The Doctors have conferred and have come to the conclusion that we should do two more rounds of the antibody before transplant. This will give Faye a better chance of complete and final remission so we are completely on board. The plan is for six more weeks of antibody - two 21 day cycles. September will be all about transplant preparation: tests, scans, injections and stem cell rescue. October will be all about high dose chemo, transplant and recovery. We are seriously considering the out-patient option for the transplant - investigating pros and cons in the next week or two but ultimately it's Faye's decision. Amazing that it is even an option. ~Lolly

The scan is clear!!!! There is some metabolic activity showing up in Faye's sternum but the Doctors are confident it is bone mending activity from the biopsy and the areas of previous cancerous activity are clear.  More details later on the ASCT plan, apparently it will take 3 to 4 weeks of injections and prep work before we are admitted for the high dose chemo and then the transplant.  I can't even begin to express my relief and joy right now. Lots more to worry about and lots more work to do but I feel like we're finally on track! ~Lolly

July 16 already and summer so far has been almost normal, we even went camping over the 4th!  The second round of Brentuximab was completed two weeks ago and it has been amazing: Faye has experienced some fatigue and nausea and her blood counts have been on the low side but wow what a difference from the horrible misery of traditional chemo. We just got back from scans at Childrens' Hospital and we are hoping, praying, crossing fingers, counting steps, holding breath, etc. to hear good news today. Things do work a little differently when tests are ordered from outside of the Hospital so we may not have any news until tomorrow.  If the scans are clear - or - 'clear enough' we will start to prepare for Faye's autologous stem cell transplant.  If the scans are not clear we will likely try two more rounds of the antibody.   So stay tuned, more later when we hear results.  ~Lolly