On Day +162 (February 24, 2007, Saturday)

Charley survived a really tough week with a brave spirit. He already took 4 low doses of the first chemo drug (VP-16). The outcome is encouraging: WBC dropped to 2,900 and blasts (peripheral blood) decreased to 26% on Saturday. Doctors hope and expect the efficacy can reach to Charley's spleen and liver gradually as what happens on his marrow. However, Charley had a bumping night and bizarre daytime. He complained of severe left side belly pain last night so he was given larger dose of morphine. Today he developed hallucinations and some disorientation since noon time. These made us quite anxious.

Through CAT scan's evaluation, Charley's head is fine. The CNS symptoms were caused by morphine. We are concerned about his spleen because the X-ray shows it compresses both his stomach and small intestine. Furthermore, Charley's body is developing an antibody to destroy transfused platelets. Frequent transfusions were dumped into the spleen instead of fulfilling its function. Doctors started to treat with several options. In fact, effective chemotherapy will be the bottom line of resolution for enlarged spleen.

We keep receiving many phone calls bringing compassion, comfort, encouragement and help to us. Grace Baptist Church organized a special prayer this morning from 10-12, Ron Cousineau, Hector Castro, Rick Frazier and others came to comfort us with prayer. Pastor John Taylor brought lovely gifts from Florida. Dr. Leung prayed with Charley over the phone from Vancouver. Thanks to you all.

Prayer Request:
1. Charley's liver function recovers to normal for the best protection to two more chemo drugs given next Tuesday.
2. Spleen gets healed sooner.
3. Antibody against transfused platelet can be controlled
4. Good Appetite.