Saturday, June 21, 2008

GVHD

Tom has GVHD (Graft Versus Host Disease) now. He showed signs of it from a reddish, itchy rash he has all over his arms and legs and a biopsy confirmed it. The doctor says it's nothing to be alarmed about. He said it's actually good in a way b/c the doctors can treat it early. This actually reduces the chance of the leukemia ever returning. If the graft wins (overtakes Tom's body, the host) then Tom wins. The donor's cells are battling Tom's body right now - trying to get used to their new home - and Tom's body is trying to evict them. His immune system is so incredibily weak that it can barely fight back, so the odds are definitely in his favor. Other than that, he's doing ok.

He got to see Katie yesterday! The nurses allowed Tom to leave the bone marrow ward and visit with us in a family room. He was fully protected - mask, gown, gloves, booties - so it was safe. They enjoyed their time together. Tom stayed with us for about 15 minutes before he had to go lay down.

6 comments:

Chris - 9of 9 said...

I'm truly happy to know that Tom was able to visit with his Katie.

Love to all,
Chris

wiizii said...

That's great news that Tom's new cells are "winning" the battle. Go Tom go!
That's cool that Tom and Katie were able to visit. Very cool.
Keep up the good work Tom! Just don't go feed the dolphins. :)
Love you guys,
Elise

Maddie Connell said...

This is wonderful! I feel soo happy! I am so sure Katie was soo happy to see him! I am soo happy that Mr. Tom is doing better!
All my love,
Maddie

Jay said...

I'm so glad he got to see Katie! It really ims amazing that when you just don't think you can take any more -- you can, and do. You are all so strong and I think about you all so often.
Love, Jay

friendlymentor said...

Lisa,
It was great to see you and Katie on Saturday. Today Jan gave us your email and web log addresses. We are thinking of you guys a lot and I've wondered what was going on. Now I know . . . Tom has to get better so you all can play again. Let us know when we can visit, even if it is one at a time. Even if it is months from now, since we know Tom can't handle germs.
Luckily, you are both very strong people, and Tom was in good shape to start on this journey. After all, that is what this really is, a very interesting challenging journey into sometimes uncharted waters. We are filled with hope that you will both make it to the other side. Love,
Richard and Norma

Jay said...

Hi,
I just wanted to check in today to say hello and send me love to all of you.
Jay