Things will be relatively quiet for the next week, and then I start giving myself shots to stimulate the production of stem cells in my bone marrow, and taking medications to get those stem cells to move to my blood stream. And then, next Monday, the 24th we begin collecting them. That harvesting procedure will be outpatient for a few hours each day, and most likely over the course of two or three days. I was going to explain the whole process on here, but actually got a bit sqeamish, so if you'd like more information, I found this link which is pretty comprehensive. I also found a picture of the machine used for the stem cell collection on flickr. I especially enjoy the expression on the face of the technician or doctor next to it. My thoughts exactly, guy.
If timing works out as I hope, I will be able to join my family and friends for Thanksgiving, before repeating diagnostic scans the following week which will determine whether we're proceeding with the stem cell transplant immediately, or doing additional rounds of chemotherapy before the transplant.
Thanks to everyone for being in touch. It's been really nice to hear from all of you, and see those of you here in Chicago. I hope you all have a very nice thanksgiving!
7 comments:
I have two things to say. 1) AMAZING use of flickr. This leads me to 2) wait until this weekend when I am in CHICAGO to see YOU (and mom gloria, obv) and we will take so many photos of amazing things you won't be able to choose which ones to put on the blog.
So I am REALLY happy to hear that you get to be with your family for awhile. (Not that your DC family isn't amazing.) And I really want to say thank you for blogging--it shows so much courage. And, if you're bored, just call me and I can read to you hours and hours and hours of casebooks!
Elissa, you're fricking funny and strong, even in the face of what you're going through. Us New Yorkers may be considered tough, but this New Yorker is looking to you in Chicago for inspiration. I'm relieved to hear this round is taking less of a toll on you. I hope you'll find yourself with your family for Thanksgiving with an appetite hearty enough for seconds of pumpkin pie.
Erica B. in NYC
Glad to hear that round 2 went more smoothly and that you're gearing up for a festive Thanksgiving! ENJOY celebrating with the Froman Family... Love ya :)
Elissa you are in my thoughts and my prayers. I just wish I could make you some chicken soup! Have a great Thanksgiving and enjoy your family.
Hi just wanted you to know I stopped by your blog and am thinking of you this Thanksgiving weekend and sending good thoughts. Take care, Joelle
Glad to hear that the second round was a bit better. This was posted awhile ago, so I hope all that's come since then has been going OK, too. That machine is a freaking beast, & that dude's face doesn't make me feel any better about it...
Hope our Thanksgiving was lovely &, you know, thankful. Miss you back in the District, obvi.
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