Rug Burn

The more we learn about the BK virus, the more we don't want to know.

It is not uncommon through the transplant process, but it can be life threatening depending on the severity. The best cure is engraftment of the new cells so they can start to fight it off. The challenge for Jenson is Sydney's cells are showing smalls signs of initial engraftment, but certainly not enough to fight off a virus yet. He needs time.

If the BK virus is in the urine only, they treat it by lowering the levels of the immunosuppressive drugs and giving more fluids (which is a very delicate balance for Jenson whose kidneys are still healing) while waiting for engraftment.

If it is in the blood and urine, the mortality rate is high and requires an anti-viral medication which is really toxic to the kidneys (not good if your kidneys are still healing) and would require more ICU care.

The results of Jenson's blood and urine tests won't be back until Tuesday.

How many times is the rug going to be pulled out from under us? We are again thrust to the floor, covered in rug burns, and fatigued from constantly being knocked down. It is getting harder and harder to get up.

But we will get up and keep walking forward while trying to focus on the positive. The one positive for today is they are letting us move back to the bone marrow floor while we wait for the results. We are hoping this move is permanent and not temporary.

Go Sydney's cells! God, save Jenson and rescue him from his misery.

"When you are in the valley, focus on the Shepherd. And keep walking. There are green pastures up ahead."
- Dr Tony Evans