Transplant Day +5

Yesterday (Transplant Day +4), went well, overall.  My platelet and blood cell counts are dropping, as anticipated.  The fatigue continues as expected.  Merely eating is taxing, and I have to eat more slowly than normal as even digestion is energy-consuming.  Heck, even bowel movements can be exhausting! 
The doctors prepared me by telling me to expect most of what I am experiencing, so I understand that it is all part of the process, and I try to remind myself that this is all "normal" and that "this too shall pass."

Today, my friend's, Mike and Mario, came to visit and delivered a fresh load of laundry, which cheered me. 
I think I am back on track, for the most part, with my meals, and over the nausea, which is fantastic. 
The rest of the evening was uneventful.  'Started to watch a comedy, and fell asleep for the night.  I think my body may finally be starting to fall into a routine, and be adjusting to a few hours of sleep here and there throughout the night, with a nap during the day. 

This morning, (Transplant Day +5), I was visited by a team of about 10 doctors from around the world who administer Dr. Burt's stem cell protocol in their countries.  They were here at Northwestern Medical Center for a one day Stem Cell Conference, hosted by Dr. Burt.  They were very kind and assured me that I chose the right treatment, stating that the majority of their patients are trying to get the same procedure.  They were quite impressed with the research I have done on my own, and asked if I would be willing to correspond with some other patients to share my experience.  I feel very fortunate to be here getting this treatment. 

Due to my low platelet count, I received my first bag of platelets today, and anticipate receiving red blood cells within the next few days.  I also started receiving Neupogen today, which is a growth factor given by injection in my abdomen, to help increase the rate of stem cell production.  Side effects of Neupogen can include fever, achiness, and bone & joint pain, all of which I have begun to experience, and can take pain medication as needed.  'Just to be on the safe side, blood cultures were drawn due to my slightly elevated temperature to rule out any possible infection.

My brother, Carl, arrived from Florida today and will be taking Wendy's place after she leaves to go back to Hawaii tomorrow.  It is really good to see him, as I hadn't seen him in nearly three years.  We will have a lot of catching up to do.  Wendy has provided great support while she's been here, and I don't know how I would've gotten through the past 11 days without her.  A quality, loving, caregiver is a crucial component of the stem cell transplant process.  I will miss her. 

I also got my daily call from my girls, which was the highlight of my day.  Taylor, my youngest, told me all about her modeling photo shoot, which was a huge success.  She is on track for her beauty pageant in May, which I am looking forward to attending.  She showed me her new dresses via Skype and has been diligently practicing piano for the talent portion of the competition.  Alex, my oldest, was very excited about winning first place in her speech competition, which will take her to the State Finals at the Hilton Hawaiian Village next month.  I am so proud of both of them and the wonderful young ladies they are growing up to be.  They make me so happy. 

Oh, I almost forgot..... tomorrow, I am moving to a much bigger, corner room, in which two of the adjoining walls are comprised completely of glass windows.  This provides a partial lake view as well a spectacular view of the city.  This is a much welcomed move as the room I am currently in is a broom closet in comparison, with only one tiny window, which I refer to as "solitary confinement".  I guess all those boxes of macadamia nut candies I brought from Hawaii for the nurses, paid off in the long run.  :)