The test results are in, we have the Immunotherapy team's evaluation, and it looks like we have a complete success!  The myeloma docs call this a "stringent complete response."  I have never achieved that designation before.  My previous responses to treatments have been called "very good partial responses."  My free light chains (kappa chains) are down to zero--they have never been there before, since diagnosis.  See the photo attached.  The cancerous plasma cells can no longer be detected in the bone marrow.  This is the result that we knew might occur, but we were afraid to expect it.  

Of course, the remaining question is, how long will this last?  No one knows.  It might be one or two years, it could be more and it could be less.  The medical world does not consider this treatment a cure.  If a relapse occurs, there are other treatments that exist or are being developed.  And while I am in this status of being the carrier of "non-detectable cancer" I will be cancer drug free.  There will be no maintenance doses and no continuing chemo treatments.  That is a welcome thought. 

Meanwhile, Mary Beth and I have some things to keep track of.   I need to get revaccinated for Covid, flu, and all of my childhood immunizations.  If my IgG (immunoglobulin) level goes too low, I will need intravenous infusions of IgG.  I will have to monitor my general immunity level and be wary of exposure to Covid, flu and cold viruses.  I feel healthy and energetic, but it will be several months until my bone marrow and immune system are truly healthy.  Our medical doc in the meetings today said, "Take this time and go out and live your lives.  Don't get bogged down in all these maintenance activities or research about future treatments."  We will try to take his words to heart. 

It is likely that this is the last installment of this blog.  Many thanks to all of you for your encouragement and support during these hard times.  I have enjoyed reading your responses, advice and stories.  I have been overwhelmed by the extent of the response and by the spirit of camaraderie you have shared with me.  May God bless you and strengthen you in your endeavors and in your own health challenges.