Friday, August 16. Transplant Day!
Just a swift update.
The donor transplant started today at 1 pm. Unsure of how long it will take (the stem cells are administered through a port in her chest), we do know that there are about 11 million new cells Kathy will be receiving. I can't count that high, so I'm just going to surmise that is a very large and a positive amount.
Of course, as you probably realize, today begins not the end of this entire process, but really just the beginning. Strict, strict public and germ restrictions begin today. Very meticulous food preparation and any other exposure to things that could bring in unwelcome bacteria or virus' starts now. We won't really have an idea for another few weeks at least with how her body has or hasn't accepted these cells.
It takes a village to raise a child, and as I've now adapted into my new Katie-made-up mantras, it also takes a village to raise a miracle. So, please continue to unfalteringly (is this a word? it sounds right) pray that these new donor cells will be happy, obedient ones- that Kathy's body can accept them, that they can accept her, that these tiny but crucial bio-materials will do what they were originally intended to do!
Without trying to get overly cheesy or overly spiritual at this very moment, a scripture tells us that we need to pray in order to receive our desires. The Brother of Jared in the book of Mormon casually says in a long prayer that the Lord has "given us a commandment that we must call upon thee, that from thee we may receive according to our desires" (Ether chapter 3, verse 2).
So, yes, please pray specifically that this army of new cells going into her body might behave well and observe well, and be compliant to her body's functions.
Dear 11 million cells, please be nice and good and happy in your new body. Thank you.
And dear Donor-man in Europe, thank you for your benevolence in going to a clinic and having your stem cells extracted. You are saving a life. Sincerely, Katie M.
And dear Donor-man in Europe, thank you for your benevolence in going to a clinic and having your stem cells extracted. You are saving a life. Sincerely, Katie M.
Thank you, everyone! Mwah.
Thanks for the update, Katie! I hope and pray that she will remain strong through all of this and that no complications will occur.
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful post, Katie. We love seeing these updates on Kathy and your family. Isaac prays for "Grandma KK" most every night and you are constantly in our hearts and prayers. Your post reminded me of D&C 100:1. "... your families are well; they are in mine hands, and I will do with them as seemeth me good; for in me there is all power."
ReplyDeleteWe love you- The Whisenant Family
Kathy - We are praying "athletically" (a Steve Young-ism) with much passion and earnestness for those millions of cells to perform a miracle in your beleaguered body! We pray for your peace of mind and for great comfort from above. It makes me weep just thinking about what you are going through. Such bravery. Such faith. Such love for those who love you. Wish I could surround you with arms of love and with flowers and chocolate and fresh air -- and ANGELS. Love you so much, Susan
ReplyDeleteFervent, loving, and specific prayers are heading heavenward daily from the Schickedanz home. Love you, Katie.
ReplyDeleteMartha