Stem cell Info

I never know how much information to share on the blog.  I recognize not everyone knows what a stem cell transplant is exactly (we sure didn't before this began!).  So here is a little information for you.

In mantle cell lymphoma, a stem cell transplant after 6 rounds of chemo is recommended to solidify and extend a person's remission.  Technically, Nate is in remission right now as the scans show he is disease free.  However, research has found that if patients only do chemo and not a stem cell transplant, the cancer can return within 12-18 months.  Patients who have a transplant have a better chance at a longer remission.  Obviously nothing is guaranteed, but that is the goal. The doctor is also recommending 2-3 years of maintenance chemo after the transplant, but we are not focusing on that piece yet.  One thing at a time.

So what do stem cells do?  Hematopoietic (blood forming) stem cells are immature, undifferentiated cells that develop into red blood cells, white blood cells or platelets. The type of cell that is produced depends on what the body needs.

What is a hematopoietic stem cell transplant?  A stem cell transplant involves destroying the patient's bone marrow and infusing new stem cells into the blood stream.  The stem cells find their way into the cavities of the patient's bones where they take up residence or "engraft" and begin producing normal blood cells.  Basically, the cancer is destroyed by chemo and Nate's immune system is re-booted with the stem cells.  And how does a bone marrow transplant differ from a stem cell transplant?  The only difference between the two terms is how the stem cells are collected.  In bone marrow transplantation, the cells are harvested from the hip through a surgical procedure.  In stem cell transplantation, the cells are taken from the blood stream through a process called apheresis. (Kind of like when you donate blood.)

Again, I do not know how much information and dates people really want, but if nothing else you can pray for us over the next two months.  On March 7, Nate will have a full day of testing and appointments at Northwestern.  Insurance requires these tests to make sure there are not any pre-existing conditions before they approve paying for the transplant.

On March 16, we need to start giving Nate shots at home to bump up his stem cell production.  I have to admit, this piece is freaking me out. There is a reason I did not go into nursing like my Mom and sister! But, friends who had similar situations have assured me we can do this.  We can do this.

On March 20-22ish Nate will be at Northwestern for the stem cell collection.  He will be hooked up to an IV of sorts for a couple hours every day until they have enough stem cells.  So he could be there 2-5 days, just hard to know.

We have another pre-transplant appointment on March 27.

Nate will be admitted to Northwestern on April 7 and begin the 6 days of intensive chemo.  This part has me the most nervous as they are bringing his immune system down to nothing. Then on April 13 they infuse his stem cells back into him.  Then we wait for his blood counts to rebound (so he has an immune system again) and get high enough so that he can go home. So sometime after April 27 we are hoping he will come home.  Then comes recovery time at home.

Piece of cake, right?!  Ahh! As I write this post the Bible verse, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" is running through my head.  Not sure I always believe it, but I can rest in knowing God will get us through this.

Short term prayer request, Nate has inpatient chemo in Grand Rapids Feb 28- March 2.