Day -11

Rachel actually started feeling better last night and she had a late dinner around 9:15pm. She slept through the night as well. This morning she woke up feeling sore around the area where they put her central line in, but otherwise felt pretty good. She ate breakfast and then around 10am they started the second dose of Campath. She did fine through this dose with the only side effect being a rash, which could have come from the antibiotic. They gave her Benedryl and she is feel better.

Physical and occupational therapy have been in and she has done some exercises. She is feeling very shaky and out of control with many of her movements and so after her shower it felt good to get back in bed for a while. Physical therapy wants her to sit up in a chair as much as possible while she is feeling good, so after her dressing change for the line, she will probably sit up in a chair and watch TV for a while. At this point she cannot leave the room unless absolutely necessary for an x-ray and then only with a mask. It is very important that she not be exposed to any germs or viruses. The Chemo is basically trying to get rid of her immune system so that it will be ready to receive the marrow, so she is at a high risk for illness and infection. The hospital is very strict about allowing certain thing into her room as well, like plants and flowers.

Our care partner came to see us today. We had nice visit. She is pretty knowledgeable about this procedure because her son had one many years ago. We are very fortunate to have her and some friends from a local church that have been so helpful to us. The Care Partners organization also gives new patients a bag full of things and a cute stuffed animal. Here is a picture.
This picture is of the 3 stuff animals that brighten our room. Aren't they cute? Rachel has had her Panda(not pictured) since she was born thanks to Aunt Vikki, and he came here as well. He needed to be washed in order for Rachel to be able to be around him now so our care partner took Panda home to wash him and then he will be back to join the pack! Thanks care partner for the goodies!