Transplant Day +9 - Part II - The Road to Recovery

Welcome to Part II of today’s journey with Phoebe.

Hi again, we hope all is well and that you liked the video from the Anthony Nolan Trust that we added earlier. Ade and I have talked in length about how many people are still unaware of the changes in procedure when donating stem cells and how much easier and less intrusive it is to do so nowadays (see 'second method' at this link). Hopefully, we can help the Trust out next year by maybe running a recruitment day at the Tollgate; we would like to give something back and I know there will be a few of you keen to do this, making the whole process easier for you to do so.

Phoebe had a really settled night’s sleep but awoke this morning quite upset about the site around her Hickman Line. It seemed very tender and she wouldn’t even let me see if there was anything wrong. Phoebe said it was sore, bless her, but after a little while and Mummy’s cuddle she calmed and fell back asleep. We asked for her morphine to be increased to 2.5ml and she has been more comfortable but there is still some tenderness.

During the morning Phoebs was quite perky and played really well, although later she became a little tired and took a nap. We sometimes forget what she has been through but we understood a little more when the results came back showing her Hb to be a little low. Rob called by and thought she may need another blood transfusion, but her bloods were repeated and these seemed to improve. Today has been the first time where we have seen a positive change in the blood counts. Not wanting to get too excited but it looks like we have the start of white blood cells being produced, although it's extremely early days yet.

Phoebe was still sleeping when the troops arrived and it happened again; I stood by the window, looked out and there was a vacant parking space by our building. I thought to myself, "If they hurry that space will be free for them", I turned around and there was Geoff reversing into the space. It never ceases to amaze me when that happens and it happens a lot believe me, it always brings a smile!!! Gwen climbed out of the van and saluted like Norman Wisdom, it's turning into a real comedy moment when they arrive each day. Even the staff on the ward are asking if the troops have arrived yet!!!

The afternoon was a relaxed pace with both Nans here being completely entertained by Phoebe. It is just so lovely seeing her interacting with them. By the time the guys were due to leave, Phoebe was getting a little tired and started to feel sick. The Mother’s instinct this time came from my Mum, with the bowl standing by, they reassured Phoebe that it was ok and her body was making her better. She just seems to understand and accept all these things, just truly remarkable.

Before the folks returned home I managed to get the daily walk in and today focused on my breathing, taking in deep breaths and filling my lungs as much as possible. This really helps and definitely clears my head and I today enjoyed the solace and the sound of the birds chattering away. As most of you know Ade isn’t keen on walking, thought he may benefit from it today to avoid listening to Stoke being beaten badly at the time! [Oy! - Ade]

Ade had some time with Phoebe this afternoon and managed to get these for you (below)….Even though we are in a very unnatural environment, Phoebe seems to be coping very well and developing remarkably. She continues each day to show us how resilient she is and this helps us to cope each day too. Soon we may be able to go out onto the ward again and I know she will be thrilled when we may be able take her on our daily walk, bet you Ade will come along then!!





Lissa, thanks for you question. I don’t tend to nap in the day as I try and keep my routine too, it helps my sanity. Usually I will head off to bed around 12.30am when I have changed Phoebe’s last nappy; I’m good on 6 hours! It will be nice to chat about the book more on e-mail: lynn@oldfields.net xxx

Phoebe received a lovely package today from her good friend Ashley, Thank you for that. Phoebe really enjoyed playing with the book and blocks today. Hope you are all keeping well, especially bump!! Keep us posted on your news Sam.

Hi to all the junior Bloggeroonies, I will pass all your kisses on to Phoebe and thank you for your lovely messages. xxxx

Finishing off tonight, I would like to congratulate another Lynn (who is my temporary replacement at work) on becoming accepted as a new foster mum. There are so many children out there that will benefit from spending time with you Lynn, we hope that all the prayers said for you at the group each week has played a little part in it too!!! Remember me saying Lynn, if it's part of your journey to do this, it will happen. So pleased for you xxx. Thanks for passing on the news Annemarie, nice to hear from you and pleased you like the blog!

Thanks again to everyone for taking the time to visit us and all of your comments (Parsnip – you had that photo of Su and I spot on, couldn’t stop laughing for ages!! :o). We do so appreciate all the love, support, gifts and cards; you are all too kind xxx

‘Peace on the earth, good will to men. From heaven’s all-gracious King. The world in solemn stillness lay to hear the angels sing.’

Edmund Sears

Wishing you all peaceful sleep, with love xxx