*Beading Granny*

Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia 

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common cancer in children and represents about one-quarter of all cancers among persons younger than 15 years. Acute lymphoblastic leukemia is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow (spongy tissue in the center of bone). In ALL, too many marrow stem cells develop into a type of white blood cell called lymphocytes. These abnormal lymphocytes are not able to fight infection very well. Also, as the number of these lymphocytes increases, there is less room for healthy white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets. This may lead to infection, fatigue and easy bleeding.

Leukemia Symptoms

• Fatigue
• Fever
• Easy bruising
• Bone pain

Diagnostic Tests

• Complete blood count (CBC) — a blood test that checks the number of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets.
• Bone marrow aspiration — a needle is placed into the hip bone or breastbone and a sample of bone marrow is taken and examined for signs of cancer.
• Cytogenetic analysis — lymphocytic cells taken from blood or bone marrow are examined to see if there are any changes in their chromosomes (genetic material).
• Immunophenotyping — a test to see if cancer lymphocytes originated from B lymphocytes or T lymphocytes. This information is helpful in treating ALL.

Prognosis and Treatment

Prognosis (chance of recovery) from childhood ALL is usually very good; however, both prognosis and treatment depend on

• Age and white blood cell count at diagnosis
• Response to initial treatment
• Origin of leukemia cells (from B or T lymphocytes)
• Certain changes in the chromosomes of the lymphocytes
• Involvement of the brain and spinal cord
• Different types of treatment programs are available. Some programs are standard (currently used) and some are being tested in clinical trials (experimental). Most use chemotherapy (drug therapy). In addition, some patients may also need radiation therapy (use of high-energy x-rays) or bone marrow transplantation.

 Admiring Reagan

 This is Reagan Allison, 3 years old, my first cousins' granddaughter. It breaks my heart to see her going through this turmoil in her life. But you know she seems to be a trooper and taking it all in stride! She seems happy and full of energy. Am positive she has her days. But the cutest little energetic girl, Reagan, I admire you so very much for your courage and bravery as you take this journey through your young life and I hope for much speed on your recovery.

Love you, Your cousin Tip

. “Who is Reagan”, you ask? Well she is a bright and chipper little three year old who has melted so many hearts at this young age! We cry, we pray for Reagan and so many other children who have been stricken in their young lives with a traumatic disease. A disease that keeps you on pins and needles all throughout testing, doctor visits, and hospital stays. As our hearts break for Reagan, I am reminded of a verse in the Bible, “Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them; for the Lord thy God, he that doeth with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.” (Deut. 31:6). Reagan shows us all that courage and strength everyday – she shows us how brave she is with that cute smile. God bless you Reagan, I hope and pray daily that your journey with this disease will be a short one and there will be a cure for you and others alike.

 Anyone who would like to make a donation on Reagan's behalf for her medical expenses - feel free to do so

Send check or money order to:

Wendy Allison

PO Box 292

Alamance, NC 27215

Send Email to Vanessa