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I had another visit to the oncologist since my last posting at which I had a bone marrow biopsy, extensive blood work and shots (immunizations).
My bone marrow biopsy showed that there are still no leukemia cells present - good news, for sure. I was at the dental school when the call came in from Dr. Carraway. I wouldn't normally answer a call while there, but just couldn't resist when I saw who it was that was calling. Surprisingly, after receiving the good news I had a complete melt-down. I was so unaware of how much tension I was holding in anticipation. After several moments of thanking God and proclaiming to the Universe how very grateful I am, I managed to compose myself and had proceeded to have my teeth cleaned! I don't think poor Lauren, my dental student, knew quite what to do, but, gosh, what a relief. I won't have to have another bone marrow biopsy for 5 whole months.
On the same day as my biopsy, I had extensive blood work done which included the usual stuff - white counts, red counts, neutrophils, potassium, liver and kidney function, etc., But, this time I was also checked for cholesterol, thyroid, and Vitamin D deficiency. I'm proud to say that my cholesterol is only 120. The rest I am unsure about at this writing. I had a bone density scan done and will find out the results soon.
On the same day I had 5 immunizations - pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine, hepatitis B, haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib) vaccine, tetanus and diphtheria, and the polio vaccine. In two months I'll get their boosters. Then, no more shots until this time next year when (if I recall correctly) I'll get mumps, measles and rubella. They are live vaccines and apparently my system can't handle a live vaccine just yet.
So that's where I am at this point. Healthy and happy and full of hope for the future.
Thanks again for your support and good thoughts and prayers. Keep 'em coming.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
One-year Anniversary
Today marks my one-year bone marrow transplant anniversary! As I reflect on what was happening this time last year I am amazed at just how far I've actually come. It hasn't been easy, but it's been profound, extending far beneath the surface.
As you might guess, today is a day of reflection and thanks. Please bear with me while I ruminate. I'm grateful that I was eligible for a transplant and I'm grateful that Brad was able to be my donor. I'm grateful that I have a bright future ahead of me and I promise to honor that by being a good person and working to help others. I am thankful for the support of my family and friends. Their prayers and good wishes kept me going when things were at their bleakest. I'm thankful for the doctors and nurses who took such good care of me then and continue to do so now. I am grateful for all that I have and all that I have to look forward to. I am thankful that I can still have hopes and dreams. I am grateful for every sunrise and sunset and all the hours in between. I am grateful for my mind and it's capacity to sense and understand. I could go on and on, but just let it be said, I am grateful!
My journey with leukemia has been eye-opening as you might imagine. I've learned a lot and I've asked a lot of questions, not only about my disease, but about life, death, faith, hope, friendship, love - all the biggies! I'm now equipped to continue my journey with new knowledge and insight. Nothing can break my stride!
It is my intention to update this blog as I have things to report or feel the urge to reflect. There are still so many who tell me they check in from time-to-time. Thanks for that. Thanks too for your love and support through good times and bad. I really, really appreciate it. I couldn't have made it without you. I am blessed and I know it. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
P.S. Don't forget - June is cancer awareness month!
As you might guess, today is a day of reflection and thanks. Please bear with me while I ruminate. I'm grateful that I was eligible for a transplant and I'm grateful that Brad was able to be my donor. I'm grateful that I have a bright future ahead of me and I promise to honor that by being a good person and working to help others. I am thankful for the support of my family and friends. Their prayers and good wishes kept me going when things were at their bleakest. I'm thankful for the doctors and nurses who took such good care of me then and continue to do so now. I am grateful for all that I have and all that I have to look forward to. I am thankful that I can still have hopes and dreams. I am grateful for every sunrise and sunset and all the hours in between. I am grateful for my mind and it's capacity to sense and understand. I could go on and on, but just let it be said, I am grateful!
My journey with leukemia has been eye-opening as you might imagine. I've learned a lot and I've asked a lot of questions, not only about my disease, but about life, death, faith, hope, friendship, love - all the biggies! I'm now equipped to continue my journey with new knowledge and insight. Nothing can break my stride!
It is my intention to update this blog as I have things to report or feel the urge to reflect. There are still so many who tell me they check in from time-to-time. Thanks for that. Thanks too for your love and support through good times and bad. I really, really appreciate it. I couldn't have made it without you. I am blessed and I know it. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
P.S. Don't forget - June is cancer awareness month!
Monday, April 26, 2010
Most Recent Oncology Appointment
Last Thursday I had an appointment with my oncologist, Dr. Carraway. My white blood counts and neutrophils were a little low, but she assured me that they were not low enough to worry about. They will be watched, but are likely a side effect of my medications.
After thinking I was completely done with bone marrow biopsies, I found out that I have to continue them well into 2011. Guess that was wishful thinking on my part. So on June 3rd I will get a bone marrow biopsy, blood work to test for hyperthyroidism, liver and kidney function, various viruses (including CMV) and a bunch of other stuff. Since the one-year anniversary of my bone marrow biopsy is May 26th (yes, it will be a year!) I also have to get 6 shots - my childhood immunizations. Then in August I will get the boosters. In the next year it looks like I will be getting 2-4 bone marrow biopsies - although I am doing so well that my doc is going to re-think that. Let's keep our fingers crossed.
The last few weeks have been pretty amazing for me. Slowly, very slowly, I have begun to feel a strong sense of clarity . I live in the moment now instead of always worrying about tomorrow, I am truly enjoying the very moment that I am living. For that reason I feel completely in control of my life again and that's a very uplifting and powerful feeling. If you've never lost your way or had to completely depend on others, you may not understand what I'm trying to say. For well over a year I have relied completely on my doctors, my family and my friends for just about everything. Now I have choices and I'm capable of making them - that's quite freeing! Along with that new-found clarity, I feel proud of the way I handled myself throughout my illness and treatment and I'm proud of the progress I've made. I believe a positive attitude is 90% of the battle. So, here's to life - I'm back - better, stronger, prouder, more confident, happier and freer ~ God Bless me!
After thinking I was completely done with bone marrow biopsies, I found out that I have to continue them well into 2011. Guess that was wishful thinking on my part. So on June 3rd I will get a bone marrow biopsy, blood work to test for hyperthyroidism, liver and kidney function, various viruses (including CMV) and a bunch of other stuff. Since the one-year anniversary of my bone marrow biopsy is May 26th (yes, it will be a year!) I also have to get 6 shots - my childhood immunizations. Then in August I will get the boosters. In the next year it looks like I will be getting 2-4 bone marrow biopsies - although I am doing so well that my doc is going to re-think that. Let's keep our fingers crossed.
The last few weeks have been pretty amazing for me. Slowly, very slowly, I have begun to feel a strong sense of clarity . I live in the moment now instead of always worrying about tomorrow, I am truly enjoying the very moment that I am living. For that reason I feel completely in control of my life again and that's a very uplifting and powerful feeling. If you've never lost your way or had to completely depend on others, you may not understand what I'm trying to say. For well over a year I have relied completely on my doctors, my family and my friends for just about everything. Now I have choices and I'm capable of making them - that's quite freeing! Along with that new-found clarity, I feel proud of the way I handled myself throughout my illness and treatment and I'm proud of the progress I've made. I believe a positive attitude is 90% of the battle. So, here's to life - I'm back - better, stronger, prouder, more confident, happier and freer ~ God Bless me!
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Easter Weekend
Our Easter weekend started off with a wedding on Saturday at the Antrim in Taneytown. The bride and groom looked stunning and the weather couldn't have been better.
On Easter the family gathered at my niece's house. Brad happened to be in town on other business so he was able to come as well. He looks healthy and happy and was glad to see that I am doing so well. The food was wonderful, but of course I awoke during the night with stomach problems. My body is just not used to all that rich food two days in a row. I figure it's probably the onslaught of fat that gives me the problem. My body just can't handle it these days. It's funny how my relationship with food has changed since my diagnosis. Before I ate when I was happy, sad, mad, upset, etc., etc. Now I eat only to nourish myself. Nothing tastes particularly good anymore and I'm always leery about what is going to send me running to the bathroom.
I haven't been to see my oncologist since March, but am scheduled for the 22nd of April. I have already started composing my list of questions. My sinuses have been giving me a fit and I am basically living on Claridon D. I think my sinus infection has cleared up after a 14-day round of antibiotics, but the pollen and my post nasal drip are are really wearing me down. I am still suffering with insomnia - too much to think about I suppose.
I recently learned a startling bit of information while exploring the Norvartis website. They are the company that manufactures Gleevec. Last March when I was diagnosed, I was in what is referred to as the "blast-crisis stage". While I knew my situation was grave I just realized how very grave it was. The blast-crisis stage is also referred to as the "terminal stage". I'm not sure now what I was thinking at the time, but I can assure you, I was not thinking about dying. All I could do was drop my head in my hands and take a few minutes to steady myself - it took a while to absorb it all. I am truly just now realizing how very sick I was and believe me, it's very, very scary and very humbling at the same time. I am one lucky girl!
On Easter the family gathered at my niece's house. Brad happened to be in town on other business so he was able to come as well. He looks healthy and happy and was glad to see that I am doing so well. The food was wonderful, but of course I awoke during the night with stomach problems. My body is just not used to all that rich food two days in a row. I figure it's probably the onslaught of fat that gives me the problem. My body just can't handle it these days. It's funny how my relationship with food has changed since my diagnosis. Before I ate when I was happy, sad, mad, upset, etc., etc. Now I eat only to nourish myself. Nothing tastes particularly good anymore and I'm always leery about what is going to send me running to the bathroom.
I haven't been to see my oncologist since March, but am scheduled for the 22nd of April. I have already started composing my list of questions. My sinuses have been giving me a fit and I am basically living on Claridon D. I think my sinus infection has cleared up after a 14-day round of antibiotics, but the pollen and my post nasal drip are are really wearing me down. I am still suffering with insomnia - too much to think about I suppose.
I recently learned a startling bit of information while exploring the Norvartis website. They are the company that manufactures Gleevec. Last March when I was diagnosed, I was in what is referred to as the "blast-crisis stage". While I knew my situation was grave I just realized how very grave it was. The blast-crisis stage is also referred to as the "terminal stage". I'm not sure now what I was thinking at the time, but I can assure you, I was not thinking about dying. All I could do was drop my head in my hands and take a few minutes to steady myself - it took a while to absorb it all. I am truly just now realizing how very sick I was and believe me, it's very, very scary and very humbling at the same time. I am one lucky girl!
Friday, March 19, 2010
Bone Marrow Biopsy Results
The results from my recent bone marrow biopsy are in and I'm pleased to report that all things look good. Hopefully, this will be my last biopsy ever (I hope) - not the most pleasant experience! Next month I have an appointment with Dr. Joanna Bock, an internist who will become my primary care physician, although I will continue to see Dr. Carraway a couple of times per year - at least for a while. I have also set up an appointment with a new gynogologist, Dr. Catherine Sewell. I made the decision to go with all Hopkins doctors so that my records are easily accessible by all. At the end of May I will be re-vaccinated with all of the childhood immunizations since the antibodies from those vaccines were lost when my immune system was destroyed prior to my bone marrow transplant. While my hair continues to grow back and my skin color is evening out, it's clear that my body still has some work to do.
I was very surprised to learn recently that while CML is one of the four most common types of leukemia and is responsible for 15% of all adult cases of leukemia, it is still considered a rare form of cancer affecting only 1 to 2 cases per 100,000 people per year worldwide. In the United States an estimated 4,830 people are diagnosed with CML each year. The median age for a CML diagnosis is 67 years and is more prevalent among males. I don't know how I came to be so special, but it's interesting stuff don't ya think?
I continue to take Gleevec every day as well as an anti-nausea pill, but am completely off my atrial fib medications. Seems that I no longer need them. My oncologist thinks that perhaps my rapid and irregular heart beat was likely due to the stress that my body was under for such a long period of time before I was diagnosed. I still take Mepron, a powerful antibiotic, and will continue to take it through May.
So, it seems that life is returning to normal. While I still get worn out quickly, my stamina is increasing weekly. I continue to attend my cancer support group every week as well as a Mindfulness Meditation class - both offered at Hopewell Cancer Support Center. A wonderful place indeed.
The warm weather has brought a new-found energy that I've unleashed on my backyard. What a relief after so long to be able to get out there and get things cleaned up. I can't wait to pot some plants, pull some weeds, and sweep up debris - all tasks that used to be on my restricted list. I'm happy taking little steps!
I was very surprised to learn recently that while CML is one of the four most common types of leukemia and is responsible for 15% of all adult cases of leukemia, it is still considered a rare form of cancer affecting only 1 to 2 cases per 100,000 people per year worldwide. In the United States an estimated 4,830 people are diagnosed with CML each year. The median age for a CML diagnosis is 67 years and is more prevalent among males. I don't know how I came to be so special, but it's interesting stuff don't ya think?
I continue to take Gleevec every day as well as an anti-nausea pill, but am completely off my atrial fib medications. Seems that I no longer need them. My oncologist thinks that perhaps my rapid and irregular heart beat was likely due to the stress that my body was under for such a long period of time before I was diagnosed. I still take Mepron, a powerful antibiotic, and will continue to take it through May.
So, it seems that life is returning to normal. While I still get worn out quickly, my stamina is increasing weekly. I continue to attend my cancer support group every week as well as a Mindfulness Meditation class - both offered at Hopewell Cancer Support Center. A wonderful place indeed.
The warm weather has brought a new-found energy that I've unleashed on my backyard. What a relief after so long to be able to get out there and get things cleaned up. I can't wait to pot some plants, pull some weeds, and sweep up debris - all tasks that used to be on my restricted list. I'm happy taking little steps!
Thursday, March 11, 2010
One Year Ago Today!
It is one year ago today that I was diagnosed with leukemia. Many of you remembered and I thank you for that. Now, I guess I can honestly say that I am a one-year cancer survivor. My next goal is May 26th when I can say that I am a one-year bone marrow transplant survivor.
Yesterday I went for a bone marrow biopsy (ouch), some blood work, and an appointment with Dr. Carraway. She is so wonderful - I can't believe my luck in getting her when I was admitted to JHH 12 months ago. She is patient and kind, caring and understanding, and smart to boot!
While I don't have the results from the biopsy, I do have the results of my blood work and everything looks fantastic. Good, good news since I went to this appointment a little down in the dumps and very anxious. Dr. Carraway talked with me at length about my fears and apprehensions, and let me know that what I am feeling has been felt by countless others - it's all perfectly normal. She also reminded me of what my body has been through, that I shouldn't expect more from myself than what I am able to do right now. I didn't know this before today, but the chemo that I was given prior to my bone marrow transplant is considered one of the harshest chemo regiments imaginable and what my body has gone through with the chemo and the bone marrow transplant is one of the most difficult. No wonder I'm still reeling from the effects, even after all these months. Why did I think I was supposed to be doing more and feeling more energetic? Perhaps a little self-imposed pressure, perhaps some unrealistic thinking, or maybe just some old-fashioned foolishness. Who knows! The point is I'm OK and I need to remember to not expect miracles. This is a long, long road and one that takes self-forgiveness, patience, and the ability to cut myself a little slack!
Yesterday I went for a bone marrow biopsy (ouch), some blood work, and an appointment with Dr. Carraway. She is so wonderful - I can't believe my luck in getting her when I was admitted to JHH 12 months ago. She is patient and kind, caring and understanding, and smart to boot!
While I don't have the results from the biopsy, I do have the results of my blood work and everything looks fantastic. Good, good news since I went to this appointment a little down in the dumps and very anxious. Dr. Carraway talked with me at length about my fears and apprehensions, and let me know that what I am feeling has been felt by countless others - it's all perfectly normal. She also reminded me of what my body has been through, that I shouldn't expect more from myself than what I am able to do right now. I didn't know this before today, but the chemo that I was given prior to my bone marrow transplant is considered one of the harshest chemo regiments imaginable and what my body has gone through with the chemo and the bone marrow transplant is one of the most difficult. No wonder I'm still reeling from the effects, even after all these months. Why did I think I was supposed to be doing more and feeling more energetic? Perhaps a little self-imposed pressure, perhaps some unrealistic thinking, or maybe just some old-fashioned foolishness. Who knows! The point is I'm OK and I need to remember to not expect miracles. This is a long, long road and one that takes self-forgiveness, patience, and the ability to cut myself a little slack!
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Home Again, Home Again
I'm home from our extended stay in Florida. I think the warm temperatures and blue skies did me a world of good. I gained a few needed pounds and have good color. My hair is growing and is quite thick and curly. My appetite is picking up but I've found I can't eat a lot at one sitting or very rich foods. I feel physically stronger. All in all I'm doing quite well, but as it is with any illness, I'm back to the business of doctor's appointments and vigilance in regard to my health and well-being.
On March 11th I'm scheduled for my 3-month bone marrow biopsy. I'll have another in May and if all is as it should be, I imagine I'll only be scheduled every 6 months. I can hardly believe that March 13th marks my one year diagnosis anniversary. Although it's certainly not something to celebrate, I feel I've learned so many worthwhile life-lessons these past months that I'm not sure I would choose to go back to life before cancer. Strange but true!
On March 11th I'm scheduled for my 3-month bone marrow biopsy. I'll have another in May and if all is as it should be, I imagine I'll only be scheduled every 6 months. I can hardly believe that March 13th marks my one year diagnosis anniversary. Although it's certainly not something to celebrate, I feel I've learned so many worthwhile life-lessons these past months that I'm not sure I would choose to go back to life before cancer. Strange but true!
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