Kristine is about to lose her mind being cooped up in that hospital. I feel really bad for her. She had to spend her 35th birthday in that room. Although I must say, some terrific people went out of their way to make this birthday a little more special. Thank you to Dee, Yuuki, Rene, Jeff, Nora, Sean and Dana for stopping by the hospital to visit with Kristine. Thank you to the nursing staff who took a moment out of their busy schedules to sing Happy Birthday to Kristine. Thank you to Vicki who sang Kristine her unique version of Happy Birthday (which my sister, Kimberlie, and I were so lucky to see and hear Kristine receive via skype). Thank you to Deb for helping my mom bring Kahlen and Logan to visit with their mom on her special day. Thank you to all the wonderful friends and family who sent cards and called to wish Kristine a Happy Birthday. Dave even had a little surprise of his own. He was out of town working (Dave has taken on a second job to help with additional expenses) and was not expected to be back in town for a few days, but he surprised Kristine by coming back in time to help her celebrate! It really helped brighten Kristine spirits. She has been down in the dumps lately and it was nice to see her shine again.
In an effort to keep Kristine's spirits up, she and I skype everyday for hours at a time. I try to keep her company as much as possible, toting my laptop from one room to another taking her with me as I do household chores, change my little one's diapers and straighten my hair. It's funny, my little Chloe will ask, "Skype Auntie Noonie?" Or if we're about to go into another room of the house, she'll say, "Take Auntie?" This is how I entertain Kristine throughout the day. My husband says he has to be careful what he walks around the house wearing because he's never sure when Kristine is "watching." LOL!!!
Today Kristine's white cell count was up to 1.6! At this rate, she may reach normal levels (4.0-4.5) by Sunday or Monday which means she will be released from the hospital. That would be wonderful because it is absolutely heartbreaking to watch Kristine (on skype) view the video clips of the kids Dave sends her on the cell phone. She watches them over and over again. She even shares them with me and Chloe by putting her cell phone up to the webcam. :) She realizes how many moments she's missing out on being stuck in that hospital room, that's why I said it's heartbreaking. :( Dr. Jacoub has some tests he wants to run before she leaves, one of which will be another bone marrow biopsy. Hopefully, he will be the one performing the extraction as the entry site from the last biopsy gave Kristine much discomfort for over a week.
Dave spoke with the patient coordinator at UCLA today to get some idea of what the next few weeks holds in store. Now that we know Kathy is a match, we've all been wanting to know when Kristine will receive her bone marrow transplant. First of all, we must wait for UCLA to receive approval from the insurance company for the transplant procedure. Second, before they will finish Kristine and Kathy's pre-testing for the transplant, Kristine must remain in remission for at least two weeks before they will proceed. So as soon as her levels reach normal, she will have a bone marrow biopsy which must come back clean, then have another biopsy two weeks later which must also be clean. When I say clean, I mean clear of cancer cells. Kathy must undergo some additional blood tests and a pulmonary test. Once cleared, she will receive the same Neupogen injections that Kristine was receiving in order to increase her stem cell production. She will receive these shots for approximately 4-5 days, then they will draw her blood, similar to that of a normal blood donation. The stem cells will be separated from her blood for donation and the remaining blood will be transfused back into Kathy. Kristine only needs the stem cells, not all of the blood contents. One last thing, Dr. Paquette already has approximately 35 other patients awaiting transplants, so this doesn't help expedite the process. Uggggghhhhhhhh!
I hope what and how I've explained everything makes sense. I apologize if I'm not explaining it in a clear, concise manner. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to leave comments and I will try to elaborate.
Basically, we are looking at approximately 6-8 weeks before Kristine will receive her transplant assuming that she stays in remission. So we need our prayer warriors to pray for Kristine to stay in remission and for Kathy to clear all tests so that she is an eligible donor.
We are still awaiting the results of Kimberlie's test kit. Kimberlie and Kathy are both the same blood type as Kristine, so we're hoping Kimberlie will also be a match! :) You never know if Kristine may need another transplant down the line sometime. I was very upset to learn recently that even if this transplant is a success, Kristine will always be battling this disease for the rest of her life. She will need to take very good care of herself, eat right, get plenty of rest every night, exercise and get tested regularly. We can all take a lesson from this and do our part in taking care of ourselves!
DuFrene Family
Such a beautiful family!
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Day 58 - April 26, 2011
First of all, Happy Birthday to Kristine!! Second, we have a match!!! Our sister, Kathy, is a 100% match!! We're still awaiting the results of Kimberlie's test kit.
Kristine's white cell count is at .5 today. Normal level is 4, so she has a ways to go, but hopefully by the end of the week, she will be there and be able to go home by Sunday or Monday.
At this point, we're trying to find out what the next step is. All we know right now is that Kathy will need to go through some additional tests at UCLA over the next 4 weeks or so. So Kristine won't be receiving her transplant for at least a month or so.
Please continue to pray for Kristine to stay in remission. She must stay in remission or she will have to undergo more chemo. We really don't want to see her go through any more of that.
I want to thank all of our prayer warriors out there! Thank you so very much!!!
Kristine's white cell count is at .5 today. Normal level is 4, so she has a ways to go, but hopefully by the end of the week, she will be there and be able to go home by Sunday or Monday.
At this point, we're trying to find out what the next step is. All we know right now is that Kathy will need to go through some additional tests at UCLA over the next 4 weeks or so. So Kristine won't be receiving her transplant for at least a month or so.
Please continue to pray for Kristine to stay in remission. She must stay in remission or she will have to undergo more chemo. We really don't want to see her go through any more of that.
I want to thank all of our prayer warriors out there! Thank you so very much!!!
Friday, April 22, 2011
Day 54 - April 22, 2011
There's no new news to report yet. When the doctor came by to see Kristine yesterday, she had visitors so he didn't have an opportunity to discuss anything with her. He respects patient confidentiality and will surely have an indepth conversation with her when they can have a private conversation.
Dr. Jacoub did tell Kristine that she would be in the hospital for at least another week. This means Kristine will be spending her 35th birthday in the hospital. That stinks! She was hoping to be home by then. However, this is for her own safety. She still has a near zero white cell count, which means no immune system, so we feel it is best that she remains in the hospital as well.
Today Kristiine isn't feeling well. Her body hurts all over and that awful pain in back in her abdomen. She was running a fever of 101 earlier this morning which is frightening. Thankfully, her temperature has gone back down. Please remember to be cautious when visiting Kristine and use the sanitizer upon entering her room. No hugs please, just bump elbows if you feel the need to make physical contact. (Thanks for that idea Sean!!)
Kristine will not be administered the Neupogen injections this time around. The doctor wants her marrow to work alone in trying to produce new blood cells. Although, she will be receiving a platelets transfusion today.
No news yet on whether any of us sisters are a match. So please continue your prayer circles for that specific prayer to be answered. Also, as always, continue to pray for Kristine to feel well, for her blood levels to reach normal, for her to stay in remission and for her to be cured! Thank you all!!
Dr. Jacoub did tell Kristine that she would be in the hospital for at least another week. This means Kristine will be spending her 35th birthday in the hospital. That stinks! She was hoping to be home by then. However, this is for her own safety. She still has a near zero white cell count, which means no immune system, so we feel it is best that she remains in the hospital as well.
Today Kristiine isn't feeling well. Her body hurts all over and that awful pain in back in her abdomen. She was running a fever of 101 earlier this morning which is frightening. Thankfully, her temperature has gone back down. Please remember to be cautious when visiting Kristine and use the sanitizer upon entering her room. No hugs please, just bump elbows if you feel the need to make physical contact. (Thanks for that idea Sean!!)
Kristine will not be administered the Neupogen injections this time around. The doctor wants her marrow to work alone in trying to produce new blood cells. Although, she will be receiving a platelets transfusion today.
No news yet on whether any of us sisters are a match. So please continue your prayer circles for that specific prayer to be answered. Also, as always, continue to pray for Kristine to feel well, for her blood levels to reach normal, for her to stay in remission and for her to be cured! Thank you all!!
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Day 52 - April 20, 2011
Good news! Kristine's bone marrow results were good. How good? We don't know yet. The only info we received was that the results were "good" and that the doctor would stop by in the morning to talk to Kristine about it more and what the next step will be.
Other than that, there is not much new to share. Kristine is feeling much better and has taken herself off the liquid diet. She was too hungry to wait for the official "okay" from the doctor. It must be okay because he stopped in and saw her eating and didn't say anything. LOL!!
We should know as early as Friday or possibly early next week as to whether or not Kat and I are a match for Kristine. We should know if Kimberlie is a match by the end of next week. We are all very anxious to find out this news.
That's all for now. Please continue to pray for Kristine to stay in remission and pray for a match!! Thank you!!!
Other than that, there is not much new to share. Kristine is feeling much better and has taken herself off the liquid diet. She was too hungry to wait for the official "okay" from the doctor. It must be okay because he stopped in and saw her eating and didn't say anything. LOL!!
We should know as early as Friday or possibly early next week as to whether or not Kat and I are a match for Kristine. We should know if Kimberlie is a match by the end of next week. We are all very anxious to find out this news.
That's all for now. Please continue to pray for Kristine to stay in remission and pray for a match!! Thank you!!!
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Day 51 - April 19, 2011
Kristine just had her bone marrow biopsy. This is the first time I've seen her cry since this whole nightmare began. Oh, how I wish I were there with her now! Dr. Jacoub, who has a wonderful, non-painful technique when extracting the marrow, was not available to do Kristine's biopsy this morning so another doctor had to do it. It's the same doctor that did her very first biopsy when she was admitted into the hospital and she remembered how painful that one was. This time it was even MORE painful. I told her, with everything she has been through, to see if she can request Dr. Jacoub do any future biopsies. She's been through enough pain and suffering, there's no need for more if it can be avoided, right? I'm sure Dave will talk to Dr. Jacoub and make the request.
On a different note, Kristine's heartburn is gone for now. However, the chest pains are back. They gave her a Percoset for the pain and it has helped. She's still on the liquid diet, but really has an appetite today. She'd really like to try eating solid food. She's waiting for Dr. Nassir (Internal Medicine) to make his rounds to find out if she can go ahead and go back on solids. Other than the chest pains, Kristine seems to be in better spirits now. We've been skyping the entire time I've been writing today's blog. Kristine and I skype all the time. It's nice, feels like I'm there with her.
Kristine asked me if I could post the website once again for those wishing to become a bone marrow donor. Any of us could potentially be a match for someone in this nation suffering from leukemia or lymphoma. Won't you please consider joining the registry and becoming a donor? If so, please go to http://www.marrow.org/.
So now we wait... I'll keep ya'll posted.
On a different note, Kristine's heartburn is gone for now. However, the chest pains are back. They gave her a Percoset for the pain and it has helped. She's still on the liquid diet, but really has an appetite today. She'd really like to try eating solid food. She's waiting for Dr. Nassir (Internal Medicine) to make his rounds to find out if she can go ahead and go back on solids. Other than the chest pains, Kristine seems to be in better spirits now. We've been skyping the entire time I've been writing today's blog. Kristine and I skype all the time. It's nice, feels like I'm there with her.
Kristine asked me if I could post the website once again for those wishing to become a bone marrow donor. Any of us could potentially be a match for someone in this nation suffering from leukemia or lymphoma. Won't you please consider joining the registry and becoming a donor? If so, please go to http://www.marrow.org/.
So now we wait... I'll keep ya'll posted.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Day 50 - April 18, 2011
The past three days have been so uncomfortable for Kristine. She's been suffering from severe chest pains which she thinks is acid reflux. The doctor ordered a CT scan of her abdominal area to check things out. He was thinking it might be her pancreas that was inflamed due to all the meds she's been taking. The scan didn't reveal much other than an enlarged colon which he feels is probably due to inflammation as well. So Kristine has been put on a liquid diet. At least until her tummy issues pass.
Tonight, the nurse gave Kristine Mylanta to try to help ease her pain. Kristine HATES Mylanta. She typically vomits when she tries to take this med. The nurse and I were able to convince Kristine to have positive thoughts that the meds would relieve her pain. It worked! She sipped the Mylanta with her nose plugged and chased each sip with a bit of grape juice and was able to keep it down!! Hallelujah!! Within minutes the pain was subsiding. Thank goodness!!
Tomorrow Kristine will have another bone marrow biopsy. We need all our prayer warriors praying for a cell count of less than 5%. We should also know by the end of this week whether or not Kathy or I are a match for Kristine. We also need your prayers for this! We're still waiting for our sister Kimberlie to receive her test kit. Kimberlie is stationed overseas in England. We hope her kit will arrive by the end of this week.
I'll provide updates on the bone marrow results and the test kit results as soon as I have the info. Until then, PRAY FOR KRISTINE!! Thank you!!
Tonight, the nurse gave Kristine Mylanta to try to help ease her pain. Kristine HATES Mylanta. She typically vomits when she tries to take this med. The nurse and I were able to convince Kristine to have positive thoughts that the meds would relieve her pain. It worked! She sipped the Mylanta with her nose plugged and chased each sip with a bit of grape juice and was able to keep it down!! Hallelujah!! Within minutes the pain was subsiding. Thank goodness!!
Tomorrow Kristine will have another bone marrow biopsy. We need all our prayer warriors praying for a cell count of less than 5%. We should also know by the end of this week whether or not Kathy or I are a match for Kristine. We also need your prayers for this! We're still waiting for our sister Kimberlie to receive her test kit. Kimberlie is stationed overseas in England. We hope her kit will arrive by the end of this week.
I'll provide updates on the bone marrow results and the test kit results as soon as I have the info. Until then, PRAY FOR KRISTINE!! Thank you!!
Friday, April 15, 2011
Day 47 - April 15, 2011
Kristine was re-admitted to the hospital yesterday. It's just precautionary since her white cell count was so low and is now likely at zero. Although it is more comfortable for her to be at home, in her own bed, it is safer for her to be in the hospital right now until her blood levels return to normal and she is no longer neutropenic.
Yesterday also marked Kristine's last day of taking the Sorafenib "chemo" pill. The side effects of this treatment were difficult for Kristine. She is elated that this phase of her treatment is complete and looks forward to great results from her upcoming bone marrow biopsy in about a week or so.
Let's all pray for results of a (leukemia) cell count of less than 5% and that she remains in remission indefinitely so she is able to get her bone marrow transplant. Let's also pray the test results from us sisters come back with at least one match!
Thank you!!
Yesterday also marked Kristine's last day of taking the Sorafenib "chemo" pill. The side effects of this treatment were difficult for Kristine. She is elated that this phase of her treatment is complete and looks forward to great results from her upcoming bone marrow biopsy in about a week or so.
Let's all pray for results of a (leukemia) cell count of less than 5% and that she remains in remission indefinitely so she is able to get her bone marrow transplant. Let's also pray the test results from us sisters come back with at least one match!
Thank you!!
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Day 45 - April 13, 2011
Good news... Kat and I received our test kits today!! Thank you prayer warriors!!! We both already had our blood drawn and FedEx'd back to UCLA for processing. Our other sister, Kimberlie, is still awaiting receipt of her kit in England. Please pray one of us is a match!!
Kristine had her appointment at UCLA this morning. Just some informalities she had to take care of and some blood tests.
Dave and my mom are cooking up a sipping broth which Dave is calling Kristine's Cancer Witches Brew. He found the recipe in a book given to Kristine by our sister Kathy. A very kind co-worker of Kathy's, Betsy Hollander, ordered the book for Kristine as she thought she might find it helpful. That was so thoughful and generous of you Betsy, thank you!!! Both my husband and I perused the book while we were down in Irvine visiting Kristine. Great book!!
That's all the news I have for now. Kristine is very tired and weak today. She had a sample of the broth and said it was okay. LOL!! We all know how picky Kristine is!! I told her to just think of all the good it's doing for her body. :) She agreed and will sip away with a smile!! I'll have to get a photo of that. ;)
Kristine had her appointment at UCLA this morning. Just some informalities she had to take care of and some blood tests.
Dave and my mom are cooking up a sipping broth which Dave is calling Kristine's Cancer Witches Brew. He found the recipe in a book given to Kristine by our sister Kathy. A very kind co-worker of Kathy's, Betsy Hollander, ordered the book for Kristine as she thought she might find it helpful. That was so thoughful and generous of you Betsy, thank you!!! Both my husband and I perused the book while we were down in Irvine visiting Kristine. Great book!!
That's all the news I have for now. Kristine is very tired and weak today. She had a sample of the broth and said it was okay. LOL!! We all know how picky Kristine is!! I told her to just think of all the good it's doing for her body. :) She agreed and will sip away with a smile!! I'll have to get a photo of that. ;)
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Day 44 - April 12, 2011
Wow! Our wonderful prayer warriors did an amazing job... Kristine was all smiles today. The rash is going away on most of her body, her head isn't burning anymore, her body isn't as achy, and the biggest surprise of all... her doctor released her from the hospital earlier this evening. Though we are very concerned about the possibility of Kristine developing an infection, we are glad she will make it to her appointment at UCLA tomorrow morning. Plus I know she is going to be extra cautious and wear her mask and gloves. I believe that is the reason her doctor released her early. Until Kristine's admission into the UCLA RRCC is approved and completed, the testing kits will not be approved by the insurance company. This is such a frustrating process!!!
On one hand, we're being told it is urgent that my sisters and I are tested to see if we are a match so Kristine can get her transplant as soon as possible; but on the other hand, the darn insurance company won't issue the approval to UCLA for them to send out the testing kits to us. Apparently it costs approximately $2K per kit to run the tests, so they want insurance approval. Yet, an uninsured illegal immigrant can walk into an emergency room with a life threatening wound and receive medical care?!?!! This is urgent, a life is at stake, why can't they mail out the darn kits and bill the insurance company afterwards?!?!! Maybe I'm being naive; actually, I'm just scared. I'm scared that my sister will go back in to remission only to relapse again while we wait around for the darn insurance company's approval. We really don't want to see Kristine go through more chemo.
Though some of Kristine's side effects have subsided, some still remain. She still has a rash and blisters on her hands, in fact, it has become a little worse. Her mouth is tingly and somewhat numb which makes her not want to bother to eat. She also still has some nausea... but she's still smiling for me tonight! :)
Like I've been saying over and over again, we must pray, pray, pray that Kristine does not get any type of infection. We must pray that UCLA approves Kristine for admission and completes the process ASAP. We must pray that Anthem Blue Cross issues the approval for the test kits so that UCLA can get them sent out. We must pray that one of the sisters is a match. I have more prayers to ask of you, but I will wait for these prayers to be answered first. Thank you so much for keeping Kristine in your hearts, thoughts and prayers. Keep sending Kristine your positive vibes!!
On one hand, we're being told it is urgent that my sisters and I are tested to see if we are a match so Kristine can get her transplant as soon as possible; but on the other hand, the darn insurance company won't issue the approval to UCLA for them to send out the testing kits to us. Apparently it costs approximately $2K per kit to run the tests, so they want insurance approval. Yet, an uninsured illegal immigrant can walk into an emergency room with a life threatening wound and receive medical care?!?!! This is urgent, a life is at stake, why can't they mail out the darn kits and bill the insurance company afterwards?!?!! Maybe I'm being naive; actually, I'm just scared. I'm scared that my sister will go back in to remission only to relapse again while we wait around for the darn insurance company's approval. We really don't want to see Kristine go through more chemo.
Though some of Kristine's side effects have subsided, some still remain. She still has a rash and blisters on her hands, in fact, it has become a little worse. Her mouth is tingly and somewhat numb which makes her not want to bother to eat. She also still has some nausea... but she's still smiling for me tonight! :)
Like I've been saying over and over again, we must pray, pray, pray that Kristine does not get any type of infection. We must pray that UCLA approves Kristine for admission and completes the process ASAP. We must pray that Anthem Blue Cross issues the approval for the test kits so that UCLA can get them sent out. We must pray that one of the sisters is a match. I have more prayers to ask of you, but I will wait for these prayers to be answered first. Thank you so much for keeping Kristine in your hearts, thoughts and prayers. Keep sending Kristine your positive vibes!!
Monday, April 11, 2011
Day 43 - April 11, 2011
12:00PM - Kristine has finished her IV chemo treatment, but is not being released from the hospital today as she had hoped. The doctor would like to continue to monitor her as she completes her last 3 days of the Sorafenib "chemo" pill. It's not actually an oral chemotherapy treatment as we had thought. It's an experimental drug that is not yet approved for AML, but is being used to help keep the cancer cells from spreading while Kristine awaits a transplant. She is experiencing some side effects that need to be closely monitored. Her blood pressure is high, she has redness on her head, face and hands, her head is very tender, and she has some blisters on her hands. Her mouth is also becoming sore. We hope that it's not the mouth sores we've heard about which are extremely painful. So painful that patients are not able to even drink water. Please pray that Kristine does not develop these mouth sores.
My sisters and I are still awaiting receipt of our kits to get tested to see if any of us are a match for Kristine. According to UCLA, the kits cost about $2000 each, so they won't FedEx them out until they receive approval from Kristine's insurance company. It's frustrating to say the least. We really want to get tested ASAP so that we know if one of us is a match. Then Kristine can be admitted to UCLA for the transplant as soon as she is back in remission. However, let me back track, we are still waiting to hear from UCLA to see if the board approved her case. Maybe we'll get some answers tomorrow.
9:00PM - I just spoke with Kristine again via Skype. The rash has spread to the rest of her body and she aches all over. Her head and face are swollen. The nurse has been instructed to give her something for the rash, so hopefully her side effects will subside.
That's all for today. Please continue to pray for Kristine's well being and send her your positive thoughts. I haven't seen her smile for two days now. :(
My sisters and I are still awaiting receipt of our kits to get tested to see if any of us are a match for Kristine. According to UCLA, the kits cost about $2000 each, so they won't FedEx them out until they receive approval from Kristine's insurance company. It's frustrating to say the least. We really want to get tested ASAP so that we know if one of us is a match. Then Kristine can be admitted to UCLA for the transplant as soon as she is back in remission. However, let me back track, we are still waiting to hear from UCLA to see if the board approved her case. Maybe we'll get some answers tomorrow.
9:00PM - I just spoke with Kristine again via Skype. The rash has spread to the rest of her body and she aches all over. Her head and face are swollen. The nurse has been instructed to give her something for the rash, so hopefully her side effects will subside.
That's all for today. Please continue to pray for Kristine's well being and send her your positive thoughts. I haven't seen her smile for two days now. :(
Day 42 - April 10, 2011
Today Kristine had to receive a blood transfusion. Her hemoglobin and potassium were low. Whenever she receives a blood transfusion, she is given Benadryl just in case she has any type of allergic reaction. As with most people, Benadryl knocks Kristine out. So she had a good nap only to wake up feeling awful. The chemo is really starting to effect her. My sister, Kathy, and I were talking with her via Skype tonight. It is really difficult to see someone you love suffering so much. My heart just breaks when I see her like this. Her smile is gone. Her lips and face are pale. Her spirit seems dampened. My only reprieve is that I know this is temporary. I know she has the strength to push through this, but these moments of suffering are unbearable to witness.
On a lighter note, our mom is not leaving Thursday, thank goodness! I think the fact that I got sick and am unable to take over for her made her realize she cannot leave just yet. So she is going to stay until Kristine recovers from her chemo. I feel bad that I am not able to help out as planned. I know our mom is stressed out and has been working so hard caring for Kristine and helping Dave care for the kids along with Dave's dad and brother. Like Kristine, our mom is such a strong person but under these difficult circumstances, even the strongest show signs of vulnerability. I think it is even more difficult for our mom to see her youngest daughter suffering through her chemo treatment. I hope to fully recover quickly so I can at least allow our mom to get some much needed rest.
I'd like to ask all our prayer warriors to say a few prayers for Kristine. Pray the ugly side effects of chemo steer clear of Kristine or at least be less severe than last time. Pray that Kristine feels well enough to attend her scheduled meeting with Dr. Paquette at UCLA RRCC on Wednesday morning. Pray that the chemo does its job and kills the leukemia cells! And please say a little prayer for our mom to stay strong and healthy, Kristine needs her. Thank you!
On a lighter note, our mom is not leaving Thursday, thank goodness! I think the fact that I got sick and am unable to take over for her made her realize she cannot leave just yet. So she is going to stay until Kristine recovers from her chemo. I feel bad that I am not able to help out as planned. I know our mom is stressed out and has been working so hard caring for Kristine and helping Dave care for the kids along with Dave's dad and brother. Like Kristine, our mom is such a strong person but under these difficult circumstances, even the strongest show signs of vulnerability. I think it is even more difficult for our mom to see her youngest daughter suffering through her chemo treatment. I hope to fully recover quickly so I can at least allow our mom to get some much needed rest.
I'd like to ask all our prayer warriors to say a few prayers for Kristine. Pray the ugly side effects of chemo steer clear of Kristine or at least be less severe than last time. Pray that Kristine feels well enough to attend her scheduled meeting with Dr. Paquette at UCLA RRCC on Wednesday morning. Pray that the chemo does its job and kills the leukemia cells! And please say a little prayer for our mom to stay strong and healthy, Kristine needs her. Thank you!
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Day 41 - April 9, 2011
Kristine is currently undergoing a 4 day IV chemo treatment and a 7 day oral chemo pill treatment. This is day 3 of chemo for each treatment. She is hanging tough. Yesterday was a little rough on her with a lot of nausea, but today she's been doing great!
There's a chance the doctor will release her Monday after she completes her IV chemo treatment. She will be allowed to take the remainder of the chemo pills from home. However, in order to be released from the hospital, she has to have someone at home to help take care of her and help with the kids. The plan was for me to go back Thursday after my mom leaves, but I have come down with the flu and a cold. I must be healthy in order to care for Kristine as she will not have an immune system and will be susceptible to infection. And as you all know, Kristine CANNOT get an infection!
We've been receiving calls from friends and family stating they have been spreading the word about joining the National Marrow Donor Registry Program. This is so wonderful to hear! We were told that Orange Coast Memorial held a bone marrow drive last year and 180 people signed up. From the 180 registrants, three lives were saved! What a wonderful gift to give... the gift of life! Keep spreading the word and don't forget to join yourself!
There's a chance the doctor will release her Monday after she completes her IV chemo treatment. She will be allowed to take the remainder of the chemo pills from home. However, in order to be released from the hospital, she has to have someone at home to help take care of her and help with the kids. The plan was for me to go back Thursday after my mom leaves, but I have come down with the flu and a cold. I must be healthy in order to care for Kristine as she will not have an immune system and will be susceptible to infection. And as you all know, Kristine CANNOT get an infection!
We've been receiving calls from friends and family stating they have been spreading the word about joining the National Marrow Donor Registry Program. This is so wonderful to hear! We were told that Orange Coast Memorial held a bone marrow drive last year and 180 people signed up. From the 180 registrants, three lives were saved! What a wonderful gift to give... the gift of life! Keep spreading the word and don't forget to join yourself!
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Day 39 - Please become a donor!
Kristine finally started her chemo late last night after receiving some news from Dr. Jacoub. The doctor wanted to hold off on her chemo until he had the results of her bone marrow biopsy. The test results showed she had more than 15% leukemia cells present in her marrow. This, of course, was very upsetting to us all. So Kristine is undergoing a seven day chemo regimen.
In the meantime, the doctor wants us sisters tested immediately. He said as soon as Kristine is back in remission, they want to get her transplant done as soon as possible. So test kits are being Fedex'd out to each sister so that they can get those processed right away.
If for some unfortunate reason my sisters and I are not a match for Kristine, she will need to go to the National Donor Registry. We learned yesterday that Kristine's best chance for a match from the National Donor Registry is from someone of the same ethnic background. So we are asking all of our friends and family who are half-Japanese/half-caucasian or if they know anyone who is of this same ethnic make-up, to go get themselves registered as donors at http://www.marrow.org/ ASAP. Even if you're not of the same ethnic background, please consider becoming a donor anyway. There are so many people who don't realize how easy it is to become a blood stem cell and bone marrow donor. Medical technology has come a long way and it's a simple blood donation, not a painful bone marrow extraction as once practiced.
Kristine will be hospitalized for 7-8 days and will likely be released from the hospital next Friday. She will need to be especially careful as her immune system will be compromised. She will need to exercise extreme caution with what she eats and who/what she's exposed to. Plus she will be battling all the side effects of her chemo. The doctor said it is imperative that Kristine NOT get any type of infection.
Once again, thank you for all the love, support and prayers for our sister. We truly appreciate everything everyone has done for our sister and continues to do for her.
A big shout out to Sharla, Sugar & Viv for the care packages Kristine received in the mail!! Kristine says thank you so much!!
Please consider becoming a marrow donor and continue to pray for Kristine.
In the meantime, the doctor wants us sisters tested immediately. He said as soon as Kristine is back in remission, they want to get her transplant done as soon as possible. So test kits are being Fedex'd out to each sister so that they can get those processed right away.
If for some unfortunate reason my sisters and I are not a match for Kristine, she will need to go to the National Donor Registry. We learned yesterday that Kristine's best chance for a match from the National Donor Registry is from someone of the same ethnic background. So we are asking all of our friends and family who are half-Japanese/half-caucasian or if they know anyone who is of this same ethnic make-up, to go get themselves registered as donors at http://www.marrow.org/ ASAP. Even if you're not of the same ethnic background, please consider becoming a donor anyway. There are so many people who don't realize how easy it is to become a blood stem cell and bone marrow donor. Medical technology has come a long way and it's a simple blood donation, not a painful bone marrow extraction as once practiced.
Kristine will be hospitalized for 7-8 days and will likely be released from the hospital next Friday. She will need to be especially careful as her immune system will be compromised. She will need to exercise extreme caution with what she eats and who/what she's exposed to. Plus she will be battling all the side effects of her chemo. The doctor said it is imperative that Kristine NOT get any type of infection.
Once again, thank you for all the love, support and prayers for our sister. We truly appreciate everything everyone has done for our sister and continues to do for her.
A big shout out to Sharla, Sugar & Viv for the care packages Kristine received in the mail!! Kristine says thank you so much!!
Please consider becoming a marrow donor and continue to pray for Kristine.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Day 36
After enjoying 8 wonderful days with her family, Kristine is back at Orange Coast Memorial, back in room 239, back for 5 more days of chemo. I know some of you are confused by the fact that she must have more chemo. The way it was explained to us is this: Kristine had billions and billions of leukemia cells in her body when she was diagnosed. After her initial chemo treatment, Kristine's body reacted very well but she still has millions of leukemia cells floating around in her body which is why she must undergo more treatment. She may need to endure chemo treatments every three weeks, depending on how her body is handling the treatments.
Dr. Jacoub did a bone marrow biopsy this afternoon. He's awaiting the results tomorrow morning before moving forward with the chemo. So for now, her chemo treatment has been delayed until tomorrow morning. This means that Kristine will not be able to go home until Sunday. :(
Other than that, Kristine is in good spirits. She is scheduled for another appointment at the RRCC next week. Hopefully we will have more details to share regarding the plan moving forward.
Many people have asked about being tested as a possible bone marrow match to Kristine. I wanted to let everyone know that it's very easy to become a bone marrow donor and it's not a painful process. The test is a simple swab inside your mouth and if you happen to be a match to someone, it's as simple as donating blood. You can look into this at http://www.marrow.org.
On a lighter note, Kristine got to test out a few wigs this afternoon! We had a few laughs as she tried on each one. Dani, the wonderful social worker here in the Oncology unit brought in three wigs for Kristine to try out. Kristine and I had a hard time deciding between two of the three. Although it is clear that wig #3 looks most like the Kristine we know and love, we couldn't help but to think that wig #2 might look nice if the bangs were cut a little differently. So Dani told Kristine there was no need to decide and gave both wigs to her. That was so kind of Dani! She has been a wonderful help throughout this journey! Kristine is so appreciative of everything Dani has done to help her battle this disease.
So now for the fun part... Kristine wants to know what YOU think of the wigs! Vote for your favorite by clicking on the word comment below. We know Kristine will rock the bald head, but there may be an occasion or two, where the wig may be appropriate (like a wedding to attend).
As always, please continue to pray for Kristine. Pray for her body to react well to the chemo and for no tummy discomfort this time around.
Dr. Jacoub did a bone marrow biopsy this afternoon. He's awaiting the results tomorrow morning before moving forward with the chemo. So for now, her chemo treatment has been delayed until tomorrow morning. This means that Kristine will not be able to go home until Sunday. :(
Other than that, Kristine is in good spirits. She is scheduled for another appointment at the RRCC next week. Hopefully we will have more details to share regarding the plan moving forward.
Many people have asked about being tested as a possible bone marrow match to Kristine. I wanted to let everyone know that it's very easy to become a bone marrow donor and it's not a painful process. The test is a simple swab inside your mouth and if you happen to be a match to someone, it's as simple as donating blood. You can look into this at http://www.marrow.org.
On a lighter note, Kristine got to test out a few wigs this afternoon! We had a few laughs as she tried on each one. Dani, the wonderful social worker here in the Oncology unit brought in three wigs for Kristine to try out. Kristine and I had a hard time deciding between two of the three. Although it is clear that wig #3 looks most like the Kristine we know and love, we couldn't help but to think that wig #2 might look nice if the bangs were cut a little differently. So Dani told Kristine there was no need to decide and gave both wigs to her. That was so kind of Dani! She has been a wonderful help throughout this journey! Kristine is so appreciative of everything Dani has done to help her battle this disease.
So now for the fun part... Kristine wants to know what YOU think of the wigs! Vote for your favorite by clicking on the word comment below. We know Kristine will rock the bald head, but there may be an occasion or two, where the wig may be appropriate (like a wedding to attend).
As always, please continue to pray for Kristine. Pray for her body to react well to the chemo and for no tummy discomfort this time around.
Friday, April 1, 2011
Day 34
Kristine had a consultation with the RRCC earlier this week. Her options were discussed, questions asked and I'm still getting details here and there so forgive me if the info I share appears sketchy.
Kristine is to decide whether she wants to undergo consolidated chemo in hopes of reaching a cure or trying to get a bone marrow transplant. Her best option is the transplant and that is the route she is taking. With Kristine's insurance due to expire in less than 5 months, she is trying to get this transplant done as soon as possible. They said she has a 75% chance of finding an exact match in one of us sisters. My sisters and I have not been tested yet. We are awaiting details on the who, what, when and where of this. While Kristine awaits a transplant, she has to undergo more chemo. She will be back in the hospital Monday for 5 days of chemo. She should be released Friday or Saturday upon completion.
In order for her to be accepted as a patient at the RRCC, Kristine must agree to stay within 30 minutes driving time of the center. She was told to expect to be there approximately 8 weeks. This means she will need to stay in a nearby hotel or find a furnished apartment to live in. She will have to have a family member with her at all times. At this time, we are still working out the details, but more than likely, my mom will be staying with her.
Kristine has been at home almost a week now. She is enjoying her time there with Dave, the kids, our mom and a nephew that came to visit her and help care for the kids. She has to remember to take it easy though. She did a little too much Wednesday and ended up exhausted and slept most of yesterday.
Well, that's all for now. I will post updates as necessary moving forward. Remember, if you ever have any specific questions, you can always email me at bbcsmom@gmail.com or give Dave or Kristine a call. :)
Please continue with all your prayer circles, we need them!! Thank you!!
Kristine is to decide whether she wants to undergo consolidated chemo in hopes of reaching a cure or trying to get a bone marrow transplant. Her best option is the transplant and that is the route she is taking. With Kristine's insurance due to expire in less than 5 months, she is trying to get this transplant done as soon as possible. They said she has a 75% chance of finding an exact match in one of us sisters. My sisters and I have not been tested yet. We are awaiting details on the who, what, when and where of this. While Kristine awaits a transplant, she has to undergo more chemo. She will be back in the hospital Monday for 5 days of chemo. She should be released Friday or Saturday upon completion.
In order for her to be accepted as a patient at the RRCC, Kristine must agree to stay within 30 minutes driving time of the center. She was told to expect to be there approximately 8 weeks. This means she will need to stay in a nearby hotel or find a furnished apartment to live in. She will have to have a family member with her at all times. At this time, we are still working out the details, but more than likely, my mom will be staying with her.
Kristine has been at home almost a week now. She is enjoying her time there with Dave, the kids, our mom and a nephew that came to visit her and help care for the kids. She has to remember to take it easy though. She did a little too much Wednesday and ended up exhausted and slept most of yesterday.
Well, that's all for now. I will post updates as necessary moving forward. Remember, if you ever have any specific questions, you can always email me at bbcsmom@gmail.com or give Dave or Kristine a call. :)
Please continue with all your prayer circles, we need them!! Thank you!!
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