Steve's ANC number (a combination count of his white blood cells) hit the goal of 500 today--that is when his stem cell transplant is considered to have "engrafted" if it remains at that count in the following days. This means that those stem cells from his donor have found their way into the cavities of Steve's bones and are producing new marrow and white blood cells. The doctors are surprised that this has happened so early-this is the early end of the scale. We are thrilled and so grateful, as is Steve. Thank you, thank you for your prayers and faith in Steve's behalf.
Now Steve is just working toward being able to eat without IV nutrition and getting his strength back. He will keep getting stronger and stronger as the days go by. The doctors will be telling him how soon he can be released to go home, as they watch his progress over the next few days.
Great news! Sending big love your way from my little family. Love, Laura
ReplyDeleteHi Carolyn,
ReplyDeleteYour blog is gives a very accurate picture of your emotions. I wish you all the best in Steve's recovery. Hit on this blog while searcing stem cell on Google. May God bless Steve with all the best things and people in his life.
Regards,
Nitima
OH my gosh!!! So glad to hear this!! SO glad everything has gone so well, we are always thinking about Steve. We were up on Tuesday, we wanted to stop by and say hi but I know he is just so exhausted and still trying to rest a lot. We do not go up again for a month now! Hopefully Steve will be out by our next visit, (May 4th) if not we will stop in. I have some stuff for Steve I will try to get it to the house soon! Hang in there Steve, You are doing AMAZING, stay strong!!
ReplyDeleteSo happy for Steve! I knew he'd do it. He's been a super trouper with some of the Arbiter users. May I just say "Frank Marino"?
ReplyDeleteDear Steve and family,
ReplyDeleteMy name is Jean and I’m a volunteer with the National Bone Marrow Transplant Link. Our organization helps patients, caregivers, and families cope with the social and emotional challenges of transplant by providing vital information and personalized support services. We subscribe to Google blog alerts, where we found your story.
Please know that others are thinking of you and pulling for you! To learn more about our programs and services,including peer support on call, please visit www.nbmtlink.org or call 800-546-5268.
All the best!
We continue to pray for Steve and for your family. We are so happy for the good news! The paper cranes are a wonderful representation of hope! How blessed we are to have so many who love and care for us.
ReplyDeleteLove, Grethe Hurst