Chemo treatment behind her

Jill had her chemo treatment this week. She was in the University hospital for two nights while they administered the same type of treatment she was getting in Boise. She also had a spinal tap. Everything went smoothly and she is feeling quite well so far. She will be recuperating from the chemo for the next 2 or 3 weeks.

Tests on her spine were negative and that is very good news. The transplant is tentatively scheduled for November 15th, exactly one year from the date that she had her last transplant (using her own stem cells). Her brother Harley has made arrangements to be out in Seattle several days in front of the 15th to prepare for the transplant.

Meanwhile Jill and Sylvia are preparing for Halloween by decorating the apartment. There is a contest in their apartment complex to see who can decorate their doors the best. Scott is visiting this weekend, and perhaps will serve as a consultant.

tom

Treatment plans are set

Jill met with her oncology team at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center this week. They reviewed the results of all the tests she has had recently. The tests results were very positive. Her heart, lung and bone marrow all look very good. The cancer is completely gone from her head. The tumors in her neck have grown a little since the last test. In order to be in the best possible condition before the stem cell transplant, she will get one more chemo treatment, followed soon after with the transplant. So the treatment is moving along very well.

Jill is feeling very good these days. She and Sylvia are planning a boat cruise on Lake Union in downtown Seattle on Sunday. The cruise is offered to patients at the Hutchinson Center.

tom

Testing, testing, 1, 2, 3......

Jill and Sylvia arrived in Seattle on Sept 27 and moved into their apartment the next day. Her brother Harley arrived on the 28th and testing began for both. Harley was here for a week and will return when it is time for the transplant. Jill continues to have daily testing to prepare for the transplant and to determine if any other pre-treatment is required. The experience has been good so far and she is comfortable with all of her health care providers. The transplant schedule is not set until she has a scan and talks with the doctors later this week.

Jill and Sylvia are getting daily exercise walking up the hill to the clinic and they are starting to meet other transplant patients at the apartment. They have enjoyed some sight seeing within walking distance, including the main REI store just up the street. They also have a beautiful view of downtown and the Space Needle from their apartment (see photos). Their mailing address is 525 Minor Ave N Apt #403, Seattle, WA 98109. For immunity/health reasons, please do not send plants or flowers. Finally, Scott and Tom flew into town for a weekend of fun and distraction with their wives (insert your own joke here).

Scott