The Professor

There is a lot to update you on as we had no laptop to blog on last night, so this may be a long post!

We have some good news. We were told yesterday that the spinal fluid has no trace of Leukaemia cells at present!!! This is wonderful news, as it means that Catherine should not need radiotherapy and we just need to concentrate on the chemotherapy. Thankyou for praying for this - it is wonderful and encouraging news.

Yesterday we spoke with one of the key specialists for Leukaemia, and, looking at the situation through statistics and the way she presented with her symptoms, the outlook is good. I was surprised to find out from a consultant that Catherine may well have had Leukaemia from birth as it takes a while for the cells to 'fill' the bone marrow before spilling out into the blood. I was also amazed to find out that one dose of each of the first chemotherapy drugs generally eradicates the majority of leukaemia and the rest of the treatment is aimed at getting rid of the remaining disease.

The Professor also said they are looking at the genetic make-up of the leukaemia cells to see if they are likely to be most responsive to treatment or less so. Although Leukaemia is not genetic, they are looking at the mollecular level of the leukaemia cells because they know which ones are most and least treatable. There are also some in the middle range that they are unsure whether they are easier to treat or not. Please pray that the news from these tests is positive and that Catherine has the more treatable cells.

We will find out on Friday whether Catherine has hit the 25% mark when she has her next bone marrow test. This will mean that she has responded well to the first dose of chemotherapy. Please pray that this will be achieved and that the majority of cells will be destroyed in this initial stage. It will mean they can continue with her treatment at this level and not have to increase the chemo, which will increase the risk of side effects and infection. Please also pray that side effects are minimal and that the bone marrow test goes safely on Friday.

Mark and I are so thankful for your support. We have told Catherine that many people care for her and that she is getting lots of good wishes and prayers.