This week was full of meetings with doctors to discuss the next steps and timelines. Below is a recap of what we can expect in the coming weeks:

May 28 – June 4: Out-patient prep will begin for both Theodore and Nolan. They will both have blood drawn for labs to ensure good system function and overall health. Theodore will also meet with several specialists and have follow-up scans during this period. If all results are favorable, we will proceed to the next step.

June 5: Theodore will be admitted to start his conditioning regimen, which involves chemotherapy. This phase will last roughly 10 days, depending on how his body reacts.

June 17 – Transplant Day: Nolan will arrive in the morning for the harvest surgery, which takes about 45 minutes. If all goes well, he should be able to go home that afternoon. Due to his size, enough cells will be harvested to allow for two rounds of transfers for Theo, in case a backup plan is needed.

In the afternoon, Theo will receive the cells via his central line. It will take three weeks to determine if the transplant is successful. These three weeks will be very challenging for Theo, as he will experience severe side effects from both the chemotherapy and the new cells.

Mid- June – Early August – If engraftment occurs and we can manage the side effects, Theo should be able to go home 28 days post-transfer. However, it is also common to stay longer, so I am keeping my expectations low and assuming we will be there until early August.

I know everyone wants to help and I truly appreciate that so much! I do promise to ask when I need it but as of now we are doing okay and I am taking a minute to wrap my head around what I need and what the hospital will allow.

Love – Emily