Overdue Update!

Hey everybody!  From what my mom tells me, things are looking exceptionally good right now for dad.  This time around is a brand new experience, nothing really has been the same - but it's like comparing apples to oranges....dad didn't have cancer this time going in and his body was not in the shape it was last time when he was admitted.  This is a mandatory, post induction round - and he will have two more of these.  Its weird for Nicole and I not to be there every day and not to know really play by play what is happening, but in essence its a good thing because we aren't "needed" in terms of severity of the situation.

My dad has finished his doses of chemo and has been discharged from the hospital!  The first few days while my dad was given the chemotherapy, it was torture.  Plain misery for him and was torture for us to watch.    He had an unbreakable high fever, and confusion/disorientation - which happens with this strong therapy. Other than those first few days he has experienced no side effects like he did last time - no infections, no internal organ issues, nothing!!

They are staying about three minutes away from the facility.  When things are going according to plan, this is City of Hope's protocol.  He and mom travel back to the hospital and the clinic there every other day and  labs are done, blood products are given if need be, etc.

The plan at this point is for my dad's blood counts/marrow to be taken down to nothing and to start building up new blood cells.  Once his numbers start to climb back up and he is still presenting no signs of infection or complications (about 2 more weeks) they will be able to come home.  Because of this process however, he will become "neutropenic" (this did happen last time) which means he has zero immunity and can catch absolutely anything - so, he has to wear his mask at all times, use sanitizer, wipe all surfaces anywhere he goes down first before touching, etc.) During this time I'm certain it's encouraged he doesn't get too brave and go out unless he has to.

Its pretty unbelievable to me even, that he is able to stand up at this point let alone eat, get around, hold normal conversations, and not be in the hospital still.  I am so thrilled that he is doing so well, and am so utterly grateful for this huge support system of prayer that he has behind him.  I am told literally on a daily basis from at least a person or two that they are thinking of my dad and praying for him.  Its remarkable.  Thanks everyone, please continue to send your prayers up to the Lord for my dad.

Jen and Nicole

One of many water features at the City of Hope