May 16, 2004

Main Page • John's Journal (2000-2003) • CLL Information • Contact John • Seattle Cancer Care Alliance • MD Anderson

As many of you had heard, John was moved into intensive care on Saturday because of a severe reaction to the platelets he was given. This was very scary. John and Michelle are very thankful to be at the UW Medical Center because of their amazing teamwork, care, and professionalism. The reaction included his heart rate shooting up to 245 beats per minute and the medical staff had to scramble to get that under control. Because of the elevated heart rate, he was having a tough time breathing.

Long story short, he's ok now, but will remain in intensive care for probably at least a week. The point of him staying is just to be sure to have consistent nursing care available. He is doing fine. Strong indications are that the graft vs. host process is underway and this is early. His doctors say this is good, as this is what they want to have happen. John had a rash appear, which is very indicative of graft vs. host. He is pretty heavily medicated, and can come up with some really random statements at times, or be very lucid and specific about events at other times. The fever he was battling last week is under control, owing to a strong battery of steroids. The steriods are masking the fever, for which he and Michelle are very thankful. The steriods, however, cause him some disorientation, and make it tough to sleep.

John is having some hiccups again. Many of you remember this side effect from his last transplant. This side effect is at least one he recognizes. John welcomes visitors, but please realize that he is in intensive care, and the staff want to keep as many germs away from him as possible, so if you have any kind of cold or anything, please just send along your prayers and best wishes.

The next series of specific prayers are for the graft vs. host process to be as smooth as possible. John knows that the battle will have peaks and valleys, and Saturday was definitely a valley. But with the loving support of Michelle and the wonderful medical staff at UWMC, he made it through that one, and is ready for whatever comes next. His faith is stronger than ever, and he and Michelle appreciate the overwhelming love, prayers, best wishes, and support they are receiving around the clock. It means everything to them.

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