[robin]

Advice regarding my sister

by robin on Sat Apr 23, 2011 2:02 am

My sister diagnosed in Nov 2010 with multiple myeloma 95% plasma cells in her Bone Marrow, multiple bone lesions ribs, scapula, spine, jaw. Presented with acute renal failure. After dialysis for 6 weeks her kidneys recovered fully, she continued on the Revlimid, dex and Velcade for a series of 4 rounds. Initially, the chemo seemed to work. Now here it is April and the chemo has stopped working – so stem cell is not the plan now. It is now a change of chemo cytoxin, dex, steroids. I am so worried for her, she is too young for this disease. I just cannot understand the constant pain and nothing relieves it. So the plan is harsh chemo and on to stem cell. Her tiny frail body could not possibly stand any more weight loss.

Am I understanding right that the popsicles keep the mouth sores away? What will treat the diarrhea if that becomes her problem?

Should I have my stem cells harvested for her – should she need more than she can produce?

[Kansas]

Re: Advice regarding my sister

by Kansas on Sat Apr 23, 2011 10:38 pm

Robin, you didn't mention what type of transplant she was having but if its autologous she can not use yours it must be all hers; if it's the allo - then stem cells come from a matched donor (which could be you after testing to match). As to the mouth sores - they have you do the popsicles or ice chips -- but mouth sores may still happen -- there are a couple types of mouth wash (but neither worked for Rex). There are medications for other side affects. It is important to try to get as much nutrition as possible. Hope all goes well-we'll keep you in our prayers. Kay

[Christa's Mom]

Re: Advice regarding my sister

by Christa's Mom on Mon Apr 25, 2011 5:08 pm

Robin, I'm so sorry your sister is having such troubles. I'm sure it is hard on you. Regarding nutrition, there is a cookbook by Betty Crocker called "Living with Cancer" that offers recipes, nutritional advice, and suggestions for foods that will help deal with mouth sores, etc. Perhaps you will find some things in here that would tempt your sister.

All the best, -- Lyn