Some positive news

This past week I returned to Seattle for four appointments; three with the hematologist and one with the cardiologist. The hematologist was pleased to see that the effects of the new chemotherapy, Velcade. The blood work up showed no decrease in my red and white blood cells and my platelet count. The only side effects from the drug that I am experiencing is it makes me more sleepy. The doctor decided changed my infusion regiment to twice a week. So now I am infused on Mondays and Thursdays. My last two infusions for this cycle will be on June 28 and July 1. We hope to arrange for the infusions to occur in Wenatchee for the second cycle so we are not traveling so much.

The cardiologist has no issues with the heart. Things there have worked out well. He spoke to us about the Velcade. He said the use of this chemotherapy with a steroid has shown very promising results for people who have Amyloidosis. He was very encouraged by the fact that the hematologist has me on this new regiment. He said in the near future, this drug could take the place of a bone marrow transplant for people with Amyloidosis. Many of the drugs and therapies I am on have been developed with the past few years. I am not feeling bad that a new wonder drug is being developed after all that I have gone through with the bone marrow work up. Early detection and treatment of this disease may also make the heart transplant not necessary. I have benefited from the advancements in medicine and people after me will continue to reap the benefits of research. Anyway, I have these neat scars that the grandkids like to look at.

Speaking of the grandkids, after being in some form of seclusion for over a year, this past week we ventured out to see family. Starting on Wednesday evening, we had dinner with Andrea and Michael and children, Isabel, Collin and Elliot. The kids were uncertain if they would see me at the hospital or a restaurant. It was nice to see them and give each a big squeeze. On Thursday, we had an opportunity to visit my mother with my sister Helen. My mothers health is fragile and she can only communicate with her eyes and some facial expressions. She knew who we were and we had a nice long over due visit. On Saturday, we took Rosaline’s mom and saw Derek, Dawn and children, Grace and Trent for breakfast. They were visiting friends and family in Wenatchee. We had a great visit with all.