Nov. 19 Update

Today is Day 5 since the transfusion, and there’s an interesting number to report: 0.00. That is Kristina’s ANC count today, the measure of her immune system’s strength. And yes, that means that she has no immune system. A simple infection could literally kill her at this point, which is why all her visitors have to wear gowns and there are severe restrictions on what she can eat, and what can come into the room.

So, once again, call before visiting!

She actually feels okay today. She got a platelet transfusion today, because that number was down to 10 (normal is 150-400). The other numbers will pretty much drop to zero, which is expected, and then it’s a matter of waiting for engrafment, which is the process of the donated stem cells getting into her bone marrow and making healthy blood cells. This typically takes 10 to 14 days, though in her case it might take longer, because her donated stem cell count was lower than you hope for.

One other piece of good news: Jessica Abood, a transplant patient Kristina knows in the same hospital, is doing well, is off her feeding tube, and should be released for a second time.

Three things to take with you today:

• There is a final version of the flyer for the December 19 fundraiser concert. I’ll post it separately.
• Please consider volunteering as a weekend caregiver at Kristina’s apartment; email Kristin for more information.
• Please considering pitching in to Kristina’s transplant fund, which you can do online with your credit card.