More Trouble with Platelets

Matthew got some bad news today.  The doctor has discontinued his chemo treatments.  Even after all of the "boosters" he has gotten in the last few weeks, his platelet count has dropped from 55 last week to 49 this week.  The plan was for him to receive 4 more treatments.  As of this point, we don't know what exactly this means for the long term.  We don't know how effective the last several treatments have been.  It is possible that all of the cancer is dead.  There was actually very little of concern left after the last surgery.  We probably won't know more until the next round of doctor's visits and tests at MD Anderson --appts TBD.

The doctor said that Matthew could schedule his colon resection.  However, we are unsure about the timing of that because of the low platelet count.

We are also hoping and praying that rest, without treatments or medicines, will allow his body time to recover.

.....and so we wait some more.

The Little Platelets that Can?

  So the news this week wasn't good. Matthew went last week for a platelet count.  Following what has been the normal pattern, Matthew's platelets were low (59).  So, they put him on a steroid pack, which has also been the normal pattern.  However, this week, when he went back for another count, his platelets had actually dropped to 55.  This could possibly be because he has an infection from an ingrown toenail.  He is currently taking antibiotics for this infection.  They gave him a shot to help boost his platelets, and he is expected to receive another shot next week.  His platelets haven't given up yet, but they aren't making it up that hill.  Those little platelets could sure use all the cheers they can get.


I think I can, I think I can, I think I can, I think I can, I think I can...

Round 4

I am a few days behind.  Matthew did have chemo this week.  His counts were up this week.  White and Red were with within limits.  The platelets were 79, which is still low, (goal of 100) but they will do chemo in this range.

So, he has now finished 4 rounds (out of 8)..So, he is halfway done  .I think.  I might have pregnancy brain today, so please forgive any errors.