We had a good summer, with a getaway week for our entire family. But in October I felt tired. The red blood cells indicated that I needed a transfusion. I was a little concerned. I had had one in September. Now I needed another one a month later. I was used to one every six months. But the infusion put me back on my feet, so I was grateful.
In November the indication was that I needed another transfusion. Three in three months! The oncologist explained that the chemo beats up on the red blood cells. Since I had been on this treatment for 18 months, this could be expected. He has patients that need transfusions every month. I may be getting to that point.
So, we need to evaluate. Degrading of the red blood cells is serious; it could be permanent. I could continue this regimen, or come off it and try an alternative. The oncologist said there are alternatives, although how the body responds to each treatment is an unknown, and each one has its side effects. I will go through a series of scans this week. Based on the results, the oncologist will have some options. But we need wisdom to know how to choose.
Would you pray for us as we consider these options. We need God's insight to make this decision.
Thank you so much for your prayers. I'm convinced that the prayers are just as essential as the chemo in keeping me functioning.
Gratefully,
-Cal-
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praying for wisdom, clarity, and comfort
ReplyDeletePrayer is good. So is donating blood on a regular basis.
ReplyDeleteI've found I can donate whole blood 5-6 times a year without any real problems. Might be a bit sluggish the next day, drinking all that extra water.
All the best, Cal, to you Annie, and kids.