According to Wikipedia…

White blood cells, or leukocytes, are cells of the immune system defending the body against both infectious disease and foreign materials. Several different and diverse types of leukocytes exist, but they are all produced and derived from a multi-potent cell in the bone marrow known as a hematopoietic stem cell. Leukocytes are found throughout the body, including the blood and lymphatic system.

Irene’s WBC (white blood cell count) dipped slightly….hovering at a 2.6 value compared to 2.7 last Friday when the doctor prescribed antibiotics to combat her recent infection.  The normal range is in excess of 4.5.  We’re not sure what this means, exactly, in terms of treatment protocol, so we’re awaiting further medical consultation.  Irene continues with 24/7 nausea, is very weary, and is waiting for relief…and that “second wind”!!!   

As goes the UCSF blood bank motto, “life is in the blood”, we wait for the white blood count to increase and protect Irene’s immune system from further vulnerability.

“…the life of every creature is its blood…”
Leviticus 17:14b

Thanks for caring,
Dave

***  The next UPDATE is scheduled for posting on Monday, Jan 28, 2008.