Mobilization

Thursday, October 18, 2012

Hello dear friends!

I am in what's called the mobilization phase of treatment.  I've been receiving medication to increase the number of stem cells in my blood to be collected before the transplant.  My stem cell count needs to reach 10 stem cell per milliliter.  Today they checked my count hoping I would be at 10 but I was only at 5.  So tomorrow I will go back for another injection and they will draw some more blood and see where I'm at.   Come on stem cells...come out, come out where ever you are!

Yesterday I had the CVC placed in my chest so today when they needed to take blood it was much faster and easier.  As much as I am not too keen on the appearance of this device, I must admit, it beats getting poked with needles numerous times to collect blood.   Now they just screw the tube into the outlets hanging from my chest and instantly the blood flows and fills the tubes.  Too bad I wasn't going to a Halloween party .... I'd have the beginning of a cool costume.  Ha ha

Oh yes, we also went to the Caregiver Class on Tuesday.  Topic's were "Stem Cell Transplant 101",
Nutrition and Transplantation, Finances/Insurance/Advance Directives, Psychosocial Issues and Caregiver Responsibilities.
Quite a bit of information to digest, hope Matt was paying attention.  Just kidding.
I did leave there feeling somewhat inspired and comforted by others in the class that are also about to go through a stem cell transplant and some that already have.  I'm certainly not alone.

Below are some pictures of Cherry Creek which is across from our apartment.  Matt's been going for a walk/run through there and took some pictures to share.  I also added a pic of my new permanent accessory... notice it's red white and blue.  Perfect colors for the campaign season. ;)

Hope all is well in your world!

xo