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courtneylflynn@gmail.com

Courtney

Courtney
taken 8/4/07

Courtney and her kids

Courtney and her kids
taken 8/4/07

Saturday, September 22, 2007

Day 1 - The Battle Begins

In some ways today, the day after D-day, is better than the day before. The day before we had no idea what was going on inside Courtney's body. There was the dread that whatever it was it was bad, and she was getting treated. It was like being bombed without knowing where they were coming from, how destructive they were or how to fight back. A horrible feeling! Now, armed with knowledge, we can begin to fight back!

We have some updates: (borrowed from Courtney's brother, Chris)

Todays blood work results:
There was improvement. Big drops in white blood cell counts and her blast counts
WBC count dropped from 90,000 to 64,000. Yesterday they were over 100,000. Normal is 3,000 to 11,000
Blasts dropped from 84 to 56. Yesterday they were 94. Normal is 0.
RBC and Platelets remained the same, kinda low.
Dr. said that these improvements could be from the fluids, the steriods, and the effects of vitamin A (the chemo drug) working. Either way a good sign.
Also from Chris:
"Chemo terms I learned today: Blasts are immature white blood cells. These are bad because they don't do anything. (0 - 5 blasts are normal) First round of chemo is called induction - 7 days for first drug and 3 days for second drug - what she is in now, starts remission. Second round of chemo is called consolidation (keeps you in remission) 3-5 days in hospital. Probably she'll have at least 2 rounds of consolidation. She's waiting on the results of CT scan and for the PICC line. They are going to give her something for nausea so she can eat and take her pills - in my last email I said she took second dose of chemo at 10:45. She didn't actually take it because she had to get CT. Sooooo - now she's waiting for her tummy to feel a bit better before she takes her pills. There are 11 pills! More good news just in: CT results are totally normal!!!"

Her PICC (peripherally inserted central catheter) line didn't go in so well. It kinda got stuck, so now were waiting for a specialist to come in to finish the job. It's a fairly routine procedure that has these small complications from time to time. FYI, the PICC line is an intravaneous catheter that goes from inside of her bicep to the Supeior Vena Cava (SVC). It will be used to give her the chemo and to draw blood. The chemo is too harsh to have it injected through a normal IV.

Relatively speaking Courtney is doing well today. She's been able to rest a lot. They've given her anti-nausea medication (including the deep sea fishing patch) to make sure none of the important medication comes back up. She did have a small bout of nausea earlier today. Right now, we're just waiting for someone to finish the PICC.

9 comments:

David and Ashley said...

We love you!!! Get well soon. Everyone here is thinking of you!!

Casey Reading Blog

Elena said...

I've just put Courtney's name on the prayer roll in the temple. Your family is in my prayers.

Unknown said...

I know I am far away, but I'm here for you if you need me. I love you both. Todd, thanks for the updates. Courtney, stay strong and you'll be just fine. I know it. All my love!

Amy Pennington said...

Courtney and family,
You are in our family's thoughts and prayers. If I can help in any way I will! hugs to you!

Becky said...

I, too, am joining your many cheerleaders. I want to help any way I can. You're already in our thoughts and prayers.

Valerie said...

Courtney,
We just found and and are devastated by the news. We are thinking about you and praying for you and your family. Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love,
Bob & Valerie

Jackie Brock said...

Courtney, you're such an awesome girl! I've always admired your spirit and your example. We're praying for you and your family. I pray that the Lord will strenghthen you, that you can beat this, and be home soon.

Susette said...

Hey cute pictures! I am glad your room is getting a make-over. It is such a good idea to have something interesting to look at. I went to the rec center today and Shelly, Tori and I can't remember her name right now, you know her anyway. Well they send their love and prayers, as well as offers to help. I think Angie has given them your blog info. I can't wait to see you and give you a big hug. Get some rest.
Susette

~Tori~ said...

Courney & Todd

My thoughts and prayers are with your family. Although I do not get to see the girls as much, I give Aiden all my hugs and attention (as Always) when he visits the CAC. He has always been a little sweetie. Todd it warms my heart the way you have taken such special attention of your undeniable sweet and adorable wife. Keep positive and strong!
Tori

 

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