Today is Day 19 of Jaxon's first stage of treatment, called Induction. We were told at the beginning that by Day 29 he should be in remission. On Day 8, a special blood test was taken to check his MRD (Minimum Residual Disease) level, to see how he has responded to treatment so far. We got those results today, and are pleased to report that he is responding very favorably to treatment and Dr. expects complete remission at the end of 29 days. It still means a long (3 year) treatment plan, but it's good news because it shows that he is responding (and not resistant) to the chemo. He is still feeling crummy, as is typical during Induction. Eating and resting lots.
The goal at the end of Induction (May 10) is to see less than 0.01% of disease. The MRD test on Day 8 showed he was at 0.15 (it was 90% @ diagnosis). Our Dr. is confident that the trend will continue, to bring Jaxon to full remission.
This is the expected course of his recovery. We are still looking at a 3 year period of treatment, most intense now and for the next 7 months and lessening in intensity for the remaining 2.5 years.
We are working out the balance of keeping his nausea at bay and making sure his bowels move frequently. We were told to give him anti-nausea meds (Ondansetron) on an as needed basis. Over the past few days we've come to realize that he needs them constantly. We are currently chasing the nausea, and need to get on top of it to keep him most comfortable.
We're tremendously grateful for the many oncology families we have met either in the hospital, here at Ronald McDonald House (RMH), and through connections with friends and family. Sharing experiences and comparing notes with them has been immeasurably comforting and helpful.
I am so pleased to see that Jax is responding so well to treatment!! Praying for continued success in recovery.
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