"The Only Way Around Is Through" - Robert Frost

We have negotiated several twists and turns, but finally we have a new date for John's stem cell transplant - September 12. In the jargon of the transplant world here at Mayo, this will be his new "birthday." He will undergo final tests next week, then will have two days of intense chemo, followed by the infusion of the stem cells that John harvested last fall and which were frozen during this wait period. The transplant itself will take about 12 hours and is done through a temporary port which is placed in his chest. The amazing thing is that this is all done on an outpatient basis, meaning that we will be able to rest and recuperate here at Transplant House until his white blood count builds back up and his immune system is functional again. We will visit the clinic daily for check-ups, as each blood cell component is measured and monitored for progress. Though it is not uncommon for patients to spend some time in the hospital with complications, the hope is to keep hospitalization to a minimum. More soon!

Opportunity Is Knocking

> We arrived in Rochester last Monday and have settled once again into our home away from home - The Gift of Life Transplant House. By a stroke of good luck, we were able to see our dear friends from Israel whom we met here last November before their flight back Thursday...it was a total surprise to run into them and a great way to start our visit here. Also currently staying here are a few friends we made during our last visit in June, who are still here post-transplant and making good progress. As we've mentioned before, you must be a lung, heart, kidney, liver, bone marrow or stem cell transplant patient (or caregiver) to stay here, and it is truly a remarkable group of people. Lots of inspiration and positive vibes here at all times! We're all fighting the same battles, learning as we go.
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> After many zigs and zags and an incredible assortment of hurdles, John has been given preliminary clearance to proceed to his long-awaited stem cell transplant. We are not sure of the timing yet, as we have to wait about 7-10 days to get stitches associated with a lung procedure he underwent last week removed. We hope to get a firm date soon and we'll let you know as soon as we hear.
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> The meeting with his lead doctor on Friday went very well, and the good news is that John has responded very well to the 3-drug chemo combination he has been taking the last two months. As a result, he has reduced his amyloid levels in his bloodstream by half and his liver function has improved significantly. Additionally, his other blood cells have remained healthy in spite of the bombardment of the chemo. Nonetheless, both the treatment and the disorder have combined to sap his energy, and the next very critical goal is to increase his weight and strength in the next few weeks so that he can enter the transplant process with as much stamina as possible.
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> The transplant process and recovery are intense, and one has to be as mentally and physically strong as possible. He is considered a high-risk candidate for a procedure that is inherently very risky, but as we all know, when John puts his mind to something, he is beyond formidable!! We have a goal, we have a plan and we have the top treatment team anywhere. Most importantly, we have the best family and friends anyone could have. Thanks to everyone for your calls, emails, cards and your constant love and support! Please keep us in your thoughts and know that you are in ours as well.