MRD +VE

Yes we got Tabby's recent bone marrow biopsy test back. MRD stands for "minimal residual disease" and is a very, very sensitive way of determining the proportion of leukaemic cells still viable. My understanding is that a positive result (MRD +ve) means that there is still a significant number of viable leukaemic cells. Around 1/3 of patients have this result and as a consequence progress onto a much more aggressive chemotherapy protocol. Not really the news we wanted. We have gone from "Diet Chemo" (protocol A) to "Cask Strength Chemo" (protocol C)

Over the next 10 weeks Tabby's chemo will be a full time occupation. Although largely as a day case, she will, at times, be attending hospital up to 5 times a week for injections, infusions, boluses and the rest. I don't want Donella to have to do all the hospital runs - and the waiting and waiting. I plan on reducing my workload as much as possible. Quite frankly it is difficult to remain empathetic when faced with a patient complaining of a bit of a niggle when I think of what is happening to Tabby up at "Sick Kids"! The phrases "Man up!" or "Get over it" are often only seconds away.

Tabby and her Kiwi from New Zealand

Despite all this MeRDe news, one of Tabby's nurses is due to go to her class soon to discuss with her classmates what has been happening over the last month or so. We hope that Tabby will be able to attend p2K soon for the odd afternoon or morning. We may have to upsize her uniform a bit! I am not sure her school blouse will fit her at the moment. We now have Tabby's wig. When she tried it on last week Ewan and I both thought she looked a bit like the Vicar of Dibley (neither of us dared to say so at the time). Tabby does not need her wig yet and I think in the meantime we will ask Ruby's Mum to lighten it with a few highlights ready for when the time comes.

Meanwhile, Tabby has been pretty good this "steroid-free" week. Certainly a bit more like her old self. She was particularly delighted to receive a Kiwi from Ali in New Zealand - the power of the internet! In fact we would all like to thank all of you have taken the time to look at this blog - old friends and friends from all corners of the globe. Your messages of support mean so much.

Best wishes,

The Lawsons