I saw the cancer doctor this past week, and discussed results of the blood
sample taken the week before. The cancer indicator is down quite a bit from last
month, but up slightly from 2 months ago. For the past 4 months, the readings
are 0.7, 0.8, 1.3 and 1.0. What this means is that last month was an anomalous
data reading, either due to a goofed-up test in the cancer lab (my hypothesis),
or because I was sick at the time the sample was taken (Carol's theory).
Throwing out the bad data point, we are seeing a slow and steady increase of 0.1
per month. I will get another blood reading in early September, but it will be
two months before I see the cancer doc again, because even cancer docs need a
vacation now and then.
The doctor is pleased with the slow rate at which the cancer is progressing
and also with overall improvements in the quality of blood the marrow is making.
He said that after another couple of months of this lower chemo, I might get to
take a break from it.
I asked him why it is taking so long for my leg muscles to heal and for me
to start walking better again, and he said, "Because you're old." But, I
countered that I could walk great in the pool, just not so good on dry land. He
said, "Not only are you old; you're also fat." (Maybe not his EXACT words, but I think that was the logical progression of what he meant.)
Thanks for the prayers, support and encouragement.
