It's been a week since I have updated my blog so here goes. Friday Nov. 16 got good feedback from transplant team on my progress. WBC count has started to climb on its own >0.5 (normal 3.2-9.8) Still getting platelets since they are last to respond. Some visitors and good night of sleep. Sat. & Sunday good. WBC up to .7, more blood and platelets. Had some swelling of left arm but able to reduce it with ice bag.
Monday my sister Sylvia was visiting on her way back to VT from a nephew's wedding in FL. Nice to see her. WBC 1.2. Team starting to discuss discharge plans. No firm date but criteria set. Started switching antibiotics to ORAL. More platelets and blood.
Talking about discharge is exciting. Thinking about fresh air and no IV machines after 29 days is good. My appetite is starting to improve, stomach is small, and my taste has changed, stuff does not taste the same.
Tuesday and Wednesday good. Kids, Wendy and Syliva all hung out together when not here. Appetite still small.
Thursday not eventful. Overall number up. Walked .5 miles.
November 22, Thanksgiving, Transplant Team told me that test results indicate 100% of my cells are from transplant. 98% male/2% female. None of my cells are there so radiation and chemo worked as expected. Good News!
Started steroids for rash control, 3 days of these. Friday they took me to ultrasound to check my liver/spleen. Standard test, no results but did not expect any today.
Part of trip to ultrasound required exit of unit to elevator lobby. Could see helipad with copter and great view of Duke campus. I told transport person to leave me here for an hour. No such luck!
Well, time to close. Hope to be released within the next several days (knock on wood). I love you all and appreciate cards, calls and visits. I am extremely lucky to have friends and family like you.
Remember, give blood and blood products if you can. Save a life.
Peter
