The Disappearing Neutrophils

Back home 5 hours after leaving… There will be no chemo today.  My lab results this morning indicate that I am neutropenic; I am suffering from a diminished supply of neutrophils. According to Wiki, neutrophils usually make up 50-70% of circulating white blood cells and serve as the primary defense against infections by destroying bacteria in the blood. Hence, patients with neutropenia are more susceptible to bacterial infections and, without prompt medical attention, the condition may become life-threatening (neutropenic sepsis).  My white blood cells are low.  I have been rescheduled for next week [the 17^th and 18^th].  In the meantime I have to be wary of bacterial infections.  I have to give up my volunteering at the day care centers, candy-striping at Children’s Hospital, and teaching at the pre-school.  There will be no hugging and kissing either.  I won’t wear a mask.  I draw the line at masks.  Unless it something from Mardi Gras or Carnival but they don’t serve the purpose anyway.  I met my new oncologist today.  Dr. Gabriel Mannis is a very nice young man and we will get along just fine.  He is, however, NOT Dr. Michelle Phillips. 

And!!! We could not find the cancerous lymph node in my neck.   Good riddance.