New Plan

I learned this morning that I am not to have the flu shots that I had asked about because there is a possibility that I will require another stem cell transplant. My recent blood tests coupled with the PET scan and bone marrow biopsy last month show more cancer cells than Dr. Tricot likes and he has asked to have more tests performed on me next week and a visit with him on Dec. 22, much sooner than scheduled just a few days ago.

I had been told to ask the nurse who gave me the Velcade shot (Amelia, the pretty one) about flu shots and as I waited for her return, Abby (PA) came in to tell me that Danielle and Elliot were working up a new schedule for me. She then gave me the news above and told me that if the tests next week confirm Dr. Tricot's suspicions that I am having a relapse then my insurance most likely will pay for another transplant. Danielle then brought in the schedule for next week's tests and it does not call for a PET scan, an MRI instead, which Humana would not approve in July because it was repetitious of the PET, and a bone marrow biopsy. I am sure Humana would not like to see PET scans done a month apart because they are billed more than $4,000 for them.

All of this comes as a complete surprise to me because I have been feeling quite good and my energy level is rising almost to normal. I have a good appetite, but don't eat as much as I did prior to undergoing this treatment so my weight has stabilized around 170 pounds. It was on a plateau of 185 pounds back in the spring. I have resumed walking and can do 25 push-ups during my morning exercises.

We were told back in July that Medicare will not pay for tandem transplants, Dr. Tricot's preferred treatment for treating Multiple Myeloma, but both Abby and Danielle said they think a relapse quailifies me for another transplant. I will learn more about that when I see Dr. Tricot on Decmber 22. Plenty to think about as Christmas approaches. Hope you all have a good one.