Well, my white blood cells (WBC) are on the rise along with my red blood cells (RBC) and platelet levels. My wife, Wendy, thought it would help if I explained counts, so people have a better understanding of my counts compared with normal counts. Today, my WBC count is 1.6 which is up from yesterday's 1.0. An average range for WBC is 4.4-11.3, so when my WBC is .3 (last Saturday) it is understandable why I run fevers. My WBC is bouncing back and at times will go up 1.0 or double in a day. It is the low WBC that keeps me in the hospital because it is a reflection of my body's ability to fight infection, germs, etc. For red blood cells (hemoglobin), the average range is 14.0-17.5 with most males running around 15.0. Currently, my hemoglobin is 9.9 which is up from yesterday's 8.1. Remember, it is hemoglobin that carries oxygen through the body, and I can tell my levels are low because I am short of breath or feel light-headed. Last, normal platelet levels are 150,000-450,000, and my current level is 40,000. When platelet levels are low there is a possibility that my blood will not clot when I am cut. With low levels, I am not allowed to use a razor to shave.
I understand this is a lot of information, but I think it will help anyone understand when Wendy or I mention that my counts are low. It does seem that over the last two months that I have lived by numbers and counts, but this is what comes with the affects of chemotherapy. I do continue to receive daily blood thinner shots in the stomach to avoid any other blood clots to form in my lungs. The current clot that I have in my right lung should be absorbed by my body within the next few weeks. The pain has subsided when I breath, which is a blessing. With my counts on the rise, it is my belief that I am go home by Tuesday or Wednesday. I want to thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers, and ask for continued prayers as I walk this journey.
Best Wishes,
Mic
Sunday, May 17, 2009
White count going up!
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6 Comments. Click here to read or leave a comment.:
Mic ~ you and your beautiful family are in my thoughts and prayers !! I am off work right now due to a broken toe and gallbladder surgery coming up this friday - trivial things compared to your struggle. I mention them only because I would love to see you and check in on you as I am an RN on 7 west @ Akron City ! I pray that you do get to go home soon and your bloodwork continues to improve !! With many Best Wishes !! Stacy (McDonald) Flaisman
So what you're saying is that when the flow cytometer determines that your leukocytes, erythrocytes and thrombocytes, et. al. ascend to the point at which your serology level is at or above median, you can go home. Right, Dr. Becerra? :-)
Mic- I have followed this blog for some time now and hope your counts continue to rise. I will continue to pray for you and your family. I know this has got to be tough on your family and if they need anything done at home or just yard work wish I love to do just hollow. My continued thoughts and prayers will always be with you and your family. My God Bless us all not only in time of need but always.
Well said Mr. Becerra! I am sure everyone appreciates the education. (you just can't get away from it can you! =) I guess it's in your blood!) Praying for you and family everyday! May God bless you and keep you.
Mic!!!!
Robin and I wanted you to know that we miss you so very much, and you are always on our minds! We haven't talked to you in a long time, but you are never far from our thoughts! We can't wait to have you back! Just strange without you there :) Of course Chris and crew are doing a great job.
Thanks for the education on counts and such, really never understood that, I think I do now :)
You are very much in our prayers, may Gods healing hands be with you always. He is wonderful, and knows how special you are :)
Would love to visit next time you are able to have us :)
We love you Mic!
Aim and Rob
Mic,
It's good to hear that this could be your last chemo treatment! We hope you had a fun 4th of July with your family and friends! You are always in our thoughts and prayers! God Bless!
The Noe Family
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