dye Easter eggs with her dad! Nice no matter how old she is traditions are sacred!
Monday Bill goes in to begin his stem cell harvesting process. I will update sometime on Monday!
Thank you ALL for all the prayers and support! Wishing everyone a very Blessed Easter!
Still waiting for the plumber............... I know he will show up eventually since I have not paid him yet!
What a joy too to have such wonderful neighbors. Georgia and Wayne have an Easter get together every year for the neighborhood. Molly and I walked down to for a quick hello and thank all our neighbors for their continued prayers. All of our neighbors are amazing, each and everyone have asked "How can we help? What can we do?". I wish I could adequately express how appreciative we are for taking care of Maxwell, the help with the yard, coming over and praying with us, and just knowing they are there to call for anything! How very blessed we are!
Molly is off to training for work this summer, meeting friends for lunch, Starbucks to finish her paper( too many distractions at home), then home to dye Easter eggs with her dad! Nice no matter how old she is traditions are sacred!
Monday Bill goes in to begin his stem cell harvesting process. I will update sometime on Monday!
Thank you ALL for all the prayers and support! Wishing everyone a very Blessed Easter!
Friday, April 6, 2012
Good Friday
Trying to focus on what TODAY is really all about! Bill had his blood checked today. After 2 units of platelets yesterday he now has 34,000. Not quite enough to start harvesting but we will see what Monday brings. They need to be at least 40,000. His white count is still .7 and undetectable neutrofils so......... still no defense system. Translation is housebound. Hoping effects of chemo will begin to wear off and his body will start making some blood cells!
Plumber is coming back today to hydro flush our pipes. Keeping our fingers crossed this does the trick and we have no more back ups!
On a happy note..... went to the grocery store with Molly last night. How much fun it is to hang out with her! Can't wait for her to be home in the summer for 3 whole months. Not that we will get to see her much but just knowing she is in town always brightens our day! She has really appreciated the opportunity to take her dad for blood tests and transfusions! I have really appreciated having her back in the kitchen, delicious blueberry coffee cake!
Plumber is coming back today to hydro flush our pipes. Keeping our fingers crossed this does the trick and we have no more back ups!
On a happy note..... went to the grocery store with Molly last night. How much fun it is to hang out with her! Can't wait for her to be home in the summer for 3 whole months. Not that we will get to see her much but just knowing she is in town always brightens our day! She has really appreciated the opportunity to take her dad for blood tests and transfusions! I have really appreciated having her back in the kitchen, delicious blueberry coffee cake!
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
Roller Coaster 2
Well no transfusion! They didn't order irradiated platelets. I thought both the docs were communicating but I guess not completely! I asked what they were giving him before they started and when they didn't say irradiated I said stop. I called the transplant coordinator and she said they should be to be on the safe side. So tonight we are careful....... no falling or bleeding and tomorrow they will tank him up.
Please dear Lord let this be the bottom of the dip!
Please dear Lord let this be the bottom of the dip!
Roller Coaster
Well..............there is a reason this is called a roller coaster!!! Yesterday was such an up day but today...... As I am sitting in the computer room this morning waiting for the washer to finish I heard our toilets gurgling! That means only one thing! I run to the mud room only to see sewage coming up the drain! Now normally this is just a royal pain to get someone to come out and rod our main drain. But Bill has no immune system so the thought of bacteria in the house was enough to set me in a tail spin! I jumped into action, we stopped the washer and I grabbed the bleach! Long story short I have someone coming out tomorrow to take care of it so we are just rationing our waste water today!
Next the trip to get Bill's blood checked was not unexpected but.... White Blood .7( meaning no defense system) Red was still decent but platelets were only 11 thousand. Normal is between 145 and 400 thousand. So they ordered platelets and we will go back to the infusion center at 5 today!
I hope this is the bottom of the dip and we are on our way back up! Molly is on the road coming home so that for sure makes a brighter day! I haven't told her yet she can't take a shower!
Next the trip to get Bill's blood checked was not unexpected but.... White Blood .7( meaning no defense system) Red was still decent but platelets were only 11 thousand. Normal is between 145 and 400 thousand. So they ordered platelets and we will go back to the infusion center at 5 today!
I hope this is the bottom of the dip and we are on our way back up! Molly is on the road coming home so that for sure makes a brighter day! I haven't told her yet she can't take a shower!
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
A Day of Surprises
I got up this morning and to my surprise found Bill already up and reading the news on the computer! He has ALWAYS been the early riser in our family until recently. I had a moment when I felt like this has all been just a bad dream! Today was the first day he has felt good enough for me to give him some alone time. I was able to get into my office and begin some much needed catch up work!
Upon arriving at my office the next wonderful surprise was one of my dear coworkers brought me home made soup and chili! I call her one of my angels because when I least expect it there is a meal to bring home! We have been so blessed with the staff I work with. When this journey first began each of our clinics provided us meals for a week. With 12 departments we were set for 12 weeks! How wonderful it is to be surrounded by goodness!
So then I arrive home and a box was delivered today! Bill's nieces put together a care package full of the most thoughtful surprises! Not only surprises for him but for me too!!!! Complete with bubbles and both of our favorite candies! Wow Wow Wow!!!
It is so amazing how SURPRISES no matter how big or small have a way of brightening up your day and can't help but put a smile on your face!
Thank you to all of our surprise angels!
Upon arriving at my office the next wonderful surprise was one of my dear coworkers brought me home made soup and chili! I call her one of my angels because when I least expect it there is a meal to bring home! We have been so blessed with the staff I work with. When this journey first began each of our clinics provided us meals for a week. With 12 departments we were set for 12 weeks! How wonderful it is to be surrounded by goodness!
So then I arrive home and a box was delivered today! Bill's nieces put together a care package full of the most thoughtful surprises! Not only surprises for him but for me too!!!! Complete with bubbles and both of our favorite candies! Wow Wow Wow!!!
It is so amazing how SURPRISES no matter how big or small have a way of brightening up your day and can't help but put a smile on your face!
Thank you to all of our surprise angels!
Monday, April 2, 2012
A Good Day on the Journey
Just returned home from Dr. Menini's office ( our local oncologist). Hemoglobin is stable and platelets were down to 26 so we are putting off transfusion. We will recheck first thing Wednesday morning and anticipate needing the transfusion then.
The latest biopsy results were very encouraging!!!!!!! The first round of chemo knocked out a significant amount of the cancer. We are even more encouraged, now more than ever, that the transplant will be able to put Bill into remission!
Thank you everyone for those continued prayers. There is no doubt God is hearing us and choosing to answer!
The only food that Bill has wanted to eat for the past few days was noodles with chicken broth! I was so excited when he said how about a steak tonight! Not sure if he said that because he really wants it or he is worried about me getting tired of fixing the same thing!!!
The trip outside to the doctor totally wore him out so he is napping. I know he is looking forward to watching the NCAA finals tonight so I hope the nap will do the trick!
The latest biopsy results were very encouraging!!!!!!! The first round of chemo knocked out a significant amount of the cancer. We are even more encouraged, now more than ever, that the transplant will be able to put Bill into remission!
Thank you everyone for those continued prayers. There is no doubt God is hearing us and choosing to answer!
The only food that Bill has wanted to eat for the past few days was noodles with chicken broth! I was so excited when he said how about a steak tonight! Not sure if he said that because he really wants it or he is worried about me getting tired of fixing the same thing!!!
The trip outside to the doctor totally wore him out so he is napping. I know he is looking forward to watching the NCAA finals tonight so I hope the nap will do the trick!
Sunday, April 1, 2012
Not much to Talk About
Today has been a day of "From the bed to the couch from the couch to the bed"... His appetite appears to be coming back a bit. I did see one BIG smile today when Molly was texting him. She can ALWAYS bring a smile to his face!!!
Tomorrow we will visit our local oncologist and get the result of the bone marrow biopsy that was recently done. It will tell us how much the first round of this 24/7 chemo cleared out the cancer! The more they can get rid of the cleaner his stem cells will be when they harvest them of the 9th!!!!!
They will also check his counts on his red blood and platelets to see if he needs a transfusion yet and his white blood to see how much his defense system is compromised at this point!
Will let you know tomorrow how everything is looking!!!!
Tomorrow we will visit our local oncologist and get the result of the bone marrow biopsy that was recently done. It will tell us how much the first round of this 24/7 chemo cleared out the cancer! The more they can get rid of the cleaner his stem cells will be when they harvest them of the 9th!!!!!
They will also check his counts on his red blood and platelets to see if he needs a transfusion yet and his white blood to see how much his defense system is compromised at this point!
Will let you know tomorrow how everything is looking!!!!
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