Bone Marrow Results

We were all VERY anxious to hear the results of Dad's first post-chemo bone marrow biopsy. The biopsy shows 6% leukemia cells, which is obviously not the complete remission we were hoping for, but there was some positive news. The bone marrow is functioning because there were also platelets, white blood cells and other "good" things as well.

The plan is to transfer Dad to Dodd Hall for medical rehabilitation. The goal of the rehab is to get Dad as strong as possible so he can go home. The combination of being very ill, intense chemotherapy and his preexisting mobility issues (from foot surgeries) have left him in a condition that he needs therapy to regain some of his independence and mobility. We're excited that he's going to such a great program, even if it is referred to as "boot camp."

In 2 to 3 weeks when Dad is stronger and feeling better, they will perform another Bone Marrow Biopsy to compare and see how / if the leukemia is spreading. Future treatment will depend on that biopsy and how well Dad is recovering.

The best news of the day is that Dad was able to go outside for a bit - for the first time in 6 weeks since being admitted to the hospital. It's a beautiful day today, a far cry from the ice storm at the end of January.