Michael and Joe left the meeting with Dr. Leventhal with a long prescription list of diagnostic tests and labs to complete before they could move to the next phase of this complex and precise qualifying agenda. The next few weeks we spent in and out of diagnostic testing facilities as well as labs. Michael had dozens of vials of blood drawn, chest x-ray, echocardiogram, abdomen scans, EKG, stress test and several other diagnostic tests specifically completed to the doctor's orders. At times it was difficult sitting in these diagnostic waiting rooms, surrounded by people who were obviously ill, fighting their own diseases and dealing with their own fears. Their faces, young and old, clearly showing the weariness and pain in their hearts. It was impossible not to hear them as they shared their struggles with the person sitting next to them, my heart would grow heavy for them as well. I remember looking at Michael, the picture of perfect health. A man who never complained of any symptoms, it was callously surreal to sit in those numbing waiting rooms and come to the understanding that he was quite ill and that he was carrying inside him a disease that was terminal without medical action. At times, it is still difficult to digest what he is about to go through, but I'm so grateful that there is hope and advancement for those living with PKD and needing organ transplants. Though all the testing turned out to be emotionally trying and time consuming, we were happy to know that Michael was an extremely healthy man aside from his PKD. YAY, Michael!
Today Michael was admitted into Northwestern Memorial Hospital. He will be there until he is discharged after his transplant. He received his first dialysis treatment which was 2 hours long. The dialysis treatments will increase in duration each day. He said that he did not feel a thing during or after the treatment (he does sound like he is already getting bored - lol). Dialysis will be administered each day until his transplant day. The reason? Michael will start on chemotherapy drugs (Fludarabine and Cytoxan) on Sunday to make "room" in his bone marrow for the stem cell transplant, known as a "mini" bone marrow transplant. His current kidneys are not healthy enough to withstand the chemotherapy, the dialysis will be used to do the work of his kidneys. When Michael's bone marrow is partly destroyed and marrow from Joe is introduced, Michael will develop a "chimeric" immune system, bearing characteristics of both his and Joe's. When both bone marrows produce immune cells that mature in one body, the two immune systems learn to recognize each other as part of the same body and do not attack each other. This should make it easier for Michael to tolerate Joe's kidney and hopefully keep this kidney for life! Today I got a treat! Michael FaceTimed me and took me along for a walk around the hospital and to to the cafeteria to get a cookie, I even had a chance to see his nurse Allison. It was so great seeing his beautiful face.
Relaxing in his hospital room - will be here until surgery day.
IV will be used for his chemotherapy.
First Dialysis Session - "Easy Peasy"
Michael's treat to eat at Northwestern Hospital Cafeteria.
5 Days to Transplant! Thank God for the wisdom given to these doctors to open doors and provide a better life for organ recipients. You are not alone, and neither are we.
God's blessings. Lilly :)
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