Today’s the day I’m collecting for the 24 hr urine test. I have to leep reminding myself it’s not a contest to see how much I can get. I start to worry if it’s not looking like it’s enough. I can only do what I can do, right?
For those who don’t know what I’m talking about, there’s a test that we with MM have to do every once in a while. It’s called a 24 hour urine test. We have to save all our urine in a jug for 24 hours, starting with the second “event” of the day and ending with the first of the next day. Then we lug the jug to the doc’s office and they send it off for testing. What they’re trying to determine, is the amount of what used to be known as Bence-Jones protein.
It’s a complicated process, and it’s always amazing to me that someone even figured this stuff out.
Hi Lee,
many things in life are fatal. Life itself is. But that doesn’t stop us from exploring and finding out as much as we can. I was diagnosed with MM in 1996; I am coming up to my tenth anniversary. If I had adopted your attitude (and you are only MGUS) then I probably wouldn’t be here today. But I made an effort, found out about MM and what I could do to improve my chances.
Since my diagnosis, and some older treatments I had, science and medicine have moved on. I am firmaly convinced that a cure will be found in the next 24-36 months – I am determined to be here for that, but I won’t be if I adopt your attitude. Camels bury their heads in the sand, humans shouldn’t (it makes your mouth all gritty and the sand is hell to get out of your ears!!:))
Please go and have these very routine tests; by knowing what the tests show, you can adapt and improve your lifestyle without compromising your zest for life!
Best wishes,
Chris
Yes, I am familiar with the jug. After researching MM and discovery it is fatal and there is no real cure, I made the decision to stop these bi-annual tests. I did not want this cancer to take over my life as it seems to have taken over yours. Although only diagnosed with MGUS (a precursor to MM) I feel my odds are better by not knowing; keeping healthy, and staying active. If I don’t know and will not dwell on it.
Lee