A day at DFCI

(as relayed to Katrina by Mom/Elizabeth/Erica)

Elizabeth (and Mom) met with Dr. Soiffer, her oncologist at DFCI, in Boston today and Erica just called to say they are on their way home. Much information came of this meeting and simultaneously many questions were also left unanswered. We'd like to share with you the important stuff but also not bore you to tears...so here are the summarized notes:

• Elizabeth's stomach, fever & platelet symptoms are not Graft v. Host Disease (commence cheering);
• In fact, my stem cells have successfully engrafted into Elizabeth's body (in a measurable amount that I am forbidden to share with you per Elizabeth) (yay!);
• Dr. Soiffer displayed more puzzlement than alarm at Elizabeth's low platelet count (puzzled is better than alarmed---although I'd rather be puzzled while playing Pictionary than while in my doctor's office...);
• He has a few theories as to why her count is so low and he is testing them out this week. Elizabeth's theory is that her immune system can screw anyone up. Knowing that her ADD couldn't trump my OCD, I will seek out a different explanation. One of Dr. Soiffer's theories involves decreasing the amount of immunosuppressant medication that she currently takes; this could also alleviate some of her stomach issues (tentative cheer);
• Elizabeth will have follow-up blood work this week at Westchester where she will potentially receive additional anti-bodies and of course, platelets if necessary;
• Her next appointment with Dr Soiffer at DFCI is next Monday.

From what I hear, Elizabeth intends to post herself soon; it promises to be interesting, so tune back in for a bloody good time! (Umm...I think I just channeled my husband...or my father...or my pastor. I'm doomed.)