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Day -2

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We've made it through the first day, also known as Day -3 (transplant is Day 0).  Matt received his first high dose of chemotherapy, Melphalan, last night around 6:00.  Before receiving the chemo he had to receive 3 hours worth of fluids as well as some anti-nausea medications and his favorite, steroids.  Half an hour before the drip begins he is required to start chewing / sucking on ice cubes and this will continue for the following 6 hours after the chemo is finished.  Mouth sores are a very common and painful side effect of Melphalan so ice is incredibly helpful in lessening the effects.
He said he woke last night with some nausea and was able to put it at bay with a few ginger chews a friend gave him. They gave him some more anti-nausea medications this morning so he was able to eat breakfast.  He is currently enjoying some flavorless oatmeal, cottage cheese, and breakfast potatoes with a copious amount of what I presume to be, pepper.
Matt's next dose of Melphalan will come this afternoon around 3.  They moved it up a bit so he could be done chewing / sucking on ice by 10 or so.  I've also made him some carrot, apple, ginger popsicles as well as some bone broth popsicles (thanks to our friends at Osso Good Bone Broth) to provide some nutrients during that time. Overall he's feeling pretty good.  He makes it out for walks around the unit several times a day and can come and go as he pleases from his room.
I did get his current mailing address so you can send cards, well wishes, posters, etc.  See below. Please remember that he cannot have any live flowers in the room.

Center for Care and Discovery
Matt Freer 
Room 10-055
5700 S Maryland
Chicago, IL 60637

We will continue to keep you updated each day!

All our love,
Matt & Mandy

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