DOT -1 last day before transplant

Hey it’s Patrick! Thank you all for following my blog...we have had almost 2,000 hits thus far which really warms my heart. 

The past 4 days have gone about as I expected and with all of the wonderful drugs to ward off side effects, I may say possibly a bit better than expected. Today is my last day of chemo which is being administered as I write.

My emotions are running high, thinking about not having to take daily antibiotics and worry about infections creeping up is an incredible feeling. Even though I have been so very fortunate to not have frequent infections, it is always in the back of my mind. When I was in third grade Dr. Buckley wanted me to have this transplant, and the only way to do it then was by perfect sibling match. When Taylor and Mary tested negative, this was put out of my mind. Thanks to the advancement in medicine I am now able to get cells from anyone who is a perfect match.

I have been thinking a lot about the donor I know nothing about, wondering where he lives and what he looks like. I know one thing I don't have to wonder about is that he is a very generous, kindhearted, thoughtful human being, which is pretty rare these days.  Thank you donor- just hope I have the opportunity to thank you in person one day.

So I march on through this journey with cells coming tomorrow. I know that I have a very tough road ahead with various issues that may arise but I am ready to face whatever comes my way and know that the doctors here can handle any problems that may occur.

A big thanks to everyone who has supported me over the last few days, especially my family.  My mom has been great, coming to the clinic with me every day, and being my “at home” nurse. My dad has been out of town, but we have been in touch daily. I look forward to spending time with him next week. My step dad, John, has been a huge help.  He is always willing to bring me anything I need since he is just a car ride away. Also my grandmother, who will be here tonight and making frequent visits. Can’t forget about my sisters, Taylor and Mary, y’all are awesome. Thanks to you two for the superb blog posts, daily visits, and care packages. Thanks to all my visitors over the past few days, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Lastly, I want to thank Dr. Buckley who pulled me through when I was very sick at 8 days old, for taking such good care of me since, and seeing me through this process. For you I am more than grateful.

Let’s move on and pray that the donor cells take!

Patrick and Dr. Buckley

Patrick and Nurse Katie, just finished up chemo!!