I just received my third month's PCR result since stopping Sprycel back in February.
PCR - 'undetected'.
Trey - it's cheerleading time.
Last test had a detection. I felt ... o.k. here we go - the inevitable jump. Not so.
After 3 months off Sprycel, I get to continue my new protocol. No TKI.
I passed the first hurdle - most relapse following cessation occurs within the first 3 months. And it is usually a big jump (one log or more). The next hurdle is at 20 months when CML seems to have a second bite at the apple. But as many here know, I have my theories.
So far so good. I am excited. Cheerleading in fact.
I have asked M.D. Anderson if I can scale back my PCR testing to 3 month interval. I suspect they will tell me no - that I should continue monthly testing. And I'll be o.k. with that.
Thanks to all on this forum for support and encouragement - and - debate (Trey). I get to go another month (maybe 3) without a Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor in my body.
Trey mentioned he'll believe this is "real" if I go 12 months this way. o.k. - we're into month 4. 1/3rd of the way there. I know you're rooting for me Trey, even though you believe this won't work. For now, I get to remain in the cessation club with PhilB and the rest.