https://www.lls.org/treatment/types-of-treatment/blood-transfusion

Crl, thanks. I just read the link. They did not mention weekly transfusion as an option though.

I just did a bit of googling and it sounds like this is common for people with leukemia in some stages. Because the leukemia adversely affects blood cell production, the transfusions are given however frequently they are needed to help the person feel good. It sounds like people get tired or rundown in the days leading up to the next transfusion.

Honestly before he restricted himself from going on a cruise I would check the medical facilities available on the ship, they might (or might not) be able to accommodate him.

An oft repeated anecdote: was once on a cruise heading from Vietnam to Singapore when a crewmember began to hemorrhage. They put out a general call for whatever type blood from the passengers and were transfusing her constantly until a medical copter from s’pore could reach us. It was amazing. She thankfully survived (personally I’m happy she could be treated in Singapore which seems to have excellent hospitals).

It did not say weekly, but it did mention periodic. Weekly would be periodic (as would monthly, etc).

Are you concerned that he isn’t getting appropriate medical care?

I'm thinking this all doesn't make sense and that possibly SIL is not telling us everything.

Robo, the doctor felt a cruise would have more germs.

My mom had leukemia and had weekly transfusions ONLY when medication became ineffective. Something is missing here.

lukkiirish, that’s what I was thinking. My Dh gets pissy if I mention that he has a cold to my parents. He thinks his health is none of anyone’s business.

His age might also be a factor. A blood transfusion might be an easier treatment for someone who is 83.

Nannygoat, the doctor made it sound that SIL's BF could go for years doing weekly transfusions. shat was your mother's experience?

I think initially what happened was he wanted to avoid chemo. He did wind up going on a pill, and I am not sure if he ever had chemo intravenously. Now, he is just going to do transfusions and wait for a something new that is coming out in February.

Lukki, I agree with you and Nanny. I think SIL filters things to suit her. But, that's a whole other issue.

There could be more to the story (type of leukemia, stage, other treatments tried, health of the patient etc.) but regular transfusions are not uncommon with a leukemia patient.

As for a cruise I would avoid it if there's a chance he might need a transfusion. There are too many complications that could arise from someone in his condition. And at his age I imagine he's on Medicare which only provides coverage in the US, there is some coverage provided when on a cruise but only within a very short distance of the US.

I agree with you, Maire. I think he was thinking cruise because it would be a relaxing way to get away. But, I agree with the doctor about germs, some ships are better than others at sanitizing. Too many stories about outbreaks.

I think at 83 his doctor is correct. Something else may kill him before his leukemia might. His stage may very well be incurable but he is still very treatable with transfusion. He now has a chronic illness but not necessarily a terminal one. Hope he heeds his doctor's advise and enjoys a full life between his treatments.

Thanks, Roarah. This makes sense. I think part of the problem is SIL. She can be a drama queen at times. Never know what exactly to believe sometimes.

Eld, my mom was 81 when she was diagnosed with CCL. She was on various chemo treatments for two years until it ceased working. She started regular blood transfusions but it was like trying to bail out a fast-filling leaky boat so her doctor suggested radiation. At that point, she decided she'd suffered enough, refused further treatment and died three weeks later.

Leukemia patients are usually immune-suppressed--however my mom's doctor never put any restrictions on her activities.

Without having access to his records, it's really impossible to know what's going on.

Thanks. I just can't see how someone can be on transfusions for years and years, which is what this doctor is insinuating.

Again, thanks everyone for your input.

Generally transfusion-dependent patients are in more serious condition, and therefore more likely to be recognized as needing palliative care. Usually there's not a cruise involved.