We got news last week that the doctors are pretty convinced that the first transplant didn't work and they want to take Leo into the hospital again to try the transplant again. He has been feeling OK lately, but is still very transfusion dependent and his counts just won't budge. As he still hasn't found a match, they will just be using cord blood this time for the transplant. The procedure is otherwise the same as it was last March. He will start with 6 or so days of chemo to basically "reset" his body. Then after a couple days of rest, they will attempt the transplant again. As of today, they anticipate to admit him next week, start his chemo, then do the transplant the week after. They've already told us that the recovery this time around will be more difficult and will take longer than the first time, as he is weaker now and his counts are already low. But we are hoping for the best and hopefully second time's a charm.
He will likely be in the hospital for about a month or so depending on how his body takes the transplant. Same as last time, he can have visitors, but no kids and don't even think of it if you are sick at all. He will be needing platelets again, so anyone that is able to come to U of C to donate platelets will be greatly appreciated.
I will be posting more regularly to keep everyone posted. Thanks again to everyone for their prayers and well wishes!
My name is Bernadette Rivera and my husband, Leo was dignosed with Leukemia in 2007. I've decided to create this blog so that you will all have the most current information on Leo and what's going on with his condition and his transplant. I hope this will be an informative (and maybe even entertaining) tool to keep you posted on his progress.
July 2009
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