I've been on the Ibrutinib/Venetoclax trial for 8 months now and last Friday my blood test came back CLL free.
I underwent yesterday my 2nd bone marrow biopsy since I enrolled the trial. My bones are very dense and the first biopsy was nothing else than a torture with excruciating pain.
I was really concerned about the 2nd biopsy and asked this time to be sedated. What a difference 125 mcg of Fentanyl can do. No pain at all, you don't even see yourself go under or come back.
My first question was "when do you guys get it started?" and their answer was "it's already done". I have now no fear for the next one.
I just wanted others to know there is no need to freak-out. Yes we all do freak out with the idea of a huge needle entering our hip bone and the aspiration that follows. I've experienced that once and won't do it again, at least without sedation.
It is true some people feel almost nothing because they don't have dense bones but why even find out when they actually do it to you? Just ask for a sedation and you'll be thanking me.
I am now waiting for the results and will keep you posted. MRD negative or not? that is my question. I can't wait to say "Goodbye CLL" and hopefully forever.
Be well!