I had a blood test Thursday morning at the Queen’s Cancer Center at Kuakini. Instead of searching for an elusive vein in my hand or arm—a process that has left my arms feeling like pin cushions lately—the blood was drawn through the port installed earlier in my chest. It’s the same two-way port used for chemotherapy infusions, accessible only by registered nurses with special training. So instead of just having blood drawn at one of the many available Diagnostic Laboratories locations, such as the one just a few blocks from home, I went across town where Nurse Pattie was able to use the port for access.
Afterward, I met briefly with my oncologist. Everything appeared on track for my next chemotherapy session on Friday.
Then came the 3:10 p.m. phone call. Chemo was cancelled and postponed until next Friday. The morning lab results showed my white blood cell count was simply too low to proceed.
Chemotherapy works by slowing or stopping fast-growing cancer cells, but it also impacts the immune system by reducing infection-fighting white blood cells. As the Mayo Clinic notes, low counts significantly raise the risk of infection, often forcing doctors to delay treatments or adjust dosages until the body has time to rebuild its defenses.
Given the numbers, my oncologist called off this week’s treatment.
It also means that I need to take special precautions to avoid infections. Stay away from groups, or people who might be sick. Wash hands frequently, even here at home. For us, that appears to require staying out of restaurants for a while, and being sure to wear a mask on any other outings.
And my oncologist also noted another option for moving forward: shifting the schedule.
The original plan was two consecutive weeks of chemotherapy followed by a week off. Switching to a treatment every two weeks would give my white blood cell count more time to recover between rounds.
There’s a lot of trial and error at this stage of cancer treatment, it seems.
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No worry my friend. Same thing happened to my granddaughter several times in her journey. took a little bit longer, but she got to her destination. You will too. Be strong!!!
Ian : I don’t know if you know Carolyn Golojuch, but she has posted FB messages about her chemotherapy and it’s very difficult for her apparently. I think sharing your messages about your treatment might give her a sense of comfort. But I would post it on my FB for all to see. I think many of my FB friends know who you are. Let me know if ok. FYI. I guess as we age there is a lot of concern about medical issues. Wayne Harada posts a lot about various medical struggles he is experiencing, most recently about calcified veins in his legs aggravated by long flights and his need to rely on Mr. Walker.
I do try to cross-post these on FB.
Sorry to hear of the setback Ian. I hope they will try the two-week pause since the previous has knocked you down so hard. Regardless – please know you are in my prayers for no further complications, including the common cold or any other wandering germ! Please take good care and keep us posted.
Ian, sorry to hear this. Friends have shared similar experiences. Hopefully the new schedule will be helpful. Sending aloha.
Aloha Ian,
I’m sorry to hear about your setback. Are you working with a dietician? Who knows why your WBC count was low, but I’d suggest you check your diet to be sure that you are getting the nutrients you need. The chem may affect some nutrients that require attention. Unfortunately, almost all doctors ignore this.
Barbara
I think building your white blood cell count is important. I hate that you have to wait, but I will keep sending good thoughts your way! Keep your mask on and stay germ free.
I’m going thru the same as a supporter of a classmate. It all sounds so familiar. It’s an intense time for u & her, with a lot of contingencies that lead to uncertainty & related stress. I’m watching for ur posts hoping all will be well for u!! You’ll be in my thoughts as we maneuver thru these parallel straits together. Hang in there!!
Another twist in the meandering journey. Thank you for explaining about the white blood cell counts. Your home is the best place to be for now. Every little thing you do, no matter how ordinary or mundane, is a significant accomplishment and major victory.