False alarm with the chemotherapy today.
We were all set and waiting at the hospital, Ali had the canula in her arm and book by her side. Then we found out her blood had not come back to normal levels yet, specifically the neutrophils were down (neutropenia for the latin fans out there). The whole thing has been postponed until Thursday, when Ali will have another blood test early in the morning and then, hoping that her levels are normal again, the doctors will go ahead with the treatment.
(What are neutrophils? They are a type of white blood cell and make up about 50% - 70% of our white blood cells. They are the first set of immune cells that arrive at a site of infection.)
It was pretty frustrating for Ali as she had got her head around being ready for the next dose, the house was all clean and she was prepared for the reaction to the drugs. Now she will have to build herself up again for this Thursday. We hope it all goes to plan this time.
Hair, hair everywhere
It has started, Ali's hair is slowing coming out. It began about Thursday when she noticed more than usual hair getting caught on her brush.
At the moment it's getting a bit messy and as each day goes, more seems to come out. There's an appointment with the hairdresser/wig-fitter tomorrow. Will let you know how this goes.
Spinal metastasis
In our meeting with the oncologist today, we discussed a scan that Ali had just done last week. The results showed that it is likely that the cancer has spread to the vertebrae in her spine (T6 and possibly T7). While not good, the view at the moment is that there is nothing we need to do on this at the moment as the chemo should be affecting the cells located in her spine. There are options and certainly, if it starts causing trouble then we'll be looking to do something. But for now, it's carry on and we'll keep an eye on it.
That's it for now. I'll try to post again tomorrow night and if not, then at the very least I'll be back to let you know how the chemo goes on Thursday.
3 comments:
Wow! Great to hear you had a great time in Sydney while I'm stuck at home with sick kids and a sore throat. Ahh! Gee I love the Canberra winters!!!
Hope Thurs goes well. Can't wait to see your new hair do.
Luv
Jo D.
Hey there
Sydney sounded like fun - nice to have some kid free time.I don't understand the chemo delay - they have to wait until the white blood cells are back to normal before they hit them again? Anyway - obviously a very complex process!
I've had fun this week my littlest delinquent 'stole' $20 from Dave's wallet and when found out (via a call from the canteen manager !!) said he had found it buried in the playground. When I told him I thought he was lying he said "Your'e just jealous coz you want some of my dollars!". Lets just say we had a long serious talk at that point! Thought that might make you laugh...
Good luck on Thurs
Rach xx
Hi Andrew & Ali & Kids
Just letting you know we read every message from you & have added thumbs up to survey!Would love to see funky photo of Ali's new style.Allan & I are minding Emma & Brett this weekend,Jules & Greg go to Melbourne for Jules' birthday.Hope your kids are O.K.now.Hope all goes ahead tomorrow,love Lyn & Allan xxoo
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