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.

Sunday, February 26, 2012

Day 76

Sunday.   The amazing YW in our ward made this candle for Riley.  They dedicated their work toward their YW personal progress to Riley to show their love for him.  Each color represents a value they worked on and when they accomplished a goal toward their medallian, that is represented in gold.  Awesome!  I was very touched today to be presented with this candle for Riley.  We are so thankful and always aware of the amazing support that Riley and our family receives!!  Thank you, just does not seem to convey our overwhelming gratitude to so many who comfort and are helping us along this journey.  The words "Thank you" do not feel like enough, nevertheless, THANK YOU!  For each prayer and kind, encouraging word, THANK YOU!  For every meal brought to our home, THANK YOU!  For every contact made with Riley to lift and listen... THANK YOU!!  THANK YOU!!  THANK YOU!!


 
Riley was asked to speak via Skype at a Stake Youth Fireside.  Tonight was the night.  I am  incredibly proud of his willingness to give the talk, especially under the circumstances.  His blood count levels have just hit the bottom, but he is a determined young man! 




Riley did a fantastic job on his talk!  He is a great speaker!  I'm so proud of him!  This would have been a challenge for any 16 year old.  Throw in cancer and being in the hospital while giving a talk and , well,  ... I'm very impressed!!  Great job Riley!!

We all thought it was pretty funny that he gave this talk with a shirt and a tie ... and shorts and slippers.  Haha!  It was wonderful to have Nana and Papa here for the talk.  Vince took the kids to the stake center to watch it there.  What a great night! 



Labs today:
White blood cells:  .5  (normal 4.5 - 13.5)
Red Blood cells:  9.1  (normal 13.5 - 17.5)
Platelets: 47  (normal 150 - 425)
ANC:  10  ( < 500 = severely neutropenic) (normal 2,000 - 5,000)


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1 comment:

  1. LaDawnMarch 2, 2012 at 10:09 PM

    What a great kid and wonderful example to everyone to give a talk when he could have a good excuse not to give it, love that boy! This is one of my favorite pictures of my parents with Riley. Thanks for your updates Chrissie, love them!!

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