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DiscussionPreparing for Bone Marrow Transplant: My mind is racing
Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) & CAR-T Cell Therapy | Last Active: Sep 8 11:10am | Replies (45)Comment receiving replies
Replies to "Hey, that would be great if you could share what to pack. I have no idea..."
I have a comprehensive caregiver guide from Mayo for you to follow that I received before my transplant This is a good place for you to start getting ideas of what is expected.
I know!! It’s going to look overwhelming. Just take it bit by bit.
First, look for Allogenic Stem Cell Transplant (using donor cells). That will be the guide to follow for you and your husband. There are several items on the menu. I encourage you to look through all of the subjects:
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/blog/caregivers-for-bmt-car-t-and-hematology/tab/transplant-journey/#ch-tab-navigation
Another good source for After Care for ALLO SCT from Memorial Sloan Kettering
https://www.mskcc.org/pdf/cancer-care/patient-education/leaving-hospital-after-your-allogeneic-transplant
Link to discussion on Packing for long term stay: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/comment/703859/
Consider the essential items you use on a frequent basis at home Your lodging will be your home away from home but sparsely furnished. It’s nice to have some of your favorites with you.
>Mail~USPS will hold mail up to 30 days. Consider having mail forwarded to your lodging. If your mail is held, sign up for free USPS service of previewing the mail. You can see what’s being delivered/held that day to see if you’re missing anything important. Amazon can find you too!
Bring:
>Laptop/tablet/smartphone (+ chargers)
Your phone or device will be your connection with the Mayo patient portal and communication with your team. It allows you to review your lab results, appointments and information. It’s also your window to the world while your mobility is limited.
>Small electrical extension cord for charging your phone/tablet while in the hospital room.
>All medications, spare eye-glasses if needed, personal items for grooming, etc.
>Stamps, envelopes, address book. Post it notes came in handy, along with tape, a tiny stapler, pens, scissors. etc.
>Small sewing kit
>Inexpensive collapsable (fabric) hanging organizers for closets~good for t-shirts, pants & supplies.
>A flat storage bin for under the bed work for extra supplies.
>Quarters for laundry machines (detergent, dryer sheets, color catcher sheets for small loads)
Clothing:
>Slippers or shoes you can wear in the hospital
>Depending on your length of stay, you might cross seasons. So bring clothes you can layer.
That’s at least a start.