Dad had an appointment today at
LDS hospital with his transplant specialist, she had the results of his bone marrow biopsy that they did two weeks ago. April, mom and I went with him. The doctor informed us that Dad's leukemia had gone into remission and that they did not see the Philadelphia chromosome. We thought that this was wonderful news, however because dad is still on oxygen and has lost so much weight and strength and can't even eat, he would most likely not make it through a transplant right now. She said that the toxins would be too much for his body to handle. April asked the doctor how long he could be in remission and gain the strength to receive the transplant and she said that he would have only months to live. Dad's insurance no longer covers a physical therapist to come to the house and work with him, but between mom and all of his kids, we are going to get him healthy enough for the transplant.
He has an appointment with his Oncologist at St. Marks on Thursday, so we will talk to her about a feeding tube so he can at least get his nourishment that way until his appetite comes back or at least where we can mention food without him getting nauseated.
When dad does receive the transplant she said that he will have a 20% chance of the leukemia being cured and without the transplant he will not make it.
We all know that dad is strong and that he has already beat the odds several times. Let's not focus on the percentages right now, but have faith and prayers that we will witness yet another miracle.
His spirits are a little low right now but we are going to do all we can to help him fight this.
Again, we love you all and appreciate the friendship, support and prayers on our father's behalf.
Please continue to pray and have faith and feel free to email him or comment on this blog and we will make sure he
gets all of your messages (he loves it!)
Thanks again! Love Karen
