Reporting on our doctor visit:

The visit today was informative...
Some of the results of the bone marrow aspiration and biopsy were in and things are looking a little better again.
- Chimerisms tell us it is 71% donor, so that is up from the last results of 63% or 65% (we don't remember exactly).
- Flow cytometry tells us there is 13.7% CLL or chronic lymphocytic leukemia.
- The core sample was 10% and that is low, so they tried to decide what is hindering that. One medication that he is taking may be the culprit so he will stop taking it. This med is to help prevent pneumonia and they think he should be fine without it, but will of course, watch him closely to make sure.

WBC = 1.8
Neutrophils = 0.8
- He got a neulasta shot today, which means those numbers will be improving, but he will be feeling some aches and pains because of it.
RBC = 2.77
Hematocrit = 30.3
Platelets = 64

We don't understand why the blood counts are changing back and forth so much and we wish Terry had more energy and stamina, but were reminded today that it takes time, sometimes more than a year, and Terry has had some issues to deal with that have set him back a bit, so it's going to take him longer.
I've felt a bit discouraged lately with the lack of visible improvement that seems to be taking place, or not taking place and was worried that things were probably getting worse rather than better. We have found some peace in the fact that things are improving even if it isn't very visible.

It is a wonderful time of year, as we celebrate the birth and life of our Savior. He is our strength and we are so grateful for His love and sacrifice on our behalf. Merry Christmas to all!