I really do feel bad that I don't post a new story every day, but there really isn't much to tell from one day to the next. The doctor came in this morning and commented to Shelly that she is doing really well for day plus five. This is the week that her blood levels remain on a steep decline as her cells continue to die from the chemo. Let me illustrate what I am talking about. The day Michelle entered Huntsman her blood levels were: White Blood Count (WBC) 2.48, Hemoglobin (HGB) 8.0, Platelets (PLT) 132. Today her blood levels are: WBC .26, HGB 8.1, and PLT 28. Keep in mind, she had a hemoglobin transfusion last Thursday and a platelet transfusion yesterday. What this means is that the chemo IS doing its job and killing everything in its wake. Shelly is at her lowest point this week. When the numbers start to come back up that means the bone marrow transplant is graphing. It will all be worth it when that takes place.
We ask that there be absolutely no visitors this week due to the fact that Michelle is a really critical point in her healing process. We're grateful for everyones concern, but please help us keep her safe. Bone marrow cancer is slightly different than other cancers. It will be a very long time until Shelly's immune system is strong enough to fight even simple little things. She will be limited to the types of foods she can eat and won't be allowed to leave the confines of her own home for a very long time. The healing process for MDS is crazy, but in the long run so well worth it.
Update on Gerald, he is feeling so much better. He returned to work Saturday morning and attended church on Sunday. Prayers have been answered!
5 comments:
Robyn, I know it is hard to update when it seems like not much is going on, but I must tell you how much I appreciate reading. I can't tell you enough what it means to everyone that can't be there for Michelle on a daily basis. Please keep the updates coming, especially since Michelle shouldn't have visitors this week.
Michelle, love and miss you! We'd love to see you via skype if you are up to... tried to call you several times yesterday. Darn that hospital cell service! The kids are missing you and have drawn you some fabulous pictures... one, of which, you have a blue arm ;). Noah thought you needed one red and one blue. Go figure!
We love you so much, Michelle! We are praying for you daily and know that the Lord will bless you. Good luck this week!
Keep going Michelle!! You are doing so good already it can only get better from here!! Please keep updates so we can see how Michelle is doing! We miss you and love you so much!
The low point is a high point because it's GOODBYE abnormal cells and HELLO beautiful new stem cells that are going to make you disease free and a whole new blood cells system! Gotta make room for those sparkling clean brother cells, so out with the old and in with the new. You're doing great, Michelle--your counts are going to start going up within the next few days and the miracle of your new life will really begin. Go graft, go!
Love you Michelle! You are in our thoughts and prayers.
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