Stem Cells This Week

This week is another chance to collect stem cells. Eric had ICE chemotherapy last week and it went alright for him. He's been giving himself 2 shots of neupogen daily to force stem cell production. With luck, his marrow will become over-run with stem cells and they will be forced into his blood stream for collection Wed - Fri of this week.

So what is different this time? This protocol uses both the chemotherapy effects combined with 8 -10 days of neupogen. On his last attempt to collect cells, we only had 5 - 6 days of neupogen and any help that the January DHAP chemo could have offered had long worn off (remember, that infection got in the way...).

Eric and Morgan and Shelley and Dave were here for Easter. Zach was working all weekend so he gets all the leftover ham and scalloped potatoes! Eric and Morgan are having another dinner tonight with Morgan's family. One of the side effects of Eric's chemo from last week appears to be a voracious appetite. I suspect the steroids have left him hungry! Anyway, it's a pleasure to see him eating well.

Shelley is busy training for this May's marathon and she had plans to run 23 KM today. OUCH! I can't imagine being able to do that! Kudos to Shelley -- she is challenging her supporters to donate blood in recognition of her marathon. As Eric has needed many many transfusions of both whole blood and platelets, we are always grateful to grab any opportunity to encourage everyone to give blood if they can.

Did you know?

• Approximately every minute of every day, someone in Canada needs blood.
• In fact, according to a recent poll, 52 per cent of Canadians say they, or a family member, have needed blood or blood products for surgery or for medical treatment.
• The good news is that one blood donation - in just one hour - can save up to three lives.
• Be honoured that you have taken a life-saving action.
• Your donation will help up to three people, and may be used up in just 48hrs.
• Call 1-888-2-DONATE to book your appointment at your local blood clinic.