12/30/13 – Can
you believe that I am 1/3 of the way to the 100 day milestone? You may be thinking... so what's the big
deal about “Day 100?” Day 100 is a milestone
that many stem cell transplant recipients circle boldly on their calendars as
the turning point in their recovery. That’s when the greatest risk for critical
side effects is past and when the stem cells have en-grafted and begun making
new blood cells. It is also important because it is a time when my doctors can begin to run
test to see where I stand with my MCL. The 100 day mark is by
no means the end all, be all… I will be continued to be checked and treated for
years to come. More specifically, by the end of the first year, my immune system should return to
normal and my body should begin to produce blood cells normally again. About
1–2 years after my stem cell transplant, I will likely need to be immunized
with vaccines that are commonly given in childhood (such as polio and measles
vaccines).
Another “important”
aspect of hitting the 100 day milestone is that it could mean that I will be allowed to venture out,
see people, go to church, and possibly even get to eat at restaurants.
But, I guess I shouldn’t get too far ahead of myself. So,
you may be wondering how I am doing now? My last two appointments showed that
my counts are still on track and even have climbed into normal ranges. The one area
that was not so great was my Creatinine level which is running high. This typically
means that I am not getting enough fluids which can have an adverse effect on my
kidneys. I had to receive fluids by IV at my last appointment. My take away from
this is that I need to drink more liquids. I was told to try and drink 3 liters
of water per day. I think I have been doing this and I am looking forward to
see my results at my next appointment.
With just typical things, my energy seems a little lower than usual
and I am still struggling with my appetite and a slight case of nausea. I definitely
eat for fuel versus enjoyment. Since the
transplant I have lost about 25 pounds. The good news is this seems to be stabilizing
and I have been at the same weight for the last few days. I am sure I’ll get
passed this soon. After all, food is way too good to miss out on for too long.
Overall, I feel great and I am excited about my awesome
progress.
My next
appointment at the Cancer Center is Tuesday, December 31th.
Every moving thing that lives shall be food for you. And as I gave
you the green plants, I give you everything.
More to
come…
2 comments:
Happy New Year Rich!!!
Thanks Pedro! A Happy, Healthy New Year to you too.
Rich
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