Stem Cells --- Words for the Day -- Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Mary -- these photos are for you...

Stem Cell Definition: In the time it takes you to read this sentence, more than 10 million red blood cells in your body will die. Don't be alarmed; it's natural, and stem cells in your bone marrow are constantly making enough new cells to replace the dying ones.

But, what if those blood-making cells stopped working? Without a fresh supply of red and white blood cells, you would quickly become anemic, your immune system would collapse, and without medical attention, you would die.

This could be a concern for astronauts taking long trips beyond Earth orbit. It's well known that space radiation can damage cells in astronauts' bodies. Less well understood is the specific threat to the key blood-making cells.

ChemoSabe received his big dose of chemo today. He did really well and even went to work afterward. We have discovered his WBC will take at least five days or more to drop. He is still getting the two a day gut shots blood thinner. I still have not bruised him.

He also has begun his regimen of steroids with ten a day. He was up at 4:30 a.m. ready to go. He has been very, very energetic and impatient throughout the day. The difference this time is he doesn't take the meds as before that would help him sleep. We only have to be on them until Friday, but it will take a few days for it to wear off.

He says this chemo is good because he has started his hiccuping again. I have already given him a pill to ease it. That means massive snoring tonight. I hear the couch in the den calling my name.

We got to ride a little this evening over to Sis's house and then to eat at Chili's. Wind was a bit nippy, but very enjoyable. We hope to get to ride again tomorrow night, for we fear his decline is near. He will be going to lab each morning at 9:00 and for blood and platelets when he needs it. He will also be started again on the growth factor shots. That puts more babies in the marrow to hop around.

We are happy. This week I see my husband in his attitudes, his gentleness and his compassion. I don't see him physically, yet, but give it another six months and I bet we will see the ole Poppy pop right back in shape and form.

Thank you again for everything you have done.... You are all special to us.

Good night and Love --- Pepper