Weeeelll, what the news, 12 or 24, know yet?? Either way you got it covered, but am real interested to see how this all ends up going down between doc, insurance and you.
Hope, in the meanwhile, 'til the "further news" shoe drops, you have been enjoying your houseful, fireworks, life, the cosmos, good food and (by all accounts) it sounds so!
Love, sis
Hiya Sis,
As opposed to making an announcement I chose to simply update my sig line. I am at EOT with 2 days remaining of 84.
While it was a momentary "surprise", I am good with it and believe it rightly reflects standard protocol in cases such as mine.
Having been messing with this in all actuality since last October, it is time to be rid of the Fire Breathing pest.
Come Thursday 5:55am will just never be the same!
Your brother, JimmyK
Canuck said
Jul 5, 2016
Hey bro,
Weeeelll, what the news, 12 or 24, know yet?? Either way you got it covered, but am real interested to see how this all ends up going down between doc, insurance and you.
Hope, in the meanwhile, 'til the "further news" shoe drops, you have been enjoying your houseful, fireworks, life, the cosmos, good food and (by all accounts) it sounds so!
Love, sis
Sydhanrahan said
Jun 27, 2016
Jimmy,
i don't know whether I'm more in awe of you for thinking of the finite and expensive treatment that must be shared amongst as many as possible or for your ability to quietly reason your way to positive thoughts. In any case, you've convinced me. Plus if the unexpected did happen, and you were still positive after 12 weeks, then I imagine you would be moved onto another regime pretty quickly.
I hope Carol is home by now and that everything's going along just fine for you both.
Big hugs to you both,
Syd
robertsamx said
Jun 26, 2016
That's a good point pablto, these drugs are new, who knows what they could cause health wise ten years down the road. Jimmy your honorable. RC
Pablito said
Jun 26, 2016
That's very level-headed and mature of you Jimmy. You are indeed a 12 week candidate. In fact your profile, other than genotype, is identical to mine and no doubt if I was offered a 24 week teddy bear and then only got half I'd be gunning for the extra 12 weeks.
I strongly believe there won't be any long term complications of DAAs, but they are new drugs and you never know and given that you were UND at week 4 it may be for the best.
Pablo
JimmyK said
Jun 25, 2016
Good Morning Y'all.
Dave the sky there is great. Sometimes there is a humidity factor and it does get hot.
Syd I am glad you enjoyed the ride. For some reason I could hear you in the passengers seat laughing and telling me to slow down some. LOL.
No it is not a matter of bravery on my part. The analysis of the current situation tells me I could potentially raise my chances another 2% by doubling the treatment period but then that would be more in the case if I had severe liver damage that would tend to allow for the virus to hide. There is a point where success is reached and upon that there can be no improvement.
The studies also indicate that due to cost, that treatment-experienced patients with genotype 1 and compensated cirrhosis can have the regimen shortened to 12 weeks if ribavirin is added. As mentioned I don't have cirrhosis but I do find that 12 weeks + RBV does a good job in such cases.
Just prior to starting Harvoni I came in at an F2 / A2 ALT was 73. The HCV RNA came in at 2,359,487.
It is often stated here that the VL going into treatment does not matter and I have quietly taken exception to that. The fact is one of the requirements for the 8 week course is to have a low VL which they consider to be the below 6m range.
Technically speaking if I were not treatment experienced, I would have qualified for the 8 week course. It is only due to the previous failure that I would be pushed to 12 weeks because it was not the numbers that did so.
On to the failure and what concerns it causes. In my case I was found to have the M28T Mutation at NS5A and Q80K and D168Y at NS3. OK hang on now.
In vitro, ledipasvir can select for the primary NS5A mutations Q30E and Y93H with genotype 1a, these mutations confer high-level reduced susceptibility to ledipasvir. I do not have Q30E or Y93H. Sofosbuvir retains full activity against the NS5A ledipasvir-associated mutations that I do have.
So the only remaining concern is the affect Omeprazol may have on the ledipasvir. My belief is if it had any significant affect the way I have been taking the combo I would not have seen UND at 4 weeks. I recognize that does not mean I am cured at 4 weeks but it certainly demonstrates the Harvoni is doing it's job properly. If it is doing it's job properly then the guidelines are valid and in my case, like it or not, being reluctant to let go of the Teddy Bear, I am a proper 12 week candidate and there is no indication that I can see to justify 24 weeks.
I could throw a big fit but facts are facts. Brother Tig has generously offered numbers where I can lodge a complaint against the Insurance Company, but I believe such complaints should be valid and reserved for people that are actually getting jacked around. If I were to lodge a complaint I would have to demonstrate that they are violating the guidelines. In my case they simply are not. I would be pulling attention of some worker to myself that would better be used by someone who really needs them. That would be wrong in the way I believe.
Now there is the possibility that my Doctor will be successful in his appeal. If I were working for the Insurance Company he would not be mainly because I am trained in negotiations and the facts and guidelines would align with my position. One can't take the position another should spend $94,500 that cannot be justified based on the facts of the case.
I recognize everyone here is rooting for me and wants me to hold the Teddy Bear a bit longer. I greatly appreciate my family here but please no disappointments if things do not go in that direction. I covet your positive thoughts and prayers.
My Sister to The North many thanks. Yes I could sense the natives getting restless and I did hear a faint beat of the drums. Let's save all that energy for the party.
And lastly Wendy my lil Sister. No Clyde did not go. He would have been there to talk to but he is lousy with a response so kind of dead weight in the Truck. I am glad you had fun and sensed a smile when you wrote that. For me that is mission accomplished. ;)
Warm Regards to all.
JimmyK
wendyo said
Jun 25, 2016
That was fun! (riding in the truck) Thanks for taking us. Did Clyde get to go?
Glad you got to talk to the doc and get a way for a little.
And you are right (as usual) "Que Sera, Sera"
Canuck said
Jun 25, 2016
Bro,
We had a vote and there is reassuring consensus amoungst the group that you are indeed "all over" the situ, the best man for the job is on the job, with heavy back-up from the other 2 big and extremely well qualified guys. You got it covered from all angles. Did you sense the rest of the family were itching fer a scrap on your behalf tho (may still happen too, depending on how this thing shapes up. Just say the word!). Sis.
Sydhanrahan said
Jun 25, 2016
Hi Jimmy,
it was great to be rattling along right there in the passenger seat, and what a great idea a cabin away from home is.
I wrote a post when you first told us about what is happening re treatment length, it failed to upload.
Amazing how you can roll with this news which would have devastated me. But the stats you attached do tell a story and it's a pretty good one. With a 95% plus success rate, as well as virus free at 4 weeks, you've pretty much got it in the bag haven't you? I'm just in awe of your calm. And bravery.
Yes Tig, this cowboy has just stepped out of the saloon to settle a score. Onlookers are peeping from behind their curtains, a light wind drives the dust down the deserted street. Further along a dragon finds his holster with his reptilian fingers. There's a long stare down happening and my money's on Cool Hand Luke.
Syd
Linuxter said
Jun 25, 2016
Hey Jimmy,
Looks like you got some clear skies to go along with that fresh air at your hideaway there, hope the astronomical viewing was optimum and the time there ... nice and relaxing.
Thanks for taking us along for the ride!
Dave
JimmyK said
Jun 24, 2016
robertsamx wrote:
Hi Jimmy, Thanks for sharing your get away with us. And thanks for settling me down with your cool-calm honest approach to 12 V 24 -- You stay the course, I will follow your tail lights and we all get through this! My wish for you is that you get 24- in this case more is better! RC
You do honor me my brother. Thank you.
In this case more may well be better.
But in all cases, enough is enough. ;)
That right there is a 100% genuine TEXAS JimmyK proverb! Patent pending and all that kind of stuff. LOL
Really now. I don't want to get hooked on treatment. I am told I have an addictive personality.
robertsamx said
Jun 24, 2016
Hi Jimmy, Thanks for sharing your get away with us. And thanks for settling me down with your cool-calm honest approach to 12 V 24 -- You stay the course, I will follow your tail lights and we all get through this! My wish for you is that you get 24- in this case more is better! RC
Loopy Lisa said
Jun 24, 2016
Good luck Jimmy,
I suspect whatever the outcome you will achieve UND. This combo is so effective without secondary infection or severe liver damage, I have a lot of faith in these new combo's. I hope you enjoy your stay, I am waiting until after treatment. Something to look forward to.
Have fun. :D
JimmyK said
Jun 24, 2016
Thanks Tig. I do believe you would love the place. Great sky at night with little ambient light. Milky Way shows nicely.
The problem that The Doctor may run into is a simple matter of the guidelines.
My case to be quite honest does not call for 24 weeks. Yes I have been treated before but I am an F2-F3 at best.
Originally we were pushing the 24 mainly due to Omeprazol and prior treatment. The Omeprazol has proven not to be an issue by nature of the 4 week UND finding. The LED is not having a problem with uptake. We were concerned Harvoni may not be as effective because I have to take the PPI. If you remember that is also the reason I was rejected for the trial he tried to get me in.
He initially did not want me on the Harvoni solely because of the PPI. When the trial was rejected I pushed the Harvoni and told him if he was so concerned then shoot for 24 weeks. Which he did and I know that is why.
The breakthrough on the V-Pack has little to do with it because Harvoni contains the NS5A kicker. (I said that cause you was all into Texas in your post LOL)
I honestly was hoping for the 12 weeks and was floored when I heard 24 had been approved.
Make no mistake, I would love the 24 weeks and I hope he wins. We will just have to see. I also don't want to be stuck on pills forever. I know I know, so long as I am taking the stuff the liver is resting and healing and happy. The tests show that.
But I don't want a crutch and I want to release this pacifier as soon as it is reasonable to assume it has succeeded. I believe my expectations of a cure at 12 weeks are reasonable and come it at the 95% range. Beats the heck out of the old INTER FEAR ON and the Monster Combos.
It will all work out and either way, 12 or 24, I still am not boarding The Ship for another 128 days! LOL
I like the Other Place, Jimmy. Looks like a quiet area where you could just get away from it all, but still have the power pole and well, that keep you with some of the basics when desired. I also learned something else about you. The deep voice fits right into the picture I had developed of you. Tall Texan driving down the road in his truck, headed to his back country place to knock down some brush and stomp a rattlesnake or two, lol! Now I wonder, do you have a Stetson and some Lama's? I would fit into that Texas lifestyle very well!
I'm glad to know that your doctor has taken the bull by the horns and is going to help you wrestle it to the ground. This bull, we can call it "Bull-S**t", needs to be roped, dropped and branded. Can't help all my cowboy type references, they fit so well, lol! I get a good idea of his nature from your description and hope that's all it takes to get some benefit jockey to wake up and get that decision turned in your favor. Nonsense....
No worries, but we mean business when it's time to get things done. Give me a few phone numbers and I'll help you shake things up if necessary!
JimmyK said
Jun 24, 2016
Hey y'all.
Relax all will be as it should be.
As you know, prior to the news I had panned a few days out at "The Other Place". Well I headed out yesterday morning around 7:00 am. I was not going to let the disturbing news mess with my plans. As of right now I have 13 pills remaining so there is time to change the tide.
Before I left I let my Doctor know what was up. He is one of those professionals that really should not be questioned not to mention I can kind of detect he does not care to be. LOL
So I let him know the Insurance Company was second guessing him. ( you could hear a pin drop. )
So I left him with that and headed for the Hills. Came back early just so I could stay in touch. His Sr. Nurse contacted me this morning to inform me that The Good Doctor had penned an Emergency Appeal and that generally a resolution takes 72 hours. I will assume 3 business days which comes to Wed the 29th, at which time there would be no problem doing a Red Label Overnight to my Door delivery of bottle # 4 at which time I would still have 7 pills remaining in bottle #3. That is assuming the appeal is granted.
If not, then I greatly appreciate the man's efforts on my behalf and simply won't worry about it further. In such a case, a finding of UND will be required on 09/29/16 or The Insurance Company will learn why it is best to follow the instructions of an expert in this field. I will simply then have to do a third protocol and that one will cost them more than they could ever have imagined saving by their stubbornness.
Anyway I will keep y'all informed and no worries, it would make me feel bad LOL.
Hey! Got one minute for me to take you to "The Other Place?"
I had a Craftsman Riding Mower in the back of the Truck so I rode it around, trimmed the place up nice and drank a lot of water! LOL
robertsamx said
Jun 24, 2016
Good morning Jimmy. I remember when you had your breakthrough on Viekira Pak. You went to work on attaining Harvoni and there was that issue about 12 vs 24 weeks because of your breakthrough on Viekria Pac. At the time I thought you had gotten approved for 24 weeks? If I know you , your not going to let this go without a fight. These hurdles that are placed before us all aren't by coincidence- As you well know!! This is not a test-You have more work to be done-Your not through showing us the way out of the woods. You will teach us how it's done through your experience. You will get your 24-We are all praying for you!!
RC
Tig said
Jun 24, 2016
Jimmy,
What's the status? Didn't the insurance company pre authorize the 24 week protocol? I know you're doing what you need to do to resolve this, insurance commissioner, state AG, elected officials, etc. Don't forget the suggestions on the page we set up. The AU connection comes to mind.
Your ability to step back and reconfigure your plan mid stream, is amazing and commendable. I know the delivery of said information wasn't easy to receive, accepting it as a final decision shouldn't be done just yet. I know you're doing a lot to straighten this out. If there is anything I can do to help you, please let me know. You may consider contacting the assistance programs we have listed here. They aren't there solely as payment assistance sources, but treatment assistance as well.
Stay in touch. OOoommm.......
K8 said
Jun 24, 2016
Oh Gosh, Jimmy, I know that you are protected and taken care of at all times. Now knowing how much I focus on my medicine. when I get refills, when I take it, how much water I drink, how I pace at the pharmacy when I am picking up a refill - I would be a bit of a bundle on the floor if plans were changed on me
But that is my initial reaction based on fear and disappointment. Eventually trust that all is in order & my job is to do the next right thing and accept the results at some point.
Sounds like the final story is not written, I know you will keep taking care of yourself and trusting that all is in God Orderly Direction. I look forward to hearing the updates.
Sydhanrahan said
Jun 24, 2016
Jimmy,
you are quite inspirational. To be able to totally turn around the situation in your own head is amazing. And practical.
I'm sure you won't go down without a fight but the bottom line has already been clearly set in your head. If bureaucracy, bungling and idiots get their way, you won't go into melt down mode - it wouldn't help your body's dragon slaying adventure anyway. And all those positives you've listed are facts.
Let us know asap how things unfold. You are so important to us all.
Big hugs,
Syd
Cheddy said
Jun 23, 2016
Jimmy, You have got to be kidding. I'm with Dave and Linuxter. Don't let them get away with this if you can, and yes, do it with honey ir you can. It could be that somebody made a mistake, and we all know insurance companies have to be pressured! Maybe the guidelines are right, that 12 weeks is enough, but you should be able to get your prescribing doctor to verify and assist with this. Now.
I hear you that God is your bottom line, but you are in charge of the next step. So sorry to hear this, Jimmy. Let's ask God to turn it around.
wendyo said
Jun 22, 2016
That was quite a good lesson in turning it around, turning it over to God etc. I personally needed to hear that so thank you. Enjoy The Other Place. Big hug!
Linuxter said
Jun 22, 2016
... little surprised to hear it wasn't another watch ... BTW, how's Clyde?
Well, you'll either get another 12 weeks or ya won't, you are spot on about that. Your justifications for not going into utter panic and destruction mode are valid but something doesn't smell right, approval is approval, you must have some paperwork that states your Rx is for 24 weeks and has been approved. I'm guessing the doctor's office will get it straightened out, after all, that is their job.
My dealings with the pharmacy were that I was always ALWAYS having to straighten them out, the staff was obviously underpaid and I had to speak with a pharmacist a time or two to ensure that I got my meds in time. It could well be the fact that THEIR norm is 12 weeks max and it's their screw up. Any way ya look at it ... it will be the Doctor's office that will need to straighten it out.
Kudos on being calm, having faith and moving ahead to enjoy life in spite of major attempts to push your buttons, make you feel powerless and renege on what has already been approved.
It's upsetting but you approach it wisely, I'd be calling the doctors office tomorrow and Friday to make sure they keep on it.
Do feel good about the way you are managing the stress my friend, head for the hills, relax, kick back, gaze and wonder at the universe beyond our little world, the over two week supply does give you a little time to get some answers.
Enjoy you trip to the hills,
Dave
JimmyK said
Jun 22, 2016
Greetings,
The news while attempting to complete a refill was a bit much. There was an old side to me that I felt tip toe across my spine.
So I determined to take EMERGENCY MEASURES reserved only for the most pressing situations.
It was one of those, 'IN CASE OF EMERGENCY BREAK GLASS!" kind of moments.
So I did. I went to Wall-Mart.
Bought a few items for the drive out to The Other Place in the morning.
I spoke with one of my Doctors Staff and I intend to leave it at that.
I decided to look at things from a practical point of view. If I get cut off at 12 weeks, then that was all I needed.
Of course that means I had to also update my spreadsheet but I am halfway to decent with Excel so I added a "Plan B 12 Weeks" Tab and that took care of that.
What it means in terms of facts is not so bad.
Instead of 9/28/16 being the last Pill swallowed, that date will now become SVR-12.
Instead of having 99 Days remaining, I now have 15.
Instead of having completed 41% of my treatment plan, I have now completed 82%.
I don't have cirrhosis so the 24 week plan did not technically apply anyway. Pre treated non cirrhotic is a 12 week course of which I have been richly blessed with the 84 pills contained therein.
I am now in the 95% success rate category and having come in UND at 4 weeks the additional 8 weeks after that should do it.
So I have no intention of running around here like a decapitated Rooster after having encouraged others who have gotten worse news not to do so.
It's all good, Life is Beautiful, and I am a child of God. What in this world do I have to worry about? I realize I went to Wall-Mart but I lost my head momentarily. I am in control now and very little damage resulted in the trip.
I do not have to imagine that you are already all over this, right? ... tell me you are already burning up the phone, as well as emailing the screwing up parties, and about to drive down to a couple offices to see some folk eyeball to eyeball??!!
Better yet, pleease tell me you already have it all resolved!
Surely, this is just some very badly timed glitch, some insurance bean counter trying to think too hard, and that the other weeks (of course) WILL be coming!
Argh! C.
I am betting you will get his resolved today!!, and/or very quickly (knowing you and how adept you are at righting things). Although you must be livid, remain clam, methodical, do not panic, if it takes a few days to unwind their mess, you have a couple weeks of pills left and you WILL get this sorted in time.
Linuxter said
Jun 22, 2016
How stressful this must be, I'm so sorry to hear that you have to deal with this, I can only imagine.
I can, however, think of no one more capable or determined to get this straightened out, you are a master as traversing the ropes my friend.
Only bit of advice I can offer is some that you would, no doubt, lend to me if our roles were reversed: You can catch more flies with honey than with vinegar, so heed your quest for patience. Try to involve the prescribing doctor and express a state of emergency as may be needed.
Absolutely wishing you the very best on getting this resolved.
Hang in there, I'm assuming that you have a few days margin, you'll get 'er done.
Dave
JimmyK said
Jun 22, 2016
Just a tad shook up here right now.
Will be headed for The Hills in the morning so thought I would call in my Prescription to be delivered next week. I have 15 pills remaining as of this writing.
They have rejected any further refills as it would exceed 12 weeks.
I said yes, 24 exceeds 12 here in Texas too!
So as you can imagine, it's on, and I am not real happy right now! <---- This years prize understatement.
More to come as things develop.
Lord grant me patience.
JimmyK
Linuxter said
Jun 16, 2016
Cool, I see they have a Linux version of software that'll work with my OS ... may just have to download and give it a try.
Probably better than a telescope for me since my cataracts are getting pretty bad.
If/ when I can get surgery I might consider a lower price range telescope, we do have some ambient light where I live but I don't have to go far to get completely away from that.
Fun stuff Jimmy!
Dave
JimmyK said
Jun 16, 2016
Tig56 wrote:
Thanks for all the information. Those are great shots and examples. I'm going to install that program and do some looking. I love this stuff!
Oh man you put a little time into that program and you will get hooked. Any location any date any time. You can zoom in and track anything. You can map with grid lines and or just do it ...very impressive software.
JimmyK said
Jun 16, 2016
wmlj1960 wrote:
You are on a roll Jimmy: UND, great lab results, 1100 helpful post, above water, etc. etc. Keep up the good work!
Oh I have no complaints. Things are going well this time around. I am working from home and that has kind of made me a bit lazy. In fact I have been working from home since I started back in October. Boss is very cool and I have the computer Room here set up like NASA so I can do it all from here and in fact my equipment smokes the office stuff anyway.
Just to show how lazy, here is a shot from where I sit and I was too lazy to move the foot spray. LOL
Thanks for all the information. Those are great shots and examples. I'm going to install that program and do some looking. I love this stuff!
JimmyK said
Jun 16, 2016
The interesting thing about the humidity is it tends to affect viewing of close objects such as the planets. Jupiter for instance has a hard time resolving the bands in a humid environment. But you can push past that and get a good shot of nebula such as can be found in Orion.
The real problem is ambient light. Example only now. The shot from my house tonight around midnight is the first picture. The second one is the same shot if I remove the light.
I assume Dave has a good view.
My brother in law that died lived in Duvall WA and when it wasn't raining, it was pretty spectacular.
I would love to be able to set up a nice telescope here, but the heat and humidity just ruin any hope of focus. I tried once and ended up giving my telescope to my brother in law. I could stare at the stars for hours on end. When I lived in Washington state, we had perfect night skies and low humidity. We would drive into the mountains and find open fields where you could see things most people can only imagine. Enjoy your time viewing the Heavens!
wmlj1960 said
Jun 16, 2016
You are on a roll Jimmy: UND, great lab results, 1100 helpful post, above water, etc. etc. Keep up the good work!
Linuxter said
Jun 16, 2016
How cool is that ... I'd be "Lost in Space" if I tried to find Saturn ... LOL
D
JimmyK said
Jun 16, 2016
Yes Dave it will be peaceful. I have already mapped out my viewing interest from my spot in the Hills. I am going to be out at 9:30 pm. No moon for hours so nice and dark.
Looking South at that time from that place is the first picture, "Wed Night". Then I will zero in on Saturn and it's moons with some of my gear and this is exactly what I expect to see. Ring angles and all. The second picture.
I use http://www.stellarium.org/ and have the software downloaded. Free and fantastic site. You can pull in the sky from anywhere on Earth and any date and time you select. Good stuff!
That is fabby news! Looks like you are gonna do it this time no worries!!!
I like little mouse ankle biting pooches. Mine thinks she is one, but is a great big lump that wants to squash me till she gets a treat. :D
Linuxter said
Jun 16, 2016
Hi Jimmy,
'grats on the bloods ... 'grats on the count ...
Do enjoy "The Other Place" and the stargazing ... sounds peaceful and full of awesome wonder
Dave
robertsamx said
Jun 16, 2016
Hi Jimmy, Great numbers really early on into treatment.With 106 days left in treatment you must be feeling very confident. I hope that when the rooster gets hung on the Christmas Tree this year you can post a video of you placing it on the tree.Hi to Carolyn from RC and Ragdoll
JimmyK said
Jun 16, 2016
Not quite. It is one of them long haired Chihuahua's. Little Hippy mouse of a dog.
There will not be enough water in Texas for me to avoid "side effects".
Tig said
Jun 16, 2016
Hey Jimmie,
I got an email from your favorite ankle biter. Sent a picture and asked me to share it with you. I kind of see a little smirk on it's face! Whaddaya think, you agree?
JimmyK said
Jun 16, 2016
Canuck wrote:
Hey Bro,
Very handsome set of labs you got there Mr.! I disagree with you tho, they ARE exciting, how can one NOT be thrilled at seeing crashed ALT/AST beauties like that, anytime!!, and that total bil, being better than halved, phht!! And, according to your platelets, maybe riba has LEFT the building! Nice report, you get an "A" for that! We will all be looking forward to your next set of lovelies and that Jul 8 VL report (but, we all know what the VL is going to be - don't we!).
Duh ... you got me stumped alright (on that last post of yours bro) - yer gonna have to talk long and slow (but use little words OK) to 'splain it to me I'm 'fraid - what does this mean, when you say ...
"I forgot one very important stat.
Post Count. 1100"
OH! OH! Lightbulb on, maybe an inadvertent synaptic spark, don't tell me it means you have MADE 1100 posts here. NO way!
Love, Sis
Hiya Sis.
Yes The Riba has left the building. I realized that finally back in late May but the fact is it hung on from Dec through May pretty good.
Currently a little on the tired side of doing well. Probably need to get around more than I have been but it is either poring rain or mirage in the desert hot lately. Makes for a miserable time outside. Going out in a bit to Fog for Mosquitoes so I can BBQ some pork chops later.
Carol is leaving for her Mom's in El Reno this Saturday. She will be gone about a week. When she comes back she is bringing her mom and that ankle biting mouse of a dog she has. Did I mention Riba had left the building? Probably a good thing eh?
Any way I am headed out to The Hill Country next Wed, Have to go check on "The Other Place" and do a bit of upkeep out there. I will drive back Friday the 24th.
That will actually be kind of cool to get out to The Hills. Do some Star gazing.
I am getting there. I only have 105 days remaining so 63 behind me.
I see Fire.
JimmyK said
Jun 16, 2016
Pablito wrote:
And that's where I get confused....
- was your week 4 UND, and the "1100" you posted for your most recent round of tests was that your latest VL?
That would have been a tear stained post as opposed to "kind of boring".
Yes I was UND at 4 weeks. 1100 is not my current VL. In that it is Harvoni the assumption is it is kind of a waste of time to continue monitoring the VL. Once UND during treatment it stays there, so long as one is compliant, through treatment. The test that counts is EOT + 12. They are doing another VL on July 8th but as I mentioned it is kind of a waste of blood at this point.
The Sister to The North hit the nail on the head.
1100 = Post count. Captured the screen shot for posterity. LOL
Very handsome set of labs you got there Mr.! I disagree with you tho, they ARE exciting, how can one NOT be thrilled at seeing crashed ALT/AST beauties like that, anytime!!, and that total bil, being better than halved, phht!! And, according to your platelets, maybe riba has LEFT the building! Nice report, you get an "A" for that! We will all be looking forward to your next set of lovelies and that Jul 8 VL report (but, we all know what the VL is going to be - don't we!).
Duh ... you got me stumped alright (on that last post of yours bro) - yer gonna have to talk long and slow (but use little words OK) to 'splain it to me I'm 'fraid - what does this mean, when you say ...
"I forgot one very important stat.
Post Count. 1100"
OH! OH! Lightbulb on, maybe an inadvertent synaptic spark, don't tell me it means you have MADE 1100 posts here. NO way!
Love, Sis
Pablito said
Jun 15, 2016
Hi Jimmy
Congrats on the great bloods.
Just for my understanding can you clarify for me your VL results please?
You did V Pack/Riba and had a breakthrough at week 11
Then in April 2016 you started 24 weeks of Harvoni x 24 weeks.
And that's where I get confused....
- was your week 4 UND, and the "1100" you posted for your most recent round of tests was that your latest VL?
Either way, I REALLY hope this works out for you.
Pablo
-- Edited by Pablito on Wednesday 15th of June 2016 04:42:56 PM
wendyo said
Jun 15, 2016
You're getting there bro. YAY. Break out the barbie. (not the doll)
JimmyK said
Jun 15, 2016
I forgot one very important stat.
Post Count. 1100
LOL Idiot!
Tig said
Jun 15, 2016
Excellent progress, Jimmie! Looks like you're getting everything dialed in just the way we like to see it. Without you're good ol ex friend Riba, your next set of tests should be stellar as well. This is a good sign of great days ahead!
JimmyK said
Jun 15, 2016
Update from Blood Draw 06/10/16, at 57 days into treatment. Highlights only.
ALT prior to start was 64. As of 04/29/16 ...25,...05/13...26....06/10...26
AST prior to start was 45. As of 04/29/16 ...27...05/13...26....06/10....33
Platelets Prior = 241. As of 04/29/16 ...313...05/13...302....06/10....294
All in normal range slight fluctuation between tests. The TBillirubin is 0.7 so pretty happy with that. It was 1.5 on 10/29/15.
As of today I am at day 62 since SOT. I have 106 more days/pills to take so 37% into treatment plan and so far so good.
Next blood draw will include CBC w Diff, BMP, HFP, HCV RNA and is scheduled for July 8th. Not a very exciting update I know but hey! It's not raining!
JimmyK
JimmyK said
May 19, 2016
Lousy job of Faxing but just to make it official.
I kind of like how this came out however. Shows the date 11/17/15 when was hoping for UND at 4 weeks on the last attempt. That was kind of an "OH oh" moment.
Then the clear indication of the breakthrough on 12/15/15. 345306 !
Where I ended just before start of treatment this time on Harvoni tested 03/24/16. 2,359,487
SOT Harvoni 04/15/16
4 weeks later 05/13/16 BAM! GOT THE SUCKER! UND and back to but this time in a good kind of way.
Hiya Sis,
As opposed to making an announcement I chose to simply update my sig line. I am at EOT with 2 days remaining of 84.
While it was a momentary "surprise", I am good with it and believe it rightly reflects standard protocol in cases such as mine.
Having been messing with this in all actuality since last October, it is time to be rid of the Fire Breathing pest.
Come Thursday 5:55am will just never be the same!
Your brother, JimmyK
Hey bro,
Weeeelll, what the news, 12 or 24, know yet?? Either way you got it covered, but am real interested to see how this all ends up going down between doc, insurance and you.
Hope, in the meanwhile, 'til the "further news" shoe drops, you have been enjoying your houseful, fireworks, life, the cosmos, good food and (by all accounts) it sounds so!
Love, sis
Jimmy,
i don't know whether I'm more in awe of you for thinking of the finite and expensive treatment that must be shared amongst as many as possible or for your ability to quietly reason your way to positive thoughts. In any case, you've convinced me. Plus if the unexpected did happen, and you were still positive after 12 weeks, then I imagine you would be moved onto another regime pretty quickly.
I hope Carol is home by now and that everything's going along just fine for you both.
Big hugs to you both,
Syd
That's a good point pablto, these drugs are new, who knows what they could cause health wise ten years down the road. Jimmy your honorable. RC
That's very level-headed and mature of you Jimmy. You are indeed a 12 week candidate. In fact your profile, other than genotype, is identical to mine and no doubt if I was offered a 24 week teddy bear and then only got half I'd be gunning for the extra 12 weeks.
I strongly believe there won't be any long term complications of DAAs, but they are new drugs and you never know and given that you were UND at week 4 it may be for the best.
Pablo
Good Morning Y'all.
Dave the sky there is great. Sometimes there is a humidity factor and it does get hot.
Syd I am glad you enjoyed the ride. For some reason I could hear you in the passengers seat laughing and telling me to slow down some. LOL.
No it is not a matter of bravery on my part. The analysis of the current situation tells me I could potentially raise my chances another 2% by doubling the treatment period but then that would be more in the case if I had severe liver damage that would tend to allow for the virus to hide. There is a point where success is reached and upon that there can be no improvement.
The studies also indicate that due to cost, that treatment-experienced patients with genotype 1 and compensated cirrhosis can have the regimen shortened to 12 weeks if ribavirin is added. As mentioned I don't have cirrhosis but I do find that 12 weeks + RBV does a good job in such cases.
Just prior to starting Harvoni I came in at an F2 / A2 ALT was 73. The HCV RNA came in at 2,359,487.
It is often stated here that the VL going into treatment does not matter and I have quietly taken exception to that. The fact is one of the requirements for the 8 week course is to have a low VL which they consider to be the below 6m range.
Technically speaking if I were not treatment experienced, I would have qualified for the 8 week course. It is only due to the previous failure that I would be pushed to 12 weeks because it was not the numbers that did so.
On to the failure and what concerns it causes. In my case I was found to have the M28T Mutation at NS5A and Q80K and D168Y at NS3. OK hang on now.
In vitro, ledipasvir can select for the primary NS5A mutations Q30E and Y93H with genotype 1a, these mutations confer high-level reduced susceptibility to ledipasvir. I do not have Q30E or Y93H. Sofosbuvir retains full activity against the NS5A ledipasvir-associated mutations that I do have.
So the only remaining concern is the affect Omeprazol may have on the ledipasvir. My belief is if it had any significant affect the way I have been taking the combo I would not have seen UND at 4 weeks. I recognize that does not mean I am cured at 4 weeks but it certainly demonstrates the Harvoni is doing it's job properly. If it is doing it's job properly then the guidelines are valid and in my case, like it or not, being reluctant to let go of the Teddy Bear, I am a proper 12 week candidate and there is no indication that I can see to justify 24 weeks.
I could throw a big fit but facts are facts. Brother Tig has generously offered numbers where I can lodge a complaint against the Insurance Company, but I believe such complaints should be valid and reserved for people that are actually getting jacked around. If I were to lodge a complaint I would have to demonstrate that they are violating the guidelines. In my case they simply are not. I would be pulling attention of some worker to myself that would better be used by someone who really needs them. That would be wrong in the way I believe.
Now there is the possibility that my Doctor will be successful in his appeal. If I were working for the Insurance Company he would not be mainly because I am trained in negotiations and the facts and guidelines would align with my position. One can't take the position another should spend $94,500 that cannot be justified based on the facts of the case.
I recognize everyone here is rooting for me and wants me to hold the Teddy Bear a bit longer. I greatly appreciate my family here but please no disappointments if things do not go in that direction. I covet your positive thoughts and prayers.
My Sister to The North many thanks. Yes I could sense the natives getting restless and I did hear a faint beat of the drums. Let's save all that energy for the party.
And lastly Wendy my lil Sister. No Clyde did not go. He would have been there to talk to but he is lousy with a response so kind of dead weight in the Truck. I am glad you had fun and sensed a smile when you wrote that. For me that is mission accomplished. ;)
Warm Regards to all.
JimmyK
That was fun! (riding in the truck) Thanks for taking us. Did Clyde get to go?
Glad you got to talk to the doc and get a way for a little.
And you are right (as usual) "Que Sera, Sera"
Bro,
We had a vote and there is reassuring consensus amoungst the group that you are indeed "all over" the situ, the best man for the job is on the job, with heavy back-up from the other 2 big and extremely well qualified guys. You got it covered from all angles. Did you sense the rest of the family were itching fer a scrap on your behalf tho (may still happen too, depending on how this thing shapes up. Just say the word!).
Sis.
Hi Jimmy,
it was great to be rattling along right there in the passenger seat, and what a great idea a cabin away from home is.
I wrote a post when you first told us about what is happening re treatment length, it failed to upload.
Amazing how you can roll with this news which would have devastated me. But the stats you attached do tell a story and it's a pretty good one. With a 95% plus success rate, as well as virus free at 4 weeks, you've pretty much got it in the bag haven't you? I'm just in awe of your calm. And bravery.
Yes Tig, this cowboy has just stepped out of the saloon to settle a score. Onlookers are peeping from behind their curtains, a light wind drives the dust down the deserted street. Further along a dragon finds his holster with his reptilian fingers. There's a long stare down happening and my money's on Cool Hand Luke.
Syd
Hey Jimmy,
Looks like you got some clear skies to go along with that fresh air at your hideaway there, hope the astronomical viewing was optimum and the time there ... nice and relaxing.
Thanks for taking us along for the ride!
Dave
You do honor me my brother. Thank you.
In this case more may well be better.
But in all cases, enough is enough. ;)
That right there is a 100% genuine TEXAS JimmyK proverb! Patent pending and all that kind of stuff. LOL
Really now. I don't want to get hooked on treatment. I am told I have an addictive personality.
Hi Jimmy, Thanks for sharing your get away with us. And thanks for settling me down with your cool-calm honest approach to 12 V 24 -- You stay the course, I will follow your tail lights and we all get through this! My wish for you is that you get 24- in this case more is better! RC
Good luck Jimmy,
I suspect whatever the outcome you will achieve UND. This combo is so effective without secondary infection or severe liver damage, I have a lot of faith in these new combo's. I hope you enjoy your stay, I am waiting until after treatment. Something to look forward to.
Have fun. :D
Thanks Tig. I do believe you would love the place. Great sky at night with little ambient light. Milky Way shows nicely.
The problem that The Doctor may run into is a simple matter of the guidelines.
My case to be quite honest does not call for 24 weeks. Yes I have been treated before but I am an F2-F3 at best.
Originally we were pushing the 24 mainly due to Omeprazol and prior treatment. The Omeprazol has proven not to be an issue by nature of the 4 week UND finding. The LED is not having a problem with uptake. We were concerned Harvoni may not be as effective because I have to take the PPI. If you remember that is also the reason I was rejected for the trial he tried to get me in.
He initially did not want me on the Harvoni solely because of the PPI. When the trial was rejected I pushed the Harvoni and told him if he was so concerned then shoot for 24 weeks. Which he did and I know that is why.
The breakthrough on the V-Pack has little to do with it because Harvoni contains the NS5A kicker. (I said that cause you was all into Texas in your post LOL)
I honestly was hoping for the 12 weeks and was floored when I heard 24 had been approved.
Make no mistake, I would love the 24 weeks and I hope he wins. We will just have to see. I also don't want to be stuck on pills forever. I know I know, so long as I am taking the stuff the liver is resting and healing and happy. The tests show that.
But I don't want a crutch and I want to release this pacifier as soon as it is reasonable to assume it has succeeded. I believe my expectations of a cure at 12 weeks are reasonable and come it at the 95% range. Beats the heck out of the old INTER FEAR ON and the Monster Combos.
It will all work out and either way, 12 or 24, I still am not boarding The Ship for another 128 days! LOL
JimmyK
I like the Other Place, Jimmy. Looks like a quiet area where you could just get away from it all, but still have the power pole and well, that keep you with some of the basics when desired. I also learned something else about you. The deep voice fits right into the picture I had developed of you. Tall Texan driving down the road in his truck, headed to his back country place to knock down some brush and stomp a rattlesnake or two, lol! Now I wonder, do you have a Stetson and some Lama's? I would fit into that Texas lifestyle very well!
I'm glad to know that your doctor has taken the bull by the horns and is going to help you wrestle it to the ground. This bull, we can call it "Bull-S**t", needs to be roped, dropped and branded. Can't help all my cowboy type references, they fit so well, lol! I get a good idea of his nature from your description and hope that's all it takes to get some benefit jockey to wake up and get that decision turned in your favor. Nonsense....
No worries, but we mean business when it's time to get things done. Give me a few phone numbers and I'll help you shake things up if necessary!
Hey y'all.
Relax all will be as it should be.
As you know, prior to the news I had panned a few days out at "The Other Place". Well I headed out yesterday morning around 7:00 am. I was not going to let the disturbing news mess with my plans. As of right now I have 13 pills remaining so there is time to change the tide.
Before I left I let my Doctor know what was up. He is one of those professionals that really should not be questioned not to mention I can kind of detect he does not care to be. LOL
So I let him know the Insurance Company was second guessing him. ( you could hear a pin drop. )
So I left him with that and headed for the Hills. Came back early just so I could stay in touch. His Sr. Nurse contacted me this morning to inform me that The Good Doctor had penned an Emergency Appeal and that generally a resolution takes 72 hours. I will assume 3 business days which comes to Wed the 29th, at which time there would be no problem doing a Red Label Overnight to my Door delivery of bottle # 4 at which time I would still have 7 pills remaining in bottle #3. That is assuming the appeal is granted.
If not, then I greatly appreciate the man's efforts on my behalf and simply won't worry about it further. In such a case, a finding of UND will be required on 09/29/16 or The Insurance Company will learn why it is best to follow the instructions of an expert in this field. I will simply then have to do a third protocol and that one will cost them more than they could ever have imagined saving by their stubbornness.
Anyway I will keep y'all informed and no worries, it would make me feel bad LOL.
Hey! Got one minute for me to take you to "The Other Place?"
I had a Craftsman Riding Mower in the back of the Truck so I rode it around, trimmed the place up nice and drank a lot of water! LOL
Good morning Jimmy. I remember when you had your breakthrough on Viekira Pak. You went to work on attaining Harvoni and there was that issue about 12 vs 24 weeks because of your breakthrough on Viekria Pac. At the time I thought you had gotten approved for 24 weeks? If I know you , your not going to let this go without a fight. These hurdles that are placed before us all aren't by coincidence- As you well know!! This is not a test-You have more work to be done-Your not through showing us the way out of the woods. You will teach us how it's done through your experience. You will get your 24-We are all praying for you!!
RC
Jimmy,
What's the status? Didn't the insurance company pre authorize the 24 week protocol? I know you're doing what you need to do to resolve this, insurance commissioner, state AG, elected officials, etc. Don't forget the suggestions on the page we set up. The AU connection comes to mind.
Your ability to step back and reconfigure your plan mid stream, is amazing and commendable. I know the delivery of said information wasn't easy to receive, accepting it as a final decision shouldn't be done just yet. I know you're doing a lot to straighten this out. If there is anything I can do to help you, please let me know. You may consider contacting the assistance programs we have listed here. They aren't there solely as payment assistance sources, but treatment assistance as well.
Stay in touch. OOoommm.......
Oh Gosh, Jimmy, I know that you are protected and taken care of at all times. Now knowing how much I focus on my medicine. when I get refills, when I take it, how much water I drink, how I pace at the pharmacy when I am picking up a refill - I would be a bit of a bundle on the floor if plans were changed on me
But that is my initial reaction based on fear and disappointment. Eventually trust that all is in order & my job is to do the next right thing and accept the results at some point.
Sounds like the final story is not written, I know you will keep taking care of yourself and trusting that all is in God Orderly Direction.
I look forward to hearing the updates.
Jimmy,
you are quite inspirational. To be able to totally turn around the situation in your own head is amazing. And practical.
I'm sure you won't go down without a fight but the bottom line has already been clearly set in your head. If bureaucracy, bungling and idiots get their way, you won't go into melt down mode - it wouldn't help your body's dragon slaying adventure anyway. And all those positives you've listed are facts.
Let us know asap how things unfold. You are so important to us all.
Big hugs,
Syd
Jimmy, You have got to be kidding. I'm with Dave and Linuxter. Don't let them get away with this if you can, and yes, do it with honey ir you can. It could be that somebody made a mistake, and we all know insurance companies have to be pressured! Maybe the guidelines are right, that 12 weeks is enough, but you should be able to get your prescribing doctor to verify and assist with this. Now.
I hear you that God is your bottom line, but you are in charge of the next step. So sorry to hear this, Jimmy. Let's ask God to turn it around.
That was quite a good lesson in turning it around, turning it over to God etc. I personally needed to hear that so thank you. Enjoy The Other Place. Big hug!
... little surprised to hear it wasn't another watch ... BTW, how's Clyde?
Well, you'll either get another 12 weeks or ya won't, you are spot on about that. Your justifications for not going into utter panic and destruction mode are valid but something doesn't smell right, approval is approval, you must have some paperwork that states your Rx is for 24 weeks and has been approved. I'm guessing the doctor's office will get it straightened out, after all, that is their job.
My dealings with the pharmacy were that I was always ALWAYS having to straighten them out, the staff was obviously underpaid and I had to speak with a pharmacist a time or two to ensure that I got my meds in time. It could well be the fact that THEIR norm is 12 weeks max and it's their screw up. Any way ya look at it ... it will be the Doctor's office that will need to straighten it out.
Kudos on being calm, having faith and moving ahead to enjoy life in spite of major attempts to push your buttons, make you feel powerless and renege on what has already been approved.
It's upsetting but you approach it wisely, I'd be calling the doctors office tomorrow and Friday to make sure they keep on it.
Do feel good about the way you are managing the stress my friend, head for the hills, relax, kick back, gaze and wonder at the universe beyond our little world, the over two week supply does give you a little time to get some answers.
Enjoy you trip to the hills,
Dave
Greetings,
The news while attempting to complete a refill was a bit much. There was an old side to me that I felt tip toe across my spine.
So I determined to take EMERGENCY MEASURES reserved only for the most pressing situations.
It was one of those, 'IN CASE OF EMERGENCY BREAK GLASS!" kind of moments.
So I did. I went to Wall-Mart.
Bought a few items for the drive out to The Other Place in the morning.
I spoke with one of my Doctors Staff and I intend to leave it at that.
I decided to look at things from a practical point of view. If I get cut off at 12 weeks, then that was all I needed.
Of course that means I had to also update my spreadsheet but I am halfway to decent with Excel so I added a "Plan B 12 Weeks" Tab and that took care of that.
What it means in terms of facts is not so bad.
Instead of 9/28/16 being the last Pill swallowed, that date will now become SVR-12.
Instead of having 99 Days remaining, I now have 15.
Instead of having completed 41% of my treatment plan, I have now completed 82%.
I don't have cirrhosis so the 24 week plan did not technically apply anyway. Pre treated non cirrhotic is a 12 week course of which I have been richly blessed with the 84 pills contained therein.
I am now in the 95% success rate category and having come in UND at 4 weeks the additional 8 weeks after that should do it.
So I have no intention of running around here like a decapitated Rooster after having encouraged others who have gotten worse news not to do so.
It's all good, Life is Beautiful, and I am a child of God. What in this world do I have to worry about? I realize I went to Wall-Mart but I lost my head momentarily. I am in control now and very little damage resulted in the trip.
Does anyone have a need for a New Mr. Coffee? LOL
JimmyK
Screeeeech! WHAT!
I do not have to imagine that you are already all over this, right? ... tell me you are already burning up the phone, as well as emailing the screwing up parties, and about to drive down to a couple offices to see some folk eyeball to eyeball??!!
Better yet, pleease tell me you already have it all resolved!
Surely, this is just some very badly timed glitch, some insurance bean counter trying to think too hard, and that the other weeks (of course) WILL be coming!
Argh!
C.
I am betting you will get his resolved today!!, and/or very quickly (knowing you and how adept you are at righting things). Although you must be livid, remain clam, methodical, do not panic, if it takes a few days to unwind their mess, you have a couple weeks of pills left and you WILL get this sorted in time.
How stressful this must be, I'm so sorry to hear that you have to deal with this, I can only imagine.
I can, however, think of no one more capable or determined to get this straightened out, you are a master as traversing the ropes my friend.
Only bit of advice I can offer is some that you would, no doubt, lend to me if our roles were reversed: You can catch more flies with honey than with vinegar, so heed your quest for patience. Try to involve the prescribing doctor and express a state of emergency as may be needed.
Absolutely wishing you the very best on getting this resolved.
Hang in there, I'm assuming that you have a few days margin, you'll get 'er done.
Dave
Just a tad shook up here right now.
Will be headed for The Hills in the morning so thought I would call in my Prescription to be delivered next week. I have 15 pills remaining as of this writing.
They have rejected any further refills as it would exceed 12 weeks.
I said yes, 24 exceeds 12 here in Texas too!
So as you can imagine, it's on, and I am not real happy right now! <---- This years prize understatement.
More to come as things develop.
Lord grant me patience.
JimmyK
Cool, I see they have a Linux version of software that'll work with my OS ... may just have to download and give it a try.
Probably better than a telescope for me since my cataracts are getting pretty bad.
If/ when I can get surgery I might consider a lower price range telescope, we do have some ambient light where I live but I don't have to go far to get completely away from that.
Fun stuff Jimmy!
Dave
Oh man you put a little time into that program and you will get hooked. Any location any date any time. You can zoom in and track anything. You can map with grid lines and or just do it ...very impressive software.
Oh I have no complaints. Things are going well this time around. I am working from home and that has kind of made me a bit lazy. In fact I have been working from home since I started back in October. Boss is very cool and I have the computer Room here set up like NASA so I can do it all from here and in fact my equipment smokes the office stuff anyway.
Just to show how lazy, here is a shot from where I sit and I was too lazy to move the foot spray. LOL
Thanks for all the information. Those are great shots and examples. I'm going to install that program and do some looking. I love this stuff!
The interesting thing about the humidity is it tends to affect viewing of close objects such as the planets. Jupiter for instance has a hard time resolving the bands in a humid environment. But you can push past that and get a good shot of nebula such as can be found in Orion.
The real problem is ambient light. Example only now. The shot from my house tonight around midnight is the first picture. The second one is the same shot if I remove the light.
I assume Dave has a good view.
My brother in law that died lived in Duvall WA and when it wasn't raining, it was pretty spectacular.
JimmyK
I would love to be able to set up a nice telescope here, but the heat and humidity just ruin any hope of focus. I tried once and ended up giving my telescope to my brother in law. I could stare at the stars for hours on end. When I lived in Washington state, we had perfect night skies and low humidity. We would drive into the mountains and find open fields where you could see things most people can only imagine. Enjoy your time viewing the Heavens!
You are on a roll Jimmy: UND, great lab results, 1100 helpful post, above water, etc. etc. Keep up the good work!
How cool is that ... I'd be "Lost in Space" if I tried to find Saturn ... LOL
D
Yes Dave it will be peaceful. I have already mapped out my viewing interest from my spot in the Hills. I am going to be out at 9:30 pm. No moon for hours so nice and dark.
Looking South at that time from that place is the first picture, "Wed Night". Then I will zero in on Saturn and it's moons with some of my gear and this is exactly what I expect to see. Ring angles and all. The second picture.
I use http://www.stellarium.org/ and have the software downloaded. Free and fantastic site. You can pull in the sky from anywhere on Earth and any date and time you select. Good stuff!
JimmyK
That is fabby news! Looks like you are gonna do it this time no worries!!!
I like little mouse ankle biting pooches. Mine thinks she is one, but is a great big lump that wants to squash me till she gets a treat. :D
Hi Jimmy,
'grats on the bloods ... 'grats on the count ...
Do enjoy "The Other Place" and the stargazing ... sounds peaceful and full of awesome wonder
Dave
Hi Jimmy, Great numbers really early on into treatment.With 106 days left in treatment you must be feeling very confident. I hope that when the rooster gets hung on the Christmas Tree this year you can post a video of you placing it on the tree.Hi to Carolyn from RC and Ragdoll
Not quite. It is one of them long haired Chihuahua's. Little Hippy mouse of a dog.
There will not be enough water in Texas for me to avoid "side effects".
Hey Jimmie,
I got an email from your favorite ankle biter. Sent a picture and asked me to share it with you. I kind of see a little smirk on it's face! Whaddaya think, you agree?
Hiya Sis.
Yes The Riba has left the building. I realized that finally back in late May but the fact is it hung on from Dec through May pretty good.
Currently a little on the tired side of doing well. Probably need to get around more than I have been but it is either poring rain or mirage in the desert hot lately. Makes for a miserable time outside. Going out in a bit to Fog for Mosquitoes so I can BBQ some pork chops later.
Carol is leaving for her Mom's in El Reno this Saturday. She will be gone about a week. When she comes back she is bringing her mom and that ankle biting mouse of a dog she has. Did I mention Riba had left the building? Probably a good thing eh?
Any way I am headed out to The Hill Country next Wed, Have to go check on "The Other Place" and do a bit of upkeep out there. I will drive back Friday the 24th.
That will actually be kind of cool to get out to The Hills. Do some Star gazing.
I am getting there. I only have 105 days remaining so 63 behind me.
I see Fire.
That would have been a tear stained post as opposed to "kind of boring".
Yes I was UND at 4 weeks. 1100 is not my current VL. In that it is Harvoni the assumption is it is kind of a waste of time to continue monitoring the VL. Once UND during treatment it stays there, so long as one is compliant, through treatment. The test that counts is EOT + 12. They are doing another VL on July 8th but as I mentioned it is kind of a waste of blood at this point.
The Sister to The North hit the nail on the head.
1100 = Post count. Captured the screen shot for posterity. LOL
Hey Bro,
Very handsome set of labs you got there Mr.! I disagree with you tho, they ARE exciting, how can one NOT be thrilled at seeing crashed ALT/AST beauties like that, anytime!!, and that total bil, being better than halved, phht!! And, according to your platelets, maybe riba has LEFT the building! Nice report, you get an "A" for that! We will all be looking forward to your next set of lovelies and that Jul 8 VL report (but, we all know what the VL is going to be - don't we!).
Duh ... you got me stumped alright (on that last post of yours bro) - yer gonna have to talk long and slow (but use little words OK) to 'splain it to me I'm 'fraid - what does this mean, when you say ...
"I forgot one very important stat.
Post Count. 1100"
OH! OH! Lightbulb on, maybe an inadvertent synaptic spark, don't tell me it means you have MADE 1100 posts here. NO way!
Love, Sis
Hi Jimmy
Congrats on the great bloods.
Just for my understanding can you clarify for me your VL results please?
You did V Pack/Riba and had a breakthrough at week 11
Then in April 2016 you started 24 weeks of Harvoni x 24 weeks.
And that's where I get confused....
- was your week 4 UND, and the "1100" you posted for your most recent round of tests was that your latest VL?
Either way, I REALLY hope this works out for you.
Pablo
-- Edited by Pablito on Wednesday 15th of June 2016 04:42:56 PM
You're getting there bro. YAY. Break out the barbie. (not the doll)
Post Count. 1100
LOL
Idiot!
Excellent progress, Jimmie! Looks like you're getting everything dialed in just the way we like to see it. Without you're good ol ex friend Riba, your next set of tests should be stellar as well. This is a good sign of great days ahead!
Lousy job of Faxing but just to make it official.
I kind of like how this came out however. Shows the date 11/17/15 when was hoping for UND at 4 weeks on the last attempt. That was kind of an "OH oh" moment.
Then the clear indication of the breakthrough on 12/15/15.
345306 !
Where I ended just before start of treatment this time on Harvoni tested 03/24/16.
2,359,487
SOT Harvoni 04/15/16
4 weeks later 05/13/16 BAM! GOT THE SUCKER! UND and back to
but this time in a good kind of way.
JimmyK