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Ruth:
Mom is 84 years old. She is still "viable" and lives on her own. However, I really think the doctor feels there is no reason for a bone marrow test as she would never survive a transplant. I think he is just treating things as they come.
Mom was never officially diagnosed with MDS, however, an exam at the Cleveland Clinic said "yes". She has been with the same Oncologist/Hemotologist since 1988. He has always said "no she doesn't have it".........but then.....what does she have???? So confusing.
We originally found the problem when mom was refused for a life insurance policy. According to the insurance company....she wasn't going to make it through the next year....and that was in 1988. Despite her doctor's assurance she would live longer...they didn't believe it. They were going on the results of the bone marrow tests she was given at the time.
He has kept her going thus far. Mom has ALWAYS been anemic. We grew up eating liver, beets, etc. But, back then, they never even heard of MDS, so they continued to prescribe iron pills, then eventually upped her vitamin B's. It wasn't until last year that she required transfusions. Procrit never worked.
I am at the point of just trying to find out what the progression of the anemia is so we can be prepared to take care of her. I am 250 miles away, and the two who are in town with her maintain, but panic when something new is thrown onto the pile.
Nancy
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