Dr Wali starts with good news - lab results confirm there is no infection. Yay!
The rate of blood in my urine has not yet slowed. Dr Wali lets me know the ultrasound says it is not caused by my previous biopsy, simply that the blood thinner I was taking has been making my blood too thin and causing excessive bleeding. It should slow down soon as the blood thinner was discontinued Sunday, and they are going to continue monitoring the thin-ness of my blood while I am here. Today's results are the thinnest yet; its time for scales to tip in other direction
My elevated white blood cell count and pancreas numbers are believed to be caused by more extensive rejection, and treatment has already begun for this. Dr Wali tells me we'll be able to gauge the effects of the treatment, the potent Thymoglobulin, within a few days of treatment.
"So, how long will I be on Thymoglobulin?"
Full rejection treatment takes five days in hospital. Hmmm, this is outside my plan, but I understand it's necessary, and I want all chance of rejection eliminated.
Dr Wali assures me that my concerns about infection risk are unfounded at this point. I will continue taking preventative antibiotics and I will not have to take crazy precautions once home. I'm glad to hear I can eliminate my images of living life in a bubble. I will be able to interact with my kids and do normal activities, but will need to stay away from anyone sick. Fair enough.
The pancreatic blood clot has not increased or decreased in size. It remains unchanged. Everyone is hoping it would have decreased by now, especially with the previous blood thinning treatment. They will monitor(ultrasounds) while blood thinner not being used.
Dr Wali ends his update, letting me know there is a slim chance the elevated levels are caused by blood flow issues alone, but no one on the team believes it. I appreciate his honesty. Based on lab work, this can be confirmed/eliminated within a few days of rejection treatment.
My dad asks a good question about if my experience is typical of kidney pancreas patients.
"No, her history is highly unusual," Dr Wali admits. "But not outside the realm of expectations."
None of his update surprises me. I am a little numb but it all seems logical and achievable at this point. I will be in the hospital for as long as necessary to eliminate the possibility of organ rejection. I am disappointed, but the course of action seems obvious. I don't forget, even with this road block and other speed bumps, I am lucky to have received my new organs and I appreciate everyone's proactive efforts.
I receive my pre-Thymoglobulin routine, some Tylenol and Benadryl to decrease the negative side effects of the steroid. The Benadryl makes me sleepy and I steal a four or five hour afternoon "nap."
I pass the rest of the groggy evening, not really aware of time passing, but it does.
Tomorrow, with it's own possibilities for challenges and opportunity, is coming.
And I'm feeling opportunistic.
So glad you are keeping your spirits up, Michelle -despite everything. And I am in awe of your writing skills - even though I know how good they were when you were 13 - in the face of all you are going through. Lots of positive vibes and love pouring your way!
ReplyDeleteThank you for reading and for your kind words, vibes and love. I can use them all right now, and I'm really appreciative. Hoping this setback is short-lived and I get moving in the right direction soon. Happy Thanksgiving to you and family!
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