Monday, April 6, 2009

April 8 Site Injections



Here is a diagram of the sites where stem cells will be injected into my different muscle groups on Wednesday of this week. There are 60 in all, and two bags of of stem cells will be used. Fortunately, I'll be under anesthesia for this procedure so it should not be at all painful. I am told the following morning I will be able to participate in my normal physical therapy. Although I've seen some slight increase in strength, I understand in muscular dystrophy patients, the stem cells need time to replicate themselves, as well as continued therapy in order to see real results. So I don't expect to see any "incredible" changes by the time I leave here - but I will know that new building blocks have been put in place and it's up to me to develop them.

5 comments:

  1. I admire your patience and perseverance, Russ -- you've got the exceptional attitude and drive for this. I look forward to having you back in Portland.

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  2. Hey Russ. Haven't been on the Blog in a few days, but am catching up now. Glad to know things are progressing well and it is what you expected! Can't wait to see you back here and hear about your experiences! Thinking of you everyday!

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  3. Anesthetic or no, this looks like a painful experience for you. I will send you best wishes, I think you are probably on the table right now.
    It does raise the question about continuing your physical therapy once you get home, in order to optimize conditions for improvement--what do your doctors and therapists recommend for you to do once you get back to Oregon and your normal routine?

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  4. Right now it's 9:15 am on Wednesday in China. It's 6:15 pm on Tuesday here in Portland. You are probably already becoming a pin cushion or getting ready to. I wish you well and think of you everyday. I'll be so glad when you're back home safe and sound. Please don't bring any crunchy spiders home or monkey poo coffee!! I'm pretty sure word has or will go around the office about this and no one will eat or drink anything you provide. Well, maybe Tyler will. We all know how he is about food. Love ya, Linda

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  5. The doctors here recommend I begin physical therapy when I return home. They also suggest I set up a small home gym with a stationary bike, large rubber ball and exercise table. Given the size of my house that will mean my guest room will need some changes. Otherwise, that’s about it.

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