Not Quite Round 5

This week, Syed went in for Round 5 and his doctor placed it on hold for a week. Syed's white cell count was too low. Syed will try again next Tuesday, November 2.

Not sure if you all recall but here's what happens when Syed goes in for each infusion. His blood is tested before every infusion so that his white cell count can be assessed. When the white cell count is too low, people can become more susceptible to various types of infections and viruses. Overall, the immune system is not as strong.

When people go through Chemo treatments, the immune system becomes comprised over time. It is expected that at some point during treatments, the white cell count will be low. When this occurs, infusions are skipped until the white cell count reaches a sufficient level.

In the meantime, Syed is his usual energetic self---went to the Farmer’s market yesterday, goes on regular walks around the neighborhood, and of course sees a movie from time to time. We’re actually going to a movie tonight, Linda, Syed, and I.

Chat with you all next week.

Caroline

Round 3.5

Hi everyone,

My apologies for the delayed post. Syed had, what I’m naming, round “three and a half” of chemo this past Wednesday. I’ll tell you about why I call this round 3.5 in a minute. First, you must know that Syed’s doctor’s continue to be astounded by how well Syed’s body is reacting to the chemo overall. Like all patients, he has had some side effects but nothing that has impacted his energy level, positive attitude, and of course, his smiling face. While I’m thrilled and somewhat surprised, I’m truly not overly surprised that he’s reacted so well. I’m a huge believer in attitude and the power of the mind (learned it from my grandmother). His positive easy-going attitude is the key ingredient to approaching and dealing with life’s challenges and the challenge Syed is facing today is one of the greatest the human body can endure and he is doing absolutely fabulously.

Now, maybe you’re still wondering why I’ve named this round of chemo 3.5. Well, due to the policies of Medicare, Syed was not able to receive his oral medication in time. As I posted last month, Syed completed the infusion but when Linda went to pick up his medication, she discovered that some paperwork was missing and therefore, the medication would not be covered. I had thought that maybe Syed could cover the cost until the paperwork issue was resolved, however, we then discovered that the cost was beyond excessive, $2,000 per bottle. So for round 3, Syed only had part of his treatment, the infusion, skipping the other half, his pills---hence, round 3.5 J.

I promise, either Linda or I will post the full story about what happened. It’s quite detailed and I’m not able to do that right now. What I will tell you though is that Linda truly worked tirelessly to get all paperwork submitted and delivered Syed his medication a week ago. Going forward, he’s all set.

Syed’s next round of chemo is scheduled for October 27.

All the best to everyone.

Caroline

In Janice's words

My friend Janice Williams and a former co-worker at Mostek Corpn, Dallas, TX sent me this note and wanted me to post it for her.

In a message dated 9/2/2010 8:38:15 A.M. Pacific Daylight Time, trulysheek@aol.com writes:
have known Syed for more than 30 yrs. He was my manager here in Texas for many years. I have always held him in high esteem, and I still seek his advice when I need to make a major decision.

I'm sooo happy to see that the recovery is going well. Syed, I truly believe that you are fulfilling your purpose here on earth, because you have had such a positve impact on the lives of so many people and animals. Compassion is a gift.

I thank you for being a part of my life, for it has been enriched. You are an example for me to follow. I'm still working on becoming a vegan, but as you know, Texans are natural born carnivores. :)

I wish you peace, happiness, and a long life. Hang in there, we all need you.

ALLAH tara bhala kara.Janice Williams