Here We Go Again

On Monday afternoon, I got the following e-mail from my doctor:

We have looked at the results of urine immunofixation electrophoresis from last week and the lambda light chain band is more prominent than even the week before. It, however, remains very faint, at the limits of visual detection. Therefore, we do recommend a second stem cell transplant for you.

At least it didn't come as a total surprise. Deep down, I knew that when the results weren't all so rosy, that some sort of additional treatment would be coming down the pike. It's like June 2005 all over again. Between the news, the heat and all of the associated stress, I have become utterly miserable.

There's not much more information to report at this time. I'm in the process of setting up an appointment, so I don't have a timeframe yet.

Like I mentioned in my post last June, preparing for a stem-cell transplant is like managing a big project. You need to determine how long you will need care, and gather/allocate resources to make sure that you are taken care of. It may be a little crazy finding care this time around, as my mother may not be able to stay out here for very long. I'm not panicing yet, but there is still a long road ahead. Although I am very sad about this news, I am thankful for the doctors at BUMC, and for everything that are doing to help stop this awful disease -- despite attempts to prevent them from trying.

I'll post more information as it develops.