On Tuesday I had my bone marrow biopsy to see how well the second round of induction chemotherapy had worked. They started me off with a little demerol, but did not add the concious sedation this time. And, I now know that was the more important ingredient of that little cocktail.
Because they didn't have a long enough needle, the local anesthetic did not get completely into my bone. Suffice it to say, it was one painful test. But well worth it.
Today I received the initial results which showed I have less than 2% leukemic cells in my bone marrow, making it possible to declare me in complete remission!
By sometime next week, if my marrow has started to produce enough red and white cells and enough platelets, I get to go home. Then it's back down to Denver for a consultation with Dr. Rifkin at the Rocky Mountain Cancer Center before beginning consolidation chemotherapy.
I know there is still a long way to go, but it feels fantastic to make it past this first giant hurdle.
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9 comments:
Remission! Bet that's the sweetest sounding word you've heard for a very long time! Rivals "grandma", huh? Woman, you are a winner!
I'm so delighted to read this message. I know you'll pass those additional blood tests with flying colors and earn your "freedom" very soon. Hope you can savor that freedom - the weather, the food, the mobility! Have some FUN. Looking forward to seeing you in September. You rock!
Way to go Debbye!!!!! The first thing I do in the morning is to check to see if you posted anything. I was getting a little worried there because you were a little quiet. Things are going YOUR way now and things will hopefully only get better and better.
AN ANSWER TO OUR PRAYERS
KEEP UP THE GOOD SPIRITS
MARY GRACE
That is fantastic!! Keep up the good spirits, you will be home before you know it.
Take care,
Connie
Debbye
That's fantastic!!! I can smell freedom to see family and friends and work and food!!! We wish you continued good fortune and hope to see you soon!!
Julie and staff
Remission = Freedom!!!! Way to go. Attitude is 50% of the remission and you DID IT!!
Glad to hear you're working on exercise. By the time baby #4 comes, you will be able to rock the baby and your knee will be a bouncy horse for the others.
CONGRATULATIONS!!
Margy
Debbye
Wonderful, wonderful. So just tell me when it is taco time :):):)
I know that you will do great with the next tests. So it must true no pain no gain. Have a great weekend.
Susan
HOORAY! I knew you'd do it. With your positive outlook and tremendous strength and sense of humor you were bound to win. I can't tell you how happy I am for you and I know the red and white cells and platelets will cooperate and let you go home soon. I'm sure you could use a few hugs from those grandbabies. You're on a roll now, keep up the fight.
Renea
That is GREAT news, Debbye! Your strong will and attitude have helped you and use get through this. Life can only get better from here! Best Wishes!
Sherry
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