Update & Request for Prayer: August 18, 2009

We returned last night from my visit with my OSU leukemia specialist. He is a brilliant, gracious, and compassionate doctor. After having labs drawn and donating blood for leukemia research, I had a lengthy wait. When Dr. B. entered my room, he had brought me crackers and cheese, since I had waited through lunch.

I was first examined by the Physician's Assistant. She remarked how delighted she was to see how much better I looked than at my previous visit. She was pleased with the improvements in my blood counts - I was not neutropenic and my white blood count, hemoglobin and platelets were all improved (although my pesky lymphocytes remain quite elevated). She only detected three enlarged lymph nodes upon physical examination (they can hide and some are detectable by CT Scan and not on examination). My spleen - much smaller - was the star of the show and both the PA and doctor marveled at how it has decreased in size. My doctor asked if I had donated my spleen to the OSU football team.

Dr. B. was very happy at my progress. As I have previously reported, I did not achieve a complete remission, but a partial remission (if these improvements remain stable for two or more months). All of my doctors have been impressed that this treatment cycle commenced without reaction, complication or infection. Dr. B. felt that I have three options at this time: wait until the cancer begins to worsen again and then repeat treatment with Rituxan; attempt consolidation therapy with Revlimid; or continue with Rituxan therapy.

After much prayer, consulting with all of my most trusted physicians, and considering the risks and benefits, I believe the scales tip slightly in favor of continuing with four more weeks of Rituxan therapy (Wednesdays and Thursdays each week, beginning tomorrow).

I ask for continued prayers for no reactions, infections, or complications. I will not be receiving tomorrow's first dose in ICU, so please pray that I will not have adverse effects often associated with first infusions.

My mind and body want to run far from all things treatment related. I am supposed to be having my "Coming off Chemo Party" on Saturday night. My flesh just wants to watch my baby grandson, hold him in my arms versus being attached to more IV's. Yet, a part of my spirit is whispering to me to continue treatment and I know to always allow my spirit to rule over my flesh.

The chemo chair is reserved for 8:15 AM tomorrow.