I must admit I am feeling a little anxious about tomorrow's bone marrow biopsy. I have not written on my blog in a long time and I hope all of my readers haven't forgotten about me. :-) The reason for the biopsy is that my absolute neutrophil counts are not recovering after taking breaks from Zejula.
My most recent lab showed them at .3, dangerously low. Praises to God that I have not contracted any infections since this all started a few months ago. My fatigue level is extremely high. I feel like I have no air, no energy and just want to sleep all the time. My patience is a little weaker than normal. My body is just not really lovin' me right now, ha.
I had a pulmonary embolism in early August. Xarelto failed me, Lovenox gives me liver toxicity and after a second pulmonary embolism in October, I am now on Fragmin. In the midst of all of these issues with blood clots I have had serious issues with my blood counts from Zejula.
Up until a few months ago we were able to manage my neutropenia by taking breaks from Zejula. The dose was even lowered to the lowest level of 100 mg per day but my counts cannot stay at a safe enough level to remain on Zejula. I have excellent care at Anschutz (primary care, gynecology oncology and hematology oncology). They really want to help me, they care. I trust them.
We need to rule out secondary cancers. It would be very unlikely that I have a secondary cancer or new cancer in the bone marrow, I really do believe that. I was told that it is more likely to be an immune disorder of some sort. Obviously whatever it turns out to be I pray it is treatable so that I can both resume Zejula or some form of maintenance treatment and that I can get some energy back.
I must always state how grateful I truly am for the time I have on earth, and even though this goes without saying, I want people to know this. It will take a few weeks to really know what is going on. When I get results, I'll let you know.
I pray you have a Happy Thanksgiving. I have so many things to be grateful for, especially family, friends, and the love of God. Peace to all!
God Bless you!
CDC Symptom Diary Card
Monday, November 19, 2018
Thursday, March 22, 2018
Upcoming Facing Our Immortality Retreat In June
Women who have attended our event in the past experienced profound renewal of their faith and a deeper understanding of their purpose. It's a chance to heal wounds and spend time in community with other women living this situation.
Please register by May 1, 2018 if possible! Sr. Anne Marie is not charging a stipend but if you can find it in your heart to make a donation towards travel expenses, she would greatly appreciate it.
God Bless you,
Denise Archuleta
https://facingourimmortality.org/
facingourimmortality@gmail.com
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