As you know, I am a two-year breast cancer survivor, and I have undergone several surgeries, plus chemotherapy and radiation.  You also will recall that my medical oncologist told me not to take Immunocal (or even vitamins) during my chemotherapy, because she didn’t want it to potentially block the absorption of the chemo drugs.  You very energetically provided me with evidence to the contrary – pointing out that Immunocal instead increases the absorption rate, but I chose not to push the issue.  I did not take Immunocal for as long as I was on chemotherapy and even through my radiation therapy.

Stay with me here.  This is long but impressive at the end.  In Feb. 2001, I completed chemotherapy and went immediately into radiation therapy, completing that in mid-May.  At the end of May, I saw my oncologist for a 3-month follow up that included a blood draw with CBC test.  At the time, my white blood cell counts (indicative of the strength of my immune system) was low. My immune system was below normal.  The oncologist explained that that was to be expected and that my immune system very likely will never return to normal because of all it (I) went through.  We would combat any infections with antibiotics if needed.  Of course, I needed to be extra careful with regard to viruses, and she told me to start taking daily vitamin supplements again to boost my strength.  Three months later (August 2001), my immune system was still below normal.  In November it was slightly better, but still below normal.

Around the end of 2001, I was preparing for my second mastectomy (prophylactic) to take place in January, and I decided to start taking Immunocal again.  I still had an entire box from before.  I went through the surgery fine, no infections, and healed relatively quickly.  In February 2002, I returned to my oncologist for the 3-month follow up, and she happily reported to me that my white blood cell count was normal!  It was at the low end of normal, but NORMAL nevertheless.  She said she was pleasantly surprised and happy for it (I have not told her that I’m taking Immunocal).

In May 2002, my white blood cell count was still higher, and last Friday (July 19th) it tested higher again.  My oncologist said I’m healthy as a horse.  My white blood cell count was up for the third test running.  She added that my immune system is now “solidly normal!”  Wooo-whooo!

I’m now doubling my intake from one pouch to two per day, and I really look forward to what she’ll have to say the next time I go in.  In the mean time, my energy level is even better, and my skin is looking good.  Even the nurse at my plastic surgeon’s office commented that I heal more quickly than many of the surgeon’s patients (I was asking how long it’ll take to recover from my final reconstructive surgery).

Thanks for plugging away at me with regard to the Immunocal.  I believe it has truly helped me.

Donna

---