Sunday, March 13, 2011

High Dose Chemo has Begun

Michael was admitted late Friday night and was given IV (intravenous fluids) to hydrate and then the chemo began Saturday morning.  His first round went well, the second med, he had a brief reaction to it.  But the resident came over and gave him Bendadryl and about a half hour later he was eating a spicy Chic-Fillet Sandwich.  He probably won't have too many of those for a while as his appetite will likely be down for a while, but he definitely enjoyed that one.
His first round of chemo today is done, which went well and he will get more chemo this evening.
He will get more chemo every day through Thursday, with about 24 hours off and then the Stem Cells will be given on Friday, March 18.  Initially we thought it would be St Pat's Day.
The purpose of the high dose chemo is to kill off his bone marrow, so the new stem cells can come in and replace his.  His blood will no longer be his, but will be his donors.  Instead of being O+, his blood will become A+ (long story).
Mark is here for a few days and will head back tomorrow.  And then Melissa will be back in 2 weeks. Yeah.
Michael is on the Adolescent/Young Adult section, which is nice--the nurses are very attentive and they do have some activities he can go to with others his age.  Since he is in Isolation to protect him, if he leaves the room he wears a mask and gloves.  It's good it's an option if he wants to later, especially since he will be here at least 3 weeks.
As for specific prayer requests: that Michael continue to tolerate the chemo with minimal complications, that he remain strong and healthy, for the nurses and doctors as they care for Michael and for the donor's health.
Thanks again for your continued concern and prayers.  Our address if you want to send a card:  6301 Almeda Rd, Apt 832, Houston, TX  77021.

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