Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML) Support Group
Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML), also known as acute myeloid leukemia, is a cancer of the myeloid line of blood cells. Patients with AML usually present with symptoms such as fatigue, bleeding, infection, prompting medical attention. An abnormal blood test reading will then result in further testing in a hospital with a hematologist to determine AML.
Hi, i found daily strength this weekend and am grateful for all the posts i have been reading. It has been so immensely helpful planning for / preparing for what is to come with her induction and ongoing treatment. so thank you! My sister started her induction yesterday and they think it'll be a 28 day stay. She went into the hospital completely healthy (haha) except for the AML. But seriously she only was feeling tired so she thankfully isnt battling any other infections as she starts the chemo. She is in California and i am in NY. Her husband has a business trip in 2 days and will be gone for a week. She insists he go to preserve his job / health insurance, etc etc. I am flying out to be with her on day 11 for a week to be there for the results of the chromosomal/genetic tests. So this is my question...she will be mostly alone in the hospital for days 4 through 10 of her hospital stay. She will have an occasional visit here and there by friends, daughter and mother in law but no one there 24/7 advocating/supporting her day to day. I have been told the first 7 days are the "easiest" as it is the beginning of the treatment. She insists she wants to be alone and doesnt want someone to sit with her just for the sake of sitting with her. I am curious if anyone has any suggestions on things she may need? I was thinking of connecting with the nursing staff so they could call me if things come up (her husband will be unreachable and out of the country), needs she may have, etc. if anyone has any thought please let me know. thanks
I am so sorry to hear of your sisters diagnosis. My sister was diagnosed in early January with AML and I found this forum while searching for answers. The ladies I've connected with on this forum have been amazing and so prayerful for my sister and our family. I hope you find some of the answers you have on this forum as well.
While my sisters diagnosis is still new to us, she was in the hospital (she's in California also, and I'm in Texas) for 33 days before she was able to go home. Where in California is your sister?
It's a rocky road....but you've come to a great place....best wishes my friend,
Gloria
I am not familiar with the Hoag; however, what is good to know is the initial Induction chemo 7+3 for AML is standard and has been for decades. You are spot on to focus on the cytogenetic testing as these results are critical when it comes to treatment path-chemo only (my experience) or Stem Cell Transplant. Praying for the former.
As far as companionship goes, I would say it depends. First of all, the med team there is fully equipped and trained to care for her needs. As far as visitors, those should be kept to a minimum, IMHO. My daughters were 8,10, and 12 when I was dxd. They did not visit me during this phase. I could not risk illness. Yes your sister is well now; however, as her immune system is completely obliterated virus, bacteria and fungus within her body (that her normal immune system keeps in check) can cause problems. Why risk exposure to outside germs. I am a flaming extrovert; however, during my near year fight against the demon AML, I remained sequestered.
My choice, not one all can travel. It served me well as I did not have even a fever throughout. With a compromised immune system rcv, the common cold, can kill. During this phase your sister will be monitored extremely closely. Rest is so critical along with hydration, eating when possible and walk, walk walk.
I was happy to be isolated. Your sister may not be. Another thing for her to consider which saved my sanity along with my faith in Almighty God's plan-meds for anxiety and depression. I had never needed anything like this before but my wise Onc must have detected the utter shock on my face at admission and put my on meds for these things along with sleeping meds. They kept me level and I have since weaned myself off all and am doing well-by the grace of God.
Please ask any questions you may have. We are her to help.
Blessings
Julie