A quick update on my chronic lymphocytic leukemia. I am in a trial study that is looking at how two drugs work together on the cancer cells. One I take by infusion: Gazyva. I have experience with this drug, having had it in my last trial study. I am again having a positive response Read More
Another Perspective
Hope...Frustration...Hope
October 8, 2014
Since my last blog I’ve been preoccupied with treating my CLL and writing Hangtown, an historical novel.
In March I began taking Ibrutinib, the current “wonder” drug for CLL. Three pills a day and the disease is contained and managed. The cost for the first month alone was just over $2700, with additional months Read More
In March I began taking Ibrutinib, the current “wonder” drug for CLL. Three pills a day and the disease is contained and managed. The cost for the first month alone was just over $2700, with additional months Read More
4 Comments
Watch and Wait Ending
March 17, 2014
Over the past three-and-a-half months I have been in a watch and wait phase. This is a period when treatment is not indicated but the progression of the disease is closely monitored. For a couple of those months the leukemia has been progressing negatively, slowly and steadily, while the preferred treatment wasn’t F. Read More
December Decision
November 8, 2013
After meeting with my oncologist last Tuesday there is some good news and some disappointing news.
The good news is my white blood cell count continues to decline. From a high of 161.5, it is now 42 (normal is 4-10). The Chlorambucil is clearly doing its job. I have more energy and on occasion recall what Read More
The good news is my white blood cell count continues to decline. From a high of 161.5, it is now 42 (normal is 4-10). The Chlorambucil is clearly doing its job. I have more energy and on occasion recall what Read More
Better Living through Chemistry
August 21, 2013
I want to begin by thanking my readers for their thoughts, prayers and good wishes. They are very much appreciated. Thank you.
The computer for the clinical trial study for Ibrutinib randomly assigned me to the older drug, Chlorambucil. While disappointing this drug, that was approved by the FDA for the treatment of Read More
The computer for the clinical trial study for Ibrutinib randomly assigned me to the older drug, Chlorambucil. While disappointing this drug, that was approved by the FDA for the treatment of Read More
Decision Day
August 12, 2013
As I write this blog, I am waiting for a telephone call that will tell me if I have been accepted into a trial clinical study for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL). If I have been, the likely outcome, then I will be told which of two drugs, one old and one new, the study Read More