11 PM Monday, July 4th, 2011

Happy 4th....hope you all had a spectacular day filled with family, fun and fireworks! 

Unfortunately, Ed is starting to feel the effects of the chemo and the transplant somewhat more....he's beginning to develop the mucositis which is so common wih this treatment.....it consists mostly of mouth sores but can spread to the esophagus and digestive system as well, which we hope won't happen.  His counts have dropped way down so he had a platelet infusion today and the staff is doing everything to make him as comfortable as possible.  He's trying to sleep as much as possible and just "lay low" and get through the day.  He's still able to eat, which is good, even though he really doesn't have much of an appetite.

Long days ahead, but we're grateful for each one that passes by relatively uneventfully and quickly.   Its the best we can hope for.   Once the stem cells engraft he'll be on his way to healing and getting better.  It just takes time. 

Thanks for the cards, messages and prayers.  They are a constant source of strength and encourgement.

I'll be back tomorrow with an update.