The transplant remains on hold pending more scans and biopsies and confabs among Gary's transplant, radiation, and leukemia doctors.
Thankfully, the bleeding has now stopped. That made it appropriate for Gary to see Dr. Rahmati, an ear-nose-and-throat doctor at Columbia-Presbyterian, for follow-up. After peeking inside with his special light scope, the doc pronounced Gary's nose tissue healthy. Therefore, bleeding not due to any nose problem, rather to low blood counts, specifically platelets, the component in blood that aids clotting.
As you might have guessed, later this afternoon, Gary received transfusions of platelets and of red blood cells. But first, Gary had to endure (valiantly I might add!) another bone marrow biopsy in Dr. Lamanna's office, his third one this summer.
All in all, he was at the hospital for nine hours today. Big thank you to friend JOYCE who bought Gary fresh bagels (from the famed Silver Moon Bakery of course!) and accompanied him home from hospital, today!
Tomorrow, Gary sees Dr. Lamanna in the morning, up at Columbia, then goes across town to MSK for a CT scan of abdomen. Friday, Gary will again see Dr. Sauter at MSK. Thank you everybody for your wonderful comments and support!
Had been waiting for this update. So glad the nosebleeds have stopped. Basically this report sounds positive, with the exception of hearing Gary had to have another bone marrow biopsy. He is brave beyond measure. May tomorrow's visits with both drs. and Friday's with Dr. S. bring great news.
ReplyDeleteXOXO
Andrea
I think I checked here 20 times yesterday for an update! ;) Thinking of you guys. LIke Andrea said, glad the nosebleeds have ceased. THe bone marrow biopsy SUCKS. Gary gives new meaning to the phrase "What a trooper!" I would be one cranky witch if I had to spend every day in a hospital. ;)
ReplyDeleteI hope Friday brings excellent news for you both and I'll be thinking of you. Big fat hugs, soon to be delivered in person!!!
I'm wishing for you something pleasant. I'm sending you love from so many people who hug you through the air. I'm so glad to know Joyce visited and took care of you for a while. Sending love from Uncle Harris!! All the way from New Mexico. And mine from Boston as well. Hugs to you and Brian.
ReplyDeleteMy Canadian love to you all the way down to New Mexico with U.Harris!
DeleteHugs to both of you, Gary and Brian. Brian, Gary is lucky to have you in his life, and Gary, Brian is lucky to have you. I know that you find strength in one-another. I find strength in your partnership.
ReplyDeleteElla, we miss you! Love to your Sticky Fishies!
DeleteJust felt the need to echo everything that all the wonderful bloggers have said. It is such a gift to know both of you and to be receiving these updates. Thank you so much, and I hope today is a good one.
ReplyDeleteYour echos bring good Karma. Thank you Shelly!
DeleteHope there was positive news today. Sending good thoughts your way!
ReplyDelete- Helene
Thank you for your good thoughts, Helene. Please update us on your own blogging, when it appears.
DeleteHow are you today, Gary (it's the 16th). Brian : you are wonderful and so glad you are in Gary's life! Let us know if Gary would like to see the kids. If it would make him feel distracted from all what's going, we can come over even if it's for just a few minutes!
ReplyDeleteWe luv to see your amazing, entertaining, and talented kids! Gary will be back to you about visiting.
DeleteBrian and Gary, I remember you guys telling me that I was brave to be walking around with full leg strap after my tendon surgery and I had a great attitude. Nothing compares to what you guys are doing and showing here, and helping us to be part of this get-well journey! Thanks and Best wishes!
ReplyDelete