Transplant 2 Day 1

This is Karen, posting for my parents tonight.

Today has been a quiet day, in comparison to the busyness of yesterday.  Dad was very tired and spent his morning sleeping and resting.  Mom stayed in Strathroy for a bit this morning and was able to have coffee with Clarence and Irene.  Clarence is doing well and is happy with how it went yesterday.

We are being reminded anew at how much cancer is a journey of ups and downs.  From the high of yesterday and the successful transfusion of the bone marrow, to the low of extreme fatigue, pain, and fever this evening.  Dad just couldn't seem to overcome his exhaustion this afternoon and slept for most of the time.      We were not surprised then to see a fever come tonight, as Dad was struggling with chills and aches all day as well.  The nurse took blood cultures to check for infection and the doctor started him on a broad-spectrum antibiotic by IV at 7:30 pm.  We are hopeful that the antibiotics and Tylenol will start to work, the fever will break soon, and Dad will experience some relief.  Fevers are to be expected in a bone marrow transplant, as Dad has absolutely no immune system to fight any source of bacteria or infection (even bacteria found in his own body).  The nurses will keep a close eye on him all night.

Adrienne, the transplant unit head, came to visit this afternoon and told Dad and Mom that he will be moving tomorrow to the isolation room finally.  We are relieved and thankful for this!  She also said that she expects Dad to be here in the hospital for at least two or more weeks, until engraftment takes place.  Mom and Dad were glad to talk with her and she was able to give some reassurance and support.

David and Bethany sent Dad and Mom this excerpt from Psalm 61 tonight.  What a comfort to know that God hears our prayers and that we can rest in the shelter of His wings!

Hear my cry, O God; attend to my prayer.
From the end of the earth, I will cry to You,
When my heart is overwhelmed,
Lead me to the rock that is higher than I.

For You have been a shelter for me,
A strong tower from the enemy,
I will abide in Your tabernacle forever;
I will trust in the shelter of Your wings.

For You, O God, have heard my vows;
You have given me the heritage of those who fear Your Name.
You will prolong the king's life,
His years as many generations.
He shall abide before God forever.
Oh, prepare mercy and truth, which may preserve Him!

So I will sing praise to Your Name forever,
That I may daily perform my vows.

Prayer Requests
1. For the fever to break and the antibiotics be successful in getting rid of any infection.
2. That Dad may get some good rest tonight.
3. That Dad may find peace and strength in the Lord as his rock and refuge in these difficult times.
4. For continued strength and courage for Mom too as she cares for Dad.