Sunday, November 06, 2011

Bone Marrow Results

Bone marrow results are in. Best I can describe them is mixed. There has been no progression of the disease over the 2 months I've been on carfilzomib. There also has been no reduction in the disease levels, i.e., no response. Absolutely Stable are the words Rifkin repeatedly used. That means two more cycles of carfilzomib (2 more months). In the meantime Rifkin is looking for the next drug should I continue not to respond after two more cycles. He's seeking expanded access on pomalidomide and is investigating a new drug that has shown much success in treating other blood cancers. We're also trying to deal with my bone pain, nerve pain, and weakened muscles, whether caused by the drug or the myeloma. Not so much fun. It seems that the rest of the time I'm at the hospital getting red cells and platelets. But I'm not complaining; I'm glad to be alive and to have a doctor who refuses to give up and mostly for those many friends and family members who keep me going every day. Thank you.
Dan

6 comments:

Anonymous said...
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Unknown said...

Wow, what a dominator. Way to keep hope Dan. I am so impressed by your ability to continue to push forward.

Steven L. Ritter said...

No progression... That's the start and only the start. Thank you for keeping us up to date.

Anonymous said...

Hi Uncle Dan,
I'm sorry to hear that you got some mixed news, when you were hoping for better.
I'm really happy to hear that Rifkin is optimistic and working hard to combat both the disease and some of the painful symptoms you're experiencing.
Glad to hear that you're still celebrating life and getting support from friends & family.
Love,
Gina

Sandy said...

If I thought some 'jungle juice' would be any help, I would bring it to Denver when I come next month, but I suspect Rifkin would frown on squished leaves, bugs and other unregulated items as a potential solution. So I will instead keep intending that he is finding the right combo to keep you maintaining... and that your dominating spirit is encouraged by family and friends and even wierd strangers like me... plausic

Sandy said...

PS - that word "plausic' appeared at the end of my comment... not sure why... disregard or give it some meaning - LOL