Posted by Becky
Leif's blood counts are down today, probably because of the lymphoma. They are going to give him a second bag of platelets, and then a throacentesis. They can't take a whole lot out, up to 2 liters, which will be helpful but probably not as much as he needs to breathe comfortably.
Due to the low blood counts, Leif is not qualifying for the Ibrutinib study. His doctor is investigating getting the drug through "compassionate use;" some pharma companies will provide drugs to very sick patients who have no other options. In the meantime, they are discontinuing Revelimid in hopes that will help his blood counts come up, and giving him Bendamustine (chemotherapy) today and tomorrow in order to hopefully see a response and buy some time. Although it is not great at keeping the lymphoma in check, he did respond rapidly (though incompletely) last time he got it, so we hope it works again somewhat.
He's having quite a bit of trouble breathing, even on supplemental oxygen. His legs are also swelling due to the lymphoma.
Leif's blood counts are down today, probably because of the lymphoma. They are going to give him a second bag of platelets, and then a throacentesis. They can't take a whole lot out, up to 2 liters, which will be helpful but probably not as much as he needs to breathe comfortably.
Due to the low blood counts, Leif is not qualifying for the Ibrutinib study. His doctor is investigating getting the drug through "compassionate use;" some pharma companies will provide drugs to very sick patients who have no other options. In the meantime, they are discontinuing Revelimid in hopes that will help his blood counts come up, and giving him Bendamustine (chemotherapy) today and tomorrow in order to hopefully see a response and buy some time. Although it is not great at keeping the lymphoma in check, he did respond rapidly (though incompletely) last time he got it, so we hope it works again somewhat.
He's having quite a bit of trouble breathing, even on supplemental oxygen. His legs are also swelling due to the lymphoma.
Becky, sorry to hear about all this, I imagine Leif feels lousy, and you as well. There aren't enough hugs in the world, probably, but we're thinking about you. Paula
ReplyDeleteSending love and hugs to both of you.
ReplyDeleteI'm just gutted to hear this. Sending my best from Texas, as always, but I know it's small comfort. Perhaps this can help. I've committed to run a half marathon and fundraise for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society in honor of Leif. Because it's the least I can do. Info is here: http://www.teamintraining.org/ntx/firsttimehere/sportprograms/marathonshalfmarathons
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