We've been very busy this last week!  Even though Riley's transplant went amazing we hit a minor bump in the road.  Over the weekend he began coughing which normally would not be a problem but when you have no immune system that is trouble.  By Sunday night it got much worse and we found out that he contracted RSV.  RSV is a respiratory virus that he may have contracted from being in the hospital…we aren't 100% sure where it came from.  If an infant or toddler with a normal immune system contracts the virus it would be similar to a common cold.  RSV is not treated with antibotics because it's not a bacterial infection so it just has to run it's course.  He was given IVIG which is an immune booster that will help fight it off until his white cells begin to rise.  In the next few weeks his white cells should begin to rise and help fight off any other infections that may occur.  We are taking huge precautions to protect Riley and the other patients in the BMT Unit.  We have to wear masks when we are in the room or have visitors.  

The effects of the chemotherapy are beginning to surface.  In the past few days we have noticed that is hair is beginning to slowly fall out.  This is very normal however it is difficult to see.  Most parents have told me that they end up shaving their child's head because it's difficult to watch this.  I can't wait to see Riley with no hair…I think he will look great.  The shaved head look is in anyways!!

Sydney is doing remarkable! She had her first day back at daycare yesterday & did great.  She has moved up to the Young PreSchool class.  We are so proud of her miraculous recovery!! 

The last few days have been tough but we knew they were coming.  I wish we could just breeze through the entire transplant process with no complications however that's pretty unrealistic.  It's a very minor set back in the grand scheme of it all.   Thank you again to all of my friends who have helped me survive the tough days.  Your emails, text messages, & love has helped me get through this experience. 

Thanks to our parent's who have helped stay at the hospital for the past three weeks with Riley.  They spend all of their free time at the hospital & are all still working full-time.  Their love & support has helped Jason & I tremendously.  We have a rotating schedule & take turns staying with Riley & Sydney.  

I will keep you posted on his condition in the next few days.  He is doing better today!

Love,

amy