Monday, October 26, 2015

DLI Put On Hold

10/26/15 – Today I went to The John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center for my DLI and believe it or not we were not able to go forward with it. I have had an eye irritation over the past week and apparently dry eye is a possible symptom of GVHD. Although it is not a strong enough reaction to know it is definitely GVHD, Dr. Rowley decided it would be best to wait and see what develops over the next week. I innocently asked “what’s the harm if I had the DLI even though there may be a GVHD response developing?” Dr. Rowley’s answer was extremely “eye” opening. He said “its like throwing gasoline on a fire.” All I can say is YIKES!!! I guess it is an excellent idea to wait and see if a rash or any other GVHD symptoms show up over the next week.

I was able to schedule an appointment with an Ophthalmologist. After a thorough eye examination is was found that I had a slight case of dry eye in addition an eye irritation. I was prescribed an eye salve that should address the irritation and some eye drops that should relieve any burning and itching I have in my eyes.

We have rescheduled an appointment at the Cancer Center for Monday, November 2nd. If GVHD does not make a stronger appearance at that point we will then go forward with the DLI. In addition I have a follow-up with the Ophthalmologist on Tuesday, November 2nd.

So it is back to waiting and watching… Saying this, I am feeling great and thrilled to be headed in the right direction. I am so blessed to have such great family and friends who have been so very supportive and who have provided their non-stop prayers for me to get well.

And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.”
Matthew 21:22

More to come…

2 comments:

  1. Hi Rich!
    I'm keeping you in my thoughts, looking forward to the next update!

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  2. Hey Renata,
    I’m so excited to be getting close to returning. My problem is that once I get passed one obstacle another one presents. I have a DLI scheduled for Monday. Unfortunately I am running a high fever and it may get delayed again.
    Rich

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