Brenan's doctor came by to see him today around 2:00. He said that their diagnosis for Brenan continues to be acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and non-Hodgkins lymphoma, a combination of the two cancers. Today is his fourth day of chemotherapy treatment. He is feeling very tired and nauseous, with pressure in his head, headaches, and fatigue. These side effects are all very typical of chemotherapy. Aunt Viv suggested the use of Sea Bands to help with the nausea. Dad went to the store yesterday and Brenan is wearing them now.
Because of his fatigue, we had to turn away some visitors today, and we apologize. Although Brenan greatly appreciates every person who comes to see him and is so grateful for the support, sometimes he is unable to handle too much conversation or visiting. Don't be surprised if visiting for a few minutes turns out to be a session of just sitting quietly near Brenan while he rests. In lieu of swinging by the hospital, Brenan asks that you donate blood. Even if the blood doesn't get to him, just being involved in this experience has made us all realize how needed blood donations are and that every little bit helps all who are stricken with cancer.
On Day 15 of chemotherapy, the doctors will perform another bone marrow biopsy and lumbar puncture to evaluate the progress of the treatment. We are still waiting for the results of the Mayo Clinic evaluation of the samples and we should hear more about that on Tuesday.
Here are some "what if" scenarios:
If the induction period of chemo (what he is going through now) appears to be working, they will finish this session in the hospital then he would be released for a week or two until his white blood cell count builds back up again. Then Brenan will need to begin a second round of chemotherapy treatment. This second session will take place at either Mayo Clinic in Phoenix or Scottsdale, or at Good Samaritan in Phoenix, or possibly in Tucson at a specialty clinic.
If the chemotherapy treatments are not as effective as the doctors want them to be, there is a possibility that Brenan may need a bone marrow transplant. I will be the first tested because siblings have the best chance of being a match. More to follow on that avenue later, if it develops into more than a "what if."
Brenan wants me to thank everyone who has sent cards, money, text messages, and has visited - so thank you very, very much! While I was typing this blog entry, I turned to Brenan and asked how he was feeling so I could write about it and he said faintly, with his eyes closed, "Stupendous." So there you have it. :)
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
3 comments:
Brenan- As I said to you at Christmas, it seems like you have always been a part of the family....I look forward to you teaching me a new card game to win next Christmas!
Did you forget I said no more hospitals for 2008? Nobody ever listens to me! :-)
We are in ferverent and expectant prayer that God will do a mighty work in this situation- and are so glad Jess has brought you into our little okie world! Give Jess our love- see you at Christmas!
Hey, Sweetheart. While you may not remember me (you were pretty young when last I saw you), it's your cousin Jodi (your Mom's sister Peggy's daughter). I wanted to let you know that we're all thinking about you here in Oregon and keeping good thoughts for your treatment and recovery. And thanks to Elisabeth for the blog... it's good to be able to stay up-to-date on how things are going for you.
Mom has been keeping us updated as much as she can as well, and she's been rallying the troops in terms of recommending blood donations and preparations for whatever else you may need. While I have rheumatoid arthritis and am on immunosuppressants (which means my blood probably can't be used, unfortunately), I'm still anxious to do whatever I can to help, and this blog is a godsend for keeping us all on regular notice with updates. Thanks again, Elisabeth, and much love and very best wishes to Brenan, Elisa, Jess, Jules, and Bruce. I'll check in here daily. Love you all!
Hey Brennan- I want you to know that I am praying for you strength to endure all that is ahead of you. This is just the beginning, but you have shown us all through your life that you have a strong determination to do what you want to and need to do. I also am praying for Jess and Elisabeth and your mom and dad who are there by your side, God knows you are loved!
Fight the fight, one day at a time buddy! I'm cheering you on.
Love and hugs, Kim Schrader
Post a Comment