Friday, November 16, 2007

Nov. 16 Update

Hi, everybody.

The news today is that the expected drop in Kristina’s blood counts (the result of earlier chemotherapy) has started to arrive. This doesn’t mean that she feels miserable, but it does mean that she is headed towards a condition called neutropenia, which essentially means she has little or no resistance to outside infections.

Again, this is a reminder that if you come to visit (see room info at top left), you cannot have recently had shots or been sick, and you can’t bring flowers. Call her if you have any questions.

For a little reference, next to each count I have included the normal range and the last three days’ counts. The last one, in bold, is today’s.

WBC (4.3 to 10) – 2.95 – 3.01 – 0.95
HCT (36 to 45) – 30 – 30 – 29
ANC (0.500 is neutropenic) – 2.27 – 2.65 – 0.610
PLT (150 to 400) – 65 – 98 – 56

Kristina walked some laps today but says her appetite is about half of normal. She also really wanted me to say that she is very moved by the love and support she’s getting. I think she can feel all the healing vibes aimed her way.

Also, please check out the previous post for ways you can pitch in to help with some volunteer effort. Another way to help, of course, is follow this link to make a donation to her medical-expenses fund. Just scroll to the bottom, click "Contribute Now," and follow the instructions.

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