May 2, 2006

Brods,

Yam was admitted to the hospital on April 9 for pallor (pale condition) and intermittent fever. Her red and white blood counts were both low, her platelet count was okay and her lymphocyte count was high. She was subjected to a series of tests to eliminate common suspected illness like dengue, malaria, flu and even lupus. All were ruled out.

On a daily basis, her blood counts were monitored and showed constant drop in both red and white cells (parehong di maganda). Her platelet count was ample and steady (ok) and her lymphocyte slowly rose (hindi ok).

On the fourth day she underwent a bone marrow aspiration to extract sufficient bone marrow sample using to 4-inch needle to rule out leukemia. The results showed hypocellular condition (kulang ang cells), and 12% lymphoblasts (immature lymphocytes). The leukemia threshold is 25% but the normal level should be up to 5%.

I brought the medical record to the Philippine Children's Medical Center in Quezon City on April 19 while the blood smears were sent through LBC courier. The doctor's analysis is being sought yet. We brought her back to the hematologist on May 1 and she showed improved red and white blood cell count, steady platelet count but still elevated lymphocyte (elevated lymphocyte count indicates something wrong). She still has intermittent fever and will be back to the doctor on May 8. She lost about 2 lbs and might have a second bone marrow aspiration for biopsy and a more sophisticated test called immunophenotyping. The latter is done to rule out leukemia conclusively. This will be done at St Luke's, Philippine General Hospital or National Kidney Institute. St Luke's was highly recommended.

Yam is now at home resting and takes in food supplements, and a couple of medicines. Her appetite is normal, is in high spirits but is affected by the intermittent fever.

Brods, we need your continued prayers forYyam's quick and complete recovery. Thanks for your encouragement and prayers.