We’ve had disappointing news; the transplant is to be delayed.
Due to a medical complication, Oleander can no longer donate her stem cells. Cassia (12), amazingly, must now step in and take her place, albeit this also means the procedure will not go ahead until after the New Year. It’s an awesome responsibility on her young shoulders. I think we will keep her wrapped in cotton wool until that time! Nevertheless, we are terribly frustrated at this setback and Oli is naturally upset. Our immediate plans (foolish to even make any!) have dissolved but we now at least have Christmas together at home for which Fabian is most pleased. That’s not to say he will avoid further hospital trips. The delay means he’ll require a ‘top up’ chemo block in order to maintain remission so more vinchristine, methotrexate and mercaptopurine with a dash of steroids. Yes, it would have been lovely for Fabian to start 2012 with a new immune system but perhaps this was not meant to be and the whole episode reminds us how little we can trust what is seen and how much we must trust by faith in what is unseen. ‘For I know the plans I have for you, plans to give you hope and a future’ Jer 29:11
What a brave little boy Fabian really is and what a fantastic website to see his progress, unfortunate set backs and wonderful photographs of such a happy boy. It’s so sad to hear Oleander can not donate her stem cells and that Cassia is now stepping in to her place, they are all an inspiration to us. My thoughts and prays are with you all and I hope Fabian and everyone has a wonderful Christmas together as a family. I hope 2012 brings Fabian lots of laughter and happiness.