A message from Snail's Dad

Snail and Shrew Hatch a Plan

Well it appears that Valerie (our little Snail) and her twin sister Vanessa (Miss Shrew) have been keeping a secret from us. The story must have begun more than 28 years ago (yes I realize they are only 27, I am their Dad). Back then, when they were very, very, very small they came up with the idea: "Instead of just being twins, let's be Identical Twins - and yet we should look different from each other so no one will ever know that we are in fact, identical". Well for over 27 years they did very well keeping their true identity a secret . . . until the scientists at UCSD looked into their DNA. Yes their secret plan was uncovered earlier this week when it was revealed that Valerie and Vanessa have identical DNA (well the UCSD scientists are 99.99% confident of this). No wonder the doctors were amazed at what a good match Vanessa was for Valerie.

What does this mean for our transplanted little Snail you ask? Dr. Curtin and staff did their research and think that the chances of Valerie getting Graft vs. Host disease have been diminished. Not completely gone, but less likely. She should be able to cut back on her anti-rejection medication sooner than previously thought. That means she should be able to heal quicker and get back to her normal self faster than we expected. We are cautiously elated! We know there is still a long way to go before our little Snail is back to her completely normal self. And yet, what a great Christmas present.

From all of us at Team Snail HQ, we appreciate your support through these very trying times. The type of support is not as important as your continued efforts. You have contributed financially, sent cards, emails and letters, sent pictures, sent gifts, come up other with fabulous ideas for support and most important - you have prayed. Every little thing you do makes a great impact on Valerie and in the end, her successful recovery. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!

Wishing a very Merry Christmas to you!