In 2013, Jack Wyche of Milton was diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). He credits the diagnosis to prolonged exposure to Agent Orange during his military time in Vietnam.
Jack chose Atlanta Cancer Care’s Dr. Silpa Reddy for his treatment.
“Dr. Reddy had previously (and successfully) treated my wife for cancer and that was my initial reason for visiting Dr. Reddy,” Jack said. “I believe that having her take on the treatment for my CLL was and continues to be one of the best decisions I have ever made.”
“Finding out in 2013 that I had leukemia was an extremely tough discovery,” Jack added. “Not knowing what to expect or when to expect it was more than difficult. Fortunately, for me and my family, Dr. Reddy offered clear information and guidance. She performed a number of specific and detailed tests that gave me a pretty clear picture of my prognosis and what to expect.”
In 2017, Jack’s CLL reached a point that he had to go through a chemotherapy protocol that had a debilitating effect on him that lasted for some time after chemotherapy was completed. Jack said “it was worth the time, effort, and my diminished physical capabilities because the CLL was knocked WAY back for about three years.”
Jack’s current treatment plan includes ongoing regular preventative monitoring of his body and blood chemistry for any CLL changes that might require attention. Jack said he experienced “significant” changes in late 2020, but Dr. Reddy knew exactly what to do.
“Given my personal circumstances and the fact that I will always have CLL, I think my lifestyle, general abilities, and capabilities are outstanding,” Jack said. “The credit for all of that goes to the treatment, support, advice, and counsel of Dr. Reddy and the people at the [Atlanta Cancer Care] facility.”
Today, Jack believes he’s in much better health than he could have otherwise expected to have maintained. He enjoys spending time with family and friends, trying to keep up with his grandchildren, being active in the Rotary, playing golf, and going to the beach.
Learn more about the Blood and Marrow Transplant Program at Northside.
*The health story shared here may portray atypical results of survival for this type of cancer, given its severity and stage. Atypical results are considered surviving a cancer that has less than a 50 percent five-year survival rate. Patients should consult an expert to discuss specific treatment plans and the possible outcomes before making medical decisions.
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