Thursday, July 8, 2010

Low Platelets.... Chemo Denied...

Hi All,

First of all, I hope you have all been able to enjoy the beautiful weather. I am awakened every morning by the sound of birds singing outside of our new home. I just love that sound and it reminds me that every day is a beautiful day!

As Jay mentioned in his last post, I was pretty sick during our camping trip to Cannon Beach. I had energy in spurts, the rest of the time was spent in the Airstream snuggled under the covers sleeping. Because of the way I felt, I knew my platelet count would be low.

Thursday morning I went in for my blood draw and lab work. Sure enough, my platelets were low - 45,000 - the second lowest count since my chemo started. SCCA will not give me chemo if the platelets are less than 75,000. A normal count is considered to be in the 150,000 to 400,000 range. Dr. Whiting said that we'll wait one week this time, re-do the blood-work, and see if I'm good to go for July 16.

The numbness in my hands and feet has increased lately. The chemo I am on causes peripheral neuropathy. I am hoping this does not continue to increase and goes away eventually. They worry about this, because there is always a chance the nerve damage will get to the point that it never goes away.

It is amazing how much your toes keep you balanced. At times I am very wobbly and notice that I am more careful about the surfaces I walk on. I have already taken two good falls since my chemo started and don't want to have it happen again. Also, my cell phone has taken a real beating - the nerve damage in my finger tips makes it difficult to grasp and hold onto things!

We of course will keep everyone updated on when my next treatment will be.

Just a reminder that I love you all, and appreciate all the nice comments and words of encouragement. Like I said before, I read them over and over when I need a pick me up :).

4 comments:

  1. Hi Gidget - Sorry to hear your count was so low. Do you think waiting one more week will get the count up in the 75,000 plus range? It seems like you might automatically be low for the next treatment two weeks later. What ever happens, we will pray that it is for the overall good and especially that the numbness effect will go away.

    It sounds like you have had a chance to get familiar with Clementine. I like the pink flamingos in the picture that Jay sent.

    We are finalizing plans to come up there for Melissa's wedding and then go up to Sitka to see Michelle on her birthday. We are really looking forward to seeing you guys then and get to take a look at your house.

    We love you - Ed and Joyce

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  2. Hi, Gidge
    I'm writing from Coeur d'Alene where it has been hot (probably practice for the Texas reunion!!). We have been having a
    blast - but I'm looking forward to getting back to WA to spend time with all of you. Gary and Dianne Crandall read your blog and are pulling for you along with tons and tons of us. See you in a few days. Love, Michelle
    P.S. looks like you have rounded up a few flamingos for Clemintine- I'll keep my eyes out too. It sure looks cozy in there.

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  3. Hi Again:
    Gidget I am sorry to hear that your count is down again because I imagine that you just want to get the treatments behind you. I'll keep my fingers crossed that this coming Thursday goes well.
    Take it easy girl! Your new trailer looks awesome and you look like the Airstream Queen all stretched out in that luxurious space with a view out the window behind you. Take care Kiddo, Love Meridee

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  4. Hey Gidget, Jay, and Acey, Just wanted to say hello and remind you that I think of you and your situation often. I pray things are going well and that this will all be behind you soon. Take Care, Tammie

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