June 11, Need A+ Blood

Sorry for my lack of posting, I've been busy hugging and kissing three little guys. I made it home Sunday just after Benton woke up from his nap. He just opened the door and stared at me for a few seconds before he jumped into my arms. He told me "mommy this was the best surprise ever!" It was a great feeling to drive home with a backseat full of chatter. I know I've tuned out little voices plenty in my life, but it was music to my ears. I can't wait until we are bringing Hunter home with us! Benton had a great birthday and I am so glad I got to spend it with him.

I'm sure you've been able to gather that it's been a real challenging week. We haven't had tons of good news, but we feel confident in the plans laid out by our medical team today. Hunter's case was discussed today in their weekly meeting, and all were in agreement that Hunter most likely had a pocket of cells that survived chemo. These leftover cells are signaling to his body causing his antibodies to go nuts. The CGD guru from Texas Children's has seen this happen on multiple occasions with his patients. The once weekly infusion that he started Monday will target the remaining cells. It is not a fast acting drug. Very likely it will be weeks before we see any changes, but eventually it will. While Hunter is producing plenty of red blood cells, he is destroying them at an even faster rate. His new marrow is doing an outstanding job!

So, until we can suppress the antibodies, he will need lots of blood transfusions. To further complicate matters, his A+ blood has to have the right amount of antibodies to not throw more into his mix. The Methodist lab currently has someone working full time on locating the best fit for Hunter. We have a real need for more A+ blood. If you or someone you know is in the Houston area and would be willing to donate, we would be very grateful.

The blood bank is located on the first floor of the Fondren building of Methodist Hospital on Fannin Street. The phone number is 713-394-6711. Before you give, please contact Jana at 325-665-5455 for the consent form to ensure it will be given to Hunter.

This is Jana giving her A+ blood. We've had so many people tell us they wish they could do something to help, and now you can! We thank you in advance, from the bottom of our hearts.



Hunter and the swelling continues...this is after 3 days of an IV. Please pray we can find plenty of places to keep IVs going for all the blood transfusions he needs.



He is still being a model patient. His homework is to eat, sleep, and walk. His appetite is still not normal, but he and Mark have renewed their love for the ice cream floats!



Aunt E threw Benton the cutest batman pool party. I'll have to do an entire post dedicated to Benton's birthday. We had a blast!







We appreciate all of you who have already got the word out about donating blood. We could not do this without our friends and family! Tonight I ask that God hears so many requests to calm Hunter's antibodies that he just goes ahead and fixes this. We know he is more than able! Please also pray for our strength for the long journey and for protection from infection.

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