Transplant Schedule!

April4

Hi everyone!

Heres the good news! I am scheduled for a bone marrow transplant on May 7th. I will be getting stem cells from an unrelated donor who is supposed to be a 10 out of 10 match for me. I will have several “evaluations” and appointments, etc. this month to prepare for that day. I will actually get admitted April 30th or May 1. They will have to start the chemo and radiation prior to the actual transplant date.

My immune system will be completely ablated (killed) so the new one can take over. Its like having a new birthday (May 7th) for my immune system. It will take several weeks for the cells to graft in, and I will probably be in the hospital for 4-6 weeks we have been told. I will stay in Gainesville for 100 days (this is a magic number!) as this is the time period where most serious problems can occur. We really haven’t been given anymore information but will be getting it this month at the appointments.

Please continue to pray, as this is to be the final step in this very long process. I know that this may be the biggest hurdle yet. I can’t wait to get to the other side of transplant and start my new life. My priorities have changed so much. May God Bless you all,

love Karen

posted under Notes from Karen

9 Comments to

“Transplant Schedule!”

On April 7th, 2010 at 12:45 pm Paula B Says:
Great news on the transplant date! What a super Mother’s Day gift…life. It’s going to be hard, but you’re one tough cookie…stay strong. ~Paula
On April 7th, 2010 at 2:52 pm Lisa Moats Says:
So glad to hear that! Can’t wait to talk to you!
Luv ya!
Lisa
On April 9th, 2010 at 1:15 pm Joyce Long Says:
Karen…just want you to know you are still in my thoughts and prayers alot!! I just got off the phone with my Michelle at Harding, her and Randy were having lunch…what a good friend he is to Michelle…he is a real sweetie. You are not only talented, beautiful, and smart:) You have been blessed with wonderful children.
On April 9th, 2010 at 9:29 pm Leah Says:
I am so thankful to hear this news! This is very exciting Karen, and I pray that everything goes smoothly from here on out. You are a strong and amazing woman!
On April 14th, 2010 at 7:29 am Marsha Says:
Hi Sweetie, I am so glad to hear that everthing is going well for you.We are awaiting the birth of our new little girl.If she doesn’t try to come before april 20,that will be her birthdate.Everything is set and ready to go.I just have to finish the mural I have been working on.It’s hard for me to climb to the 2nd floor and so I think I have been procrastinating.I lost my mimi a couple of weeks ago and then the good Lord took Tigger this week.I still have Rascal,and he is full of love for us.You are in thoughts and prayers daily.You will have your strength when you need it.Angels are by your side ,they will hold you up and carry you when you need it. Love You,Auntie M
On April 14th, 2010 at 12:16 pm Debra Hurley Says:
Hi Karen,
You’ve been on my mind a lot! Just checking in to let you know that I am continually thinking of and praying for you and your family. Are you still home or back at Shands? Just remember you can do anything, through Him who gives you strength. Phil 4:13
Love you,
Debra
On April 16th, 2010 at 9:50 am Tina B Says:
Debra, When I last spoke to Karen (last Saturday) she was at home. I think she goes back at the end of the month.

BTW, Karen has a birthday on Sunday! HAPPY BIRTHDAY, KAREN! I love you, girlfriend!
On April 17th, 2010 at 9:17 pm Julie Cameron Says:
You are in my prayers Karen. I am the nurse horselover that owns Blue from Misty Meadows Stable.
On April 23rd, 2010 at 5:46 am Amy Says:
You are in my prayers Karen. I am the nurse horselover that owns Blue from Misty Meadows Stable.