I can update this much at least
@GardenGerty (169439)
United States
February 11, 2026 7:59pm CST
Yesterday we saw a hematologist/oncologist. He told us his opinion about Bob's anemia and why he had that opinion. We have a treatment plan to go forward with, if it is confirmed.
He believes Bob is suffering from Myelodysplastic Syndrome which can be caused by aging and genetics OR by cancer treatments such as radiation. What this means is that his bone marrow is not doing its job. It is not producing blood cells.
Bob was sent to this doctor because although his iron and B vitamins, etc. are okay his red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets are all low.
Myelodysplastic Syndrome progresses to leukemia.
The first step is to get a bone marrow biopsy. They are working on getting insurance to approve it, then that will happen. If it is indeed this syndrome, then a mild chemotherapy is in order.
I was surprised that Bob chose to go with the bone marrow biopsy. He has had them before, not really fun. The doctor was also willing, if he did not want the biopsy, to give him a medication that is good for the kidneys and bone marrow. Bob went with the idea of a biopsy, if insurance will cover it. So here we are. Waiting to see.
15 people like this
14 responses
@GardenGerty (169439)
• United States
13 Feb
Thank you, DE. I hope you get in to see that neurologist in a timely manner.
1 person likes this
@snowy22315 (208774)
• United States
12 Feb
I'm sorry..I hope whatever he has can be treated successfully.
2 people like this
@GardenGerty (169439)
• United States
13 Feb
Again so much of it points towards radiation damage from his cancer treatment. This doctor makes me feel confident, though.
@GardenGerty (169439)
• United States
13 Feb
I just keep hanging in here. Thank you for your kind thoughts.
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@MarieCoyle (59107)
•
12 Feb
Oh, bone marrow biopsy, no, that isn't fun at all. I hope he can get it done that way if that's what he wants, and that the insurance will cover it. Any type of chemotherapy is concerning, I hope the testing goes well. 

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@GardenGerty (169439)
• United States
13 Feb
I will certainly keep every one posted as we progress with this.
1 person likes this
@MarieCoyle (59107)
•
13 Feb
@GardenGerty
I know this has to be hard for both of you. Prayers and a hug sent your way. 

@celticeagle (189819)
• Boise, Idaho
12 Feb
It's good to know what is going on. I wish you well and hope the insurance will cover it. Take care.
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@GardenGerty (169439)
• United States
13 Feb
Thank you. Never a dull moment here for us.
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@celticeagle (189819)
• Boise, Idaho
14 Feb
@GardenGerty ........Sounds like how it is around here at times.
@wolfgirl569 (135601)
• Marion, Ohio
12 Feb
The biopsy gives a clearer idea so I am glad he is doing it. A friend of mine said hers really hurt at one place but a different place did one after she started treatment and it wasn't bad
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@GardenGerty (169439)
• United States
13 Feb
He had two at one hospital, in 2022. What we like is that this is supposed to give us a lot of information.
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@RasmaSandra (97908)
• Daytona Beach, Florida
12 Feb
Best of luck to Bob and keeping him in my prayers, Blessings to you both,
1 person likes this
@GardenGerty (169439)
• United States
13 Feb
Thank you. We are on a new path now.
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@GardenGerty (169439)
• United States
13 Feb
At 80 years old, it is all problematic.
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@Fleura (34935)
• United Kingdom
13 Feb
@GardenGerty Yes, older age makes everything more complicated. Let's hope for the best 

@GardenGerty (169439)
• United States
13 Feb
Yes he seems to be very knowledgeable and he treats us like our brains work.
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@LindaOHio (222285)
• United States
12 Feb
Sending a prayer for the both of you. 

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