Natural Killers

Yesterday, my natural killer cells were harvested.  The procedure took about 3 and a half hours - my blood was taken out, it was put through a machine and the NK cells removed, and the remaining blood put back in through an IV.  Today, Phoebe will receive an infusion of my cells.  NK cells are a type of white blood cell that are known to fight and kill viruses, and research here at St. Jude shows that they also target, attack, and kill cancer cells.  We are very excited by the possibilites that these little cells possess.

Phoebe continues to amaze me. Despite five days of really intense chemotherapy, she is playing like she has never played before.  Pulling herself up to her activity table, stacking blocks, standing on her own, using crayons, and making new sounds everyday.  She is so full of joy, it is impossible to look at her without smiling.  She lights up her room and everyone in it.  Her big sister Mae, is equally full of light, joy and smiles, and is on a first name basis with many people here at the hospital.  We recently moved to the long term housing, a great place that has been donated by Target Stores. Mae was quick to ask the person who showed us to our "house" if there was a crib for Phoebe.  She wants to make sure that when Phoebe comes home, there is somewhere for her to sleep.  Very important detail.  And to little Mae, a crib makes a homecoming a reality.

About Phoebe coming "home", or to our home away from home.  There has been talk of sending her out-patient as early as tomorrow if all goes well with the NK cell infusion.  A Memphis family reunion is on the horizon and we are so excited. 

Miss Phoebe playing peek a boo with her sock :)