Mon, 08 Dec 2003

Disease Assessment

Hey there. Jade had his appt at the BMT clinic today and they went over the results of his Day 84 Disease Assessment. Here is the Reader's Digest Version:

They look at three main areas : 1) Diseaes Staging, 2) Transplant and 3) Underlying Health. With Jade's disease staging (#1) they can find no evidence of tumor with the CT scans and other work-ups/tests. Very positive news.

The transplant (#2) has gone well with no complications and overall good effectiveness. Jade's chymerism is at 90% Jared and 10% Jade. The doctor informed Jade that once he reaches 95% of Jared that is considered maximum - meaning he doesn't have to reach 100% to be considered complete/perfect. They are pleased with Jade being at 90% since he was at 84% at the previous chymerism test. As long as he continues to increase and finally reach at least 95% they are pleased. There is a risk once he reaches 95% that this can be a strong catalyst for bringing on graft vs host disease. The chances of Jade developing graft vs host go up exponentially once he reaches 95%. As with so many aspects of this process, there is good and bad with everything.

As far as his underlying health (#3) is concerned Jade is doing good. His kidneys and liver are functioning well although there are little "blips" up and down that they watch. But it seems all his "ancillary systems" are doing good.

They said Jade needs to be aware of his stress and remaining healthy (no colds and flus). Either one can cause his immune system to flare up and bring on the graft vs host too intense. They did compliment him in that Jade has stayed healthy which shows he is taking care of himself and watching where he goes and what he does. They told Jade he could go two weeks before his next appt so he'll go in the week of Christmas.

It seems like "cautious optimism" would be a good phrase from today. They are pleaed with how things have gone to this point but are quick to remind you of the next hurdles. Two steps forward, one step back - - and a side shuffle or two it seems. We are pleased with how well things are progressing but still holding our breath.

While we wait to exhale, we are enjoying the Christmas season, being home together and reflecting on the last year (and reminding Garrett not to destroy the tree and ornaments.) Things could definitely be or get worse and we are so grateful for the blessings we have. Thanks for all the love and support this year. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Take care and we'll keep you posted.

Much love..............Tanya and co.