Hello everyone,

I decided to write an update for my sister because I know that things are hectic in Cincinnati right now. As I understand it, Isabella is still going through count recovery after her last round of chemo. Her latest bone marrow test (LP) showed that she still has about 3-5% leukemia cells in her marrow. This is a significant decrease considering on March 9th she had 85%. She is in a holding pattern at the moment for two reasons: 1) the doctors want to see if her body is making healthy white cells on its own, and 2) because she had a terrible allergic reaction last Friday to the contrast from her CT scan.

Monica and Isabella haven’t been sleeping as well lately and the steroid rage is in full effect. I had to laugh when Isabella answered the phone and told me,” Mommy isn’t allowed to talk now. I love you Auntie Brooke, Good Bye”, then proceeded to quickly hang up on me.

Isabella has another LP on Monday to see if she is in remission yet. Based on the results, they will know their next steps…another round of chemo or preparation chemo for transplant. The school year is coming to an end so I know that Monica will have more time to post etc. after that point. Until then I’ll try to keep everyone informed.

All of you know about Monica’s desire to spread the word and increase awareness in getting people to register for the National Marrow Donor Program. I am happy to report that to date there have been several successful drives. Monica’s good friend organized one in Indianapolis that is taking place today at Eli Lilly. They have over 10,000 employees and are typing people with the assistance of their employee health nurses…WOW. I am also holding one in San Diego coming up on June 26th at San Diego Christian Worship Center as well as an online drive from May 5th to July 5th. You can join online at http://join/marrow.org When asked to provide a “Promo Code”, please enter Isabella. Knowing my sister…this effort will continue even after Isabella transplants. She will probably use Isabella’s blog spot www.battle4bella@blogspot.com to further this very important cause. I know many of you have questions that Monica would love to answer and I’m sure she will when time permits regarding what happens after you join the registry. In the meantime, you can check out the National Marrow Donor website to have your questions answered. Again, thank you for all of your support and prayers.

Be Well,
Brooke