Well, we have reached a monumental milestone… we have reached Day +30!! When we started at Day -7, this day seemed like so far in the future but we made it. We have officially “graduated” from daily clinic appointments and will be transitioning care to my primary oncologist over the next few weeks. For those worried that I will miss my BMT team, don’t worry I will be back soon to complete my full work up at Day 100 which will include another Bone Marrow Biopsy and a PET Scan. 

Before we start talking about Day 100, let’s first just celebrate making it to Day +30! Today, I will have my weekly appointment and lab draw to see where my numbers are.  My numbers during my last blood draw were improving but my ANC – one of the most important ones- still remains low and unchanged.  We were on the line where we could have done more growth stimulating shots, but decided to see what more time would allow my body to do on its own- so today’s numbers will be very telling. 

We also redrew my TSH, or thyroid stimulating hormone, and it has only worsened since the first draw. It currently sits at 56, with the normal value 0.35-5., so over 11 times normal. This means that my thyroid most likely has stopped working and is no longer producing hormones- leaving me with a VERY under active thyroid. We increased my meds again but we think some side effects, including fatigue could be related. We have a referral in with endocrinology and hopefully will meet with a specialist in the near future. 

Other exciting news is, I received my first vaccine, my flu shot, last week. Although this may not seem like a big thing to most, it means my body is strong enough for the vaccine and hopefully will provide some protection. The major concerns with an auto bone marrow transplant is infection, especially during the first 100 days. During this time, your body is spending all its energy learning how to remake red blood cells, white blood cells and other bone marrow components that it’s too weak to fight infection.  Thus something as small as a cold or sniffles can become deadly.  

It’s also important to understand that my body no longer knows how to respond to previous infections that the normal adult would have antibodies or “directions to rid of the infection”.  Every infection, every disease is now brand new, similar to a newborn but without the antibodies from Mom, thus my body will have to relearn how to fight it off. Then at 6 months, I will start getting newborn immunizations to help with protection. 

I also had my trifusion line removed which means I can shower without having to cover myself in cling wrap and tape. I honestly don’t know what to do with all the extra time I have around showers. Although it’s great it’s removed to prevent the risk of infection, it causes a little uneasiness knowing I’ll still have to get blood work done each appointment. Hopefully blood draws will be simpler than the trouble we have starting an IV. If not, you may see me asking for a PICC line— just kidding, well kinda. 

We also received the “okay” to no longer wear masks while driving in the car! Who knew this would be such good news! Terry and I have now taken multiple drives the past few days around town just to get “out” of the house. It’s crazy how much a drive can help your mood and mind during these days. 

And some of the most exciting news, as of today I am able to walk outside for the first time since Day -7! It may be only a high of 40 degrees, but I am so looking forward to sitting outside for a few minutes to get fresh air.