September 10, 2010 11:35 PM

Another first!

Earlier in the year I mentioned the fact that I took the First Connection training from the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society to serve as a sounding board for those who are currently going through what I have undergone during the past (almost) two years. Basically, you relate your experience without offering any suggestions - I am not a doctor.

In any case, I was asked to call a woman in Arizona who was diagnosed with AML back in April and was informed that having a bone marrow transplant would make her very sick. When I asked her what was said, she said that her doctor told her that a bone marrow transplant would be 100 times worde than the chemptherapy! What a lot of balderdash - who knows what the affect will be? Nobody! And, because of that, the woman is reluctant to even consider the option. What a surprise!

Admittedly, she was extremely exhausted during the initial chemptherapy phase - which I was not. So, maybe she will have more problems - then again, maybe not! To be honest with you, being restricted to only being able to relate your own story does not seem to offer much to someone who is still somewhat early down the path and looking for direction. But, it's certainly understandable why you can't offer much more - you are not qualified to do so!

How was it left? She said that her doctor would pursue finging a donor(which is always of concern) and, if one is found, she can then decide what to do. I am the second person that she has spoken to and the other person had a positive experience with the transplant as well.

Speaking of that. The myriad eye drops and ointments do seem to help but I am forever dropping something into me eyes.

It's a wonder that I can see at all...

Bobb