Illness was test of faith
Local oncologist makes diagnosis
Staff reporter
Marionite Ralph Kreutziger considers himself "lucky."
When he and his wife Phyllis received the news that he had a rare form of leukemia, they thought the worst.
"I was like a lot of people who think leukemia is leukemia and chemotherapy is chemotherapy," said Ralph. He soon would become educated in the world of medicine.
Ralph contracted pneumonia during the summer of 2001, and was hospitalized at St. Luke Hospital.
Following his recovery and release from the hospital, he continued to see his doctor, Don Hodson, at Marion Family Physicians for checkups.
"My white blood count didn't come back to what it was supposed to be," explained Ralph.
He was going to the doctor every two to three weeks because he was tired, had no energy, and constantly had colds.
By November, his doctor decided it was time for a second opinion and referred him to Dr. Elshami Elamin, a Wichita oncologist who provides services at St. Luke Hospital, Marion.
After a series of tests, including bone marrow sampling, it was determined Ralph had hairy cell leukemia.
This form of leukemia is extremely rare with only 500 diagnosis per year in the U.S.
"It's not an acute form," said Ralph, "and slower moving."
The disease affects a person's immune system, making him susceptible to colds, flu, and other illnesses.
Untreated, it could lead to complications from illnesses.
Ralph underwent six months of chemotherapy at Newton Medical Center.
He was advised not to socialize or be in large crowds in an effort to keep him from contracting colds or flu.
Phyllis was with him all the way and shared the stress of the illness.
"About halfway through the chemo treatment, he had signs of a reaction," Phyllis said. "Luckily, he was able to continue and finish the treatments."
One week Ralph would have six and one-half hours of chemotherapy, the next week he would have blood work.
"I would just begin to feel better and it was time for another treatment," said Ralph.
He wasn't required to follow a special diet and still was able to eat during the treatments.
"I was told I would lose my hair but I didn't see that as a problem," said Ralph with a laugh.
The couple appreciated the support of friends and family during the ordeal.
Prior to Ralph's illness, Phyllis had both hips replaced. Luckily she had fully recovered when Ralph became ill and was able to care for him.
Ralph was employed by Jost Construction at the time but wasn't sure what the outcome would be.
"Steve (Jost) was retired and I was unsure of my situation so we dissolved the corporation," said Ralph.
Today, he works part-time for Hett Construction.
"After I beat this, I needed something to do. Dave Hett was good enough to help me out," said Ralph. He works in the office while Hett works in the field.
Ralph also receives allergy shots to help build up his immune system.
"Some things were happening to prepare us for this," said Phyllis. The couple attribute their ability to prepare for and cope with the situation to God.
Maintaining a positive attitude was difficult at times but important.
"There were times it was difficult to keep an upbeat attitude," said Phyllis.
She said the experience has made them more tolerant and understanding of others going through similar experiences.
For now, Ralph is in remission and looking forward to his five-year mark when he will be considered "cured."
The couple appreciated the support of family and friends during the ordeal and stay focused on the important things in life.
"The experience really tests your faith," said Phyllis.
