IT’S DAY SEVEN after the stem cell infusion and the waiting is the hardest part.
I’m not depressed, just fatigued, with a general lack of focus, a sore throat, and poor appetite. Of course they tell me this is precisely what is expected of patients like me.
The treatment process is working. The blood labs show my neutrophil levels have fallen nearly to zero. In another day or so, they will begin a gradual recovery as my bones begin to build a new immune system.
Since I now have very little immune response, the treatments will focus on preventing infections. Masks and hand-washing for most visitors and anti-viral, anti-fungal, and anti-biotic meds.
Thursday will be much the same, except for a football game Arizona vs. Oregon. Boredom is mounting. I guess that means I’m starting to get better.
NEXT: Zero Hair Day
© 2014 James Tenser
Jamie,
Sounds like all is going as expected. Keep it up and know we’re thinking of you and sending our love.
Dottie and Joe
Great hearing from you. Missed your updates.
Hang in there, Jamie.
XOXOXO, from ALL your Gerver cousins
Well, all things considered, sounds like you are doing great. Glad to hear.
UA put up a big win for you, that must have made for a nice evening.
Lots of love from the Florida contingent.
Hope today is a better day! You seem to have acquired a new vocabulary of medical treatment words.
Thinking of you with love!
Mom & Daf
DAD – of course!
Jamie:
Thanks for the up-date today.
Well, all seems to be good since the treatment is working as expected, and all those “nasty” things have unfortunately to happen before it gets better. I guess another week or so in the hospital and you’ll be able to go home where life will be a lot more enjoyable. We hope you’ll have no complications, especially no infections. My brother also had a sore throat after his transplant and before getting a lung infection…… so be very careful with everything.
For now, PATIENCE, PATIENCE, PATIENCE……………. You know there is not much more one can do at this point. Babies don’t grow up in one day……. so it will take time.
Best wishes, and until next time, take good care.
Jerome – Yolanda – Genevieve
So relieved to hear from you . Hope Arizona wins for you.
Nowhere but up from here, Jamie! Go ahead and relax into the boredom a little, and let your bones do their job. We are all pulling for you. Sent a little “Jewish penicillin” for you to have when they send you home …
We love you,
Lori, Alan, Jeremy, Celia and Reuben
Glad to hear you are doing so well. Don’t get too excited. You are a lot more alert than I was. I’m Praying for you.
Hi Jamie,
Glad to hear things are going well for you. Keep up that positive attitude and wonderful sense of humor.
Been thinking of you and your family alot these days.
Nancy from your support group