So Much Information

So much to read, so much to sign.
Today I received a 3 pound FedEx box from the Registry with a DVD, 2 packets of information and about 6 consent forms. I read through everything, like a good lawyer should...and wouldn't you know that they all said the same thing over and over. I guess I won't have a reason to say, "I didn't know".

For example, did you know that under general anesthesia they may have to put a tube down your throat? I didn't! Did I know that there would be at least 2 injection sites into my lower back where they would stick a huge hollow needle with a syringe attached to each to collect the marrow? Nope! Did I know I was probably going to need a blood transfusion during the collection? Ummm, no. But at least I've had the experience donating blood before and they will collect my blood prior to the surgery so they can feed it back to me. Don't be alarmed if I suddenly grow fangs and try to exercise mind control. Just tapping into my inner Bella. (*Twilight reference for those of you living under a rock) :-)

The human body is an amazing, complex organism that regenerates what is lost rather quickly. For example, they could take up to a quart of my bone marrow and my body will replenish it within a couple of weeks. And, there will be little to no side effects. Well, except for the redness, tenderness, low grade fever, and chance of vomiting. What are friends for? I didn't ask them to hold my hair in college...maybe I'll ask now. LOL.

Today I also learned that "Little Girl" has the more rare form of Acute Lymphoma. Of course she does, because I like a challenge! The Acute "M" Lymphoma affects only about 38% of all pediatric acute lymphoma patients. While figures for this childhood leukemia remission and cure are not readily available, about 90% of overall childhood leukemia patients find themselves in remission. If she can make it to the 5 year mark, she will be considered cured. The older patients get, the less successful the remission, so I guess we're lucky she is so young.

I also learned that I will not be able to know anything further about her for at least a year. I may get updates on her condition, but this is not guaranteed. I plan to express my desire to be available for contact, but the Registry has strict guidelines and of course, consent forms for these situations. Damn lawyers! I hope, someday, I'll get to meet her and her family.

Well, tomorrow is my "Informational Interview" over the phone. Carolyn and I get to go over all the documents I have read, in detail, and then I get to sign everything and send it to her. I don't anticipate any surprises...but I'll keep you updated.

Today I am a little more nervous only because I've seen descriptions of the actual donation process. I've never been admitted to the hospital before so the prospect of a throat tube and pee bag are not so appealing. But, I am reminded that it is worth it. Life is definitely worth it. More soon!