[GoDucks]

Finally get to stop for a while!

by GoDucks on Mon Feb 17, 2020 11:16 pm

I was diagnosed in March 2017, underwent induction therapy and then an autologous stem cell transplant in November 2017. I was really worried because my M-spike jumped from 0.38 g/dL (3.8 g/l) to 1.1 g/dL (11 g/l) in the 6 weeks between stopping Revlimid, Velcade and dexa­metha­sone induction therapy and the transplant. After the transplant, my M-spike was still around 1.0 g/dL. I started maintenance with 10 mg of Revlimid 14 days on and 7 days off. I also did 4 cycles of consolidation with Kyprolis and did a Zometa infusion every 3 months. Slowly my M-spike came down.

Since January 2019 my M-spike has been between 0.10 and 0.14 g/dL. My Revlimid dosage was eventually reduced to 5 mg 14 days on, 7 days off, and then 14 days on 14 days off. I've taken short breaks for travel etc. but at this point, as my oncologist says, my "bone marrow is tired". My blood work is all within normal ranges except for white blood cells and neutrophils, and slightly low platelets. These levels all rebound to normal levels if I take a break from the Revlimid. I have had a couple of neutropenic fevers that luckily did not develop into anything more dire but are definitely not fun.

Since my M-spike remains very stable, we've stopped all maintenance medications except for Eliquis (apixaban) since I have a history of DVT/PE. My doctor is confident that we can monitor my situation and respond as needed, but at this point, I have a bigger threat from the neutropenia than the myeloma.

I feel great and I'm looking forward to months (years?) of no treatment. I gained a lot from this forum when I was first diagnosed and then facing the transplant. I wanted people to know that their stories were important and helpful, and maybe return the favor and let newly diagnosed people know that it does get better.

[Arizonan]

Re: Finally get to stop for a while!

by Arizonan on Fri Feb 21, 2020 2:59 am

I’m glad to hear you have gotten off treatment and are feeling well. I’m rooting for your numbers to stay stable.

Sadly I can’t root for the Ducks! I’m a Tucson Wildcat fan and this year’s overtime loss to Oregon was terrible for us! At least one of us should be happy after Saturday’s rematch!

Good luck.

David