I was diagnosed with stage 2 of 3 MM 3 yrs. ago. @ age 59.After 6 months of getting into remission, I was able to self donate stem cells for the transplant. My care team ( Mayo Clinic and local oncologist) guided me thru the process. They do several test of your health to ensure you are a candidate for the process. I am know 18 months post transplant.
Being scared and confused is a normal feeling most of us go thru. Be your own advocate. My care team walked me thru the whole process and provided materials explaining the process prior, during and post transplant. They were available to ask questions. I was able to ask questions to a few people I met that had been thru the process. This helps with the fear of the unknown. Many transplant locations are now doing this process as an outpatient procedure if you’re close enough to the hospital. ( better than spending several weeks in the hospital for recovery). Biggest risk is infection post transplant while your new cells graft and begin working again. I was lucky enough not to experience this issue.
I was back to work after three months and began getting re-immunized.( 2 year process). I had a few side effects from the chemo prior to transplant and my hair grew back within about 3 months as well.
We have put my MM to “sleep” and a much better quality of life since the procedure. I would highly recommend the process as a treatment until a better process or cure is found. Again, be your own advocate. It was not too difficult to research for information and the Mayo Clinic was great place for this. This forum was another place to get information and to connect with people who have been thru the process and for support.
Good Luck in your MM journey and hopefully many years of remission!