labs

Here's a copy of Brian's blood work from both when he was in the hospital and the day he had the PET scan.

It is a good comparative to see how his blood cell counts are going to change once the chemo starts. Some of the difficulties come from how the chemotherapy works on the body. It is the reason that Brian may need transfusions of blood and/or platelets and why the neupogen is important.

we'll be dealing with "neutropenia" low white blood cells...which means he can not fight off infection.
as well as "thrombocytopenia" low platelet count ...which means he bleeds easily and has serious problem clotting.
Also "anemia" low red blood cells...which means the body isn't getting enough oxygen and other things.

I am most concerned about Brian's need for platelet transfusions. He had quite during his treatments before and he became quite reactive to them. But we will just have to see what happens.

Right now, his blood work looks good, and he's physically in a good place to start chemotherapy. Things change quickly while on chemo, so we'll try and enjoy the rest of the week.

That reminds me...got to get Scott to make sure that carpet shampooer has soap and a "tune up"...because while there are many good medications for chemo patients now there is also always vomit.

Better to plan ahead....I HATE CARPET....