A Little Update:

Hamada has been resting well since the four cycles of Velcade chemotherapy treatment, which as regular readers will know, was not successful for him in reducing the MM burden. He has been having regular blood checks and visits to the Renal Consultant since then. For those who understand the current blood readings and are interested, the basics are as follows:

HGB 10.6

Platlets 71 ( poor but a big increase for H )

WC 1.7

NEU 1.64

Cret 376

and the dreaded PP (M-Spike) now 19.6

As the para protein reading is so high, in two weeks Hamada will start with a low dose of the chemotherapy drug Lenalidomide (Revlimid), in combination again with Dexamethasone. Hamada is currently doing yet another Bence Jones reading, so all data will then be up-to-date in readiness for this course.

While taking Revlimid Hamada's blood will be monitored closely, Filgastrim will be given if there is a need. Revlimid can reduce the production of platelets just like Velcade which was such a problem last time and also reduce the production of white blood cells making the taker more prone to infection. The exact way Revlimid works is still not completely understood but it has the ability to block the development of new blood vessels, cancer cells need to make new blood vessels so they can grow and spread. I pray this will be the chemotherapy to help Hamada. he has tried so hard and been through so much.

We have a list of the possible side effects much the same as the Velcade treatment and once again it will be a huge balancing act. Hamada is lucky (if lucky is the word! ) to be able to try to fight MM once more.

He is for sure an amazing Warrior, like so many who desire to 'kick the butt' of this wretched disease.

We have had a good restful summer so far and Hamada although very weak, has managed a few outings apart from just the hospital trips! He appears happy daily and content with his quiet life.

My best wishes to all fighting the same battle, keep strong and please stay in touch. I do welcome your comments.

Photo: A Rose from my Garden for you all x

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The Gentleness Of Your Silence - Susie Hemingway

As soft as the evening breeze

that trembles through the tallest trees

as meditative as your words allow,

entwined and tangled in these Summer days.

The crystal clarity in your eyes

tell more in a dear face of courage,

than the gentleness of your silence.

Not so much now a belligerent waging war

nor a stricken fight,

just a gentle silence that goes on into the night.

Words are difficult for you to find

It does not matter for I don't mind,

the gentleness of your silence is far more

than feckless words that blow in the Summer wind.

The brushstrokes of our life unfold clearly

as you focus daily to capture strength,

this Summer of endless joys

nothing more is needed,

no more

than the gentleness of your silence...

All rights reserved 2010.

Sadness At News

This week we learnt that our friend and Hamada’s fellow warrior, travelling the same MM road has passed away. He was a lovely gentleman whom we had come to know during the trips to Lincoln County and more so during the recent rounds of Velcade Chemotherapy (both having the same regimes). This gentleman was the subject of my poem “The Man With The White Knitted Hat” which is shown below in a recent post. It has saddened as both very much and we send our heartfelt condolences to his dear wife. "God Speed Keith, your journey with MM was all too short"

My Heart Grew by Jo Moursi

A hauntingly beautiful song written, played and sung by Jo Moursi is now available to download from itunes - all proceeds are going to Myeloma UK

http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/my-heart-grew-single/id379506283

All Rights Reserved 2010