Progress

Michael's last chemotherapy treatment was pushed back, first by concern of infection then by weather. This was complicated by an exacting and strict medical schedule. Chemo, his last for this transplant, followed by 24 hours of rest and a few special meds. Then, the transplant or return of his stem cells with in the next 24 hours.

That was the plan and it started Sunday, Dec. 21st, with industrial strength chemo. Michael has been able to handle the chemo side effects quite well and be ready for the next step without any issues. The stem cells were returned, by an IV system, on Tuesday, Dec. 23rd. No problems along the way and 12/23/2008 has been designated as Michael's new birthday, as is custom at The SCCA Cancer Center.

We are now at T-Day plus 4 and all is going well. There are some potential problems or side effects that may occur in the next 10 days, so the medical staff is monitoring Michael daily with blood counts every day.

Please take note that all this has taken place as an out-patient and during the worst snow storm since 1861. Seattle was shut down and all normal transportation disappeared!

I called Steve! Steve? Yes Steve, who is a contract limo driver I met when I first arrived in Seattle. He gave me his card and offered to help, if needed. Every day he would bring his Lincoln Town Car, with studded tires, take us to the Cancer Center and work us in for a return trip. We are grateful to the medical staff at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center but none more important than Steve. No medical treatment would have transpired without this true gentleman, his helping hand and my new friend, Steve!