Good Evening Harley;
I am told that I've gone from a 2.8 to a 3.2 "M Spike" and now am at a 3.0 since I've been given the velcade. I am scheduled to start autologus stem cell transplant the 22 of this month but will not be allowed unless my "M Spike" is down and I am moving toward remission.
This is solid advice! The lower the number prior to the SCT the better.
How dramatic is changing from a 3.2 to a 3.0 "M Spike"?
Everyone of us is individual and will respond to the chemo differently. But keep in mind, the lower then number the better. The first SCT is the best you're going to get.
Forgive, but do people without cancer have an "M Spike" ?
Very good question! The answer is no. I can only add that MM patients have an abnormally high level of protein in their blood. Which the M-spike registers.
The nurse told me that unless I respond to the chemo meds that I will not be allowed the stem cell and there would be no use to continue giving me the cancer fighting drugs.
Fighting this disease is more than just depending on the Drs. and the meds. Yes, the meds are important and necessary, however, your diet, exercise and mental attitude are equally (if not more) important. Get your pH level to 7.325 by controlling what you eat. Get your blood oxygenated by exercising regularly. Get the heart rate elevated. And try to control your stress levels and keep a positive attitude. We will win this battle! We just need to keep trying.
I am starting to feel like it's all to no avail. If anyone has an input into my plight I would appreciate hearing from you.
From what I'm reading all the Drs. are saying is to try and get your numbers alittle lower before they give you a SCT. Not your death knell! Change what you eat, get out and walk in the morning and evening, get a puppy (man's favorite stress reducer) and stay focused on the goal: your survival to share another day with those around you who love you and will be crushed upon your demise.
This competition is far from over! But take comfort in the fact that we are now starting to live longer and the Drs. are very close to making this a TREATABLE disease!
Best wishes and take care;
Kevin