Book SummaryLeft on Tenth, by Delia Ephron

1-Page Summary1-Page Book Summary of Left on Tenth

The writer's story traces her journey through diagnosis and therapy, culminating in the critical point where she received a transplant of bone marrow due to acute myeloid leukemia.

In her memoir "Left on Tenth," Delia Ephron offers a candid narrative of her battle with acute myelogenous leukemia, chronicling the intensive therapy she underwent and her path to recovery. Throughout the journey, Ephron openly documents the physical and emotional challenges that came with her illness, emphasizing the vital role her circle of support played in her determination to keep going.

The writer is diagnosed with a severe form of blood cancer known as acute myelogenous leukemia and begins an intensive treatment regimen.

In this section of her story, the author explores the critical early stage of her fight against acute myeloid leukemia, starting with routine blood tests that revealed her illness and progressing to her choice of undergoing a bone marrow transplant, which she considered the best path to healing.

The author's routine health screenings revealed that she had acute myeloid leukemia, a notably severe form of hematologic malignancy.

During a time when her health seemed stable, a routine check-up with her cancer specialist revealed worrisome anomalies in her bloodwork. Delia Ephron was suddenly confronted with a diagnosis of Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML), leaving her in a state of shock. During this period, the unwavering encouragement provided by Dr. Roboz and her close confidant, Dr. Jon, was epitomized by the phrase, "You are not your sister," which motivated her to anticipate a brighter future, distinct from the dire outcome her sister Nora faced during her own struggle with comparable blood disorders. This mantra becomes a critical theme as Ephron confronts her fears and embraces the possibility of a different future.

The author begins to take part in a CPX-351 chemotherapy trial, aiming for remission, a necessary condition to qualify for a bone marrow transplant.

To combat the aggressive AML, Ephron began an experimental chemotherapy treatment called CPX-351. The treatment aimed to purge her blood of cancerous cells, which could then pave the way for a vital bone marrow transplant. In this critical juncture, the man Delia had recently connected with on a deep level, Peter, chooses to set aside his career aspirations to offer her the vital assistance she requires. This gesture, embodying both affection and dedication, further emphasizes the resilience Ephron gains from her interpersonal bonds while she contends with the challenges of her sickness.

The author endures a high-risk surgical procedure that includes the transplantation of stem cells, with one set extracted from an adult's bloodstream and another from the blood within an umbilical cord.

In February 2018, Ephron confronted a dangerous medical intervention, aspiring to prolong her life through a marrow graft. Delia Ephron's medical treatment was distinguished by the incorporation of stem cells from an unrelated adult donor and...

Left on Tenth Summary Delia Ephron's narrative unfolds, chronicling the blossoming romance and deepening connection with Peter.

In "Left on Tenth," the author depicts the significant role her personal relationships played, particularly the blossoming romance with Peter, in fortifying her resolve as she navigated the trials of being diagnosed and undergoing treatment for acute myeloid leukemia.

The author reignites a bond with her oldest friend, Peter, after he reaches out to her.

The memoir describes how a chance reconnection with a former acquaintance through an online incident unexpectedly blossomed into a romantic relationship with Peter.

The author vaguely remembers that it was her late sister Nora who had set her up on dates with Peter a long time ago.

In a fortunate twist of fate, Ephron reignited a bond with Peter, a psychiatrist, who found her witty editorial in a prominent newspaper about her struggles following her partner's death, including her dealings with a telecommunications company, to be quite touching. While her recollections of previous outings alongside Peter might have faded, the connection between them was rapidly reignited through their correspondence and conversations over email and phone, which had been initially arranged by her late sister, Nora. Their shared...

Left on Tenth Summary The author's physical and emotional hurdles during recovery

Ephron narrates the arduous path of recovery she navigated in her autobiography following a procedure to replace her bone marrow.

The author embarks on a difficult journey toward healing following a bone marrow transplant.

Delia Ephron embarked on a challenging and unpredictable path to regain equilibrium after receiving a new organ.

The therapy led to the author suffering from nausea, weakness, and cognitive challenges.

Upon leaving the hospital, Ephron continued to confront significant adverse effects. The relentless nausea, crippling weakness, and persistent cognitive issues made everyday tasks a struggle. The constant need for assistance underscored the profound impact the treatment had had on her body and mind, hampering her ability to regain her independence. Her apprehension intensified with concerns over possible unexpected complications and the uncertain trajectory of her recuperation.

Throughout her challenging recuperation, the writer often grapples with despondency and a compulsion to surrender.

Ephron had expected her return home to provide solace, yet she encountered a deep and unsettling gloom. This was new territory for her. Despite the...