Progress

Michael sailed through three days of intense chemotherapy. The doctors explained that they were using very strong types of chemo. Their plan was to take Michael's blood and new cell count down to rock bottom. They did and his biggest issue was a loss of appetite and a fever that put him in the hospital for five days.

The issue was a reaction to chemo and a very low white count. This was soon rectified and his condition rebounded to the point that the staff was able to collect his stem cells. His count was sky high and this process took hours, not days as was a possible. This collection is now in the freezer, like a batch of black-eyed peas.

Currently, the Cancer Center is monitoring his blood counts and new, good, cell growth, post chemo. They will return his "saved" stem cells for the redevelopment of his bone marrow. This should take place in mid-December and is done through an IV port and is the actually transplant.

Now, this step will bring on a new set of challenges and possible side effects (a long list not really needed here). So, we go from fast paced activities to a wait and see what happens approach!

Just as a summary, everything is going better than anticipated. Well, the BCS is still messed up; however, if you take part you take their rules.