9/29/06 Bone Marrow Biopsy

As I'm starting this blog a bit after the beginning of our new journey, I'll try to include previous information in the entries that follow.

I think I'll spare you all the gory details about what's involved when having bone and marrow removed from your back side (hip). I'll simply tell you that some really good IV drugs, and very unpleasant looking tools were used. All things considered, Tony did very well, throughout the procedure. We were able to go out for a bite of lunch and got him a nice juicy steak... probably the biggest meal he's eaten in several days, as his appetite isn't what it used to be.

After lunch we slowly made our way around Barnes and Noble to pick him up a few books to read.

While the doc was with us I asked about the heart ultra sound and why it was being done. He said the reason they do it, is to make sure the heart is functioning at full capacity. "If" it's not, then some treatment options may not be possible. So, we pray for a good result from the test next Wednesday.

He also said that it's looking like Tony will have to undergo chemotherapy, and
his heart need to be in good shape. Yes, chemo! I wasn't all that thrilled to hear Tony will have to endure chemo, since this means we're probably looking at the disease being beyond Stage I. But, this is me speculating. We'll know more on the 9th.

More info on chemo and myeloma:
http://www.multiplemyeloma.org/treatments/3.02.html

A blood test had been done to check for.... amaloydosis (i think that was it), came back fine... so, that's one less concern.

So far Tony's keeping his spirits up, and we both agree this whole thing is a bit of a bore... (As he puts it)and very much look forward to being on the other side of recovery.

My love to you all
Pat

PS: I'm doing fine.... except for the sore throat I woke up with this morning.