Day 23

Day 23: This picture is of Day 23 eight years ago.  This was the moment we arrived home after her first transplant.  I am truly amazed we're going home on Day 24 this time since the procedure was much more complicated not being her own cells.  Good thing we didn't know then what was in store for us.  I've often used the analogy that it has been like walking on a tightrope and it works as long as you just keep looking forward and not down.  But it's more than not looking down.  We learned that we had to find a way to enjoy the time in spite of the hardships as it's not like we'd get those years back.

Late last night Annie and I snuck off the ward and took the elevator to the top floor and enjoyed the view of the lights sparkling across the San Gabriel Valley.  It was as special and happy moment as I could have had with a healthy child in an optimal situation.  Well it was special until, despite her protests and warnings, I made Annie go to our favorite spot, which was behind a closed door, that she told me not to open, but that I did anyways, and then tripped an alarm, that then made us have to cut our nice moment short, as we fled the scene.

Annie's ANC and platelets were still improving today although her hemoglobin dropped.  We are still battling nausea and she had to be back on IV today since she didn't make her liquids quota (1,800 mL/day) yesterday.  She has been drinking up a storm today to try and not have to go home with a pole and pumps.  We'll see if she can convince the doctors tomorrow.