25 years later

My oncologist of almost two decades retired three years ago. Then a pandemic happened and I didn’t have a checkup for some time. (I know.)

My new oncologist ordered extensive tests to get a fresh snapshot of where I am with this, what I like to call a “touch of leukemia.”

(Backstory)

So yeah, we’re entering my 25th year of Stage IV Leukemia/Lymphoma. I’ve managed to evade treatment so far. The procrastinator inside of me is thrilled and very, very grateful.

The whole reason we’ve avoided action all these years is twofold: I’m not really symptomatic and we’re hoping for advances in medicine.

It seems those advances are nigh. A new DNA test shows that my particular variety of cancer would respond extremely well to the latest treatments, possibly even full remission.

Also learned through bloodwork that I may not likely not fare well with Covid, even with vaccinations and boosters. My doctor recommended a new Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis to tilt the odds favorably.

I’m like, give me all the drugs! So now we’ll run it through the insurance gauntlet and see what’s what. I’m honestly flabbergasted a test exists to determine risk and there’s medication to address it.

Ask your doctor about Evusheld. (Or share with someone who might be at higher risk.)