Brotherly Takeover Complete!

Last week, we wrote that they were running a test to determine what % of the blood cells in my body are from Ross, my brother, and what % from me.  The doctors wanted to see at least 50% of Ross's cells in this test.  Well, the results are in and I have officially 100% Ross's cells.  They weren't necessarily expecting a total takeover until the 60-day post transplant mark but my brother's clearly a pro, getting it done in a mere 30 days!  Part of me (the prideful part) expected my own cells to put up more of a fight…but I'll get over it. After all, it's a brotherly takeover, not a hostile one, and it's a great sign that Ross's stem cells are already building a new and improved immune system inside of me.  I'm incredibly thankful for his gift.   

 

Of course, the success of the transplant is only the next ridge on our way to the mountaintop (a hugely taxing one, for sure).  We now turn to knocking out the cancer through 8 weekly rounds of Rituxan, a drug that will work in tandem with my new immune system to kill off any remaining cancer cells.  I received the 2nd installment yesterday and the body is taking it well.  Seeing lots of light at the end of the tunnel!

As you know from our last blog, we had a chance to go home to be with our kids Saturday afternoon and Sunday.  It's hard to express just how sweet the time was after 40 days confined to the hospital grounds here in Baltimore.  Christine and I soaked up the beautiful weather and fall foliage, and, most of all, the time with Nate, Darcy and Evan, catching up on their latest doings and at least some of what's been on their hearts and minds.  And the best news is that it's all systems go for us to check out of our Hopkins apartment tomorrow!  (We'll commute to Baltimore going forward until Day #60.)  While we recognize that re-entry will be challenging, we cannot wait to be together again!  For our praying friends, please lift up our return to Falls Church and that the transitions back home and (gradually) to work go smoothly for us, filled with grace for each other.  We are so thankful for how God is restoring my health and providing for us as a family, including through the gifts and support of so many of you.