Summary Text

SUMMARY: First diagnosed with myeloma October 2011. Recruited onto clinical trial Myeloma X11 (Lenalidomide) at Bristol Oncology and Haematology Centre. First High Dose Therapy and Stem Cell Transplant (HDT&SCT) in July 2012. On maintenance until June 2017. June 2018 recruited onto Myeloma XII trial (Ixazomib). December 2018 Second HDT&SCT. On maintenance until February 2020. August 2020 Commenced treatment involving Daratumumab. April 2021 relapsed. June 2021 recruited onto Cartitude 4 clinical trial and infused with CAR-T cells in October 2021. My own immune system is now fighting the cancer . I am exceedingly fortunate.


Sunday, 4 April 2021

DARA Cycle 10

 

Spring at last


This week I had my routine (now monthly) blood test and the following day the call from my consultant.  Perhaps unusually, my platelet count was sufficient for me to proceed onto cycle 10.  My haemaglobin, however, was below the threshold normally to require a blood transfusion.  It was agreed that I could arrange the necessary appointments with my Macmillan nurse.

The other bit of (good) news was that I continue to respond to this treatment.

As I write I am eight weeks since my Covid vaccination so can reasonably expect to have good immunity. With shielding now behind me, I am determined to return to something like normal. Most significantly I have decided to return to my role as a Samaritans volunteer listener. I last stood shift so very long ago and I am aware that much has changed in our branch.  My first shift will include mentoring but I am under no illusions that I will feel very inexperienced.

Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement.
Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.
Helen Keller

Keep safe, keep well and KBO

Stephen