Catching up

Wow, time really does fly. I was reminded that I have not been updating the blog when someone emailed to ask if Doug was okay. Yes, he is! Sorry for the lack of information; I will try to do better.

We went to Denver to RMCC April 13 for Doug's one year checkup with Jeff Matous M.D. Jeff (yes he is very okay with being called by his first name) is an amazing guy. He is always enthusiastic, very well informed and upbeat, ready to answer any questions. All doctors should all be like this, right? Unfortunately they aren't as you all probably know. Jeff told us he was leaving soon for Italy where he would take part in a big bike race.

Doug had had blood taken for various tests the week before, so Dr. Jeff had the results. The titers showed that Doug still has immunity on most diseases, so he doesn't need any re-vaccinations except the yearly flu. I was pleasantly surprised on that. His CBC and Chem was good.

 Bone density shows osteopenia (precursor to osteoporosis). He is still on monthly Zometa, the biophosphonate bone strengthener -- August will be the last infusion of Zometa. Studies show that the efficacy drops sharply after two years, and the risk of necrosis of the jaw (with dental work) means stopping is the best thing. Stopping Zometa will be good for Doug's kidneys too. Right now we are told his kidney function is "adequate". I hope his bone strength holds.

Doug's blood shows no sign of MM -- whew. Jeff told us that new studies show improved disease-free survival after SCT if the patient is put on maintenance therapy immediately after SCT. At the time of Doug's SCT that information was not out yet, so Doug is not on any drugs except the Zometa. Jeff said he does not want to start maintenance chemo now. He did tell us about two new drugs that will be available if/when Doug relapses. Pomatidromide is "the new Revlimid" and Carfilzomib is "the new Velcade" and does not result in the dreaded neuropathy.

So for now Doug continues seeing Dr. Adam Myers in nearby Salida every three months for the "MM panel" blood work.

We have been enjoying our wonderful summer weather here in Buena Vista. When the day is sunny it feels hot (with very low humidity so not 'sticky') but if you go in the shade it feels quite nice. Evidently bugs do not like our high altitude; we have a few flies but almost no mosquitoes. It is very pleasant to sit outside in the evening - we haven't even used bug spray. Most nights we sleep under a light blanket.

I'm posting a photo of us taken a couple of weeks ago. The yellow climbing rose is in our back yard; the green house is our neighbor's. Life is good -- we hope all of you are good also.