Chase is Going in for Another Transfusion

Although Chase has been doing fairly well overall for the past week, in terms of cooperating and tolerating the increased doses of his ANP treatments, it’s clearly taking a toll on his systems. His hemoglobin level has been trending down with a corresponding impact on his level of energy and appetite. This has been difficult to watch, because we know how much this affected him in November and December – we certainly don’t intend to let it get that low this time. Especially since we have an upcoming trip to Disney next week, through “Give Kids the World” – the organization that sponsors children with life threatening illnesses to all the Disney themeparks with special buttons and passes that allow them to get on any ride or activity without waiting in lines. We’re all looking forward to this “treat” and we want to make sure Chase’s energy level is up for the trip.

When we got the results of his bloodtest yesterday, we immediately decided to take him back in for a transfusion as quickly as possible so that his body has a chance to adjust in time for the trip. This time, we’re expecting to be able to use the blood donated by Carol’s cousin, Amy Weinkoff, who is a match (thanks Amy!). If all goes according to plan, he’ll be back on track tomorrow afternoon and gearing up for Spring Break. It’s been over two months since the last time Chase had to do a transfusion and it seemed to work quite well – hopefully this will be the case again and this “boost” will carry him through the much longer trip to Medjigoria. We recently watched a documentary about the miracles that have been taking place there and we are all extremely excited about the trip in April.

Thanks for all the prayers and support! We truly appreciate it!

Love,

John & Carol Sammut
Chase & Barbara Ann