Day +5....

Still waiting for engraftnent signs but again it's early for that with an average time of day +14 with sibling transplants. SAMs mucusitus is increased with more vomitting and painful coughing. She doesn't seem to have a lot of sores in her mouth so hers are more along the esophagus, gi tract, and her bottom still. Today, fine hairs are noticeable all over her pillow and the back of her gown so it appears she is starting to lose that soft, sweet baby hair of hers. I am worried she and Kaeden will have strong responses to this visual change but hopefully they will quickly glob onto our "bald is beautiful!" mantra:)

The other difficult thing to witness is how weak Sam has become. She is unable to stand and support herself without me supporting her or holding something. Even with support, her legs shake and she will quickly try to lay back down. We will start physical therapy in short spurts after we start to see engraftment and healing of areas of pain. I try to encourage her to try to stand a few times per day but sometimes she just isn't able to tolerate it. Kaeden visited this past Sunday and it was great to see him! Sammi was in a good mood that morning and with her brother's presence as a motivator, stood with my help for about 10 minutes before needing to lay back down. She wanted to play " I- pee" or I pad as we grown ups would call it :)

We also received these awesome shirts from a friend and previous coworker at Jump with Brandon. Seriously the acts of support and kindness have just kept coming and we are so touched and thankful for then all! The meals, gifts, rides, play dates, check ins, toys for Sam etc etc. are extraordinarily thoughtful. We truly do feel the love and this helps on the hard days to keep feeling Sammy strong!!!