DAY ZERO

At 12:40 PM Terry's stem cells surged back into her to begin the transplant process. Approximately 3 to 3 1/2 million of those puppies are now back where they belong--in her bloodstream making their way to her bone marrow and ultimately becoming new white cells, red cells, platelets and other types of cells. They are armed to the teeth and are ready to fight and beat the crap out of any cancer cells in Terry. GO CELLS!!!!!!
A funny side effect of the transplant is caused by the preservative DMSO. Terry has an aroma of creamed corn about her. This is not unusual as some patients smell like mint, some like garlic, some like creamed corn. I guess it could be a lot worse. For some reason every time I come into her room I am hungry. Maybe I'll just nibble on her ear.
This hospital is a bit of a conundrum at times. Last night Terry was told that her vital signs would be taken every 4 hours, blood draw would be at 6 AM, she would get some medications at 9 PM, some IV added at 10 PM again at 11 PM. She was then informed if she needed something to help her sleep to ask for it. She did at 11:15PM. I guess she will rest when she gets home again.
While Terry was getting her stem cells transplanted Jim and I were in the room while Karen was on the phone. It was a total MacDonald experience. Lots of happiness, anticipation, crying, hope, fear, nervousness, just about every feeling possible.
The people here are wonderful. The other night the chemo nurse brought Terry a large pink Christmas stocking filled with useful goodies. Today a volunteer lady gave Terry a quilt with cats on it. She gets to keep the quilt. We can't say enough good things about the personnel here. Even the parking lot attendant is terrific.
Today has been a awesome day filled with wonder.