BLOG 17

23 May 2009

I was admitted again to hospital on Monday, 18th May with infections and a high temp of 38.3--the infections and temp started only about 12 hours earlier and quickly took hold. This is because my white (WBC), red (HB), Platelets (PLTS) and Neutrophils (NEUTS) blood counts were reversed or holted by the immunosuppressive effects of the strong (fludarabine) chemotherapy, taken for the Lymphoma symptoms. This is described in oncology/heamotology circles as being 'Neutropenic' as opportunistic viruses and bacteria hone in on destroying your body and infecting the weakened immune system.

The chemo devastates the bone marrow, which functions to produce and increase new blood cells, each with their individual function of delivering oxygen, food, repairative and germ fighting properties to all corners of our bodies. I had received a plasma transfusion on the Friday prior, but this did not holt the virus, (which was probably a regular cold) as it took hold of my immune system quickly. As I write this, I have been on IV antibiotics, every 6 hours since Monday and my counts are being monitored daily with top-ups of red blood cells and platelets as needed.

The great news from my heamotology team is that they have recommended that we holt the last dose of this chemotherapy cycle to let my body repair and relax, after all I have been through. My medical team are very happy with the results of symptom holt and think that we may be able to use this chemotherapy as a 'PRN' as required, if symptoms return to avoid a transplant, as long as possible. We are--of course-- hoping it goes away all together and we don't have to deal with any more chemotherapy.

I will be attending a christian women's conference, with my women's church team & my daughter (Julia) starting next Thursday and am looking forward to the break and time of ministry. More blogs to come, as the news happens......

Love & Blessings, Jodster.