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This exact time 7 years ago on the 18th of July 2017 the professor that was taking care of me entered my room, the decision had been made a little under 6 hours ago to increase palliative care to the final stage. This would have meant not regaining consciousness, I would have died a few days later. It was that simple and I was prepared body and soul. I had died earlier that morning but revived.
At 6 am I was advised to make whatever calls I needed to make over the next 6 hours, it was that simple. From all results the stem cell transplant failed.
This incredible Professor looked at me, sat down on the bed and stared into my eyes. I could see compassion but I could also see doubt….
She decided to do another blood test, but discussed the next step with me while we waited for a nurse to come in. She explained the process and the reasons behind the decision. But it would have to be my choice, the Professor could only suggest the best approach. I agreed that moving to the final stage of palliative care was the best decision possible.
The nurse entered, drew blood for the final test and the Professor excused herself. Leaving the room she said to the nurse “I need the results urgently” and “Ian I will be back to you within ½ an hour.
20 minutes later she re entered the room, she was smiling. My blood test showed that the blood count had showed a tiny increase and I mean tiny but it was enough to justify holding off on increasing palliative treatment, it was enough to actually reduce the level of current treatment.
7 years later I look back and smile, how did that happen, how did I survive, how did I recover and walk out of that hospital 7 days later. That professor had a choice and that choice is the reason I am here today. That choice is what has lead to this website and helping others. The difference between life and death. I was ready to die, I still am. But the chance to live longer was incredible.
Disclaimer: I am not a licensed medical professional. The information in these articles are based on my personal experience and research, and it’s not meant to be a replacement for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your lifestyle, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions. The site is about Awareness to Lymphoma and explores my own medical, mental and physical approach to therapy and continues into Living with Cancer.
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