Day 1: First Injection

Well, here we go...

Danny received his first filgrastim injection today around 10:30 a.m. He needed three cc’s of the drug -- two 1.5cc shots to the stomach. This was the first donor case at the hospital, so it seemed to be new to everyone involved. On the way up the elevator the pharmacist was holding the meds talking to the nurse. He clearly didn't know the drugs were for Danny, as he told the nurse “I’m not sure what this is treating, but this seems like a lot.” Um… come again? Not exactly what you want to hear on day one of five of these injections!

Who knew a little vile could do so much?

They asked a few questions, took some blood (1 vile’s worth), took vitals, and eventually administered the meds. We had to stick around for 15 minutes after the injections to ensure he wasn't allergic. Once it was determined he was in the clear, we were sent on our way. He was told to lay low and not be left alone for the rest of the day, just in case he’d have a delayed reaction to the drug. At this point his main “complaint” would be that his stomach muscles hurt where the needles went in. Let’s hope that is the biggest issue we face today!

The most interesting part of day 1 (so far) would be the look on the face of the nurse when we got on the subject of donating. Off the bat she asked if we knew the recipient -- needless to say she was stunned when she found out Danny is donating for a complete stranger in another country. (It is pretty crazy!) I can only imagine that is not the last time we’ll be asked that asked that question. :)