[Nancyann]

I will try to keep this short -- my father is 91 years old and anemic. Has a form of MDS, as well as MGUS. Not crazy about the doctor who has been treating him but fortunately we are seeing someone new in about 3 wks. Dad's HCT is low and he has had 14 units of blood over the past few years. His HCT averages at it's lowest 24 and highest 32 (that happened only once). Doctor orders a transfusion if it is below 26. His bone marrow was tested about two years ago for any malignancy and none was found. Other than some minor heart issues and fatigue, he is in pretty good shape. He just wants to feel better. I have found some very useful information on this board.

Is dad a candidate for any of the drug treatments out there that I have read about? He is so tired of being tired. His old doctor did not offer much in the way of hope or treatment other than the transfusions. Questions were dismissed quickly. Dad would not budge from this doctor until recently. I am so pleased we can finally see someone else.

He did see a hematologist and did shots of Procrit, but he was unresponsive and that doctor just ordered another transfusion. I am seeing that he is not able to hold the transfusions very long anymore. He absolutely hates going to the hospital to get more blood.

What questions should I pose to this new doctor? I am making a list, but those with experience out there -- I would appreciate any feedback, comments, etc., you can offer to help my dad. He still lives alone and drives and takes pretty good care of himself. He doesn't expect to feel like he did at 70, but he just wants to feel better. Is Revlimid an option for someone his age? Thanks so much!