THE PHOTO ON THE LEFT IS OF CHARLIE RECEIVING THE STEM CELLS
It's been a very long time since I last posted on my blog. When I started this blog, my husband was very ill with lymphoma. Since then he had a recovery from lymphoma, but then developed leukemia caused by the chemo in his first transplant. What a discouragement that was!! Charlie's platelet count never returned to normal after his first stem cell transplant, but he did return to work (a very physical occupation). In the fall of 2009 we learned that he needed another stem cell transplant if there was any hope for recovery. My wonderful husband continued to work until February 2010 when he fell on steel cutting himself quite badly. I have to say that I was relieved to see him quit his job. Because of the very low platelet count, Charlie had bruises of all sizes on his body.
In April 2010 Charlie finally was able to have another stem cell transplant. This time it was not his own cells, but that of a 21 year old male that was a perfect 10 of 10 match. The first stem cell transplant was a bit scary since it took 31 days for Charlie's stem cells to engraft. We had no idea of what would happen with the transplant this time. To our amazement the donor's stem cells engrafted in only 8 days. As of today there has been no sign of rejection and Charlie's blood counts are all normal. He was diagnosed with bronchiectasis (lung disease) before the second stem cell transplant. This was due to either the chemo or the low immune system. So far, with daily breathing treatments, the disease still is mild. If it progresses it can cause serious problems and disability.
My wonderful husband is now back at work doing what he loves to do. I have to say that I did enjoy having him at home for about 8 months, but I know that a man is only truly happy when he is able to work. God has truly been very good to us!!
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