Today she finished her autologous stem cell transplant. After two days of a chemo slam to wipe out the cancer cells (and in the process her immune system) today at Noon she got back her own stem cells. First she received several prophylactic medicines as a precaution - anti-nausea, diuretic, and some stuff to suppress any possible allergic reaction to the preservatives used to protect her stem cells (since they are hers, she will not react to them).
After the procedure was totally complete, they checked twice at 15 minute intervals to make sure her vitals were stable and she was not having any reactions. She did fine.
Over the next few days her white blood cell count will drop, and she will experience her low physiologically, and possibly emotionally as well, with the worst coming some time this weekend.
Today is Day 0. We now count up through Day 30. Until then she will need a caretaker, not a problem while she is here in the hospital (at least until 10/28), with a friend moving in part-time to help while I am off at school after she comes home.
Everything depends upon how quickly her white blood cell count recovers. There is nothing further we can do, except keep her comfortable and make sure she is not exposed to anything that jeopardizes her health.
Yesterday a good friend of hers came in to show her how to style her short hair, which she has for now, and which is how she expects to keep it once it grows back.
She has done as well as anyone could have hoped, perhaps even better. They told us that in one day they got more stem cells from her than from any other patient in multiple days, and during the infusion she had the best vital signs of the week.
We hope that continues.
Thank you all for your continued prayers and support.
We love you.
Peace.