New Treatments

Well I started my new treatment, a weekly injection, of a drug called Nplate which is supposed to boost my platelets. The previous treatments suppressed my immune system in order to stop my body from attacking platelets. And so far (3 weeks in) the new treatments seem to be working to boost my levels. However, there are already some major downsides to the new treatment:

• Nausea, Headache, etc. I have affectionately nicknamed this my "Chemo Hangover"
• Severe joint pain, especially in my wrists, hips, and knees (I feel like I am 80, not 30)
• I have to have the treatment weekly, indefinitely

Even though my doctor said medically, I could continue to train for my half marathon, it has been difficult and slow going since the pain in my knees and hips is worse when I run, and even walking long distances seems to be a chore. I started taking Glucosamine, but the full effects of the supplement are normally not realized for several (4-6 weeks).

To make a long story short, it looks like I will be walking most, if not all, of the half marathon in 2 weeks. I am trying not to feel defeated, but it is hard, when you set a goal and then these medical roadblocks keep coming up. I already had to withdraw from the first half marathon that I signed up for in 2010, because of my ITP. So I refuse to withdraw again, I will complete it, even if I need a wheelchair afterwards!!!!

Thank you for all of your support and encouraging words. I will keep you all posted!