Spa Day Hospital Style

Joy got the full works at the hospital yesterday in preperation for all of the treatments she'll need before the transplant surgery. She had cardiograms, pulmonary tests, ct scans, and yes, she can even tell you her lung size because they were measured too! She also got to see the radiation machine which looked vaguely familiar as a cross between a pilates machine and an exercise bike.

She wrapped up the day with a visit to the dentist to get her teeth cleaned because she won't be able to do this again for at least a year.

After this full day of treatments, she and Ken are looking forward to a relaxing Christmas with the kids (if only they could convince them to sleep in on Christmas morning!--suggestions anyone?).

Peach Fuzz

Both Joy's hair and blood are currently growing. Her blood cells are increasing so much that she should feel good for the holidays. She is also excited because her bone marrow transplant has officially been scheduled. January 10! Happily, the donor's donoting actual bone marrow instead of just stem cells. She'll be entering the hospital January 1 and will stay until well after the operation.

But what is REALLY making Joy excited is that she and Ken have just completely finished ALL of their Christmas shopping and some kind neighbors have been doing all of the gift wrapping!--Jealous anyone?

Christmas Gift

So, unfortunately because Joy's brother Darren has some certain antibodies in his blood, he is not able to be a bone marrow donor for Joy. However, Joy and her family have received a special gift for Christmas.

Ken's words are below:

The hospital just called. They have identified a donor match for Joy! He is a 10 for 10 match. This means that according to the technology used today, he is the best match that can be found. We also know that he is 43 years old. Because of privacy issues, this is all of the personal information that we will ever know. The doctor is recommending to perform the transplant just after the first of the year.

We are all very, very grateful. :)

Delightful Decorating

Joy is now at home with her kids and has been happily spending the last little while decorating for Christmas. Deciding they wanted to help, the twins made a display of stealing ornaments and climbing on everything possible. Fortunately, they are still with us.

Due to her continual treatments, Joy's blood counts are continuing to drop. She is receiving transfusions every other day and is continuing to feel better as a result.

We are proud of your progress Joy!!

Free Again

Yes. Joy is once again out of the hospital! She has finished her third round of chemotherapy and is now free to leave. Because her kids are all sick, (darn the winter!) she is currently staying at her parents' house. She also received some other good news today. She had a spinal tap done to see if she had any cancer cells in her spinal chord fluid.

She does not. :)