Stem Cell Update...New Date January 5!!
In support of
Cody's Comeback
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Cody's Comeback
We had a 1 hour and 45 minute meeting with Cody’s Stem Cell Transplant team, and honestly… it was unbelievable.
From the moment we logged on, we felt completely seen, heard, and supported.
From the moment we logged on, we felt completely seen, heard, and supported.
The kids on the team call Cody “Dr. Pappa” 🥹 and I don’t think that’s a coincidence at all. Just another little reminder from God saying, “I’ve got you.”
They walked us through every single detail of what’s coming:
the chemotherapy plan, side effect management, pain control options, feeding support...everything. They even asked me whether we would prefer IV pain meds or a PCA pump, TPN or an NG tube. As a mom, that meant so much. They truly believe parents know their child best, and they honored that.
the chemotherapy plan, side effect management, pain control options, feeding support...everything. They even asked me whether we would prefer IV pain meds or a PCA pump, TPN or an NG tube. As a mom, that meant so much. They truly believe parents know their child best, and they honored that.
They reviewed Cody’s chart extensively and feel his biggest challenge will likely be platelets and blood counts, which has been his pattern throughout chemo. They are very prepared to support him through that.
They were also very honest about one of the chemo drugs, Thiotepa, which can be especially tough. Common side effects include:
- significant skin irritation and peeling
- mouth sores
- nausea and vomiting
- low blood counts
- fatigue
That said, they reassured us over and over that they are fully prepared to manage every side effect that comes his way.
Here’s what Stem Cell Transplant #1 will look like:
- Days 1–5: High-dose chemo (Thiotepa + Cyclophosphamide)
- Day 6: Rest day
- Day 7: Cody receives his own stem cells back 🤍
- Days 7–14: This is typically the hardest window, where side effects peak, counts drop, risk of infection is highest
- As soon as his stem cells begin to engraft and counts recover, symptoms will slowly start to improve
They will monitor Cody very closely for at least 4 weeks in the hospital.
After that, we’ll get a few weeks at home to recover, then we’ll head back for round two.
After that, we’ll get a few weeks at home to recover, then we’ll head back for round two.
Originally, admission was scheduled for December 29, but it has now been pushed to January 5th, which means we get to spend Christmas and New Year’s at home together, something we are incredibly grateful for.
Please continue to pray. Truly...don’t stop.
We believe with our whole hearts that prayer is a huge part of why Cody is doing so well.
We believe with our whole hearts that prayer is a huge part of why Cody is doing so well.
Thank you for loving our family the way you do , for the meals, the gift cards, the donations, the constant check-ins, and the monthly support so many of you give. It does not go unnoticed, and it means more than we can ever put into words.
“The joy of the Lord is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10
“The joy of the Lord is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10
We are choosing joy. We are choosing faith.
And we are so thankful for all of you. 💛
And we are so thankful for all of you. 💛
Comments
Mari Barbato
Angi Hoess
Enjoy the holidays with your boys. Prayers will be continuing!
Sherrygal