My Luekemia

Hey Cousins its Barb! As many of you know I have Chronic Myelogeous Leukemia (CML). First off it is not a genetic cancer,none of you can get this cancer thru our bloodline. None of my siblings, children or grandchildren are vulnerable to this illness. Basically what has happened is I have developed what is called a Philadelphia Chromasome that has caused a mutation in my blood cells giving me cancer. Now....the good news is that it is a highly treatable cancer with an oral chemo drug called Gleevec. I'm waiting at this time to qualify for a program for uninsured persons that will provide me with this drug. Once I have the medicine its just one tablet a day. After 6 months on the drug I will have another bone marrow biopsy to determine if the chromosone is gone or if treatment goes on. As of friday I have been taken off my med for reducing my white cell count. I take this as a sign that its within normal range again (down from 462,000)or I'm getting the chemo drug soon or both. I'm also taking a drug called Allpurenal to prevent me from developing gout or other similar illnesses due to the cancer. That little pill is only $4 a bottle while the chemo drug is $3000 a month. Yes I did say $3000. Anyway I continue to have an optimistic attitude. I have no doubt that I will win this battle and all things will be taken care of in due time. Feel free to have a fundraiser if you want, I'm 6 weeks in and $10,000 in debt not counting the $36,000 needed for the chemo. Hmmmm...maybe I can qualify for Oprah's Big Give? Well that's my gripe for the week. Wait that's not true I have a bad, bad cold and haven't been able to talk in over a week, now that's a hardship for an Adams woman! I wanted to make sure that you all know that my disease will not affect you, that its rare and attacks people between the ages of 40-65. You are safe as are your children and grandchildren. I love you all and I feel all your arms around me. Thats what keeps me strong. Hug and kisses to you all.