10/4/15 Noon-Went to COH after Mass at Holy Cross. Steven had already received Communion from a Eucharistic Minister by the time we got to COH. We aren't sure how often he will receive Communion while he is there.
He has already received a loading dose of Sirolimus and Tacrolimus. These drugs are used to lower his immune system to help prepare it for the donor bone marrow and to prevent graft vs host disease (GVHD). GVHD can rear it's ugly head at any time...something to look forward to. Bone marrow transplant is the gift that keeps on giving, in a good way :)
So speaking of the actual transplant, Steven will be the recipient of bone marrow from a 23yo German male...like he lives in Germany!! It's crazy because when I was working in the lab, bone marrow transplants had to be in the same building and bone marrow was actually transplanted. The German donor will have his stem cells harvested in Germany and transported by medical courier. Let's hope they don't go on a "3 hour tour". I hope you get the Gilligan's Island reference :)
Our gracious donor will get GCSF, better known as Neupogen- how interesting that it is an Amgen product! It is so ironic that drugs that Steven supported at Amgen are now going to be used to save his life. If only they had appreciated him, his knowledge, and his devotion to the company. Oh whoops, I went off on a tangent. Amgen's loss, ImmunoCellular's amazing gain!
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ReplyDeleteIf I wasn't stunned before, I am now. Thank Ashley (IT) for setting up the blog so we can follow along as we are all thinking of you guys! Lots of prayers and positive thoughts for Steve and all of you! Love, The Brawners
ReplyDeleteWe are thinking about and praying for all of you. Know that we are here to help you with anything you need, just text or call--and we mean that! We are routing for you Steve!! Love you guys! The Westons
ReplyDeleteKaren, I just found out about Steven. My prayers are with you, Steven and your beautiful family. I will be in California for Christmas, and yes I will be more than able to donate blood/platelets. Take care. XOXOXO Jan Cole
ReplyDeleteOh my gosh. Just got home and saw your post. At first it didn't register. Please count on us to get your mail, check your house, take care of Koda, anything. I can come get her tomorrow. You were so good to us for 11 years it would be our pleasure to return the many favors. Our best to Steven. Let us know what we can do.
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