Almost there

Tomorrow will be a full week since we got here.  Certainly the longest stint I've ever spent in a hospital.  Great news is, I think we'll be out of here tomorrow when the doc makes his rounds.  In order to leave, there must be no fever for 24 hours and no sign of infection.   I think I'll pass with flying colors.  Starting yesterday, my blood started to show a neutrophil count...... which means, my replacement stem cells have engrafted and I'm on my way up!  I've been without fever since yesterday afternoon, and my counts are steadily rising.   

Sorry there havent been any updates the last couple of days.   It has been ruuuuuff.   With getting just the standard chemotherapy dose, I was only familiar with what most folks feel as fatigue and sickness from the juice.  But now, holy cow- I can honestly say there is another league.  I almost already have no memory of how ill and how much pain I was in the last few days here.   I have a whole new respect for this process, and anyone who has gone through it.  I hear some in the clinic talking about it being their 2nd or 3rd transplant.  Good thing this will be it for me. 

I'll check back in when I am released from here and back into my routine of going to the clinic every day.  Thanks for listening 

Comments

[Jules - Freedom]

So so so glad to hear about those little neutrophils! Maybe it was your Zoning that got them going...I'm just saying!

From my perspective: I have huge respect for you and Melissa, and the process you've been through, and your attitudes during this whole transplant. I know it's been far from easy, and there's still a ways to go...but even these small steps are cause for big celebrations.

Looking forward to hearing that you're back home - then we'll come do burpees in your driveway.

[Matt E.]

Hey Jeff, let me know when you get back to the Briarcliff homestead! TTYL!

[Laura]

Hey dear brother,
Did you feel my happy, positive thoughts and prayers all the way from Rome??
It was killing me that I was so far away and didn't know what was happening. I am so glad you are doing alright.
I am doing the Race for the Cure in your honor and I hope I get to see ya'll soon. love you lots and think of you ALL the time!!
~Laura

[Laura]

ps. I know its a different cancer, but we need cancer gone- PERIOD!!! Just thought I'd clear that up. :)
Also, I don't remember if I told you and Melis but my friend Linds is doing the team in training marathon this fall and your name will be on her shirt... love you!

[Jason Harrison]

I went to the Clinic on Tuesday and didn't see ya, so I assumed you were in the '"Big House" .... Emily had a receipt for Melissa to try out for you. I believe it was a Spicey Cajun Dish with extra peppers...hahaha

Keep the fever down and you will stay out of that place. I must say it's no Hilton, but you get treated very well and can have all the Drugs and Ice Cream you want...

I hope the worst is over, and you continue to gain strength. See ya at the Clinic next week.

Jason Harrison