So my sister calls me Friday and half crying says that I need to call my father. Well of course I ask her what is wrong, my father is 76 and many things ail him but nothing serious ... that is until now. So I get off the phone and call my dad who is trying to be his ussual chipper self. He tells me after a few pleasantries that he has been diagnosed with lukemia. Now I am scared to death, but I didn't think he needed to hysterical daugters. SO I remined him that our family is strong and we beat cancer...only thing is, I don't really believe it. My Aunt just died last year after fighting breast cancer for 5 years...and while I am fine I had the baby of cancer. They took it out and I had no residual effects. What the hell is lukemia anyway... I know we have a few nurses on this board and I would appriciate the information. I am not freaking out... but I haven't done any reasearch on the net yet... I guess I am too scared about what I will find out. Hell I don't even know how a person fights it. Radiation...sucks, but kemo sucks more.... Thanks in advance for the help. :think

Spoke to my Dad today... He is in very good spirits. He went through his blood test yesterday and so I will soon know what we are dealing with. I am glad to here though that we are the same blood type o-. I don't know if that will mean anything, but it makes me feel better. Thanks Jodi and blossom for your encouraging words.... I love all of you! :knockedou

So glad to hear that, Rica! It usually takes a while to get answers. But,hopefully, they'll be good ones!

So sorry for your worries right now, but try to think positive thoughts. The power is amazing.

You and your family are in my prayers.

Rica, it's hard reading this because so far you've been so strong for me, so when I see you in pain, it just doesn't seem fair. Remember that your dad helped make you the strong woman you are today; with today's treatments and options, dad will be around a long time, so so it's time for you to be brave and face this enemy with all you've got. Take a deep breathe, reflect on all the love, and then start reading everything you can get your hands on so you can help dad and your family every way you can.

Good Luck and God bless Rica. Cancer and all it's various forms and treatments can be pretty confusing, especially to those of us who don't work in that specialty field, but all the recent advances seem very encouraging. Penny is such a great asset to this site, and definitely a good support person to have in your corner right now, with her experience, she could help you understand the information you'll be given, and if need be even help you ask the right questions. I'm sending you my best wishes for a treatment that works for your dad, and the blessings of strength for you and your's.

Pam, Kathy, Delarla and Marie, You must realize what an extreem support you are being right now. Thank you. I am stronger today because of your thoughts and prayers. I know that I can get through this. It's not me that I am most concerned for, nor is it my father really. My sister has such a bad relationship with him I know that she is goint to peices. I wish that she and I were closer, but we have never been. She is a little manic and I always got on her nerves. Well maybe through this she and I can learn to get along. If only for my dad.

Rica, serious illness can pull a family together in time of need. But sometimes it can isolate others. Hopefully your sister will do some "soul searching" and reconcile with your Dad. But she's got to do that on her own free will. Just let her know that you're there for her. Perhaps you have someone (outside the family) that she can confide in (like a minister, or family friend). Sending you (((hugs))) and prayers.