Hello John. Labs are always done. I get IgG infusions (IVIG) every 42 days and I see my hematologist every other time. So basically every 3 months. As my WBC rose, my platelets tanked and that is when I started taking Calquence. The oral chemotherapy got those numbers back to normal. My reds were funky for a few months but they got back into alignment. Take care.

John, you are 1000% correct--we must be maniacally focused on our cells: red-all components and activities including Hg and Hct. White including neutrophils AND red and white cell shape ( all that can be found in the CBC and the CMP also known as a chem14). I am in a very minor state from most of our colleagues here, yet my hematologist has me getting blood draws EVERY week. We as a team, my whole team watch those numbers maniacally to the point that when I see them I can tell you the state of my system. I'm so surprised that I don't hear the majority of the individuals here that are way worse aren't under that level of scrutiny.
And we MUST listen and learn from the signals of our bodies even with out weekly draws. WE can ill afford most of the time even a week or two of putting off contacting our medical team when we feel more off then usual. I am so very sorry you experienced that episode as we call them--I AM eternally grateful you survived!!
Teams: learn your body, listen to its rhythms, its pokes and pains. Please do NOT be put off by the "oohhh you don't look ill" comments to guilt you into believing there is nothing serious about your condition. In the blink of an eye you can go from the life of the party to multiple transfusions, IV infusions, hourly blood draws and the uncomfortable hospital bed. Ask, ask, ask, study, study, study and get your caregiver involved.

Get some rest John, as ALL need your presence! Hugs, Mich

JOhn, I am so sorry for your "episode." I hope you are healilng well and appreciate your warning to all of us. I have just trusted my docs to be vigilant. Guess I need to pay more attention.Please do take care of yourself. You are a very valued voice here.

Hi John,
I have been pedantic on my blood levels and what each test for the blood does. I know my haematologist gets annoyed when I bring to his attention the change in blood results. I can’t be more out there about knowing your bloods. I watched the lymphocytes climb to such a level that I knew it was time to start treatment.
Even though my bloods are going through the same levels as just before I started treatment , my immunoglobulin levels now are minimal , this needs to be asked when you have your next appointment. John you have to know what all your blood levels should be and bring to attention the bloods that are outside the normal levels.

Thank you John for the information, I am one of the lucky ones where the Calquence is working and it is bringing my numbers down almost to normal levels, BUT, I see the oncologist every 3 months for now and I visit my Friendly Neighborhood Vampires (Lab Techs, Thank God for them) sometimes monthly.
Prayers go out to you. Get Well