Saturday, December 13, 2008

A Little Good News for Kenyon


The worst medicine of all is OVER. It is called GenGraf (cyclosporin). It is the immuno-suppressant drug. Kenyon has been taking this medicine for a LONG time and it has made him so sick. Even the sight of these pills made Kenyon sick. It was probably one of the worst parts of this BMT for him. Of course, if that ugly GVHD (graft vs host disease) ever shows up then he will go back on it but so far so good. Now that he is off that medicine, his new immune system will start working. But it is weak. So, it is still really important that we keep him away from all germs for about 3 more months. Last night Kenyon and Quinn stayed home from the ward party to try and avoid some of that. It is such a bummer because he would love to get out of the house and join in the festivities. But better safe than sorry. Plus, he really hates that mask.

Shortly after I made my last post about Kenyon, we got a call that his counts are moving in the right direction. He is at 98% donor marrow and 2% his own marrow. He has clinic on Monday and hopefully will get a little more info on what the plan is.
We are happy that he now has all his hair back on his head. We even had to give him a little haircut a few weeks ago. It is different and actually better. I was pretty worried about how it would look but I like it!

12 comments:

Katie M. said...

def. better safe than sorry.. but so happy to hear he is moving in the right direction. i think he looks very healthy and vibrant! And the baby is of course, a beauty. I hope you are bringing her to the party on the 23rd.
I want to hold.

Julie said...

Oh so glad to hear the good news! It really is a bummer he has to stay in, but really good that you guys are being extra careful!

Courtney said...

So glad to hear the update. Glad that things are going well. We got your cute card- as always- loved it.

Annelise Kimball said...

What a blessing. You guys have definitely been through it this year. I'm so glad that everything is looking good for Kenyon and your family!

Anon said...

Congrats!

Juliann said...

Wahoo! And those three more months away from crowds will fly by. THEN we'll put you on Trax at rush hour and see how you do! Just kidding.

Malea said...

Well, I'm just understanding what is really going on with your family. I feel like I have a years worth of comments and prayers to make up for lost time. You have such courage. And I really appreciate the fresh perspective from your positive attitude. Prayers will start today, 'tho, k?
p.s. whenever I write/type "sentence", I think of you. It's a Russia thing:)

Alissa said...

Just found your blog. (Thanks for the Christmas card...ours is coming soon). Let's get together after the holidays! Promise we'll double wash our hands. Alissa

McKinlay Family said...

I like the mask. It shows he is doing well and out of the house. Tell him if he wants self concious try being me... LOL

hOLLIANN said...

That is awesome! My dad has to stay on that stinky cyclosporin...yea for Kenyon!

Cheryl said...

I am glad that things are trying to get back to normal over there....whatever "normal" is. I think Quinn has a little more hair than Kenyon!lol

ashleymhc said...

So good to see your darling family. Glad to hear you have good news.