Colin Autry

This is a small slice of Colin's life. His story, if he were to write it would be quite different. He is an analytical, critical thinker with very logical connections and outcomes. I wonder how he would explain this twist in his life? For now we have to make do with his mother's representation of events as she sees them unfold. Consider her perspective and emotional nuances before you completely accept this version. Recording his journey to the best of my ability and observing the changes as they unfold.




Colin was diagnosed with Leukemia on October 19, 2009 at SSC Kaiser ED. We arrived at the ER at 6:30 pm and by 11 pm they had the diagnosis. They were so quick to get blood draws, call Pediatrics and Hematology to confirm why his blood count was so low. By 2 am we were at the Roseville Women and Children's center. Blood transfusion started quickly after that. By 10:30 am he was getting ready for a bone marrow biopsy.  Final diagnosis was delayed until Wednesday, October 21st when the boom came down: it was AML. We held each other and cried, we were afraid and angry at what was happening.
The rest of the week was a blur of family and friends visiting in droves. Sleepovers, movies and a lot of distractions and good cheer keeping us moving one foot in front of the other. Monday, 26th, blood draws for the whole family to check for bone marrow match while Colin had a spinal tap to check for cancer in the spine, and another bone marrow aspiration to do more labs. Tuesday the dreaded 'Broviac Catheter' surgery to give him long term IV usage. This helps to give him chemo, nutrients, various other medicines as needed and to draw blood to check for the count.
Chemo started on the 28th, today, October 31st, is day four. After the first five days the chemicals injested into his body come down dramatically. This is a 10 day regimen, to be repeated five times over the next 6-8 months.

An update as to what is going on this time around. The next chemo starts after grandma leaves for North Carolina so Colin has time to socialize and get healthier.
A total of three chemo therapies (ten days each) and then bone marrow transplant around February or March. Thanks to Sasha and her perfect 10 match! Probably move Colin to UCSF where he will get excellent treatment. He will stay there 3-4 months. The doctors are happy that he is progressing so well. Early summer before it is all done.