Sometimes a nice gift comes in a lab coat. Dr. Nakamura was just here and explained to us why Jim is feeling lousy and what differential means (told you I'd get back to you on that). The answer to both questions is the same- under the microscope they see new white blood cells. The quantity of his white blood cells is still low, the change is qualitative, not quantitative. What we are seeing is the beginning of production. The stem cells that were transplanted are starting to make new white blood cells. Not a lot, but a beginning.
That Jim feels crummy is his body trying to adjust to what's happening. A little fever, heart working harder, lassitude, headache, are normal reactions to the drugs and the new stem cells at work.
They are going to up the antibiotics for now; hopefully soon Jim will be making his own white blood cells at a quantity which will reduce the amount of external antibiotics he needs. He will also get a little nutrition through the IV line (that appetite is fading).
Good news from the doctor- new white blood cells. Chuck, looks like you got it right.
Just what we all wanted A White (blood cell) Christmas! Merry Christmas to you both. Love Michelle and Margie
ReplyDeleteP.S. Might be a good day to break out something laughable. Jack Lemon in drag perhaps?
Wonderful wee white ones! Birthing ain't easy even at the microscopic level. Keep the babies growing.
ReplyDeleteWishing you both a miraculous New Year.
Love,
Chrissie T. and Toni
Hopeful news! So pleased to hear signs of a white Christmas for you!!- Ann
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