Friday Update

Thanks for all the good wishes and prayers. We sure need them about now. We're still trying to figure all this out, so bear with us.

Greg went to clinic this morning, and found out yesterday's count. Basically, they were not able to collect ANY stem cells Thursday. That's not good. Typically, the collection begins 12 to 14 days after getting the Cytoxan. They began on day 14. The first day is supposed to net the highest number of cells. But, when has Greg ever done anything according to the protocols?

Greg had a long chat with his nurse-coordinator, and they discussed his entire history. He really never has done anything according to plan. He doesn't respond well to chemo, and he's usually late when he does. For example, his white counts always come back much later than the literature says they should. So, one possible theory is that he's a "late bloomer." Maybe he will release his stem cells later than he should. Based on that possibility, they did not attempt to collect any stem cells today. Instead, they gave him another shot of growth factor, and will do that again Saturday & Sunday. Then, they'll try to collect again on Monday. We won't get the count until Tuesday a.m. Basically, we're in a holding pattern until then. But, I can't underestimate how serious this is. No stem cells means no transplant. At least not this kind of transplant. This is not unheard of, but its not usual, either. Sigh. We haven't really been told what we do if this attempt to collect fails. So, direct lines to the Big Guy Upstairs are definitely warranted. Thanks to all for your love & support.

Matthew and I came up to St. L today and are spending the weekend. Eric had to work, so he's taking his first solo at home. The neighbors will let me know how good the parties are.... Note to Eric: When my parents left me home alone for the weekend, the house was always cleaner when they got home than when they left. (Of course, in this case, that means you have A LOT of work to do!)

We plan to just try to relax & enjoy the weekend, as its all out of our control anyway. My oldest sister, Debbie, (she hates when I call her "oldest") is on her way here from Cudahy tonight with her two youngest girls, Larisa (17) and Kacey (15). Matthew is looking forward to seeing his cousins. They love playing with him. The duplex will be very cozy. Matthew gets to sleep in the kitchen. We plan to go to the zoo tomorrow. Greg continues to feel good, so we'll take that as a positive sign.

Tonight, we went to Zia's restaurant, on the "Hill" per the recommendation of Daniel & Judge England. Judge, you were right, the Chicken Spedini Proscuitto was great! Greg ordered Chicken Parmesean, and had entree envy. Ted Drew's Custard tomorrow.

So, I may not have much to report again until Tuesday. Meanwhile, we really can't thank all of you enough for all your support.

Love,

Us