Transfusions

One of the reasons the treatment protocol for AML is done as an inpatient is because the doctors and nurses keep a close eye on the patient. All of Jim’s good and bad cells have been destroyed by the chemo and he has little, if any, immune system right now. Other things they watch closely are his blood counts. He receives both blood transfusions and platelets often if his hemoglobin and platelet counts get too low.

Jim seemed more tired today. Later in the day, he received two units of blood which will help raise his hemoglobin and hopefully give him a little more energy. He said his mouth sores seemed about the same; however, he was able to eat a little solid food. The doctors may perform the bone marrow biopsy tomorrow, however, they are watching his white blood count since it is so low and may need to delay the procedure for a day or so until it is higher. Boredom has definitely set in for Jim. He loves to chat with those who come to visit. His emotions are still very close to the surface, and when we talk about all the people who are praying for him, he gets understandably choked up and his eyes fill with tears. Your prayers mean so much to him. Here are some specific things to pray for:

• Pray that Jim would stay clear of any illness or infection during this time when his immune system is compromised.
• Pray that his mouth sores would continue to heal.
• Pray that there wouldn’t be any or very little leukemic cells found in his bone marrow which would indicate success of the Induction Phase of treatment.

We're trusting God to sustain us. Thank you for interceding on our behalf.