9 September 2010
Dear Angel Donor,
Tuesday we were told that 99.13% of my marrow is now from you and I am thriving. Thank you again for your generosity and total unselfishness. The doctor was very pleased, as he was hoping for 90-92%. Everything is going well.
Slowly, the taste buds and saliva glands return and I am able to eat more and walk more. I listen to my body and take my medications. The doctors and nurses and support staff have been the most nurturing. In the hospital there are recreational therapists, occupational therapists and physical therapists. Everyone wants you to be strong and social, as much as possible. I am an avid Jazzerciser for 30 years, and my friends made 6 cd's for me to take and dance in my room. Some of the nurses and therapists laughed with joy to see me active.
You contributed 7.78 MILLION stem cells to me, dear Angel donor. I looked up, said a prayer of thanks to you and the people who developed this easier way of harvesting and transfusing these life-saving cells. Then, I fell asleep for the nearly 4 hours of transfusion.
Family and friends donated blood and platelets daily. My daughters and husband often conducted their work in my room, to keep me company. Friends nurtured my family during this time also.
I sincerely hope that you were able to quickly resume your life after your donation. Thank you again. Enjoy the autumn. I will, as I look out on our garden, watch our dogs playing, and I will think of you.
Sincerely,
Your Stem Cell Recipient
