My Journey to surviving leukemia

My name is Kizzie Pickens, recently my world changed for good.  I went from standing in the line at Jamba Juice to having been rushed to the emergency room and I haven't left since.

I am currently battling for my life against (AML)  Acute Myeloid Leukemia . I'm not sure which is more painful the Cancer or the intensive  after effects of Chemotherapy.

Leukemia 

The lesson I am learning here is not to take anything for granted because tomorrow is truly not promised no matter how healthy you "think" you are. 

I have been here at Methodist Hospital since November 21st and I've undergone some very intense chemotherepy.  The chemo and Leukemia has affected every area of my body and changed life as I know it.

I'm self employed and business has been slow, if I don't work I don't receive pay and I'm seeking some assistance from my friends and loved ones. The Hospital bills are well over $500,000 and continuing to mount up. I'm only asking for your help temporarily because I'm aggressively  working on the back end  to assure that I'll be ok in the near future. They've  asked for a very substantial deposit to continue providing me services, so we are paying out of pocket for the stay, prescriptions and supplies. 

During my treatment, I have  suffered from the following health problems.
1: Surgery to install a Chemo catheter near my heart.
2: Very painful bone marrow biopsies.
3: Complete loss of appetite. Food is tasteless and slimy.
4: Thinning esophogus. Painful to swollow, digest or keep food down.
5: Gums are bleeding and swollen.
6: Lymph nodes have swollen causing painful swelling on my entire body.
7: Constant fever, hot and cold flashes .
8: Extreme headaches, and joint pains
9: I've lost all of my hair.
10: Loss of vision in both eyes, temporary blindness.
11: Lost over 20 pounds in less than a month.
12: Skin rashes, pain, and irritation.
13: Deep bone pains.
14:  Diarrhea and stomach cramps. 
15: Bleeding from my nose, gums and through urine.
16: Blood and platelet transfusions.
17: Constant weakness and restlessness.

I'm taking this one moment at a time. It can get overwhelming but I try to take everything slow. I can't worry about the next minute or the next hour, I just take it moment by moment. 

Thank you very much to all my dear friends that have been here for me.  Those who have been here to support me and get me through one day at a time.

In my life I have done my best to help others and I pray that others will extend their hand to me.  I'm very grateful for all my true and loving friends that have been with me on this journey.

I love you all, I wish you all optimal  health!