June 16, 2006

June 16 Morning Update

I won my little dust up with my treatment. I will be getting Neupogen shots BOTH Saturday and Sunday.

When I first went in, they were ready to do a blood test to see what my white cell count was. My response was, “It’s a waste of time. I’ll go along with your, but I can tell you right now it’ll show a count between 8,000 and 10,000.”

The nurse gave me a studied look.

I said, “This is the guinea pig talking here. We can do the blood test, but I don’t see the value in it.”

Then another nurse came out and said, “I understand you want to skip the blood test and get a Neupogen shot today and Sunday.” “Yes,” I responded.

I explained to her that I don’t really care what the white cell count is now, I only care Monday just before my treatment. She said she didn’t want to over stimulate my white cells. I agreed and told her that I though over 30,000 was too high.

She said that she recommended NOT skipping Saturday, but doing both days. I said, “I defer to your recommendation.” She also told me, the results would be my responsibility. I told her that I accept full responsibility.

I asked her if my treatment would be postponed if my white cell count was extremely high. She said, “No.”

I had really looked forward to skipping Saturday as the Neupogen does not me down a bit.

Right now I’m feeling tired, but not too bad. I just can’t do much physical exertion.

Posted by The Vorlon at June 16, 2006 11:36 AM
Comments

Way to put your foot down!! :-)

I know it's not going to be comfortable, but I can't help wondering how many people would have just gotten their blood tested today, and not considered that they might have any other options.

Posted by: at June 16, 2006 1:27 PM

We are sure you have reasons for skipping the
blood test?

conserned parents

Posted by: at June 16, 2006 7:47 PM

I don't really care what my white cell count is today. I already know, from my personal experience my white cell count is healthy. I DO care what it is on Monday when they give me my chemo.

Posted by: Ted at June 16, 2006 8:10 PM

Thank You. We're sure you know more than we do and we accept your decision.

Dad

Posted by: at June 16, 2006 9:28 PM

Well, it will be very interesting to see how the new plan works. Be sure to let us know what the white blood cell count is on Sunday. It's certainly worth trying to see if you can be better prepared to do your chemo more regularly.

I'm very thankful that you approached your medical team with this option, it just shows them that you are not the least apathetic about your treatments and your health in general.

How very dear of you to express your love and appreciation for your beloved wife and parents. What a solid and loving team they make for you
Gifts to be thankful for.

Hope you do okay with the shots Sat. & Sun.

Posted by: Ruth Berlien at June 16, 2006 10:06 PM

Victory! Victory! Victory!

Posted by: reborrell at June 17, 2006 2:53 PM