Rising ANC: good. Rising AQI: not so much.

BOX SCORE




Element

Current

Std. Range

Trend

Hemoglobin

10.4

13-17

v

Platelets

97

140-375

v

ANC

1310

1800-8300

^

It's fire season in Oregon. Today, the Air Quality Index (AQI) is well into the unhealthy range at 154. So, although my ANC is rising nicely, we are still quarantined. "If it isn't one thing it's two others," my grandma used to say, when things seemed to pile up on her. Fortunately, Jill and I are accustomed to staying home. 

We did venture out in the morning haze and fog (or as I call it: hog) to the the North Lancaster Kaiser Office this morning for a blood draw.  The results are in the Box Score above. As you will note, my ANC has risen nicely. It often does during the week I am receiving chemo. Don't worry, it will go down again next week. Of more interest is the fact that my platelets are dropping, too. They typically follow along with the ANC. We are anxious to have the consultation with Dr. Brow (formerly Dr. Waugh) that is scheduled for November 1st, so we can learn more about what is happening. Darned uncooperative blood, anyway. 

In the meantime, we are enjoying the cooler weather, and we look forward to some rain, which is due to arrive some time in the next few days. If you read all the weather forecasts, it is easy to become convinced that rain is coming, but when and how much seems to be largely the opinion of whatever source you consult. Since we are in the "one day at a time" mode, it is of little consequence, but it is almost comical a) how much difference there is in the forecasts, and b) how frequently the forecasts change. It makes me think of Proverbs 18:17 - "The one who states his case first seems right, until the other comes and examines him."

We are also beginning to settle into an autumn routine. We are reading a mystery novel to each other; we've found a couple of sources for film noir movies. And of course, there are the daily medical visits. Our early morning drives to Salem for medical care now happen mostly in the dark, and soon we will arrive home from the late afternoon appointments after dark. The cycle of life continues. 

I'm not sure you could say that Jill and I embrace change, but it is inevitable, so we look for the blessings that it brings.  They are always there, if we will just look.

 

 

 

 

Comments

  1. AnonymousOctober 21, 2022 at 12:37 PM

    Wow! I'm so glad to see your ANC increase. It amazes me how much it can change in a small amount of time. I'm glad you two have each other and God during this season. Prayers are continuing on your behalf. Donalynn

    ReplyDelete

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