AML: Day +15

Day +15                                                                          

     OK, so I need to back up a little bit on my explanations from the other day……   I mentioned Jon’s WBC (white blood cell)  count and our first goal of 500…..   that wasn’t exactly right.   Sanford posted ANC on Jon’s board and Mayo posts  just WBC and I didn’t pick up on the difference.

  So I did some reading this morning……. White blood cells are made up of 5 different types of cells – one of which is  neutrophils --  thus ANC—Absolute Neutrophil Count – is the actual number of white blood cells that a person has to fight infections.

   Jon’s WBC count today is at .9    Normal WBC is between 3.3 – 8.7.   It is the ANC number that we want to see at that first goal of 500.   (Normal ANC is between 2500 – 6000).    ANC is calculated in the lab as a % of WBC.    The doctor told Jon this morning his ANC is probably around 450 ! 

  Everyone here says Jon’s  ‘numbers’ are looking really good.  Goal today is lots of walking and trying to eat.  …..  so of course, first thing that happens is that he got sick to his stomach.    But he’ll take more nausea meds and try to regroup.

  Actually, today was a pretty slow day --  Jon couldn't seem to get past the nausea.  But we'll hope for things to be better in that area tomorrow.   His improving numbers mean that those new little cells are doing their job.   Praise God!

Crys