Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML)
is a fast-growing cancer of the blood and bone marrow. In AML, the bone marrow makes many unformed cells called blasts. Blasts normally develop into white blood cells that fight infection. However, the blasts are abnormal in AML. They do not develop and cannot fight infections. The bone marrow may also make abnormal red blood cells and platelets. The number of abnormal cells (or leukemia cells) grows quickly. They crowd out the normal red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets the body needs.

Thursday, February 2, 2012

Day 52

Thursday. Doctor Kopp asked Riley if his birthday wish could be neutrophils, (white blood cells that fight infection). Haha, we had a good chuckle over that one... no, but really Riley... neutrophils. :)

It was a good day. Still at the bottom of the numbers though, which means not feeling the greatest. Riley is so tired. Nana and Papa brought balloons for Riley's birthday and he slept right through their whole visit. 

Sister Clark, Riley's seminary teacher, surprised Riley tonight. She brought lots of love from his class. Treats and a huge card from all the kids. Sister Clark even brought a balloon representing each member of his class. Twenty three in all. It was so cool to see her walking down the hall with all those balloons and surprise Riley who was out for a walk.  We appreciate her upbeat spirit and understanding heart.  

Labs today:
White blood cells: 0.6 (normal 4.5 - 13.5)
Red Blood cells: 9.9 (normal 13.5 - 17.5)
Platelets: 29 (normal 150 - 425)
ANC: 0 ( < 500 = severely neutropenic)
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