Acute Myelogenous Leukemia

Marlene Paulson · Joined: 14 Nov 2005 Posts: 1

My thanks to each person who has a part in the publishing of alive Magazine. I have been a faithful reader for many years and always appreciate the good information and interesting articles which have been a big influence on the way I live a healthy lifestyle.

More than 10 years ago, in June 1993, I was diagnosed with acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). At that time I was taken to Edmonton by air ambulance and told I might have anywhere between two days and six weeks to live. I had high-dose chemotherapy to destroy useless immature bone marrow cells called myeloblasts.

The chemo did destroy the blast cells, but it almost destroyed me. Later I was told the leukemia had infiltrated my liver and that there was no treatment for this. My liver was greatly enlarged and I was in a lot of pain. On top of that, because I had been in hospital or in bed at home for almost 10 months, my muscle strength had deteriorated, and I had lost about 60 pounds.

When I was told there was nothing more that could be done I was thankful to learn about Dr. Castillo’s clinic and that I could go there for treatment. At the clinic I had blood tests and a very thorough examination. I was given a combination of intravenous treatments to cleanse and build up my body so I could fight the cancer. After 21 days of treatment I began to improve. It took almost one year to regain my health.

I have always been concerned about good health and I am now even more careful to eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and protein, supplemented with vitamins and minerals. Getting plenty of rest and exercise is a priority. I try not to over-stress myself physically or emotionally.

It’s great to have good health and to be able to enjoy life with my family and friends. I still have regular checkups and blood tests. Everything is good, and I am thankful to be alive.