Clinical Trial and Neutropenia
2013
Just had chemo on Friday, which was chemo number 4 in the clinical trial. I have been having low levels of while blood cells and this time, they determined that I have neutropenia. Neutropenia is an abnormally low level of neutrophils (a type of white blood cell). As it was explained to me, it’s the first line of defense against infection. Many cancer patients can get a shot to help bring their blood counts back up, but not me. I’m on a clinical trial and its not allowed with this type of chemo apparently.
So what does that mean?
I need to be careful. I was told that I should wear a mask when I’m around a lot of people. Also, if anyone in my home is sick, again, I should wear a mask. Basically I should avoid crowds, which makes it very difficult to take tae kwon do. They also said I should avoid doing the dishes and vacuuming. Can you say, woo hoo for me! See, there is a silver lining in every situation.
I am also planning on singing on Good Friday with a large worship choir. A mask will prove difficult with that obviously. Neutropenia can come and go, so I’m sure I will be better soon.
Another Clinical Trial Side Effect
The most difficult side effect of this clinical trial is the fact that it is often hard to breathe. Since I started this clinical trial, I cannot take a deep breath very often, until that 3rd week when it’s an off week. Then, things start to get back to normal, which is awesome.
I fear sneezing as it kind of hurts. My daughter Kaitlyn taught me that if I put my finger under my nose it will stop a sneeze…and it worked. I just thought that was something silly they did in movies.
I also find it hard when singing and when I try to take tae kwon do. I only do what I can do, right? It’s not easy for me to sit back and do nothing. I feel like a slacker, but thank God for my husband. He has been awesome with doing things around the house. So, woo hoo, for him. Love you honey and thank you.
Overall I’m thinking this clinical trial is the biggest challenge so far. I’m not liking it too much, but if it’s the cure to my cancer, then I’ll stick with it and won’t complain.
Have a nice day everyone. Keep smiling.
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are you taking an oral agent if you don’t mind me asking?
They said because I’m on this clinical trial chemo and with Gemzar, I cannot take it.
I am also taking Gemzar.
How’s it working out for you?
No I was on chemo. No longer on the clinical trial. Unfortunately it wasn’t working for me. I am on Tarceva now and even though I haven’t received new scans yet, I feel like a superstar. I am not a match, but I believe it is working. Yay.
Patty,
It’s Bridget Meegan. I just want you to know that you are in all our thoughts and prayers. I can’t tell you how strong you are and what a positive inspiration you have been throughout your cancer. You have blown us all away. Stay strong, if anyone can beat this ugly,nasty, horrible disease IT’S YOU, (the little aggressive point guard on our highschool basketball team) I looked up to you 20 years ago and I look up to you even more know. Keep embracing life as you are, nothing can stop you!!! Please know you have so much support back home, people you don’t even know who hear your story ask me about you. You are AMAZING!!!! Love you Patty, if you or your family need ANYTHING I am here for you always
Hi my lovely friend. Thank you for your support. I so mean it. I wouldn’t be as strong as I am without the team of people (you of course included), standing beside me and keeping me encouraged. Love you honey and please thank EVERYONE for their support and prayers.