Treatment Begins

This is Amanda. I spent a few hours with Dad at the hospital yesterday so Mom could come home for a bit. I was there when his oncologist came to see him. This is where we're at: He has been diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). The good news is this is the most common type of adult Leukemia and they have been using the same treatment for years. So the doctors will be dealing with something with which they are very familiar. We are awaiting (10-14 days) further pathology of the bone marrow biopsy which will give the doctor better information with which to make a full prognosis.

The induction treatment (beginning today) will consist of 7 days of 24 hour IV chemo with the first 3 days including an additional drug. This additional drug involves some risk for his heart so they will be monitoring that very closely, although evidence of any damage may not be aparant for several weeks. But it was very clear in talking to the doctor that the heart risks far outweigh the risk of waiting or doing nothing. There is also a high risk of infection so he will remain in the hospital for an additional 3 weeks after the week of treatment. He will have his blood counts and kidneys checked daily and have access to platelet and blood transfusions as needed. He has been moved to the oncology unit and will remain there (in a private room where mom can stay with him). At day 14 they will repeat the bone marrow biopsy and again at day 28; at which time his blood counts should be back up. If all looks good a few days later will start his consolidation chemotherapy. This will consist of 4 rounds of chemo for one week (hospital stay) each month.

The doctor said they will be able to manage nauseau and most discomfort with meds and he will experience a low appetite, fatigue and hair loss.

It is going to be a long tough month but he's ready to get this going. Please continue to keep him, mom and the docotrs in your prayers. We thank you all for your love and support.

Amanda