The Big Steamin' Turd ....AKA I'm Sick.: Rock Bottom

I am officially neutropenic.

Neutropenia is a condition defined by low white blood cell count (normal range 4.3 to 10+). I am 0.3.

White blood cells are responsible for fighting infection in the body. Most common infections are transmitted by bacteria commonly found on the skin, in the gastrointestinal tract, or fungal infections.

Preventative measures are already in place: private room, anti fungal and antibiotics, strict scrub in and paper gowns for guests, and a neutropenic diet. I can get REALLY sick very easily now, so any guests must be 100% healthy. If you are around anyone with a sniffle, I ask we Skype or FaceTime instead of visiting in person.

The diet is easy in the hospital. I have been fed a neutropenic diet since day one, and they verify my name and DOB each time my meal is delivered. At home it will be little different. I am forbidden uncooked or raw food. There will will be little eating out since we are not sure how clean the kitchens really are. Meals at home will be well cooked. No fresh fruit or salads unless they are triple washed. At home. Each time. I can live without a salad for a while. And I have to be very careful with leftovers. Cannot eat them more than 24 hours later. So I actually need to learn to cook for 2, not 20.

I also have to avoid crowds. No supermarket shopping, no parties. Ouch. This won't be forever, but it will definitely be a change.

Most thing I will miss is homegrown veggies and herbs. I cannot be gardening or picking my flowers. I cannot take care of my house plants either. I did know that ahead of time and Mary and Darlene have been fostering them for me.

Other than low WBC, my kidney numbers are even better

Creatinine 1.2 (norm .6-1.2)

BUN 27 (norm 7-18)

Uric acid 2.0 (norm 3.0-8.2)

I am so appreciative of the cards! Look at my collection!