Home..home...

Home is so nice for Becky..she loves being in her own bed after 90 days! Loves having Abbey nearby for more than just an hour or two visit! Loves home cookin, even if it's just a good piece of toast that arrives hot and buttered. BUT as straightforward as I can put it, please pray for her physical strength..she is very weak..she needs the walker to get around, which we knew would be neccessary for awhile. Yet, I have to help her out of the bed, the chair etc..She even need helps moving around in the bed. She fell twice..but fortunately I was able to pick her up..She did not get out of bed today...felt not so good in the morning, but better in the evening. We know the various medications will and have siphoned muscle strength..Regardless of this fact, we just want to see a bit more strength. She knows she must get out of bed and work hard to gain the muscle she lost..I need prayer to be strong and stable. To be emotionally and physically equipped to handle the responsibilty. I know I cannot and should not 'macho' this out either..Will of course step back and gather, strengthen myself as needed. Her mind is amazing in that she has a decent grasp of the meds she must take...many pills at various times of the day! A nurse comes to administer an IV..this for the next two months...Yet, I am also trained in how to do this..which I did tonight...So, yes, there are challenges..We continue to rely on the strength or our Lord..We know He will uphold us...even in the most difficult of times..

Good health and blessings to you in 2010

..Celebrate life! Bill & Becky

SHE IS HOME FOR CHRISTMAS!

Yes, Yes, Yes...HOME! After almost 90 days at City Of Hope..She is home! We have the mistletoe..don't have the snow..but hey who's keeping score? It is just incredible to see her home. She came through the door Christmas Eve around 6pm. Honestly, it was still a bit 'touch and go' as far as discharge,..having some liver issues..but the Dr. asked her.."do you think you can handle it?"...what do you think she was going to say? Of course she said: "I would certainly like to try, OH YEAH! "..And it has been the best 'medicine' for her. Need I say, a wonderful "gift" to Abbey and I. Abbey is so happy! We thank the Lord for Becky being here with us. It was emotional for her to actually exit the hospital and get in the car..of course, it would emotional for anyone who has endured what Becky has endured. The world was magnified one hundred times on the drive home. The beautiful sunset, the lights, the smells, the road rage of LA drivers, all welcomed Becky...and she embraced it. AND let me say, we embrace the gift of God's son coming to earth..A gift for the world. The Prince of Peace...This Christmas day was indeed a day of gifts...
Hope you all had a great day with family and friends. Presents are nice, and I love em' just as much as the next guy. But, when you got your loved ones near you..and you have the health to hug, walk , talk, fuss a little bit, cook, clean, shower, sleep, fuss a little bit more , pray, watch tv, pet the family dog, (our dog followed Becky everywhere she went in house) you've got presents of immeasureable value. In the classic movie "White Christmas" there is a song called "Count Your Blessings"..it says; "when you can't go to sleep, count your blessings, instead of sheep" That's exactly what we will do...even amidst this challenging time, we will count our blessings.
For Becky, the road to complete recovery will have it's trials. She will have daily nursing visits for the next two months to administer a medicine that can only be done via IV. She will be at City Of Hope twice a week for the next few months, and she will have to take over 15 different meds/pills daily, but for now she is/we are counting our blessings..Home together for Christmas and not in our dreams..that's a good start..

Merry Christmas to one and all..Peace...
Celebrate Life!

Much Love,

Bill, Becky & Abbey


PS. Thank you again for ALL of you who have prayed and continue to pray for Becky. Even when many of you had your own life challenges and extreme hardship...
We didn't have the strength to pray sometimes, but we knew you were praying...
We felt them, and we feel them now..So precious to know this. So reassuring.

Just remaining positive..

82 days..Becky still an inspiration to those around her, and even those who are miles away. She's known as the 'sweet one' among the nurses. I tell ya, it's hard to be so sweet some days, when you see what she endures. She needed platelets today...they dropped pretty low, which brings on the constant nose bleeds. But she got a good 'batch' infused, thus immediate improvement was seen. As mentioned before, we know the platelets will be more 'turtle than hare' in regards to recovery...but they will catch up. Normalcy will be seen in due time.
Becky saw Abbey today, and that's always good medicine. We are still praying that ALL meds can be converted to pill form, thus expediting or solidifying a greenlight home! And we will sing that song.."I'll be home for Christmas"..YET, YET, it ain't done til it's done..
We have a parallel mentality. We are braced for Christmas at the hospital and we are embracing the thought of her coming home. We wait, we hope, we pray.
Hope you and yours are doing well. Don't worry about having the gift-list just right. Just enjoy being together with family and friends....live, laugh, love...Grasp the true meaning of Christmas..
A wonderful present indeed...

Much Love, Celebrate life.

Bill, Becky & Abbey

Going the course..

Supposed to have a CT scan today to see if those 'spots', which were found to be fungal...it is 'something' she had latent or dormant in her, and of all things was picked up from the soil!  And now decided to do a song and dance on her lungs.  They can appear when the immune system is low or compromised.   Wow, go figure.  Dr. Snyder, the lead physician, said they can appear in any of us, if our systems endure a situation such as Becky's.  Man, some of this medical stuff is head turning and scratching.  We do really like Dr. Snyder.  He is the real deal..  Becky is in good spirits..had a little blood pressure issue last night due to the meds needed for this latest 'hiccup'.  But all is under control today.  Again, we hope and pray the CT scan shows signs of improvement with these spots.  If so, then we really could see sweet Becky home for Christmas. Abbey is in the school Christmas program tonight.  I know Becky will miss being there..

Much Love, Celebrate life..Live, Love, Laughter..

Bill 

So close. yet so far..

Becky was really, really close to discharge...excitement was in the air. But of course, we do know after 72 days, just take it one day, one moment at a time. Said it before in the blog, I'll probably say it a few more times. So, she had a routine xray, and found on her lungs were a few nodules, infectious 'spots'. These 'bad boy blemishes' cannot be allowed to 'hang around'..could lead to more serious infection, pneumonia, which technically, anything on your lungs like this is considered a form of pneumonia. She is at this moment in a biopsy procedure. This will determine the exact form of these nodules and how to treat them, even though the DR. began a form of treatment as soon as he saw these spots. Yes, they can be treated, it takes awhile, yeah, heard that one before, BUT! the good thing is, after some period of treatment here at the hospital, these unwelcomed visitors can be treated at home. BUT, we just don't know when the home part will become reality. And part two of the 'so far' is a viral strain found through a routine blood test..Yes, getting treated for this also. So a double whammy..but we know these offenses can be defeated, just like the Graft vs. Host disease is showing signs of defeat. She is almost totally on solid food! NO, nutrition bag, and she is almost ALL pill form in med treatments. Yes, there are some meds that must be IV only for now, but hopefully soon, they will be ceased or changed to pill form. A newly introduced IV has to 'tackle' these new development.
Discouraged, you bet. But always realistic when is comes to such an involved medical treatment as this. Each day seems to bring a new 'oooohhh or ahhhhh'. Or 'OK, let's deal with it"..Or "hey, what's that?".. But, Becky though disheartened, still remains positive that soon..We will be singing.. "I'll be", or make that, "I am HOME for Christmas!" She was so very grateful the xray found these 'spots' BEFORE she went home! VERY grateful. Because, she had NO symptoms. We thank the Lord for being the all-knowing physician. His compassion is never ending. They are new every morning, AND we continue to thank the lead physician for his compassion and thorough oversight. We know he cares so much. He too wants Becky home soon, but it's got to be ALL greenlight, no yellows..
So, there you have it..We still keep the music playin..still gonna remain positive..

Hope your December is relatively stress-free..Have a nice little glass of egg nog...

Much Love, Celebrate life!

Bill & Becky..

PS. Abbey still doin good in school and other activities..she loves Christmastime..

'Bageled out' for now.../ 68 days at COH

68 days at City Of Hope..still hopin and praying the Dr. will enter the room tomorrow (at 7am! his usual time)..and say; "well let's start to change the meds to ALL pill form..so maybe we can get you on the road to home"..This would be a big deal if he were to say this. But, as said many times before, one thought, one day, one small step at a time. Becky said she's takin a break from bagels for now...She had pancakes! Yummy good. All still appears normal with the digestion and 'processing'..hallelujah! She did need platelets and red blood..We knew the need for platelets would be ongoing and consistent after the transplant..so not too concerned about this.
She was in good spirits today..Sure helped that she was able to be with Abbey yesterday. That is always good 'medicine'.
So onward forward..we just pray Christmas will have the gift of Becky home.

"I'll Be Home For Christmas"..will be the theme song..
May you keep a song in your heart..."Joy To The World, The Lord Has Come"..sing it!

Celebrate life!

Bill &Becky..

A Bagel never smelled, tasted so good..

Ahhhhh, the smell of a freshly toasted bagel..Think of your most favorite food and the aroma, or think of that Pizza or pretzel stand that just stops you in your tracks, Now magnify it 10 fold..50, even 100. Now you got it...This is how Becky felt. The olfactory senses were in hyper drive. It was mahvelous..Becky was given the OK to have some semblance of solid food. This is GOOD! Very good! The Dr. suggested mashed potatoes..So, Becky ordered them and a bagel..She took that bagel and caressed it like fine porcelain, then she put it to her nose and just closed her eyes and went to a place where only she could have gone with that bagel. She just couldn't get over the wonderful smell, intoxicating and liberating. Yes, to eat these delectable goodies was indeed a positive, but not only to eat them, but to be able to digest them with some normalcy! This is the result medically desired. Sounds so simple, yet in Becky's world. This is a huge. Period.
She feels good. She knows this could be a turning point toward a discharge. But, she knows to take it one day at a time. Just savor this moment and pray for the best.
So, 66 days and counting. We certainly do hope and pray she will home for Christmas, but I repeat, one day at a time is the modus operandi..
May we share with you that today,, Abbey got TWO character counts awards and a student of the month award. The presenting teachers, one in tears, spoke of how Abbey was an inspiration to the other students. Abbey was and is a Godly/Christian example of kindness, helpfulness to her peers and the faculty even while she was enduring this difficult life situation. She was stunned..She had no idea this was coming..It was an awesome, awesome, moment. She has had to 'restructure' - rethink her young life, from being shuffled here,there and everywhere to of course emotionally processing this situation.. and she has done a beautiful job..

Hope all is well in your families..Remember the reason for the season!!!

Celebrate life! Much Love,

Bill, Becky & Abbey

Just going right along..60 days.

Doin OK today. AND yes, 60 days total so far in the hospital..Just praying this GVH will go away. She is in good spirits, keeping up/positive. No food this weekend, trying to lessen the 'output'. Rest the GI (Gastro Intestinal) tract, which is where the 'boogeyman' GVH is setting up camp.

WE take refuge under the wings of the Almighty.

Hope and pray all is well with you.

Much Love...Celebrate Life!

Bill, Becky &Abbey

Good Thanksgiving...

Had a great Thanksgiving at the hospital.. Just good to be together. Talk and talk.
Abbey and I had a nice dinner of the traditional turkey, dressing, green-bean casserole, provided by the hospital cafeteria. Becky looked so good with her blonde wig wonderfully placed on that beautiful head, and so nice to see her 'regular' clothes. She felt so good, so normal, other than that R2D2 medical tower in tow. She said she was so happy we could be together. Amen and Amen. Later in the day, after we left, she did have to have two units of red blood. Her red count was low. BUT TODAY her platelets increased on their own! No help from donor platelets, and her white count was very desirable and stable. She felt pretty good, but still feeling the effects to the GVH disease in her intestine. Please keep praying these new meds will take overtake the 'boogeyman'..

Hope you all had a super Thanksgiving..We all gathered together to ask the Lord's blessings..

Big Love you..and you know it, Celebrate Life!

Bill, Becky & Abbey

One to remember..Giving thanks..

Becky's Hickman catheter began to ooze fluid..and THIS is a first according to staff here at City Of Hope. The removal of the chest catheter was an eyeopener. Internally, the line had an actual tear,fissure,..The specialist who removes these said: "if this would have ruptured any more, you would have been on the operating table!" Becky knew something was wrong and told them, she was in tears from the pain of the discomfort for days, and as mentioned, she found out some fluid was leaking from it. Her lead physician was astounded at this malfunction, 'one of a kind', he said. Smart, brilliant Becky asked that the line be saved, (she has this uncanny ability to see/feel when the situation may not be patient friendly) He told her, he would complain to the manufacturer, and this Dr. really will! Yes, indeed a day to remember among many. She is now resting well. Mentally at great ease. The arm line is a bit more bothersome, but hey, she wants to dwell on the positive outcome. We thank God for this miracle. It is a miracle it was discovered before total severance. Her white count is still very good..and again, the procedure to insert the new line was uneventful, smooth, the "new" donor cells/blood helped greatly with this.
We truly give thanks in ALL things! We will have a wonderful prayer of Thanksgiving, the three of us..

Celebrate life, BIG Love to you all..

Bill, Becky & Abbey

The word is: Enduring / 56 days...

Yes, 56 days and counting..Enduring is the word of the day.. no other way to say it. Becky had to have her chest Hickman catheter changed to the arm 'pikline'..the chest catheter had some insertion and internal complications. There was a twist in the line at the insertion area and slightly under the skin which, need I say, can cause the fluids to redirect themselves, or cause unwanted infection, but she is doing just fine with the pikline, though it is more cumbersome, requires more effort to move in and out of the way. Good news is: 3 meds were disposed of! Now, let's pray the two 'newbie meds' will do their thang to the GVH disease..which does seem to be feeling a jab or two from the rookie medicines. Becky has noticed a welcomed change. Her abodomen area is feeling a margin of comfort...and this she likes, really likes, yet some unwelcomed fluid to the ankles and feet has appeared. But, we are positive this can be remedied within the next few days.
So, even though Thanksgiving will be spent in the main lobby of the hospital with hubby Bill, and daughter Abbey, the three of us, will be talkin' lotsa turkey and putting a hold on the pumpkin pie and ham til Christmas..and it's really OK..still grateful for the progress made. No, we didn't think Becky would have a 56 day and counting hospital inpatient stay. BUT we are still going to rejoice in the victories seen thus far. I am sure those pilgrims who, what's that word, ENDURED so much hardship in 1621 did the same. They thanked GOD for the smallest of blessings and we do the same. He is faithful..He knows our needs...

May you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving.. Good health and bountiful goodness to you and yours..

Celebrate Life..

Love,

Bill, Becky & Abbey

WE just don't know...

Again, we are still so thankful for the healing/cure of the Myelofibrosis, the primary reason Becky had to have the stem cell transplant..Now, we just want to banish the Graft vs. Host disease. It appears Becky will not be home for Thanksgiving, not that we were counting on it, but we sure were hoping and praying for this to happen. She felt good today, but was disheartened to hear Dr. say: "this is going to take some time." She said she is grateful the disease is only in her intestinal area, which causes discomfort, but there is some consolation in knowing it is not in the liver or other areas, which can happen. Abbey just asked me write that everyone pray for a miracle..that Becky would somehow be home by Thanksgiving..I told her, of course, I would certainly broadcast this. Abbey is aware this may not happen, but the eyes and soul of a child are filled with overwhelming optimism, a wanting of the best, it is such an infectious purity that causes adults to reach a little deeper themselves. It's simple..think good thoughts, pray good things..

Pray we all remain optimistic, no matter when Becky may come home. This WILL PASS. In time, these uncertain days will be a distant memory.

Much love to you all.. Celebrate Life.. Breathe in..Breathe out..
May the Lord make HIS face to shine upon you and give you peace..

Bill, Becky & Abbey

Let's pray the "other" gone...

OK, now that we are still and always will rejoice over the healing/cure of the myelofibrosis disease..Please pray for the Lord to destroy this GVH..her GI tract to stop feeling this 'boom boom pow' feeling. That's where the disease, Graft vs. Host, is making it's home..to put it mildly, there is more output than input. This just ain't what we want.

The Dr. on top of his game, he sees the entire playing field. We know he wants to get Becky on the road home and soon! We are now 51 days at City Of Hope. And Becky just said, 'this ain't no Love Shack either'..But as mentioned, the staff has been extremely dedicated, caring, and performing 'beyond the norm'..Becky just wants to get OUT OF HERE, go home, go home, NO more 'phone home' want to get on that LA freeway and feel wind glide on that magnificently formed bald head, and I must say, it is a pretty dome.



Thank you all again for your support and prayers. Enjoy your food shopping for Thanksgiving.

and need we say, enjoy being at the table with loved ones..



Celebrate life..Much, mucho love,



Bill, Becky & Abbey

A word now in our vocab..HEALING!!!!! excitement!

It came upon a morning clear...glorious news from her physician here..

The main boogieman, the culprit, the reason we are 'checked in' to this hospital-hotel, the JAK 2 gene has now been destroyed. Yes, this gene was causing the marrow to 'scar', turn soft, and not produce platelets..Since December 2007 we have lived with this life altering disease, Myelofibrosis. BUT today, Becky received the miraculous news, that the JAK 2 gene is not longer in her bone marrow. She is 100% donor! Free 'to move about her life'..I mean we knew this was the purpose of the treatment, to rid the body of this boogieman, but honestly had not been at the forefront of our conversation the past few weeks. Just getting thru this myriad or maze of medicine, information, do-this, don't do that was her existence. And suddenly a 6 page report says it all, I quote: "NO EVIDENCE of JAK2 point mutation detected by PCR analysis" and we add: Praise GOD! Even her lead physician was a bit surprised at the brevity of healing. We will frame this report!
Now to temper this just a bit, we are still being treated for the Graft vs. Host disease. This great news does not give us a carte blanche clean 'check out of this place' health ticket, because complications can be seen, as now evident with this GVH 'hiccup'...But if we understand correctly, this is very manageable and can be corralled with the current medical regimen.
Thank you all SOOOO much for your prayers..They have penetrated this room. Needless to say, Becky is dancing internally and even trying to dance with her rolling 'med-tower' her R2D2..It's wonderful..STILL no timetable for discharge..but we dwell on this for now, and the sweet goodness of our Lord..

More to come! Enjoy your day or night..

Celebrate, sing, dance..

Love,

Bill, Becky & Abbey

THE medicine needed..a daughter

After 5 weeks....finally, Becky was able to hug her daughter..she and Abbey embraced for what seemed to be 5 long minutes..no words said..just a silent hug, puncuated with tears, especially from Becky. This is a medicine that cannot be described..NO value can be assessed..it penetrates the heart and soul immediately..thus a split second effect to the patient.
WE all chatted for a little over an hour or so, before Becky had to go back to her room and get connected to her rolling 'medical tower'..Abbey and I went out for a bite to eat, then it was back for more time with Mom..more chatting. catching up, then a 'good bye see you next time hug' to put the exclamation point on the day. Becky said she now felt so content, so calm..She would sleep so good tonight, and Abbey was so thankful to see Mommy. She liked her bald head and loved the wig Becky chose. "Nice hair Mom, really looks good on you!"..It was a surreal, yet so real moment.
We held hands in prayer, and thanked God we could have this time. Thankful a physician saw the stable 'numbers' Becky has been supporting, and thus gave the approval for this family gathering. He knew she needed it and he was correct. He knew the inestimable value of a Mother/patient holding her daughter.

Onward forward. Praise God from whom all blessings flow..

Talk again soon..Celebrate embrace life..

Bill, Becky & Abbey

Steady as she goes..day 34 after transplant

Becky felt good today..she said it, and you could see it..Her numbers were stable..the whites increased a bit! yeah..we like that. She chose a wig today! Wow, what a moment. She liked the look of it, and had no problem during the process, was emotionally just fine. Really kinda boosted her confidence.. Nice medium blonde look...
She asked that everyone would pray for this latest medicinal regimen to drive out this Graft vs. Host disease. To let the new stem cells enjoy their new found home..

Thanks so much..enjoy your day or evening..

Big love to you all..celebrate life..

Bill & Becky

Staying positive..AND!...

Yes, staying positive..still so amazed at the donor letter..again, medicine to Becky..This latest round of increased medicine seems to be throwing a few good jabs at the complications. The Dr. is slightly decreasing the steroid med, and that's good! Becky felt good this afternoon..her voice clearer and stronger than in days past. Her 'numbers' are stable..the platelets remain low, but as said before, that's to be expected. AND! AND! Becky gets to see Abbey this Saturday in the main lobby! A "Physician approved" visit..How about this for encouragment! Now this is a "shot"needed, a big pill that will be easy to swallow! and will be delightfully felt for quite some time.. Couldn't have come at a better time! Hallelujah!

Hope all is well with you that follow along..thank you again SO much for your love-vibes and prayers..

Much love back to you...Celebrate life.. :0+=

Bill & Becky

40 days & nights..a word from donor..

Yesterday, Nov 8th marked 40 days and nights..Did we expect 40 days and nights, and more? Yes, yet always hopeful for a few days less. Becky's numbers are stable..But again, the GVH, Graft vs. Host disease is making itself known..Steriods were increased along with the intro of a new med or two.  ALL liquid diet.. a clear liquid diet..chicken broth etc. There is NO timetable for discharge...other than her weekend physician said, 'hopefully home by Thanksgiving"..Becky was somewhat downtrodden at another two weeks or more in hospital, but at least she knows this 'hiccup' can be treated...
Now here's some medicine she really needed! TWO things:
First) She got a few wonderful encouraging sentences from the DONOR. A total surprise. No pre-call from the hospital to say it was coming..Just a simple typed letter mailed to us saying, and are you ready for this? We are numb and amazed.  "Dear Patient, I am your donor, me and my small family, (husband and 8 year old daughter) are praying that God would care for you during this transplant. I want to share a bible verse with you, to encourage you:"..

Joshua 1:9 "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go"
_________________

At this time for privacy reasons, no name was given.. Of course, this was indeed the 'medicine' Becky needed. Did human effort orchestrate this? Did someone match this donor with Becky for the sake of allowing 'sisters' to share this faith bond? Of course not, we are humbled and ever so grateful that God orchestrated this. I speak only for myself, but I do ask Him to help me in my sometimes weak trust and assurance in His guidance. Yet, even when I am weak, HE is strong, and man, was this strong. Dwell on this... 

We hope to meet her and her family in a year or so.

Second, 'medicine' Becky needed was seeing Abbey, albeit from 6 stories high looking down to her. But at least she saw her..They talked and talked while looking at each other. Abbey could see Mommy's pure bald head and her medicine tower. It was a very, very good moment...
You could see the delight in Becky's eyes...We will do this more.  

So, some very encouraging 'shots' for Becky...So, so good for her..

May you all have some encouraging 'medicine' today..or tonight.
Much Love, Celebrate life..

Bill & Becky

Day 38 City Of Hope..

Yesterday's scope was a success..it did provide the evidence that the GVH (Graft vs. Host disease) was indeed making itself known. Fortunately, only showing in the intestinal area at this time..It is treatable with an increased dose of the predisone (steroid!$**&^^!) and the introduction of another drug..No, the drug regimen ain't pretty, but most of them are doing and will do what they are supposed to do.. The steroid causes Becky's hands to literally 'soft-shake' I call it, not overly pronounced, but something as simple as signing her name is difficult, even her voice changes to a low pitched gravel. ..but hey, she said, I'll do whatever it takes to get of here! This WILL pass! It really will! **Her white count rose today to 2100! We like that!
So, onward forward. We still 'click our heels' and pray for her to soon be home...Thank you Jesus for being the ultimate physician.

There's a good ol' country song by Kenny Chesney called, "Don't Blink"..man how true, the gist of the song is how life life sure passes by, don't blink. I can honestly say, Becky and I are trying to cherish/embrace memorable moments even in this time of uncertainty and trial...

Celebrate life..much, much love..

Bill & Becky

Onward forward...

Well, we thank/ praise God, Becky woke up with her plates at 43K! Which was awesome, therefore the internal scope/biopsy procedure was permitted..and she did just fine. Her whites did drop again to 1.1 (1100)..Yes, discouraging, but Becky said; 'she felt good today' ..almost happy-like..We will know for sure tomorrow..Thurs. if the Graft Vs. Host is on the radar, and if so, how to treat it. The Dr. thinks there is a trace of it, but this is common. Becky was funny, she called it "the Graft cr***p, disease." (ok, I'll say it, the 'Graft crap' disease) I guess you had to be there, it was a humorous moment. Oh, and Becky called later to say she played some solitaire...This is really good, she hasn't had the focus to do this in a few weeks or more. Yes!

WE just want those white cells numbers to ascend...this is the key to her road home. The medical lesson for today is: Simply put, the white cells fight infection, the red blood carries the oxygen, and the platelets perform the big job of clotting. The human body, though subject to breakdowns, abnormalities and in need of major tune ups from time to time, is absolutely amazing. We are indeed an awesome creation. May we never forget it.
Just to note *..Abbey had a Mtn. Dew and a donut for breakfast, and for dinner, mashed potatoes, oreos and a triple shot mocha.. She functions just fine after this nutritious intake...OK, I'll stop..She's doing great...eating well and doing good in school..

Good health and blessings to you..As Thanksgiving rapidly approaches..there is no need to say it, but I will...Give thanks in ALL things!

Celebrate life! Dance..

Bill & Becky

Day 25 "old"..each hour changes..

As always, information will be corrected/clarified..so regarding the vaccination comments from yesterday..here goes:

CLARIFICATION** You CAN VISIT IF you have had the swine flu or 'normal' flu vaccination, BUT NO visit if you have had the NASAL vaccination..stay tuned if this changes! You will of course wear the mask and gloves. And hopefully she will be awake upon your visit.
And again, NO children under 18. But feel free to tell a cute childhood story..

OK..so today saw the numbers drop again. 1.4 (1400) for the whites, the platelets 19K..
She was given platelets to boost the count for the scope procedure she WAS to have, but they actually went down to 15k, so the procedure was cancelled. Just too risky with low platelets to go internal...She will receive more tomorrow, Wednesday, hopefully they will rise, thus allowing the scope procedure possible. Becky may just wake up and see them higher. This we pray for..
She felt pretty good today though. She was matter-of-factly about the procedure cancellation. She knew it would be best to have the plates at a higher level. I think she gets the 'good attitude' award today. Yes, So thankful she was having a 'semi-feel good' day. And yes, this all seems like a surreal rollercoaster ride at times..Up, down, stop, hey let's ride again..and so on..
But she is staying on this 'ride' until there is smooth tracking..

As always, celebrate life...Smile, tell that mirror, it's gonna be a good day..

Much love,

Bill & Becky

Total 34 days at COH..the numbers..

Yes, 34 days at City Of Hope..right now it's the 'room of hope' for Becky. A hope and prayer to get some strong signals toward leaving this City Of Hope for the "City Of Home"..

Her numbers fell, white cells are now 2100, platelets approx. 20K. She will need platelets for the internal scope tomorrow. As mentioned in yesterday's blog, this procedure will identify if the Graft vs. Host disease is indeed rearing it's head, and if so, which path of treatment will be necessary to ward it off. Becky feeling generally OK today, considering this up and down phase she has entered. She loves her new satin pillow case..it feels good on her head...the hair stubs rub/glide smooth on the surface, in her world, that's a welcomed comfort.

An important note** re: VISITING : Yes, visiting is allowed, but you will wear mask and gloves. CLARIFICATION** You CAN VISIT IF you have had the swine flu or 'normal flu vaccination, BUT NO visit if you had the NASAL vaccination..stay tuned if this changes! Her attention span is limited, but visits can do her good. If she is awake. But we all know the hospital is quite a drive for most.. So no problem if visiting is done after she has been home for some time.

There is much to be thankful for..no matter what..
We are so thankful to the families who have and are now overseeing Abbey after school and into the dinner hour. She is getting some good nourishment...But I pour cereal really good in the morning, and Dr. Pepper is just as good as orange juice in the AM...yeah, OK..more humor sorta..

Celebrate Life! We are grateful to the God of this universe who gives us this life..and the promise what is beyond it..


Much Love,

Bill & Becky

Staying positive..

Day 23 after transplant..numbers are: 2700 white count, platelets 30K..not too bad. Nice to see platelets holding. The white did lower from yesterday. Becky had some nausea...Going to see to do a GI scope tomorrow..which means a look into her abdomen, see if all is well. They look to see if the Graft Vs. Host disease is appearing, and it's acutally OK if there is a sparse version of it..Means the body is fighting, working toward infection fighting defenses. We definitely like tge sound of this. Becky was sorta down today.. No other way to put it. Just ready to literally taste the air outside the hospital. She talked to Abbey an hour ago and that always gives her a psychological boost. They haven't seen each other since Oct 10th. The phone is nice, but we all know what a hug can do..

We press on..We thank God for the air we breathe..

Celebrate life... Love to ya..

Bill & Becky

Numbers game / Day 22 since transplant

Hello..hope your Halloween was safe and candy 'lite' and weren't your hands delighted to turn back the clock hands (digits) that wonderful one hour? ..and this segues into Becky and her white count and platelets turning back ..Whites were 3100 and platlets were also around 31K, (down from 37K)...But again, it's OK, per: the Doctor. "Don't worry", he said. He's still pleased with what he is seeing. Becky was feeling OK considering, still tired, foggy...Solid food not her thing right now, but she does nibble on cereal. Another animal note. Thought we may have to ask the dog to leave for three months, but Dr. said, "no, no, it's OK as long as he is NOT in the room." Hey! thanks Doc. Will follow these orders, no problem. The Doctor is a dog lover. He knows exactly what our 'best friends' can and cannot do, upon the patient's return home. That's cool... It has been a total of 32 days, seems like a blur, also seems each minute was counted/felt.

Abbey doing good...really can't wait for Mom to come home. I saw Dorothy do the '3 click' on those ruby red shoes while at some friend's house the other night and well you know the rest of the story..Yeah, only in the movies, but it sure was nice to see and imagine. We just pray for the last 'in-patient', yes in-patient hospital 'undo-click' of that catheter line to happen soon.. Becky still has to have this chest catheter for 1oo days after transplant, but just being home will perhaps make carrying this dual white 'long straw' line more tolerable. (She will have to return to City Of Hope twice a week while "wearing" the chest catheter, blood is drawn from these lines, fluids are administered and more)
We trust in God's ultimate lead. We ask for patience and strength.

"I can do all things, through Him who strengths me" Phil 4:13

Celebrate life, don't ever forget how to have some fun dayz... :)+=

Much Love,

Bill & Becky

Slight count drop/BUT Plates doing good!

Thank you all for your being so diligent in your prayers and good all around vibes..We feel them!
Sight drop in the white count to 4400...BUT the good news is, those darn platelets which alerted us to this illness in the first place, are holding and even increased today! The platelets have a tendency to 'lag' behind the white count..They are the stubborn ones to increase. But they are at 37K, that's a 10K rise from yesterday. Believe me, we want these to go up, up, up and away.
The norm for platelets is between 150-350K. Becky did need two units of red blood today. Her hemoglobin a bit off. She did some good physical therapy yesterday. She was tired and 'mind foggy' today. But, said it before, this is all part of the road to recovery. She is eating some solid food. Her insulin needs were reduced! That's good too! So, we are indeed seeing some great recovery 'markers'. We pray for Becky to back at the "Love Shack" before we know it..OK, that's kinda one of her fave songs, "Love Shack"..
It will be repeated over and over, but we are so grateful for the physician overseeing Becky. We Praise God he was chosen for Becky's case, or perhaps he was lead to take it on. He is the associate director of the entire Hematology/Bone marrow Transplantation staff. We surely didn't/couldn't have planned this.

Onward forward..

Much love, Celebrate life!

Bill & Becky

Count increase! / 19 days old!.

Cell count up to 4800! Great jump from yesterday. Lead physician was really pleased with this.
Will even cut back on prednisone, which is very cool. Becky had some cereal tonight. It tasted so good to her. It's been 29 days, Becky getting really stir crazy..she is craving the outside world!

Onward forward..

Celebrate life..

Bill & Becky

On course...White count up!

Yes, on course..Whites were 3400 yesterday, and today 3800! Platelets are still low, but at least stable for last few days..Becky wearing heart monitor. Dr's orders, due to her having a 'racing heart' for a few days. But today only a few episodes today. She's eating some solid food, but not too much. Sugar still a little elevated.
Hey anybody need a bird! Just kidding..but there is some truth to question...We cannot keep the Parakeet we've had for approx. 9/10 years. Infectious disease physician said best to get it out of the house for at least a year, so Becky and I came to the decison, best to find it a permanent home, if possible, AND we did! And what a home we found. An employee of a Veterinary practice, her young son wanted a bird, so guess what! He got a bird today! Abbey and I were out to eat one day and just thought we would inquire within the office about any bird rescue organizations or perhaps anyone simply wanting a bird, and there the new owner was..ready and willing to take our sweet little Parakeet. He is in great hands. Just thought you needed a happy bird story today.
We praise God for Becky's slow but real progress. Again, we do not have any idea of discharge.
We just pray for her to regain her strength and stability, and for those whites to keep streaming upward!

We press on..May you have "the peace that surpasses all understanding."

Celebrate life,

Bill & Becky

Day 17 post transplant..TOTAL 27 days at COH

White count still showing stability but it did drop just a bit to 3400 from 3700, but as mentioned, we were told this may happen. This is OK, a small drop.. Becky has lost 12 pounds of water weight in past 3 days!. That's good! Predisone has been tapered..and an anti-biotic has been ceased..That's OK too! She is tired..got to get her strength back as her body adjusts to this infiltration of stem cells..They are working hard to take over in the marrow.
Needless to say, but will always say it anyway, we pray for more of those new white cells to seen!

Good health and blessings to you all..

Celebrate life..no, no really, really celebrate life..

Bill & Becky

*PS. Again, if you want to post a comment..it appears doing the anonymous post is the more user friendly option..you can mention your name in the text, if you so desire..

Stable..Day 16 after transplant

Greetings....White count stable today..no drop, no rise. Sugar still a bit high, but again, to be expected due to the medicinal cocktail. This sugar high should subside upon or around discharge day. Becky just plain tired from all the meds. and of course the constant bed rest. Yet, she does receive minimal physical therapy when able and it was wonderful for her to take a walk to the lobby on the floor. She really enjoyed seeing the San Gabriel Mountains and 'life' roaming about below. Good for her countenance.. Said again how she can't wait to go home. We just don't have any concrete idea when this may happen.
Thank you all again so much for your prayers and kind support...

God Bless...

Enjoy-Celebrate life!

Bill & Becky

Post transplant Day 15!..still increasing

Yes, Day 15 from transplant on October 9th..still showing an increase in white cells, Today 3700! and the 'other side' (the neutrohphil side I think) that was a concern to the DR., continues to rise.. Becky was tired today, but she was able walk a few feet OUTSIDE her room! This felt good to her, to be able to get out of the room.. She said: "I can't wait to go home".. There is still a quite a road to travel before this happens, but the road appears to have some smooth pavement along with the rough. Her eyes are starting to clear. There is blood in only one eye from the low platelets. Abbey was at the hospital today, but of course had to stay down in the main lobby due to the swine flu, 'no one under 18 can visit' policy. But it was still nice to have her nearby.
We pray for Becky's strength to increase. She is quite shaky from the all meds, especially predisone. We also pray the sugar levels will decrease. Insulin is still being administered WITH her nutrition 'bag'..Yes, it's all mixed in..the potassium, the sodium and more...all a big yummy liquid food cocktail.
Thank you all again for your prayers. WE hope all is well with you and your family.

Abbey and I were listening to Carrie Underwood while driving to the hospital and the popular song "Jesus take the wheel" played. We gotta still do our driving and determination in life, but man, how appropriate I thought.. "Jesus take the wheel"..even when we think we may have it so sure and steady.

Celebrate life,

Bill & Becky

Day 14 after transplant :) Total 24 days in hosp..

Looks like the 'other side' of the white cells are now showing an increase! This is what the Dr. was hoping to see..Wanted both sides of the whites to show a rise in count! Today Becky is at 2100, yes an increase from yesterday's count. We do hope there will not be a count fluctuation as a nurse had mentioned could possibly happen..And if the 'rollercoaster' levels do materialize, let it be ever so slight. Becky is tired from the prednisone keeping her wired! Keeps her awake at night, but she did rest well for a period today...OH, and she is also taking a diuretic to rid her body of some unwanted fluid, and it doesn't take much to imagine how the fluid is purged..she gets up and down from the bed multiple times.
BUT she is so delighted to hear about the white count!...it doesn't necessarily make the other unpleasantries any less unpleasant, but it can sure make these medicinal side effects a tad less lingering when she thinks about the good that is happening. Her focus and resolve are awesome..
Stay tuned for what we hope and pray will be an increase in the good news department!

Celebrate life! Much Love..

Bill & Becky

13 days after 'bday'..some good news!

Yes! Yesterday, day 12..white count showed slight increase, from 100 to 300! and today Thursday, day 13 post transplant, they were 1200! This is indeed good news. :)+=
Now, to temper this just a bit, the Dr. said he wanted the 'other side' of the white cells to increase. He didn't see any rise in this part of the white cell arena.. Ok, who knew there would be TWO sides to the cell, or two whatevers.?!! AND the nurse overseeing Becky today said, "don't be surprised if the count fluctuates", it may drop, but hopeful to rise again. But, let me tell ya, Becky will take/absorb this small visible and real 'victory' amidst the surrounding uncertainty. The rash is slightly improved. She actually had some blood in her eyes from low platelets, but this will also improve. She is having some elevated sugar levels, so insulin is now part of the med routine. Again, this can happen in the aftermath of the stem cell procedure. Prednisone is helping with lung issue and more. She's been eating small portions of real food! Who said; 'an apple a day keeps the Dr. away'..try frosted flakes, and wow, a warm baked potato never tasted so delicious. Naturally, she is still weak from the treatment and meds. She can talk for few minutes on the phone and then it's back to rest. We don't know how much longer she will be in room isolation..if white cells get to a certain sustained level, she can leave for a walk out in the hall, maybe even the lobby on her floor, and the maybe down to main level lobby. When can she leave the room for the after care village or even home? Well, that hasn't been mentioned amongst the professionals, YET. No predictions, YET.

So, onward forward..WE thank the Lord for the positive news. It is a boost to Becky's mental state..and of course to Abbey and me. Becky misses Abbey terribly, hasn't seen her since the 10th, but we know this is only temporary. A mother and child embrace, an enduring hug will be here soon.

Lamentations 3:22- 23 "The Lord's lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, For His compassions never fail, they are new every morning; Great is thy faithfulness".

I know it may have a little saccharine feel, but give somebody a hug..your loved one, your friend...

Celebrate life,

:0) Love, Bill & Becky

PS. FYI: If you want to leave a comment, it looks like the 'anonymous' route might be the easiest. You can mention your name in the text body, if you desire.

Day 11 after transplant..

Still some fever..nausea not as bad today..but has full body rash, due to possible reaction to some anti-biotic med..Again, this can happen. Becky did have a rough night last, some breathing issues, needed oxygen, respiratory treatment for about an hour. Cat scan ordered, showed slight, slight lower lung filtration of fluid..but no other infection or 'red flags'. Cultures were taken and these also appeared 'clean' of any infection or other complication. Started steroid treatment to ward of lung issue and perhaps a few others. She is still getting red blood when needed and of course platelets. Becky actually saw herself in the mirrow for the first time since the complete head shave. She just took it in for a moment, mumbled a few words about it (*feel free to interpret what she may have said) and then went about getting ready for a shower. She is quite amazing..Another day is soon to close. Ready for the night. Again, we pray for white count to increase. WE are grateful the Dr's. and nurses overseeing her...

Good health and God's blessings to you all.

Celebrate Life..no really, celebrate life..

Bill & Becky

Day 10 after transplant...

Been said before and will say it again. Becky still 'on course' as far as what should be happening. Fever, nausea, white count still very low, even needed red blood yesterday, Saturday, and she still receives platelets when necessary. But again, all going to plan, ...even the big day of total hair loss. Yesterday, hair came out in a clump, thus nurse assistant took initiative to shave remaining hair..Becky didn't think this was actually happening until final stroke of shaver..Assistant said: "this is the only haircut I know"...Becky took it well..again, same ol' story, we were told hair loss inevitable, but when it happens one has to pause for a moment and absorb this "female Samson-like moment", the loss of the long flowing hair, you've had since youth...She commented; 'now I look like my brother, but only with earrings". Her attitude is still good, her 'spirit' is positive. Even with the endless barrage of medications, the extreme fatigue, and total room confinement, Becky presses on with courage. Her attention span has decreased from the 'one article in a magazine" to perhaps one picture..one sentence. I asked her today, while she was lying still, eyes open..and motionless, 'what are thinking about right now".. she said: "just getting through this", and that pretty much says it..'getting through this'.. She has the strength to do this, she has the want and the will..though it is quite difficult at this time. Though questions abound and mysteries may arise, Becky still clings to the great physician to strengthen her through these next few weeks, months and beyond. The hospital is called City of Hope..a great name indeed, but Becky knows there is the Lord Jesus who is the savior of hope. Though this sickness may temporarily rob her of voiced praised, please know, this hope carries/inspires her daily.

We ask you to pray for increased white count within a week or so...

Keep a song in your heart and a little dance in your step..

Celebrate life!

Bill and Becky

Day 6 - post transplant

Each day is different...had an OK day yesterday, Weds, ate some toast and rested OK..

day before kinda weird..no solid food and not much 'giddy up' at all..

Today, Thursday..well, the fever has come, nausea as usual and more..and as mentioned, we were told this would be part of the 'standard discomfort'..the routine..But what a routine..

Becky just talked to me briefly via phone..I am working today, yes, I am trying to work a few days.  She sounded exhausted, but good to hear her voice..

One note Becky wanted to make.  For the past few months, leading up to hospital admittance, Becky would wake up in the early hours of the AM..2am etc. Just couldn't sleep, perhaps due to a few factors, including prednizone..BUT she also knows in her heart of hearts, it was the Lord allowing her this unique and extended 'quiet time'..She would be awake 3 to 4 hours or more..Reading scripture, praying, doing BILLS! and other work.  She notes..that now she can't even focus for more than a 10 to 15 minutes on reading, writing and any other related activities.  She has a 'one article-magazine' mentality right now.  Likes to watches Jeopardy and a few other shows and then rest of course..

She just knows the Lord provided this wonderful quiet, reflective, productive time leading up to the stem cell procedure..She treasures she had this, cause now it seems quite foreign..

Again, we pray these new stem cells will make a nice comfortable home in Becky's marrow..

which will produce a gradual increase in white cells.

As always, thank you for your support..

**If you cannot publish a comment..or do not wish to, then feel free to email us at our home email..

Celebrate life,

Bill & Becky

On course...Day 4 after transplant

Overall, doing OK..she is 'on course'..Immune system (white count) very, very low, but again, this is part of the procedure..

She is weak..Solid foods may not be desired for while, but will get plenty of nourishment from IV's..We have been told a few times, she will lose her hair in a few days..BUT so far, still so wonderful to grab the brush and stroke her lovely golden hair..

Still requires platelets, (again, part of the plan) but we hope & pray this part of her life will soon be in past. She cannot go out of her room until white count ascends to desirable level.

AND the hospital just implemented policy of NO children under 18 allowed in patient rooms, not even allowed on floor/outside lobby..of course, due to that wonderful H1N1 virus..Abbey was able to visit on Saturday..time will tell if this policy will relax..We do understand the reasons why..just a bit difficult on children and patients!..

Thank you as always for your prayers and support..We truly feel them. God is the ultimate overseer of this time and place...His hands are seen everywhere. WE pray all is well with you and your family..


Celebrate Life!

Bill and Becky

Day "0" Fresh Stem Cells Infused!

DAY “0” Fresh Stem Cells infused!

Yes, Day “0” as it is called..Becky received the 'fresh” stem cells! YES! Hooray! She rested post infusion, but is now sitting up in bed up and is feeling good..The procedure was nothing out of the ordinary..the 'charge' nurse and the RN overseeing Becky today, simply brought the plastic 'life giving' bag into the room, hung it on the 'med tower', and the cells/blood methodically streamed directly into her hickman catheter..we could literally see blood particles or “happily marching stem cells” as Becky called them..they just marched right into her body..The bag was about the size of a large freezer bag, coloration was a pink/red and was only about half full! We said, "that's it?!” and that was indeed it..They arrived last night about 9:30. The count was approx. 8 million and Becky received them all.. Even though it may have seemed low-key and anti-climatic, it wasn't. Becky was EXCITED! WE were silent for a few minutes, giving thanks to God for this life sustaining material, and for a donor who agreed to give this 'life changing' liquid..and we thank all those early pioneers of research, for the patients who endured the early treatment process and of course for the physicians who said..'this can be done'...We just watched the little stems march through that tube and we said 'go do your thing'..Need I say, the next 14 to 21 days, (and even months) are going to be quite significant..Her white blood cells (immune system) will continue to decrease a bit more..yet, the 'good' whites will soon start to increase..We have been told, Becky will experience, fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, some possible mouth sores...BUT! every patient is different..so, stay tuned..Her body is/ will be 'fighting' the new stems for just a bit, but the 'new' should eventually be accepted and 'win-out'..She still has chemo in her system and the transplant drugs will be her little friends for quite some time. Again, other than last Sunday, her physical state has been fairly manageable -comfortable..but the REAL work starts now..Her immune system is very, very low..and so much needs to happen within her marrow/body. But again, we thank the Lord for this procedure and all those involved in the process.. Abbey is doing good..appetite and countenance much better..we are grateful for this..
Again, excitement is in the air..WE have another “birthday” to celebrate!
**OH! Correction time: as said at the beginning of this entry, Becky DID receive the direct BLOOD stem cells, not the bone marrow cell separation as written yesterday..
Celebrate life!

Bill and Becky

More..wow..Day 9

Ok,ok…as earlier written, ‘tweaks/corrections’ will come..and these are:
As corrected in the last entry..she got her plasma ‘siphoned’..so it would not fight against the incoming ‘fresh’ stem cells..she now has no antibodies! But all good til tomorrow. We also learned the stem cells will come from the donor’s bone marrow, and not from the red blood build up, BUT it is basically a parallel issue or result. The mucky muck machine that separated the Becky’s plasma from the red blood, will actually ‘spin’/separate the stem cells from the bone marrow donation. This process will be done tomorrow AM, before the transplant.
Becky resting well, very calm about tomorrow. No nausea, feeling overall pretty good. AND Abbey is Mom’s cheerleader, she said, “Mom, today is a new beginning, the old has been taken out and the new is coming. In two years, we’re gonna go to Hawaii and Europe. Just keep thinking about that.”
So. We press on because have hope..Our hope is in the Lord.
Celebrate Life..don’t forget to how to have fun..there is much to do..

Thank you so very much for your love and prayers..

Bill & Becky

City Of Hope day 9../ day b4 Stem Cell 'infusion'

Becky had a good day yesterday..appetite still pretty good..some weakness but generally stable and able to walk around the hospital floor with ease..of course she has her 'drip tower' as I call it, in tow..this 7 foot 'med carrier' on wheels..Her attitude, as I mentioned before, is generally positive and ready.
She is receiving the transplant drugs...these help with warding off the 'graft versus host' disease, the big 'boogieman' of post stem cell transplant..The next 100 days are crucial to observe...and this disease can even rear it's head for up to two years..if I have my facts correct..
Seems like we learn something everyday..Please be prepared for corrections on any of my/our medical information output..
The transplant drugs may produce a more uncomfortable state for a few days or even week or two..But we have been told, each patient is different, so we pray Becky will have ease of days..
Other than Sunday, she has had mostly comfortable and manageable days..
She is developing a sore throat, which is due to the transplant drug treatment..And again, if I have my facts correct, she is techincally done with chemo and will be receiving the transplant drug regimen, BUT Becky just informed me today, she has to take one certain transplant drug for months, to again, deflect the graft vs. host disease..This will be one among many when she first arrives home..We have been told she may take as many as 21 drugs! BUT we cannot forget, this is on the road to a CURE! Yes, a CURE!
Becky has a Hickman catheter that is inserted in the right side of her chest, it has 2 tubes that run directly into the heart. This catheter is where she receives all of her intervenous medications, and they also remove blood for blood tests! This means no punctures to any arm veins.
Today she received a plasma apheresis which will assist in the transition of her blood type that will change from her current O negative to the donor's A positive! Yeah, mindblowing! The plasma apheresis was 2 hours 45 minutes in which all of her blood was slowly removed through the catheter, and her plasma and antibodies were all removed into a bag and replaced with albumin to balance out the red blood as it returned into her heart and keep her blood pressure even.
The cells are to arrive tonight, they are counted, then we think sometime around 11am tomorrow, the actual infusion of the 'fresh' stem cells will take place..

Pray for this to all be smooth and comfortable, for all medical care involved in this, to be precise and confident ..Can't say it enough, we thank the Lord for this procedure in this day and time and for a donor who has released 'life giving' stem cells to another human being..my wonderful wife..

Will be back soon.. with an update and again any neccessary corrections.. :)+=

**Abbey doing good..has better appetite and more upbeat in her voice and actions..Please keep her in your prayers..

May the Lord bless you and keep you and make His face to shine upon you..

Celebrate Life..

Bill and Becky

More...

As mentioned, Becky had first treatment of stronger chemo, and double dose at that, since Monday's 'input' was cancelled. She sounded good tonight.. considering this more intense regimen...which, is designed to deliver a few more 'knock outs' to Becky's current immune system. Again, readying her for Friday, when the 'fresh' stem cells, as the schedule posted in her room states, are infused...In elementary terms, we want these 'fresh' stem cells to go into her marrow and make a nice home..

Becky has focus and resolve.. she may not see it, but she really does have a 'can-do-it' attitude..even amidst the fog and uncertainity of this process/journey...Did I say, I love her? I DO!

We think about and pray for the donor, who elevating or building her red blood cell count so she output the proper measure of stem cells..She will inject herself with a specific drug, neupogen (sp?)..to build this red blood count..We have surmised, she is overseas, possible Europe, but all we really know is, she's not in the US....The stem cells will be flown over..Amazing, truly amazing AND amazing that this person was found..and has given of herself..this sacrifice..this 'life giving' measure...May God grant her an uneventful procedure..which I understand should not bring any harm to her at all...

More to come..can't say it enough, thank you all for your heartfelt support and prayers..

** Abbey had a slightly more improved 'coping day'...I call it. Her hop-a-long had a little more hop..

City Of Hope../ days 4, 5 & 6. Sat, Sun, Mon

Per Bill: Saturday: Weak, but doing OK considering..eating solid foods..walking around the hospital floor...

Sunday...a very tough day. Some reaction to drug that prohibits bleeding..plus low sodium levels...and of course still doing chemo..Had some disorientation in the morning but slightly better by Sunday afternoon, quite nauseous, had to have a sitter with her all night...wasn't quite able to push the nurse call button if needed.

Brother Rich, Sis-in-law Lannie, friend Sonia, and Abbey and I there...It was quite difficult for Abbey to see, absorb...please pray for her..for her eating..for her school focus..

Monday- Happy to report Becky doing much better! adjusted medication...elevated sodium levels! Stronger in voice and thought! Clearer..She hardly recalls Sunday! A blur..She remembers only a few moments!...She talked to Abbey on phone in length...and sure was nice.

We do hope and pray these kind of days, like Sunday, will be rare..but even if they come again..we pray for Becky's comfort..and of course to have wise medical guidance..

Today, Tuesday- Her lead physician..out of town a few days, but back and visited her early..Telling her we will begin the more 'effective'/stronger immuno-suppressant chemo/drugs..She will get a double dose today..STILL on the countdown for day "0"..Friday the 9th..receipt of stem cells!...Needless to day, we covet your prayers for a gentle few days..

Will be back soon..with another post..Thank you all for your love and support..We thank God for this...and we thank God we have this procedure in this day and time!

Celebrate life..Bill

City Of Hope day 3 (day -7 countdown to transplant day 0)

Psalm 57:1-3

“O God, have pity, for I am trusting You. I will hide beneath the shadow of Your wings until this storm is past. I will cry to the God of heaven who does such wonders for me. He will send down help from heaven to save me, because of His love and His faithfulness.”

WHEW!! After meeting with my doctor Wednesday, I was ready to BOLT out of here!! He explained the negative aspects of this stem cell transplant..not that we hadn’t been informed of the ‘downside’ of this curative journey..but he got even more technical and explicit…Believe me, I will continue to focus on the positive road! Period!

Needless to say, this is quite an intricate process….I began chemo Wednesday night and thus far haven’t had any problems, appetite good, no nausea etc.. …will continue to receive it nightly through Sunday, then I’ve been warned the transplant drugs I begin on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday will be very tough, harsh….will probably transfer to liquid food for quite some time..

Today, they surgically inserted a Hickman catheter in my chest/neck…I needed 2 platelet transfusions for the procedure. The areas are painful, bruised and swollen but should subside soon, I hope! Of course, pain medication is easing the discomfort..I am grateful for these kinds of drugs..this ‘hotel’ has it all..ha-ha..

Well, I’ll close for now..Soon to receive 3rd dose of ‘normal’ chemo..

Abbey has had a little difficulty sleeping, but being home with Bill will hopefully limit her anxiety..Bill’s had a little ‘cat on a hot tin roof’ syndrome, but of course, has been very supportive and focused..and I love him so much!

Again, I thank you all for your prayers. We know God, the great physician, has provided some truly wonderful earthly medical care..I know many of you have your own trials..some severe..and life altering..yes, try to see the positive, there is still much to be thankful for..

Much Love…

PS. An amusing note** The Dr. said this part of the journey at the 'hotel' will be approx. 40days and 40 nights..dwell on that awhile.

Psalm 71: 5-8 "O Lord, You alone are my hope; I've trusted You from childhood. Yes, You have been with me from birth and have helped me constantly--no wonder I am always praising You! My success--at which so many stand amazed--is because You are my mighty protector. All day long I'll praise and honor You, O God, for all the You have done for me."

THANK YOU FOR YOUR PRAYERS, LOVE and SUPPORT! City of Hope has received the final approval of the Donor's physical, so all systems are GO for TRANSPLANT!!!
I will be admitted on Wednesday, September 30, to begin chemotherapy (September 30, October 1, 2, 3, 4) and transplant medications (October 5, 6,7) and on Friday, October 9, receive the blood stem cell transplant/ transfusion!

Specific prayer requests:
For my body to be strong in this process, especially for the critical 100 days AFTER the transplant!!!

For the Medical Staff to provide wise and thoughtful care; I will be so grateful for each of them!
For the Donor to be well in her medication preparation (October 3-6) and actual harvesting (October 7 and 8), as well as her recovery in the weeks to follow (after a few weeks there is no after effect or harm; the body goes back to normal).
For the safety of the airline pilot and the actual person who will be hand carrying the stem cells to the United States on October 8.
For my wonderful husband and daughter, that they will be safe and secure through the 30+ days that we are separated!

That the Lord would be honored and glorified through this entire process..........

Thank you for your prayers....today marks 69 days without a transfusion...God is SO good!!!!

City of Hope told me today that the Donor rescheduled her physical to September 23, but wants to harvest stem cells on October 7/8; everything depends on the results of her physical, so it's not certain when I will be admitted even though they still want to begin September 28...we WAIT upon the Lord for His timing.....I certainly pray for this 43 year old woman who is generously giving "life" to me, that if she doesn't know the Lord, that through this process she will!!!

I was beginning to feel anxious the other day, with Bill being away to help care for his Dad, hearing how exhausted he is arranging and going to doctors, trying to arrange 24/7 home health care and then up all hours of the night as his Dad doesn't sleep longer than 1-2 hours at a time, he hasn't been able to get much sleep either; then me being on the phone with several transplant nurses and City of Hope wondering how to schedule our home life for when I'm gone; and helping Abbey with being back to school, homework and projects, well God stepped in and gave me comfort from a devotional on 1 John 4:18 "Perfect love drives out fear".....'Perfect loves drives out fear-that love is the supreme weapon against fear; when I truly understand how much God loves me, fear leaves my heart like darkness when the sun rises, that's because love always says 'I want the best for you - always; I have in mind your ultimate good, not just your present comfort; My love includes discipline, for I care too much for you to allow you to become a spoiled brat. The best thing I can know during a difficult time is that the One who allows that difficulty is the One who loves me more than anyone else does in the whole universe. No I may not understand the state of affairs, but I know He loves me ----deeply.' by Darlene Sala ......WHEW...God certainly calmed me down...AMEN for HIS GREAT LOVE to each us!!!!!

Ephesians 4:20 and 21a

"Now glory be to God who by His mighty power at work within us is able to do far more than we would ever dare to ask or even dream of--infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts or hopes. May He be given glory FOREVER...."
THANK YOU FOR YOUR PRAYERS. CELEBRATING LIFE with so many of you the other day was so WONDERFUL!!! Interesting how after Praising God publicly my platelets dropped from 52,000 to 14,000....but this gets more interesting...I received a phone call from City of Hope telling me that they have identified a strong potential donor (a 43 year old female, from outside the United States) and they are contacting her to complete all the physical testing needed...God's timing.....I am to be scheduled to redo all of my physical tests the week of September 21st, with the tentative inpatient admission on the 28th to begin chemo, etc. and transplant October 6....it all depends on the donor's availability and physical results......so again, we ask you to pray for the right decisions and God's peace....truly, we wait upon the Lord! By the way, please pray for Bill, he will be traveling to his Dad's Sept 9-19 to reacclaimate him back home, set up physical therapy and home care; for those of you who don't know, his Dad had emergency brain surgery on August 18 (apparently he fell twice on concrete in the Spring injuring his head, but didn't get checked out, and on the 18th he had trouble speaking, was taken to the hospital where CT scan showed he had "old" blood and swelling of the brain; then a second surgery on the 25th; all seems to be fine now just needs physical rehab and time to heal). Abbey begins school on the 8th; her last year of middle school and we need to apply to high schools. My brother, Richard, had a positive biopsy for prostate cancer and will have a CT scan on the 22nd before treatment will be decided......our family has LOTS going on, but GOD IS FAITHFUL and WE WAIT UPON HIM!!! Thank you for your prayers!!!

Hi Everyone!
Just to clarify...I am home. The blood stem cell transplant was cancelled, because it was a high risk to my Brother's health. Richard is very disappointed, but we both understand the risk...so we WAIT upon the Lord for an unrelated donor. I'm back to daily visits at my local hospital for blood tests which indicate if I need platelet transfusions or not. Praise God, the prednisone has kept my platelets holding for 14 days now!!! This is really an answer to prayer!!! Thank you for comments and most of all your prayers.....God is faithful!

Isn't this a marvelous thing God is doing???? Her big brother is going to give her life.
In December 2007 Becky had her normal physical and blood tests with her wonderful Dr. Rock, and the blood tests revealed abnormal blasts in her blood tests, and thinking that it was leukemia, she was seen the next day by a specialist, Dr. Fischer. After a bone marrow aspiration Becky was diagnosed with a rare bone marrow disorder, myelofibrosis; it's a gene (JAK2) that suddenly decided to mutate and scar the bone marrow and not allow blood to be made properly in the bone marrow and kicks it out into the spleen to be made. We were told that there is no "cure", but clinical trial drugs were 2 years in the research stage, with no completed studies, and that there are several medication regimes to help with symptoms, but again no "cure". Dr. Fischer connected us to Dr. Snyder at City of Hope, for consultation on the only cure known, blood stem cell replacement (similar to bone marrow transplant but more effective). February 2009 the myelofibrosis and thrombocytopenia (low platelets, the clotting part of our blood) accelerated at a rapid rate. Becky began those heavy drug regimes and blood platelet transfusion 2-4 times a week! Oh how Becky loves, appreciates and prays for her CDU Nurses (Toni, Fiorella, Joan, Laurie, MaryBeth, Linda, Katie, Julie, Yvette, and Lynn). Becky's body didn't accept the medications. Continuing to pray for healing and seeking God's will about all this, the road just kept getting narrower as to what needed to be done; she is literally living because of God providing the platelet donors. Transfusions wear a person out and you don't have a real quality of life. Accepting the seriousness of it all, May 4th we went back to consult with Dr. Snyder. City of Hope (located 1 hour from our home) began looking for a world-wide donor for matching blood stem cells. Matching criteria would be 14 out of 14 points. Dr. Snyder recommended that Becky's 69 year old brother, Richard, be tested but it would be uncertain if he would physically be able to be the donor or match; research shows that only 1 out of 4 children in a family match. Richard asked to be tested! Richard is a smoker and he was so positive that we would match that he told us that we would have to start buying cigarettes because after I got his blood I'd want to smoke! hahahaha! I love him SO much! In early June, a potential donor was located in Europe, but they were not 100%, but "could work", however further testing of that donor would need to be done. Did you know that bone marrow/blood stem cells are all based on our ethnicity? So, when I explained I was a little of this and that and that, they understood why they were having a challenge finding a match. On June 23 we were told that Richard matches me 100%....only God could do this!!!! God has provided and we are walking His path! July 20th Becky becomes an isolated inpatient and the walk in the valley continues on with Jesus Christ continuing to shepherd the way!