2 Years, 3 Months and 18 Days Later...

Main Entry: nor·mal
Pronunciation:\ˈnOr-məl\
Function: adjective
Etymology: Latin normalis, from norma
Date: circa 1696

2 a: according with, constituting, or not deviating from a norm, rule, or principle
b: conforming to a type, standard, or regular pattern

synonyms see regular
— nor·mal·i·ty \nOr-ˈma-lə-tē\ noun
— nor·mal·ly \ˈnOr-mə-lē\ adverb

For the first time in over 2 years, Jo's platelet counts today were in the "normal" range. If you look at her CBC report above, you will notice the absence of the "L" next to the Plt count that we have become so accustomed to seeing. This is probably the biggest news we have had in the entire 2+ years!

You can also see the three "L"s next to the RBC (Red Blood Cell), Hgb (Hemoglobin) and Hct (Hematocrit). These are all measurements associated with Jo's red blood cells and all three are still in the low category due to the PNH. However, keep in mind that her Platelets have always been the primary source of source of concern due to the critical level to which they dropped. At Jo's 8 week pregnancy checkup in November, 2004 her body was not producing enough platelets to support everyday life.

We've been waiting a good while now to see that little "L" disappear. There have been a couple of times that Jo's counts got close and then they backed off, dashing our hopes. Today we bask in the sweet thrill of victory!