D-Day - Immune System Wipeout

Ed started his mega-chemo treatment today. The morning started at Albany Medical Center with blood work drawn to check Ed's platelets and cell counts, and a dressing change at his port site. Ed's chemo called Melphalan is used for Multiple Myeloma patients to inhibit growth of cancer cells. Today Ed's treatment included the Chemo, IV fluids, and Aloxi(an anti-nausea drug). Ed will be going home hooked up to a pump called a BAD pump which stands for Benedryl, Ativan, and Decadron. This medication will be used to prevent nausea, and Ed can self regulate the amount of medication he needs. This same chemo treatment will also be repeated on Tuesday.

For the next three weeks we will be traveling to Albany Med. to check Ed's daily blood work, and he will have various IV fluids administered which will include antibiotics. Daily they will be checking his white and red blood cell counts, and platelets to see what fluids and treatment he will need. If his platelets go too low, he will be administered "Leuko reduced irradiated single donor platelets" from a blood donor. Ed had to sign a release form that stated he was aware of the complications from the meds and blood donations. Always comforting!!

Next week will be the start of his white blood cell count going to zero. We were told that he will have a 99% chance of loosing his hair in two weeks. I will avoid making any hair jokes at this time to respect Ed's plight.(But you know what I am thinking and there will be pictures posted!) Next week Ed will be on a strict diet to prevent any infections. It's a large list of foods, and even bananas aren't safe. Lots of soups and stews. I continue cleaning and sanitizing the house and bedding daily to prevent any complications. The cats, however, are not cooperating.

Lastly, we would like to thank the family members who have continually helped us. We couldn't do it without them, and words cannot express our gratitude. Many friends have also offered, but we have planned ahead and been very organized by stocking up on many supplies. We thank you for your continued offers and prayers!