Since my last post, life has continued to be somewhat complicated. Following my MRI scan, I had a routine blood test and the following day a telephoned consultation. My platelet count had deteriorated yet again and was too low to proceed to Cycle 2. There would be a pause for a week and then another blood test and review. Meanwhile I was called forward by my GP to receive the annual influenza vaccination.
A week later, I was asked to attend the radiotherapy department for a further scan required by them to proceed with radiotherapy treatment. In the event there were administrative difficulties so that could not proceed. Fortunately that appointment was followed by another blood test. Then the day after, I had a further consultant's telephone call. My platelets were still low but the decision had been made to continue onto Cycle 2 but with notable conditions. Firstly, each treatment would be conditional on a check of my platelet level. If too low, I will have a platelet transfusion. Strange that some years ago I used to be a platelet donor. Because of the potential need for platelets, the treatment appointments will be back at the BHOC where the necessary facilities for fast track testing are available. Secondly the dose level and frequency of one of the chemo drugs, Velcade, is to be adjusted. Clearly there is now a dilemma. I responded well to the first cycle so there is a clear benefit in continuing with treatment. On the other hand, that treatment is having adverse effects on my platelet level. It will be a balancing act.
On the day before that blood test, I had visited Woodspring Bay with the intention of flying my drone. In the event, and having launched, it was clear that the wind was too strong. This was a shame since the tide was at its lowest. I'll leave you to study the fact that tides ebb and flow twice every day but also are subject to springs and neaps twice each month.
On the day of the blood test I had returned to my car at a time which offered the opportunity to return to the bay for another attempt. The conditions were almost perfect. Although the tide was just a little higher than on the previous day the wind had now abated. I was able to launch and film two hulks which were scuttled in 1944. I will be publishing another YouTube video in due course.
This image shows HMS Staghound which was scuttled on the Langford Grounds (in Woodspring Bay) in 1944.
Evident is at least one bomb crater in the mud. Also apparent is the ship's single boiler (large cylindrical object)
Click the image to enlarge.
The two most powerful warriors are patience and time
Leo Tolstoy
Keep safe, keep well, and KBO
