May 11 2006

11 May 2006
Update on Yam's Condition

Thank you all for your encouraging text messages and posts on the egroup. We indeed take comfort from you at all times.

Yam underwent a second bone marrow aspiration from which she had her biopsy and immuno-phenotyping last Tuesday. Her blood smears were analyzed by two doctors in Davao and by two others at St Luke's Hospital. The St Luke's analysis was just phoned in this morning.

Just yesterday, Emma and I had a conference with Yam's physician. She told us of their findings here in Davao and gave us management advise. The diagnosis is acute lymphoblastic (lymphocytic) leukemia. Tthis is what the blood analysis say. We were assured that the prognosis for this type of leukemia for Yam's age is good - i.e. up to 80% survival or complete remission. She was given steroids to arrest the growth of bad cells and to enhance the production of good cells.

We were briefed on the possible chemotherapy management which can commence next week and will last for 6 months active chemotherapy and 2 years management. We were adviced not to have her enrolled because of here susceptibility to infection. We were also adviced to wear mouth masks at home to minimize air-borne microorganisms that can trigger infection.

Just this morning while i was at Yam's school to inquire about the possibility of home study, Emma sent me a text message saying the doctor called up to update us of the lab results from St Luke's Hospital. The test done is called immunophenotyping, an objective and accurate method. The results indicate another type of leukemia. It is AML or acute myelogenous leukemia which normally occurs in older persons. The bad news is that this type has poor prognosis and requires a more aggressive treatment.

Tomorrow, we will have another conference with the physician at the San PedroHospital, Davao City to discuss what can be done.

We are appreciative of Yam's doctor, Dr. Jeannie Ong, a young, diligent and expressive doctor. In her clinic hangs specialization diploma obtained at UST, Univ of HongKong and 1 or 2 prominent others. On another side of her clinic hangs a cardboard filled with cards and letters of thanks and endearment from her patients.

It's a hard time for us, brods. We appreciate your prayers.