I was diagnosed on December 10, 2024, after six weeks of bloodwork that wasn't leading to good outcomes. My hematologist had me do a bone marrow biopsy on December 9, and the next day, I was called by my doctor to tell me I had acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). I had no idea what that was, but I quickly looked it up online. I went to the hospital for 30 days of inpatient chemotherapy. So, having a rare form of leukemia makes me one-of-a-kind in the infusion center. I do four weeks of infusion, then I take four weeks off. I also do two weeks of oral chemo followed by two weeks off.
This has been an interesting journey. My family has been with me all the way, along with my employer and my wife's employer. My friends and extended family have been great. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS), now Blood Cancer United, has been great as well, not only from resources for learning but financial help as well. They also connected me with a survivor of the same form of leukemia. We talk and discuss what is going on and what to look forward to. This journey fell on the heels of one of my great-nieces' brain cancer. She is now six years old and in remission. So, the prayers have been flowing for us all. I had a port put in after I was released from the hospital. I had a PICC line before that. The port is a good tool. I'm looking forward to the day when it is removed for good. I'm a very positive person by nature, and this outlook has been advantageous. I have a great oncologist and a wonderful staff of people who truly care about all of us. The diagnosis can be scary, but I know that I am blessed and I will overcome this cancer.
David
acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL)
