Mom started the stem cell harvesting process on Tuesday morning at the SCCA clinic. It took about 4 hours or so the first day. They were able to collect 1 million stem cells on Tuesday. The minimum number required for the transplant is 5 million. On Tuesday night they gave her another type of growth factor drug in addition to the one that she was already receiving to try and increase the stem cell harvest yield.
After another day of stem cell donation on Wednesday, we are happy to report that they were able to collect an additional 7 million stem cells. This is quite the boost from the previous day, and with no significant side effects either. So she is now done with the stem cell donation phase in preparation for the transplant. The stem cells will be frozen for use following the treatment regimen.
She now has a week or so "break" with only the usual daily blood work and other miscellaneous appointments to attend to. The current plan is to then start the chemotherapy "conditioning regimen" on Thursday, Nov. 3rd.
Chris
Hi !
ReplyDeleteWell, just like everything else (with the exception of that one "hiccup" with the chemo reaction several months ago), Paula, you continue to go through this whole thing with flying colors!!! God be praised!!!!
I think you are already using the following as your theme song -- based on your happy spirits as reported to me by Sally -- but I am going to post it for you to listen to, anyway.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sbIvlYjfnD4
This is from Refuge of Sound Forth Singers & Orchestra of Bob Jones University -- "Be Strong in the Lord."
Will be praying for you especially on 11/3 as you start the chemo. Glad you have a little break between now and then, but will be MORE glad when this whole trial is over for you!!!
Love,
Lynn