Enough stem cells!!

We are pleased to say that Ellen's bone marrow aspiration was successful and we now have enough stem cells. The transplant will start next week so we have a few days of fun before the long summer visit to hospital begins.

Taking a break...

Due to the slight stem cell set back last week we were able to take an unexpected break from treatment and spend a few days in Dorset. Ellen had a fantastic time looking for sea life, chasing rabbits, dancing (see video clip attached) and watching Mummy and Daddy go for a rather cold swim in the sea. Ellen was also able to see her Great Grandfather and her cousin, Harriet, for the first time since she has been unwell.

Unfortunately, we are now back in hospital as Ellen has had another infection of her Hickman line. It currently seems to be responding to antibiotics. We hope that her stem cell harvest will take place on Friday 26th June.

Not enough stem cells

Unfortunately we were not able to get enough stem cells from Ellen's blood, even though she was attached to a very large machine for 4 hours. She is therefore going to have to have them removed from her bone - this will involve yet another general anaesthetic. We are unsure when this will go ahead but hope it will be within the next few weeks. We are all very disappointed but on the positive side Ellen is very well. She is very pleased with what she calls her 'new haircut' - its all gone!!!

We are home!!!

Ellen never ceases to amaze! This week she has had a major operation on Monday, ITU Tuesday, up to the ward play room Wednesday, laughing with the nurses Thursday and home Friday. She really does take everything in her stride. She also managed to say to the surgeon 'Thank-you for the operation Mr Brain'!! We now await a stem cell harvest on Monday.

Thank-you to all those who have offered to run the London Marathon in support of Ellen.

Doing well

Ellen has made it out of the dreaded ITU. She is currently fast asleep on the ward. She is a little grumpy - she keeps asking to put her clothes on and go home - but is otherwise well.

Ellen's operation

Ellen's operation has gone well. The surgeon managed to remove the majority of the tumour. She is currently sleeping in the paediatric ITU.

Our week off

Ellen has had a lovely week off. She has had dinner with the girls, visited London zoo, been out to Lunch with Grandmum and Grandad, been to the Fitzwilliam Museum, fed the ducks and been to the swings and slides. Her series of tests last week showed that the tumour has shrunk further. However she is still due to have her operation on Monday 8th June.

Despite a fantastic week we have unfortunately had a minor set back as Ellen has been admitted to Addenbrookes with a suspected infection in her Hickman Line. She is on IV antibiotics and appears to be getting better.