June 15, 2006

June 15 Morning Update

I’m feeling pretty well this morning. This is spite of not sleeping particularly well. I woke up about 12:00 and had a hard time getting back to sleep until maybe 3:00 AM. I record when I finally re-entered sleep land. This morning I sent the following fax to my oncologist.

I am currently undergoing a daily injection of Neupogen. That is due to stop on Friday. My next treatment is next Monday.

I would like to have a “booster” Neupogen shot Sunday morning to insure that when I come in for treatment on Monday, I will have a healthy white cell count.

Looking back, I now know that my white cell count had dropped to a dangerous level about four or five days after my initial treatment. I have two reasons for this conclusion.

First, I have picked up a mild subcutaneous infection on my left arm near the IV site. It turned red and was sore to touch.

Secondly, I have picked up a mild, what I would call a rash, inside my mouth. It’s not itchy or sore or anything. It just that the skin lost its normal smoothness and became rough. And no, I have not been kissing any strange women.

Now, with the Neupogen having it’s effect, both symptoms are abating. I know that the chemo whacks my white cell count like Paul Bunyan going through a stand of trees.

With all that in mind, rather than take the chance of 72 hours over the weekend for my white cell count to degrade back to a dangerous level, I’d like the Sunday morning booster shot.

It’ll make this customer feel much more secure. As it is, sleep is a little tough with all the chemicals I’m being subjected to.

Thank you.

Posted by The Vorlon at June 15, 2006 7:54 AM
Comments

Excellent. Well thought out and clearly said. There is no misunderstanding what your intentions are. Make sure you advise of what the doctor says and does.

Posted by: Reb Orrell at June 15, 2006 1:04 PM