Jim's stats are looking much better than they were last week. The latest test showed the percentage of donor blood cells in his body at 99%. That's a pretty big freakin deal. We are all excited that the engraftment is taking. He will get his PIIC line removed from his chest tomorrow. He is particularly happy about that because it means he will be able to finally shower without having to tape that thing up. He has developed a (so far) mild rash on his arms and chest but that is an expected symptom of the graf vs host process. The doctors want to see some of that but not a lot. His cell counts have fluctuated since last week but that was expected. His immune system has gone from 0.0 to about 1.2. That means it's gone from totally shitty to mildly crappy. He does have an immune system again but we still need to be careful. Overall, the news is great with Dad. Measurable progress. He looks and feels great. Just ask him. He'll tell you.

Gordo Mello spoke with Jim yesterday evening and he claims things are going okay with Debbie and he feels good. I don't think he will mind, but Debbie also suffered a mild heart attack as well as a what they believe is a mild stroke. Jim informed me, this morning they were probably going to insert a stent, if so, let's hope the procedure goes well.

If there's a family that needs our support and prayers, it's Jim's. Despite all that's going on, Jim was in good spirits and very positive about his own situation and that of Debbie's.

I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the support and help they have both received from their son's and friends. If anybody has followed the posts from caringbridge, there is no doubt they have all done a great job taking up the slack in Jim and Debbie's lives...so kudo's to all of them for helping out in a time of need.

For anyone who hasn't telephoned Jim, give him a call, he does appreciate the them, especially from da guys he served with in 263...847-652-8550