General Update

 

From Doris:

This update is a day later than usual because I did not have my oncology appointment until this morning. Usually, I would have met with my doctor at the end of last week. 

The cancer is being controlled. My white blood cell count today was 7.68. Normal WBC counts are between 3.8 and 11. 

This week my oncologist said, “You are already in remission. We just don’t know how deep it is.”

I will continue to take chemotherapy drugs for another year. As I approach the end of my treatment, I will have a test for Minimal Residual Disease (MRD) to determine the level of remission.

We asked the oncologist about traveling. He said we can travel as long as we are not gone for more than 3 weeks and 6 days, so I am back in time for my monthly blood draw. I don’t have the stamina to travel yet, but it was good to get the doctor’s approval.

From Paul:

I am greatly pleased to note that I have perceived progress in Doris’ treatment and improved stamina. In our daily walks you may recall that I used to carry a camping chair with me so she could take a sitting break anytime she wants.

Now we can complete our walks that are typically around one mile with sitting breaks at designated places, such as the benches in our green space, a rock in the green space, or even a planter box at the nearby elementary school. Sometimes we also take a standing breath catch break. I have also seen up to a 12 percent reduction in our walking pace tracked by my walking application for my watch. I shared my perception with Doris a few days ago, as I sensed she was keeping up a quicker pace. This is measurable progress worth celebrating!