So, today Tami will receive her stem cell transplant at 9:30 A.M.. The day of transplant is often regarded as day zero with each subsequent day post transplant being referred to as +1, +2, +3, etc.Her doctors have spent the last week preparing her for this moment. Her preparations included both 6 rounds of chemo and various antibiotics to help prevent infection now that Tami's own immune system was destroyed by the chemo.
The Be The Match website describes the actual transplant this way:
"The infusion process takes about one hour, sometimes longer, depending on the volume of cells. The infusion usually does not hurt. A nurse will watch your blood pressure and pulse and watch for any reactions while you are getting your new cells. Some people have mild side effects like those of blood transfusions. These side effects do not last long. You will be awake to receive the donated cells, although you may be mildly sedated.Your prayers and good thoughts are appreciated as the days following a transplant are often the most painful and grueling for some patients. Thank you so much for all of your support to date, it's very much appreciated.
The donated cells "know" where they belong in the body. They move through your bloodstream to settle in your bone marrow. This is where the donated cells will begin to grow and produce new red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. This is called engraftment."
___________ EDITED TO ADD at 9:27 A.M. ___________
A Delay :( The stem cells have not arrived in Seattle. They are now scheduled to land at 9:45 A.M. with the transplant to take place at noon. Tami's donor lives in the U.S. but not in Seattle so his stem cells are being flown in to her.
___________ EDITED TO ADD at 3:05 P.M. ___________
The transplant began at 12:32 P.M. and will run for several hours until around 5:30 P.M.. Tami was a little anxious and feeling a little nauseaous but I'm told she is hanging in there. Her nurse said she should sleep through most of it, they gave her a good dose of benadryl. Everything is going well.
___________ EDITED TO ADD at 5:43 P.M. ___________
Tami is just about done with the transplant. She ran into some problems which consisted of fever and rapid heartbeat. Both are under control now but she's not feeling very good at the moment :(
Complications like this are to be expected and as unpleasant as they are, are not cause for concern at this point in time.
___________ EDITED TO ADD at 6:50 P.M. ___________
I am happy to report that Tami's transplant is done and everything seems ok at the moment.
They will keep checking her vitals until 8:00 to watch for any problems.
___________ EDITED TO ADD at 9:20 P.M. ___________
Posted by Stacie (Tami's cousin)
Dear Stacie and Tami,
ReplyDeleteAll the best to you! Stacie you have done a marvelous job supporting your family and all people who are looking for this chance at life. I am hoping the very best for Tami.
I'm here and thinking of Tami!! Thank you for so many updates!!
ReplyDeleteDear Lord,
ReplyDeletePlease hear our earnest prayers for our friends Tami and Stacie. We have faith you will heal Tami. We don't always understand why our friend has to suffer but we trust in your mercy and grace. Nourish her spirit at this time of need. Let our friend know you are with her. Let our friend be strong and healthy again and return to the love of her family soon.
Amen.