Thursday, June 4, 2009

For your 411

I hesitated writing this post. I didn't want it to sound whiny or like a pity party. Then I put myself in my loved ones shoes. If something is going on in YOUR life - good or bad - I want to know. Usually, I can't do much about it except for pray and love you, so that is what I hope you do!
Paul has not been feeling his best for quite a while. He has been to the doctor for tests. To make a long story short, he has been diagnosed with a condition called "Polycythemia Vera". I guess his Aunt Leola had the same condition. Basically, his body produces too much blood! He has been giving blood to help lower the count, but according to the Doctor, that isn't enough. They suggested that he get Chemo therapy so it will kill some of the blood producing cells in his bone marrow. He is meeting with the Oncologist next Tuesday. That seems a little extreme to me, but then again, I am not the doctor. If you want to know more, below is a link to the Mayo Clinic that is quite informative.
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/polycythemia-vera/DS00919

He's really doing fine. He seems the same to me! The other day, I was talking to some friends and they ask what the symptoms were. All I could think of was severe headaches, so I embellished a bit... "His symptoms are - He avoids yard work, will not unload the dish washer or make the bed and hasn't vacuumed for weeks!" Their reply was, "Oh my gosh, our husbands have the same symptoms!" I forgot to mention the cravings for peppermint lifesavers! (I'm so funny!)

His still working and playing. His spirits are fine. He read where people with this condition, when treated, live for 10-15 years. I'm sure he'll be just fine! I'll bet he makes it WAY longer that that!

I'll keep you updated on the what the Oncologist has to say!

4 comments:

Justin & Kellie Curtis said...

wow thats kind of scarry. keep us updated if anything else happens. We will pray for him(and you) on our end. We love you guys!!!!

Jenkins said...

We talked about it at work and we all vote he just donate blood. Get a doc note so he can donate every 4-6 weeks instead of every 8 weeks.
Oh and side note...my husband doesn't have that...yet!

Unknown said...

Scary Auntie Ann! He will be in my prayers and I know you can get through any trial. Thanks for letting us know. Love you!

Debra Durfey said...

Thanks for the 411! You are always in our prayers but we will mention you twice now! I love you mucho! Call me when you find a minute! Guts!