We may get news tomorrow on weather Chris can be enrolled in the study, despite concerns over the death of a participant over the weekend. The IRB and other study monitors will have to agree that a fundamental change in the protocol is not necessary. An exception would also need to be given for Chris's recent debilitation.
Arguing for exceptions: Chris was much more functional a couple of weeks ago and the poor fellow who died had unusual pre-existing infections. I really don't know what will happen and don't think my speculations are worthwhile.
So, the plan is for early morning placement of a picc line with apheresis to follow (collection of the legendary T-cells). He had two bags of platelets today and blood tests showed an amazing 50% drop in white cells. He is far more energetic and awake today despite 7.2 hemoglobin. I can only attribute this improvement to the addition of allopurinol last night.
If we need to come back in a week or so to fully enroll Chris, we will do it. Gladly.
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