Admission
5/20/2022
Ian was cleared for transplant yesterday! All of his tests were normal: chest x-ray, echocardiogram, pulmonary function, covid and labs. He also got his back-side drilled (literally… see photo!) for another bone marrow biopsy, which showed no Leukemia blasts! And, his four gallbladder incisions are healing up nicely, inside and out. After being given the green light, our transplant doctor went over the treatment plan and the pharmacist reviewed the lengthy schedule of medicines. Of course, they also reiterated the risks – life altering and life threatening. Ian has no co-morbidities and a near-perfectly matched donor, so we rest assured that he will survive and thrive!
Today Ian entered Duke University Hospital. Under moderate sedation, he first received a “central-venous catheter” which has a line going straight to his heart and three plugs hanging out of his chest. This “triple lumen” port facilitates three fluids at one time and blood draws. He was then wheeled up to his room in the new Central Tower – it’s huge and modern. Best of all, it has a big window with a spectacular view (of campus below and trees on the horizon).
We expect that Ian will be in-patient for about two weeks, but time will tell. Initially, he will have five days of super high-intensity chemo, a day of rest, then the stem cell infusion on Thursday, May 26 (day “0”). The first chemo drip of “Thiotepa” started today. This particular chemical excretes through the skin, so I am not allowed to touch him (or his clothes) for 4 days.
Before admission, we enjoyed a few last days exploring Durham, notably a nature park, axe throwing, a professional Ultimate frisbee game, sliding down a real fire pole, eating about and seeing old friends (Ryno & Lindsay!). It was nice indeed, but we are glad to get this show on the road! Back at home, there was a changing of the guard. After three lovely weeks with the boys, my Mom (reluctantly) left and Ian’s folks arrived (after a long drive from Seattle). Being spoiled by grandparents, I don’t think they miss us one bit!
