blood count

I was in a combo therapy trial a year ago and had to discontinue due to low red blood cell count.  I am on combo again, this time at a lower dosage of Ribo.  My blood count started at 12, went to 11 and is now at 10.  Ribo. dosage has been lowered again and Dr. says that good news is that the platelet count is up and bone marrow is being stimulated.  How long does it take for new red blood cells to begin to appear and does sever pain, in what seems to be the bones, have anything to do with this bone marrow stimulation or the low blood count? Also, are there any steps I can take to increase the productions of new red blood cells.?
I teach school and we are now out for the summer.  I am getting more rest than I did when on combo previously.  Should my being able to rest help the therapy?