It has now been a week since receiving chemotherapy and six days since the stem cell transplant. All in all, I am doing well. While I felt some nausea as a result of the chemotherapy, the anti-nausea drugs did their work and held back the worst. I seem to be past that stage now, moving into the phase of living with low blood counts and waiting for the stem cells to graft on to my bone marrow. This leaves me feeling fatigued much of the time. In the meantime, I continue to visit CP6 every other day for blood work and to receive iv fluids to keep me well hydrated.
Today was one of those days. I live about forty-five minutes by car from Vancouver General Hospital and need to be able to get into the hospital on any given day. In order to make sure that I have a ride when needed family, friends and parishioners have teamed up to create a driving roster to get me to and fro. Today Rod from Crescent United Church drove me into town while Diane and Judy from University Hill Congregation drove me home. What a great gift this safety net of drivers is! Thanks to all of you who have offered to help in this way. Even if you are not needed, knowing that you are there just in case is a great relief.
As expected my white blood counts continue to plummet and are now close to zero. This is the time when we are being extra cautious with hand washing and keeping away from illness as much as possible. I am told that it is unlikely that I'll get through this time without getting some kind of an infection. Most everyone ends up on iv antibiotics during the course of the stem cell transplant journey. Nonetheless, we will do our best to keep infection away.
Thanks again for checking in and for holding me and others like me in your prayers.
Having a team of drivers is a blessing and a great way to keep up with what is happening in the various communities in which you inhabit.
ReplyDeleteOh yes, let's keep infection away. Prayers for continued strength and a perfect reboot of your blood cells.
Got a sweet deal on a new bike yesterday and now with riding gloves, shoes, etc. I am almost completely outfitted for the Ride to Conquer Cancer next June. I am looking forward to today's bike ride - and think of what you and others battling cancer are going through when I'm heading up hill! Jameson is running in the Terry Fox run with his school tomorrow (Friday)and he is dedicating his run to you. Blessings!
ReplyDeleteHi Ed. Cousin Bev here. Kathy directed me to your blog so I just learned of your condition. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear that things seem to be going ok so far.
ReplyDeleteEd, strength and prayers from across the water. Love and virtual hugs, Rena & Dave.
ReplyDeleteThanks for keeping us all in the loop Ed. You have a great capacity for condensing the complexities of your treatment down to something we can appreciate and understand.
ReplyDeletePeace and blessings... Rob
Great to see you on the drive back to Crescent Beach today, Ed. You'll be glad to know that I found my way home without getting lost! Kids and I lit a candle and said a prayer for you. We all continue to hold you in our hearts and keep you in our prayers. Best to you and family,
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