Transplant Time!

Yesterday, I checked into the transplant floor. This brand new building is called the “Chili’s Care Center” and it’s great! The transplant patients are isolated from the main hospital and all their germs. Also, since we will be in here over a month, the rooms are bigger. I guess longer stay = bigger rooms. My room has a Vegas like view of the Pyramid( a Memphis landmark) which makes for wonderful sunrises and sunsets. The attached parent’s room isn’t too shabby.

(view outside my window)

Today, I start the “conditioning” process before my transplant on Friday. The goal of this week is to get rid of all my bone marrow, so that I will make room for to Melissa’s marrow. Yesterday and today I will receive high dose chemo (my last round of chemo ever!!). Tuesday thru Friday I will do total body radiation twice a day. Friday morning, Melissa will go into surgery to remove marrow from her hips and I will be transplanted that night. The actual transplant is fairly simple with the marrow hung like a blood transfusion, infusing into my line.

Let’s talk about the rules up here. I feel like every corner I turn, I’m a rebel; breaking all the rules. Stepped outside my room…oops forgot my mask and it didn’t go unnoticed. My little friend Emma was admitted the same day…can’t go into her room. My nieces and nephew must talk to me on a cell phone through the window in the lobby, kind of like prison visitations. The low bacteria diet continues in full enforcement.

A new way to play I-Spy

talking with thru the window by cell

Let’s talk about the daily routine. Weight X2 to watch for fluid retention as it is an indication of my kidney function and additional fluid that can pool in my lungs. Breathing treatments X4 as a preventative measure for full lung expansion. Mouth care X4 to prevent sores. Bath X2 I guess to stay really clean to prevent infection/bacteria. Last, physical therapy X1 to keep me strong. So, things on this floor are a little different...