April 1, 2008
Bone Marrow Engraftment Results: STR Analysis*
Results:
% Donor (Tracy): >95%
% Recipient (Courtney): Below Detection
*Short Tandem Repeats (STRs) are highly polymorphic DNA markers that are used to detect the engraftment of normal donor cells (Tracy’s cells) in the bone marrow transplant recipient (Me) post-transplant. DNA isolated from WBCs of the patient and donor is characterized with 10 polymorphic DNA markers prior to the bone marrow transplantation. The patterns are compared and one marker is selected to distinguish donor and patient as uniquely different from one another. This will be subsequently used to assess the status of donor cell engraftment. [Source: Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory]
Translation: Tracy’s cells have successfully engrafted and are producing all of my blood cells. Her cells are now my cells and are cancer free.
Tracy and I genetically speaking are “blood twins.” What flows in her veins now flows in mine. I cannot begin to count the number of times I have been brought to tears as I truly comprehend the gift of life that Tracy has given me. How can you possibly begin thank someone who has saved your life? I love you, Tracy.
Courtney's Angels
Kylie and Daddy
taken 9/15/07 - Kylie's baptism day
Miranda
taken 8/4/07
Emma
Emma's first day of school '07
Aidan
taken 8/4/07
Aidan kisses Emma
taken 8/4/07
Courtney and her sisters
Kelley, Courtney, Susan - 8/4/07
15 comments:
Great news Courtney :) Prayers are being heard!!
Rhodna
At first I was reading this hoping that it was not some april fool's joke...then I realized you couldn't do that to your loyal readers and friends. I am so touched by the last paragraph. Your sister and you will have a forever strong bond because of this wonderful gift of life. What a beautiful and lovely story to tell generations. Oh it just makes me get the chills.
I am so touched by all of your healing because of your faith, meds, and answered prayers.
God is so good!
Hope to see you soon:)
What wonderful news! Wishing you strength in getting back to yourself and enjoying your cancer free life!
Every time I think about it I cry. I can't imagine. How blessed. Sisters are a unique and special bond and now you are even closer. Congrats on Remission. Remission RULES!
We all knew you'd win the battle. I'm so happy for you and your family! :)
That is INcredible! What a miracle.
YAY, I am thrilled to read you are officially in remission.
Oh, Courtney...this is such a blessing. I am so thankful to God for His healing. I will continue to pray for remission. Much love to you & your family...praise Christ for a new chance at life indeed!
AWESOME!! My mom was just asking about you today and I told her the news had been nothing short of miraculous. I agree with crys, remission RULES!
I can't wait until you are feeling up to us finally getting our crews together. :) Take care and big hugs from all of us!!
We are so happy for you! What a beautiful bond to have with your sister and what an amazing blessing.
YAY!!! So happy for you! What a huge relief. I miss you! Have a happy birthday this week! I'll try to call you! Love lots!!!
Amber
That is so great!! We are so happy for you guys!!
This is wonderful news!! Still praying for you.
it was so great to see you yesterday...happy b-day!
happy happy joy joy! i am so glad you are cancer free!!! i would be forever grateful for my sister too!!
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