In the 10th

[DougV]

Went GI for office visit for 8 week labs.  VL still undetectable.  Hgb down but not as bad as in the past.  Only down to 10.3, at 4 week it was 11.8 and over 16 to start.  Two times I treated with ifn/riba hemoglobin droped 1.0 weekly and that was with or without riba reduction and procrit notwithstanding.  So to have it fall only 1.5 in 4 weeks is cool.  Gives me some hope that when Incivek is stopped in couple more weeks that somehow I can avoid severe anemia.

All blood values out of wack.  Platelets down to 51 WBC below 3.0 but nothing critical.  ALT normal, AST just slightly over normal.  That is about the only significant negative.

Physically gained 10lbs in 4 weeks.  This fat requirement is tough, but I can diet in two and a half weeks.  I was told today I am the only patient in the office who has not called wanting something for sides.  Most common, hemerroids and anorectal burning. 

I do get more easily fatigued and don't think the Boston Marathon is in my near future but well it wasn't exactly high on my plans anyway.  Still doing well in school, start clinical next week.  Can't say it is easy and that there aren't costs, but functioning is possible.

That's about it.  Still alive, still going.

Doug

[Helen]

Hey Doug,

 Thats really good news!  The hemorroid issues suck but I think thats something I would rather try and deal with more so that any of the head type issues or nausea, etc. Of course going thru it I might feel differently, ya know easy for me to say.

 As far as the AST, shoot you know just about anything can cause that to spike and as long as its not that high I wouldnt give it much thought, especially since the ALT is in the normal range.
 
 Your still going to school, still undetectable, still okay with the anemia.....I have to tell you I truely believe you are a WINNER!

 Still keeping my fingers crossed and will be checking in on ya. 

  Take care, Helen

[rayc2001]

Thanks Doug, I am following you.
 Best of wishes
Ray