Hey everyone,

Liv wanted me to send out an update as she has been exhausted and in pain since her last post. We found out the results of the MRD (minimal risidual disease) test taken from the bone marrow biopsy were still positive for leukemic cells, but significantly less than the last percentage. This was obviously not what anyone wanted to hear, as a negative result was the goal. The rounding transplant doctor that relayed this information stated that her oncologist, who has overseen her case since the beginning, will update her in the next few days on how this will affect her moving forward.

As a reminder, since the last biopsy, Olivia had 2 strong chemotherapies and 12 hours of total body radiation, before receiving the transplant. After the transplant, she received another 2 strong chemotherapies. We are hopeful that once the new stem cells become engrafted, she’ll receive a negative result. She will receive another bone marrow biopsy on June 24th to see the progress of her engraftment as well.

Her blood levels are lowering, putting her at a very high risk of infection. However, this means she’s right on track. She has experienced some side effects from the chemo including fatigue and extremely painful ulcerations in the throat and mouth. These sores make it difficult for her to eat, drink and even speak. Over the next day or two, the doctors will monitor her food intake, and decide if she will need nutrition through an IV. They started her on a continuous morphine pump for the pain. All her meds are through IV now, and they are running fluids constantly to keep her hydrated. Typically, patients stay 2-4 weeks after transplant. She is exactly one week post-transplant, so we’re praying these symptoms will subside and her blood levels will start to rise soon.

Olivia has been the most optimistic person going through this process. She has been so strong throughout her entire journey, and I know everyone’s support and encouragement mean the world to her. As always, we are all so thankful for your continued prayers. Please keep praying for a quick recovery.