Test Results: August 13, 2024: REGRESSIVE: Drastic Decrease

Background

On Tuesday, August 21st, I headed to the office early for a day-long training session. While at my desk, catching up on some work, I received an unexpected email from the vet.

We’d had Chiana’s blood drawn and were anxiously waiting for the results. By this point, we were at a crossroads: her progressive numbers were slowly increasing, and we were getting concerned about the high cost of the medication at 200 mg a day. We started wondering if we’d reached a plateau. We even considered trying a similar drug or adding a “helper” medication, knowing we couldn’t keep up with the cost.

The Surprise

Normally, our vet communicates primarily with my husband—he’s the “geeky science guy” who can decode the numbers. So, I was shocked when I received this email. And when I read it, I was completely stunned.

Chiana was regressive!!! Even better, it was the lowest number we’ve ever seen.

Good morning! Chiana's value went down----0.38 x 10^6! That is the lowest that she has been with any test! I will call later on today to discuss the result and see how she has been on the higher dose of the Raltegravir. Talk to you soon!

Test Results

Date	Status	Viral Load
6/11/24	Progressive	13.52 x 106 = 13,520,000
8/13/24	REGRESSIVE	0.38 x 106 = 380,000

The Reaction

I was ecstatic! I tried calling my husband (who was still sleeping at home). I left a voicemail, then followed up with a call to share the news. He was just as stunned as I was.

Reflection

When I look at the test results document, it’s so amazing that the most important words are almost impossible to find—they’re so tiny!

Next Steps

• Retesting Date: In October.

July 29, 2024: A New Facebook Group: FeLV Warriors: Raltegravir & Anti-Retroviral Support

The more I learned about Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) and our use of raltegravir, the more I felt the need for a safe space to share insights and experiences. I couldn’t help but feel a pang of jealousy for groups like those discussing Retromad1, which had their own dedicated Facebook community. But despite my desire, I doubted my ability to create or lead such a group.

My insecurities were at odds with my faith in God. I feared that starting something like this would highlight my human failings and end in disappointment. So, I prayed and waited—patiently, but with hope.

A Chance Connection

Everything changed with one chance connection. Someone from the FeLV Owners group noticed my posts about Chiana and raltegravir. She reached out, seeking advice. Her situation was different but equally heartbreaking: she had adopted a kitten that tested positive for FeLV. The kitten’s mother had been euthanized, and she later discovered that the kitten had a sibling—another FeLV-positive feline, which she also adopted.

The twist? She was a researcher. Although not a veterinarian, her background in animal research brought an invaluable perspective. Her expertise in crunching numbers and calculating dosages, coupled with her prior experience working for IDEXX (a leading testing company), made her a unique ally.

When I expressed my interest in starting a dedicated FeLV group, she jumped in enthusiastically. We connected online and quickly hit it off. She took the reins in setting up the group and laying the groundwork for the standards we uphold today. I am deeply grateful for her contributions.

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.” — Margaret Mead

Building the Community

Margaret Mead’s words became my guiding motto. I was determined to launch the group during FeLV Awareness Month, cementing its significance. On July 29, 2024, the group officially came to life. While the initial reaction was underwhelming—“no one cared,” as I jokingly say—the important thing was that it existed. That was enough to start.

Today, the group is a space where people can share their experiences, insights, and hope. It’s a testament to the power of community and collaboration, born from a small spark of faith and a chance meeting. To anyone reading this who feels alone in their journey, remember: you are not alone. Together, we can change the world, one small step at a time.

Thank you for reading. If you’d like to learn more or join the community, feel free to reach out here.