Bryce
“You’re in complete remission.” Those are the most freeing words I think I’ve ever heard.
After 21 days in the hospital and seven days waiting at home, we finally met with Dr. V this afternoon, and he delivered the wonderful news. Complete remission. COMPLETE REMISSION. My mutation results were also available, but candidly, I don’t understand them beyond they’re rare in acute lymphoblastic leukemia, really rare. Regardless, I’m still considered “standard risk” which is the other great news we learned.
Future Treatment
Remission within the first 30 days is a huge win but it’s only the beginning of the journey. My “standard risk” treatment consists of 8 cycles of chemo. Each cycle is 21 days but unlike the first cycle, future cycles only requires 5 days of inpatient chemo and a few days of outpatient chemo with transfusions as needed. I have an additional 2 years of less frequent maintenance chemo once I complete the cycles.
Cycle 2
Cycle 2 started today. I packed my hospital bag anticipating 7-8 days and was excited to learn it will likely only be 5. Now I’m slightly embarrassed about the size of my luggage, but hey, a squatty potty takes a lot of space. My new room is twice the size of the last one, has a view, and actually has access to direct sunlight; guessing I’m now a gold member at UAMS.
One last little bit of good news – I also learned at the appointment with Dr. V that my neutrophils recovered to a normal level which means I’m not neutropenic right now. I love salads, and for the first time in two and a half months I was able to eat one for dinner. The hospital’s take on a Greek salad included using only spinach as the lettuce, but it was a salad nonetheless.
Today was a good day.
Metrics that Matter
- Physical feels: 8/10
- Emotional feels: 10/10
- Cumulative hours of chemo: C1-67.33, C2-
- Butt: still intact
