Brad is suffering from GVHD (Graph vs. Host Disease). We were warned of this side effect of a transplant since the beginning and, of course, we were hoping he would avoid it. Regardless, he has suffered for awhile and he has once again stepped up and endured through it. He has had an immense challenge with his skin which seems to be the organ that is being hit the hardest. His skin itches all day every day. And it becomes very tight and uncomfortable when it is not hydrated with lotion. So, he continually saturates it with lotions (and we tried many before we found one that worked best!) He has mouth sores too and eating spicy foods is painful!! This is Brad we are talking about! Sometimes salt even aggravates it. Doctor subscribed a mouthwash that he uses. Doesn't do much but he keeps using it. That is basically the only thing we can do on our end to help. His doctors have ordered a 5-6 month photopherises treatment. This treatment entails weekly visit's to PSL where he has to sit for several hours and have his blood pulled out (he had to get another chest port put in). Once his blood is pulled out, it is spun and divided. Then parts of it are exposed to UV rays along with a medicine that goes along with the process. It is painless but it is time consuming. So far, we have not seen a ton of improvement. And unfortunately his diabetes got worse which was a challenge in itself. We think he has leveled out that problem with good eating habits. Good job, Bradley. So, that is it in a nut shell. He is still dealing with all kinds of garbage. Yet, we still have to have faith that he will come out stronger and better!! And he will!!
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