In Melbourne (RCH), but heading back to Adelaide today

Lauren and I drove across to Melbourne (RCH) for a bone marrow biopsy yesterday to check if her blast cells (leukaemic cells) are at 5% yet to proceed with the trial. We don't have official results yet (MRD) but visual check estimates these at 39%. Sufficient to proceed with T-Cell therapy via the USA trial and Melbourne Children's Hospital (RCH). Basically cells harvested last visit to Melbourne (RCH) can go across to USA for genetic modification and reproduction of these cells. Will take approximately 8 weeks for this process.

Just found out these initial results this morning, so heading back to Adelaide today for possible treatment with Inotuzumab and steroids and others tomorrow at the RAH (Royal Adelaide Hospital) as a possible holding/reduction of blast counts until genetically modified cells are back from the USA. The plan is for these to be infused in Jan 2016 at this stage at RCH Melbourne.

Lauren was going to see the last recording of Hamish and Andy show tomorrow thanks to Renee at Challenge but treatment comes first. So trip here which we originally thought might be for the week, finishes today with a 712 Km drive home. Lucky we checked out of our hotel this morning - like it was meant to be!!

Still amazed by this hospital (Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, RCH) and it's positive vibe. Even has a Meerkat display along with everything else.