Some good news before transplant

Akiva and I let out a deep breath today.  The results from Idan’s CT scan of his lungs and the ultrasound of his liver came back, and for the first time in what seems forever, we heard the word “normal.”

For those who have been following Idan’s story for the past few months, you may remember he had a severe case of pneumonia (called PCP) in April that wreaked considerable havoc on his little lungs, and his liver was inexplicably enlarged at the time as well.  We were told by the doctors it would be a very long time before his lungs fully recovered, as there was so much scarring that each cell of his lungs had to re-grow.  We were also told that the two most significant concerns and risk factors going into a bone marrow transplant for Idan’s disease are lung and liver problems.  Knowing that Idan’s liver and lungs are FINE means he is strong, has fully recovered from the event last spring, and is more than well enough for transplant.  We could not be more relieved.  As long as we can keep him from catching a cold, virus or infection in the next week, we will be admitted on Wednesday, October 16th.

With only a week to go until the transplant begins, we have settled into our new apartment that we will call home for then next few months, and Idan is loving his playroom.  We already received several gifts from strangers and friends to help entertain him and for that we are tremendously grateful.  If only we could bottle Idan’s sweet smiles, giggles, and squeals!

On that note, we want to especially thank the Seattle community that has taken us under their wing.  Members of several congregations in the city have contributed household items to help make our stay here easier, and we are very fortunate to be surrounded by such generous people.  I’ll share one example (of many) which has brought tears to my eyes.  We received a beautiful sheet and comforter set from a young woman who just had her bat mitzvah.  She told her mother she wanted to help our family with some of her bat mitzvah money, and insisted on picking out bedding herself, telling her mother that “Idan’s parents shouldn’t have to worry about picking this out, they are with Idan.”  Whoever you are, thank you.  Idan loves rolling around on top of the comforter in the morning before breakfast, and the bedspread instantly made our new bedroom feel cozy and warm.

All our love to all of you back home and around the country and world who have been cheering us on and giving us moral support!