Welcome to our CaringBridge website. We will use this website to keep friends and family updated on my progress.
Visit often to read the latest journal entries, visit the photo gallery, and write us a note in our guestbook. We will update this periodically.
On May 5th, I was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia, sub classification M2.
I had not been feeling all that well since late January. It was off and on however it was easy to rationalize it as cold, sinus infection, tiredness, winter blues, or maybe even the old brown-bottle flu here and there :-). After awhile, I stopped the daily 8 mile running I was doing as I just didn't have the energy. Then, little things, like digging a hole to plant a tree or moving furniture really had me winded. I lost the desire to go out and do different things, had less and less energy and had lost just about all interest in kicking back and having a few beers.
Andrea, who thought I was just trying to get out of baby duties, made an appointment for me to get checked out. My first appointment was Monday, April 27th. At that appointment, I requested a blood test as I was sure it was anemia, due to the tiredness.
On Tuesday, April 28th, the Dr. called and requested that I come in for another blood test as my hemoglobin and blood platelets were low. On Wednesday, April 29th, the Dr again called and shared with me that he had sent my records to the oncology department at Appleton Medical Center (AMC). He had noted that we needed to rule out leukemia. By Wednesday afternoon, Andrea and I were consulted by an Oncologist and he, Dr Bar Lev, had me scheduled for a Bone Marrow biopsy on Thursday.
Dr Bar Lev explained to us that the I would be tested for a number of things, not just leukemia. It was possible that I had a viral infection. This was our hope.
Tuesday, May 5th, rolled around and in came the news. Acute Myeloid Leukemia. I was admitted to Appleton Medical Center then on Friday, May 8th...a mere 12 days from the first Dr appointment. By this time, I was 4 pints low on blood.
Acute Myeloid Leukemia comes on fast and acts fast. Treatment is intense. I started chemotherapy on May 9th and will have chemotherapy everyday for seven days. The goal over the next 14-28 days is to get me into remission. I will undergo another Bone Marrow Biopsy in 14 days to determine if all or most of the cancer has been wiped out.
For me and with this type of leukemia, I will need a bone marrow transplant. First, we will focus on remission.
Celebrating and remembering you today on your 12th Heavenly birthday. We remember you always, tell stories about you often and shed tears frequently, cause we are missing you.
You are always in our hearts. ♥️
https://youtu.be/Zl5rg5k1ICM
Pray for those fighting the fight. Pray for those who lost their battle. Celebrate those who fought the battle and won.
Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.
Help Marty Stay Connected to Family and Friends
A $25 donation to CaringBridge powers a site like Marty's for two weeks. Will you make a gift to help ensure that this site stays online for them and for you?
Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.Help Marty Stay Connected to Family and Friends
