We got the results from the biopsy yesterday and they aren’t good. Michelle has 30% blast cells in her marrow which means she is not in remission and we’re going to have to be more aggressive.
We have a general idea of what’s to come. First step is some sort of chemotherapy to get her in remission. If this succeeds, she may do another transplant (if that is the course of action we determine is best). Details on transplant are TBD but it would definitely be in Seattle.
Michelle’s case will be presented to a broader group of doctors in Seattle, and we will get more official recommendations (specific chemotherapy regimen, pros/cons of another transplant, etc.) from our medical team next week. We’re guessing that chemo will start late next week or early the following week depending on which drug they want to use and which hospital can administer it. We are hoping we can stay in the bay area for this round of chemo so that we can at least spend the next 2 months close to family and friends.
Michelle is doing okay with the news. She’s definitely scared…dreading the thought of going through another transplant…feeling guilt with how this impacts everyone’s lives….feeling sad about leaving family, friends and Marshawn. Overall, she’s doing well, and physically, she feels and looks great. And most importantly, she hasn’t lost the desire to keep fighting for her life. There ain’t no quit in this girl.
19 responses so far ↓
1 Jenny // May 2, 2009 at 8:42 am
Keep on fightin’ girl! I know you can do this! We’re with you all the way!
2 Janice // May 2, 2009 at 1:02 pm
Michelle, it breaks my heart to hear this. But I’m glad there is no question in your mind about continuing to fight for your life. And you will beat this. We’re still fighting for you, too. Love you. I’m trying to come up to the Bay Area May 15 weekend. Hope to see you soon!
3 Sophia // May 2, 2009 at 2:37 pm
Keeping fighting girl, you’re a winner. We are all rooting you on, right by your side. Happy thoughts going your way, always.
4 HM // May 2, 2009 at 2:56 pm
We’re all fighting with you two.
And if by impact Michelle is worried that we’re all inspired by her strength and how she’s enhanced all of our lives by reminding us of what’s important and that we should never take advantage of life, our friends, and family, then yes, guilty as charged.
I love you two.
5 Annie // May 2, 2009 at 5:35 pm
Michelle – you sound like one incredibly strong young lady with phenomenal family and friends. I wish you were on easier roads again and I add my wishes hopes and positive vibes to all those that surround you. Love and light – Annie, Steven’s mom.
6 Sarah in Pittsburgh // May 2, 2009 at 7:23 pm
Crappy news. Praying for you and your family and friends.
7 Ann Gregory // May 3, 2009 at 7:51 am
If I was able to do it, then I definitely know that you can do it.
You’re one tough girlie and an absolute inspiration to me. Whatever you need, Chris and I are here.
8 tonya traylor // May 3, 2009 at 8:10 am
I have and will continue to lift you up in prayer! God Bless You!
9 jpg // May 4, 2009 at 9:56 am
so sorry , if only it all wasn’t so familiar.
If you want to chat about we decided to do in the same situation I am available.
10 fjd // May 4, 2009 at 12:12 pm
I’m thinking about you.
11 June // May 4, 2009 at 2:38 pm
You are going to kick this MF in the ass Michelle. I know with all of my heart that you are. You’re a fighter and an inspiration.
12 John // May 4, 2009 at 6:30 pm
Stay strong~
13 Saito // May 5, 2009 at 8:30 am
Been rooting for you from day 1. =)
Stay tough, tough cookie!
14 Debra Volkmann // May 5, 2009 at 8:58 am
Michelle
I was touched by your story. I came across it by researching the donation process. In 4 weeks I may be donating myself, I just am waiting on being cleared medically. I will pray for you!
15 Pim // May 5, 2009 at 10:29 am
Keep fighting chica!! We all know you’re totally going to kick Leuk in the ARSE!!
Love,
Pim & Gary
16 Helen // May 5, 2009 at 12:34 pm
Stay strong! You WILL be the winner in the end!
17 Suzanne // May 5, 2009 at 8:28 pm
Hi my son Alex went through leukemia and transplant, he is doing great and so will you be. I know someone who had 3 transplants and is doing fine today. Sometimes our journey is longer a harder than wanted but at the end you will be VICTORIOUS!!!
18 carollai // May 6, 2009 at 6:57 am
keep fighting. keep fighting… praying for you both. and for the rest of the fam and friends.
19 Abby // May 6, 2009 at 11:08 pm
Sending prayers for strength and hope!
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