My Setback

Dr. Cool Whip and Epogen Denise had decided on a relatively low dose of Epogen to get things started. My blood work and biopsy had both shown that when it came to red blood cell production, the kidney just needed a little boost. It seemed reasonable, then, to start with one 40 mcg shot once every two weeks. I was to give myself tow shots then get blood drawn on the week between the second and third shots. Epogen Denise called me last Wednesday with some discouraging news. My hemoglobin had dropped two points to 7.5...kind of the opposite of what we were going for. A healthy woman's hemoglobin should be between 12 and 14, which puts me at a dangerously low level. A low hemoglobin means the heart has to work that much harder to get everything where it needs to be, making heart failure the biggest risk.

To say I was shocked by this news would be an understatement. In the past few weeks, I have noticed a dramatic difference (for the better) in my energy level and more than one person has mentioned the return of a normal color in my face. I've also had zero symptoms related to a low hemoglobin level...no dizziness, headaches, etc. It truly is mind-boggling.

The plan: Since we are hoping that I simply need more of the Epogen, I will be increasing the shots to one per week at the same dose. Denise also wants to check my blood a few days after a shot to see if my body is responding to the medication as it should be. I gave myself a shot Thursday and will get blood work on Tuesday or Wednesday. I am seriously hoping to see an increase in my hemoglobin. If not, I have a whole other ball of wax to deal with. In the meantime, I am supposed to keep an eye out for symptoms - chest pain, shortness of breath and dizziness are the big ones - and go directly to the ER if any should arise...do not pass GO, do not collect $200.