Karen,
I was taking the other version of Protocel before transplant- following the same basic dosing schedule as you are. Just taking it at night when I woke up. I was also concerned about giving up things like Vit C. and Curcumin, especially. But during the couple months I used Protocel before transplant, everything held steady. I think they say you need to use it for at least 6 months to give it time to start working. But not sure if I am remembering this correctly.
I was encouraged by the info in the book also - it seemed a good analysis of complementary approaches. I was inspired by many of the stories - how these researchers persevered on their own - often despite significant persecution. (Some of the stories would make great movies.)
What really impressed me about Protocel and some of the other approaches was the strong orientation and dedication to healing of these independent researchers. They were clearly not self-serving or doing this research only for the money potential.
Fighting the dragon - hadn't thought of it that way - but a fitting description. I probably had the Multiple Myeloma (not leukemia, but also a blood cancer) for at least 5 years - per my doctor, but wasn't diagnosed until 2-09. Had stem cell transplant in Nov. 09; still recovering. It took a year before my insurance company would approve payment for the MRI or other diagnostic tests that finally resulted in identifying the MM - despite my having a clearly visible and painful bone tumor since 2008.
Right now I am not sure when to resume Protocel, as I've been using some herbal meds from an Oriental Medicine physician - that have proven very helpful - moreso than prescribed drugs. However when I called and talked with the people at Protocel, they were not sure if the herbs would interfere with effectiveness of the Protocel - as they were not familiar with the Chinese herbs. I am also taking some powdered mushrooms provided by the OM physician. He specializes in oncology. His name is Chris Powell, and he's at Missouri Acupuncture Services in Kansas City, MO. I may give this a try for awhile. Or I might take the Protocel anyway, since it apparently does not interfere with other meds or supplements - the issue being more that these could interfere with the Protocel. Is that how you have understood it as well?
I will keep in touch. It helps to be able to discuss these matters with others who understand your experiences. We will keep on keeping on, and eventually I think we will learn to tame the dragon.
Dawn