Hello all, 

There hasn't been much to update everyone with as Michael has been admitted in Moffitt for his high dose chemo since the last post. But I thought I might share with those that are interested some of the medical details of what's been going on. 

Disclaimer: I am a laymen when it comes to medical stuff so I might not be 100% accurate in the way I describe things, but they are descriptive enough (as far as I am able to understand it). 

So for those who don't know, chemotherapy is designed to attack cells by different vectors. The main chemotherapy drugs Michael has been on are etoposide and carboplatin. Etoposide is a cell-cycle specific drug meaning it attacks cells while they are dividing. (for more specific info see http://chemocare.com/chemotherapy/drug-info/etoposide.aspx) Carboplatin is a 
metal-based drug that is non cell-cycle specific meaning it attacks cells regardless of whether they are dividing or not. These two drugs were chosen by a team of doctors based on Michael's specific needs. 

The side effects of these high dose chemo drugs are the same as lower dose chemo's but the side effects are much more severe and show up more quickly. He has been feeling extremely weak and tired, his heart rate has been elevated, he has mucositis (inflammation of the gut lining) which means he has a lot of open sores in his mouth and throat, and his stomach and gut lining are shedding cells leading to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. He has increased risk of bleeding and bruising, and his hair has started to fall out again. He is in a lot of pain from all this. He has been unable to eat and drink, but the nursing staff at Moffitt have been giving him fluids, pain meds, and watching his vital signs carefully. All of these side effects are expected, and the doctors are not worried about him. As crappy as all of this is, its the price of modern medicine for treating cancer. Silvia and I have been trying to give him healthy foods and vitamins, we are doing what we can on our end for natural remedies to help manage side effects and help him recover faster and get his body healthy again. Guanabana tea every day when he is able, as well. Shout out to the Perez family for mailing us the leaves from Miami. It is much appreciated. 

His immune system (which is made up of multiple kinds of cells which are made by the bone marrow) has been destroyed along with his bone marrow. He received his stem cells transplant about a week ago and his blood numbers are starting to rise again meaning the transplant has 'engrafted'. His stem cells are starting to proliferate and create new bone marrow. The doctors think he may be able to be discharged by Monday, a day earlier than expected so we are very pleased.

The office has been redecorated to make it into a recuperative room. We purchased a daybed and various other items to help keep him comfortable. Since his immune system is essentially the same as a newborn baby, he has to be kept away from pets, especially the cats. When he is first discharged, he will need a 24/7 caretaker to be with him, so I will be keeping a close eye on him in the room and making sure he is okay. 

Thanks to the Fiestas for the pillow, it is very comfortable. I'm sure Michael will like it! 

Aunt Cheryl, thank you for the help with groceries, it was much needed. 

Tía Cessy, thank you for the help with various expenses,  it is very appreciated.  

Thank you all for your continued prayers and support, we appreciate it more than words can convey. Take care of yourselves, Love from the Murillos.