Thursday, December 30, 2010

Day +15 - Update

Lynn is quite tired today - just doesn't have the same kind of energy she's had the past couple of days.  That's to be expected though as there will be ups and downs over the next while, we just have to be patient.  The great news is that most of her blood counts are up.  White cells and neutrophils are within normal range :)  Even her hemoglobin went up to 104 which was a bit unexpected but headed in the right direction. 
They did confirm that Lynn has a bacteria in her bloodstream - it is slow growing so it took a while to show in the cultures.  The good news is that they already had her on the right antibiotic to help deal with it - so she'll be on that for another 10 days or so.  They were able to discontinue the other antibiotic so one less IV med.
The next thing is to watch for signs of graft versus host disease (GVHD) - this is common with any type of transplant and we actually prefer to see some of it because that is part of what is helping to eliminate the cancer cells.  The challenge for the doctors is managing the 'right' amount as excessive GVHD can cause lung and liver problems.  We'll keep an eye on things and see how it goes.
Barb, Gail, Pauline and Maureen were up for a couple hours today.  It's always good to see them and gives Lynn some company and entertainment during the day.  All in all the days actually go by fairly quickly - even Lynn says so. 
That's it for today.  Everyone better get some rest in preparation for New Year's Eve.
Good night!
Irena

4 comments:

  1. Irena, I really have to thank you for writing these informative posts. I almost feel as though I have a roost in the corner of the room. You'd make a great overseas news correspondent!

    Love to you both. LK

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  2. It was this time last year we were celebrating New Years together - now I can't help but think of that old classic song by Dinah Washington "What A Difference A Day Makes"
    I won't take up your blog with my random thoughts or run on sentences! but, I will take up some space saying how with all my strength and positive vibes I wish for 2011 to be a cancer free, pain free, fear free and worry free year and that you both get the opportunity to enjoy life the way It was ment to be enjoyed.

    Thinking of you always'

    Love Kim :)

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  3. Lynn you look great. Just think no more bed perms. Out with the goop (gel) and in with the toque. We are off to Alice's this evening. Do you think the Bull's Horns will be up for grabs? Wishing you a much healthier and Happy New Year. All the best in 2011. Ig you are awesome with the blogging. Thanks!!!
    Happy New Year
    Love Janice and Ter

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  4. Hi to you both on this last day of 2010. It's been a year filled with so many challenges and ups and downs for you Lynn, but through it all you have been and continue to be an inspiration to us all. Your strenght and courage along with your positive outlook is one to be admired. Sounds like all the right things are being done to move you towards a Cancer Free 2011. Please always know that you are in our prayers and thoughts. We love you both and sending healing angels and lots of hugs. Irenca thank you for all the updates, we can't tell you how much we appreciate it........OK I was going to keep it short but you know me too many things to say and not enough space.....Tee Hee.
    Aunty J and Uncle P
    x0x0x0x00x0x0x0x0x0x0x0x00x0x

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