Day 1

Jim did very well yesterday. He got in 8 bags of stem cells. They medicated him really well so he was pretty sleepy and slept through much of it. The preservatives that they use to store the cells breaks down and smells very bad. There is much debate about what it smells like. Some say creamed corn. I think it smells like sweet tomatoes, but not in a good way. It sweats out through his pores so he should smell like this (stink) for a couple of days. The preservative is poweful stuff. While the stem cells were infusing Brendan had an allergic reaction. Apparently that is not uncommon. There are some nurses that cannot even work the floor while they are infusing. Brendans throat started closing up and he was having trouble swallowing. A dose of Benadryl took care of it. So, during the transfusion, I was splitting my time between Jim's room and the ER. Needless to say, Bren will not be coming around for a few days now.



The reason they call this day 1 is because it is the first day after transplant. That is a very important thing around here, what day you are on. Everybody knows what day you are. The first 30 days are the most crucial, but you are on watch for about 100 days. Around day 7 - 14 is when they anticipate blood counts dropping and possiple problems. Most people end up getting blood transfusions during that time and alot develope infections. So now, is watch and wait. After everthing drops, that is when they hope the stem cells start doing their job.



This morning Jim woke and took his walk around the unit. He is showering now. On the agenda today, 8 more bags of stem cells and then we are done with that part.



Kids are doing well. Spencer thinks he is Dad and Mom combined. He has quite the routine every day. He gets to go to camp for a few days, so I am glad he will get a break. As always, keep praying. We certainly feel your prayers.



Have a great day!