Clarification

I'm afraid there might be some confusion as to my explanation of the 2nd transplant and insurance denial. I apologize if I didn't make this clear. I'll try to explain. The 2nd transplant is actually a precautionary step just in case of the possible development of leukemia IN THE FUTURE. Dave does not have leukemia but chemotherapy drugs can cause a development of MDS, a form of leukemia. This does not necessarily mean that Dave will develop leukemia; it is just a possibility. If a 2nd transplant is necessary, our insurance will most likely cover it at that time. BC/BS has been the best in coverage for the entire process and we are very thankful to the city for that excellent insurance benefit. Always feel free to ask questions, you know me - I love the challenge!

Things are on schedule

Looks like we start tomorrow with a 10 a.m. scheduled meeting with transplant nurse to go over some details regarding protocol. Weekends really don't mean days off here, but that is a good thing. It's hard though knowing what day of the week it is, as they all seem to run together! Dave and I never know the date; Dave blames it on chemo brain, but I don't really have an excuse! I could try "fatigue"! We hope everyone enjoys their weekend!

Insurance Denial

We met with Dr. Holmberg at 6 p.m., and received the news that our insurance will not approve the 2nd transplant, so we are back to step 1. Starting on July 11th, Dave will begin TBI (total body irradiation) for four days, a day of rest, then admit to the Univ. of WA for 2 days of chemotherapy. After 24 hrs. his stem cells will be transplanted, a process they consider a "re-birth". This can be quite a celebration. Depending on how Dave responds, he could be home (meaning hotel) after 3 days or can be in the hospital until any problems are resolved. One of the biggest concerns is mucositis (sores in the mouth, esophagus, intestines). This is controlled with pain meds and tube feedings, which we hope doesn't happen, but we are prepared just in case. Thirty days after transplant Dave will undergo another CT scan to see if there is any sign of remaining cancer. If there is, Dave will undergo radiation for another 3 wks or so. We had a nice July 4th with Dave's brother, Mark and his wife, Susan, watching some spectacular fireworks over Lake Union! Today was spent enjoying some Seattle sightseeing and some good fish and chips. Please keep the prayers coming as this is really a stressful time - we really miss everyone and can't wait to get home and see everyone!

72 HOURS

Sounds like a new t.v. series, or maybe I could write a book!!! Met with Dr. Holmberg today hoping for an answer from our insurance, but they won't have a decision for 72 hours. Of course, they don't include the 4th of July! Dr. Holmberg did get appointments made, regardless of the decision, for Dave to start chemo or TBI (total body irradiation) on the 11th. We were concerned about tumor growth, as Dave has an "aggressive fast-growing" lymphoma; however, Dr. Holmberg started Dave on Prednisone (steroid) to stop any progression until his chemo/TBI gets started. That gives us a little peace of mind, and we can enjoy Dave's brother (Mark) and his wife (Susan) who arrive tomorrow. I know that God has given us this little "break" for a reason, and we are thankful for that; I think we need to be re-charged! We really enjoyed our visit with our oldest daughter, Rachel, and her family. We hated to see them go, but I'm sure they will be back!

WE HOPE EVERYONE ENJOYS THE 4TH OF JULY, FRIENDS, AND FAMILY!!!

Insurance Nightmare

This morning at 8:30 we met with the radiation oncologist at the University Hospital. The procedure of TBI (total body radiation) was explained to us and, of course, the negatives seemed to stick in our minds more than the positives. It's pretty scary what they do, but they seem to know what they are doing, so we just have to trust them. You are certainly in their hands! Chest x-rays were taken and will be used to build a shield to protect Dave's lungs, as the lungs are the most sensitive of the organs. That in itself was pretty unnerving. We got through that okay then met with our transplant physician hoping for an idea of when treatment starts. Of course, insurance isn't sure they will cover the 2nd transplant, so that is on hold. They should make their decision tomorrow. That leaves everything up in the air! We are really frustrated this evening and want to get the treatment started. The plan is starting chemo on the 4th, but that's not a definite. We will be glad when things get straightened out. I see Dave struggling with all these issues and pray for strength for him.