Wednesday, May 23, 2018

Rash / C. Diff

...and the rough days continue. We are 2 days post-transplant, and in addition to the side effects from the high-dose chemo we discussed in the last post (all of which she is still experiencing to various degrees), Caroline has since developed a terribly uncomfortable rash over most of her body, and tested positive for “C. Diff.”

Rash
The rash started Monday night, spread, and got progressively worse over the last 2 days...and, as luck would have it, is the most bothersome at night, so she’s barely been able to sleep. Caroline’s transplant team, oncology team, pharmacist, nutritionist and dermatology team have all been working together to determine the source and solution of/for the rash. They’ve basically thrown the kitchen sink at her to help ease the itchy symptoms, but unfortunately her rash is falling into a generic category, with an “unidentifiable source agent,” which is called a “morbilliform” rash. Because they can’t pinpoint exactly what’s causing the rash, they can only treat the symptoms. Treatment is in addition to the laundry list of medications she is already receiving, and includes: 3 IV medications, 1 oral medication (through NG tube), and various topical creams as needed. They do not know how long the rash will last, but best guess is another 5-7 days. She is very uncomfortable and having a hard time sleeping (as would anyone).

C. Diff
C. Diff is fairly common in the transplant/oncology world, due to the amount of antibiotics patients have to take. Ironically, the treatment is an(other) antibiotic. It’s a potentially life-threatening infection caused by a type of bacteria called clostridium difficile...aka: C. diff. It can cause colitis (a serious inflammation of the colon), or even more serious colon issues like toxic megacolon or bowel perforation. C. Diff is highly contagious, so Caroline will be on “contact precautions” for the duration of her stay, which is an even stricter level of isolation: everyone entering her room must wear gowns and gloves, Margaret/Mark can only enter or exit the hospital (no walking around the hallway or going to microwave/fridge/ice machine, etc.), and Caroline will not be allowed to leave the room - at all - until she is discharged, even as her ANC counts improve.

While it’s annoying to be literally confined to the room, and be completely dependent on nice people/nurses/care partners bringing you everything you need (like morning coffee!!!), we understand the severity of the infection, and how easily it can spread.

Caroline’s ANC/Neutrophil counts are zero, and we expect them to remain like that for another 7-10 days (or more). She’s getting daily Neupogen shots, and is resting when she can. She’s not talking too much, but using her thumbs up/thumbs down response to let us know how she’s feeling.

Caroline was finally able to smile and play for a little while today, for the first time in quite a few days, so that was a VERY happy for see.

We appreciate the help and visit we got this week from Pop-Pop and look forward to Caroline’s Aunt Joanna coming later this week!

Thank you for your continuous prayers for her comfort and healing.
The Lantz Family
#carolinestrong
#ftgf

Partial view of rash, which is over most of her body.

15 comments:

  1. Praying for you right now Caroline.

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  2. We are praying continually for COMFORT and PEACE that passes ALL understanding for the entire Lantz family!
    Despite Sweet Carolines current physical condition{s}, she is still glowing in the light of Jesus! Miraculous!
    You are all loved and treasured so greatly by so many!
    May you feel the presence of The Lord during these very difficult days!

    With Love and Expectant Prayers Of Healing,
    Jeremy, Amy, Cam, Dash Weber

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  3. Continuing to pray for each of you

    Julie and Jada McGlasson

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  4. During my prayer time couple days ago for your sweet baby I ask God to give her a moment or two of joy. Where she can show you that smile that is so contagious. I pray that those smiles come sooner and last longer day by day.

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    1. This is a beautiful thing to pray for. I will include it as well.

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  5. God Bless you Caroline! You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. ❤️����

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  6. Continued prayers for you all! My devotion last night for school was about being steadfast and immovable and your family is all I can think of as the best representation of that verse. Prayers!!

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  7. Sending many prayers for the days to become better and for complete healing. Such a strong little lady...I believe! ��

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  8. Oh my....hoping all the doctors will get her feeling better soon! Thinking of you all!

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  9. Sweet Caroline, I would trade places with you in a heartbeat if I could. You are such a sweet soul with a beautiful smile. God must have something really special in store for you. Be strong and keep fighting and I will keep praying for you and your family.

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  10. I love her and y’all. Praying praying praying. Edie

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  11. My prayers are with you. I woke this morning with Caroline on my ��. Praying you have a blessed weekend with your precious family. My family ask each day about you all. We read your story through Molly’s page and have been so touched ��

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  12. You all do not leave my prayers or thoughts. Sending love and strength. Let us surround you and hold you up...you are amazing parents. Would love to bring you your coffee one morning! Caroline is lucky to have you all.

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