Cris Cansdale Cansdale's Strength

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Memorial Day weekend 2016 and beyond

I became sick this weekend causing me to be hospitalized and numerous tests to be conducted to see what is potentially the issue. There were many theories during these following weeks and additional tests ran. Some pointed to anemia while others were unknown. I followed up with my Dr in the fall, Dr Parker who I consider single handedly accredited for finding this so early on; who requested additional blood work. These results were mostly inconclusive and really didn't give a good picture of what was going on. During this time frame I became sick again, this time in bed for three days, I didn't see Dr. Parker that day so there was no other indication other than a sinus infection. Another set of lab work was ordered after a follow up with Dr. Parker which I procrastinated, for busy, or didn't prioritize. During this time frame we were gearing up for our big move to Germany, the elusive assignment we had works for years to obtain. I was finally reminded enough to get my blood work done, I stopped in and got what was needed done and moved on to work not thinking much of anything.  Dr Parker called and told me he did not like the results, not because there was anything there but because there wasn't other than high protein.  On a hunch he ordered new tests, and told me he they needed to be done soon. I complied. The outcome was more than I was expecting. Dr Parker had discussed the preliminary results but stated the Oncology center would have to explain them thoroughly.  After meeting with Oncology on May 31st another set of blood work was drawn with more inclusive test.

Much of June and July was a whirlwind, by June 8th I was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, cancer of the blood. There was more test that need to be completed to confirm, including a bone marrow biopsy. This was completed at the end of June, within days I had the results confirming it. It has been caught early enough as none of my organs have been damaged, the anemia isn't at a horrible percentage. In July I had the bone scan to make sure there was no lesions, that came back good. I saw a specialist in Rochester that discussed treatment and the course of action. Treatment will be two does of iv chemo twice a week, along with a chemo pill daily. This will be a 21 day cycle with a 7 day cycle off. Then we start another cycle, after 3-4 of these cycles I will be up in Rochester to complete the stem cell treatment for two-three weeks while my body heals.