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A little more on what’s to come…

July 29, 2006 /

Hello everyone,
I know many of you are getting emails from Jenn and I’m not sure who is on her list and who isn’t, so if I am repeating everything, please bear with me.
We recieved the wonderful news this last Wednesday that Jennifer if a 6 of 6 match for Kerrie. With only a 25% chance of this occuring, you can imagine how relieved we were. Both Steve and I said, at least we got one thing right.
Kerrie was a little dismayed when she asked the doctor to settle a bet………would her blood type be the same as Jenn’s after the transplant? The doctor said yes, as Jenn’s stem cells will replace Kerrie’s own blood. She also wanted to know if this meant she would be a tall blond with an attitude? The doctor wasn’t sure.
I, on the other hand am elated. I have always wanted twin daughters, and I’m even planning to dress them alike……. won’t they be cute!!!
Everything is swinging into action now……..blood tests, medical clearances, etc. etc. some of the things we have been told are overwhelming…….so much to do…….Jenn may be sending out more details or I will when time allows…….but just a couple of heads up……
Transplant should take place in 2-3 weeks……..Ker will have a week of chemotherapy and Jenn 4 days of injections (which I get to give, tee hee……looking for big needles) before she also goes in to the hospital. The team uses peripheral blood (out of a vein) and it may take two days to collect enough. It is immediately given to Ker through an IV and then the waiting begins as they check closely to see if it takes.
Ker may be in the hospital 3-6 weeks.When she comes home she could be confined to the house for anywhere from 3-6 months. During that time she will have to have someone with her 24 hours a day. If a rejection reaction occurs she has to be in the hospital within 2 hours at the outside.
She will not be allowed to have any flowers or plants. She cannot be around young kids and adults who are around a lot of kids or kids who have just had vaccinations or are sick.  No unprocessed food, fruits, vegetables must be cooked or out of a can. No pepper unless cooked in food (it’s not processed and may contain mold…think about that the next time you say yes to pepper on your salad).
I am looking for a foster home for the cats (doctor says they can stay but keeping them confined, off the furniture, etc. may prove to be impossible). If no one takes my plants they will sit outside and freeze come winter cause they are all leaving the house now.
The doctor says the house must be meticulous, bathrooms, kitchen disinfected. and the car has to be cleaned before every time we go to the hospital.     

The worst part for me is that Kerrie will not be able to do any housework (must avoid dust, cleaning solutions, etc) for several months. I gave up housecleaning several years ago……I mean why do it, the place just gets dirty again. So I am going to have to completely change my life style. However, Kerrie can do dishes and iron, so as soon as she learns how to iron we will start taking in orders. You can also bring over your dirty dishes and for a small fee she will wash and dry them.
Well, that’s about it for now………Keep them cards and letters coming folks, cause you have no idea how much we all enjoy and welcome them. Keep Kerrie in your prayers, and let’s get this show on the road……..
will update as soon as their is more to report.
Love ya all
Joan
   

 

 

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