Wednesday 23 January 2013

Neutropenic

It's official, the signs have gone up on the door, time to stop mixing with the great unwashed, salads are off the menu, it's the start of my protective isolation, I'm neutropenic.  My neutrophils are now 0.1 and anything under 0.5 is considered neutropenic. They were 'expecting' a spike in my temperature last night, but I had a good night sleep and up until now all my vitals have been good. My Hb or haemoglobine count is 10, my platelets 89, so no need for any blood transfusions just yet...that will come later this week though. No real mouth ulcers to write home about so, the key for my body over the next week is to avoid picking up an infection. If I do I'll be hooked up on IV antibiotics so they can quickly gain control. I'm even starting to eat a bit more now, which is just as well because my weight has dropped from 83 to 79kg since the chemo. Todays menu, home made tomato and bacon risotto, freshly prepared at the E Rd kitchen by my good wife...lovely...mind you, it keeps her busy whilst I'm not around to annoy her!!

So, I guess in summary, it's all currently going to plan as far as treatment and my reaction to it are concerned. I am the star patient according to my doctor, stats always good, no hassle....teachers pet in many respects!! Could try to pick up an exotic virus just to stretch her, but you know what, I'm thinking the current situation suits us both just fine. Supposedly, now I'm neutropenic, the side effects from the chemo will increase again, since my body can't fight. But, for today (day 6), I'm feeling fine....tomorrow....well, that's tomorrow!

6 comments:

  1. Glad to hear it's going to plan ... we are thinking of you as usual /Keith

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  2. Andy and I just read your update. So pleased your treatment is progressing as expected. We talk about you every day and hope for good news, which you continue to provide. Well done! Glad to hear your appetite is returning - that has got to be a good sign. Prayers continue here on Magdeline Drive- we'll continue until you are cancer free. Sleep well. J,A,K,E

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  3. Good to hear Pat - Keep it up!

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  4. This sounds like your own version of "cut over" - you've done that one before! Good luck mate, keep up the good work.

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  5. Sounds like it is going well mate, keep it up. Mostly looking forward to more picking on you in your week state as was always concerned about the karate before!!!
    Love from us all. Nick xxx

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  6. We are following your progress from Stockholm and are thinking of you a lot. We are glad that all is going well. Good luck and lots of hugs. Elisabeth and Kenneth

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