A Rebirth...

The days before stem cell transplantation are counted as minus days, the days following are plus days. The day of the transplant is considered day zero, a birthday of sorts. The days are numbered to help the patient and family understand where they are as far as risks and discharge.

Dad is at day 8. I am not going to lie, he has been sick. Along with “normal” side effects and complications he has also developed an infection in his stomach that is very painful and has caused him to spike a fever. 

In spite of all this he has maintained a positive outlook. He is still worrying and taking care of everyone around him. It’s hard seeing him so sick when he was doing so well. But, his Dr. and nurses have assured us that this is all to be expected.

Dad is under the care if a different team of Doctors for the transplant. He has full confidence in the lead Doctor in charge of his care. He is a good fit for Dad. They like to discuss the stock market and he understands Dad's sense of humor. Dad had considered going out of state for the transplant. Dad found out that his Dr. had spent time at the hospital Dad was considering and had helped instruct. That was a reassuring indication that Dad is in great hands.

Dad is currently at the University Hospital. The Huntsman will be opening a new section of the Hospital and part of that will be for transplant patients. This will happen the first of November. We expect that Dad will make the move over.

Quick update...

Dad is moving right along with the t-cell therapy.  They harvested a few million t-cells the first week.  Followed up with a couple weeks off and then more harvesting this last week.  They have harvested enough to start the replacement therapy in a couple weeks. 

I hate to think of him not feeling well again but I am so grateful for the opportunity he has to be able to receive the therapy and lessen the likelihood of the cancer returning.  Giving the odds he was presented when he was initially diagnosed it is nothing short of a miracle.