Today is what transplant recipients call their second birthday - TopicsExpress

Today is what transplant recipients call their second birthday .The transplant, itself, is the easiest part of the process, at least, for the person getting the marrow. The donor, although sedated, has a recovery time of several to ten days to heal from the sites the bone marrow is harvested. In Angelas case, she donated about a liter of marrow. The process only took approximately, an hour and went well. The recovery process took longer as she was nauseated quite awhile and couldnt leave till that was resolved. It was probably from the pain meds they gave her before discharge. She had to wait till they wore off before she could go home, so that added several hours to her stay. Traceys part, as the recipient, was like getting a blood transfusion .. It took about 1 and a half hours. The marrow, which looks like whole blood, goes into the vein and then finds its way to her bones where it matures and gives her a new immune system. The Bible says we are fearfully and wonderfully made. Doctors dont know how the marrow knows where to go, but it does. Angela was a trooper and was more concerned about Tracey. Tracey, in turn, was concerned about Angela. What wonderful young women theyve become. Will post more later. Thanks for your continued prayers. Linda