Hi Deb, I’m pretty sure each of us felt anxiety with the words, “This will require a bone marrow transplant.” The months and weeks leading up to the event are exhausting! So much to plan for with the logistics of pulling together lodging, making sure your home/pets are taken care of for the several months absence, etc., and of course the worry for the unknown that lies ahead.
Once we’re admitted, I think the pressure on us falls away and now we can hand it over to our BMT teams. We are in their hands!

I really feel it’s important for those of us who have gone through this process to help anyone facing the challenges. I didn’t have anyone that I know who had a BMT…no mentor! So my husband and I flew by the seat of our pants. LOL. My BMT team was fantastic and helped make sure I was well educated, medicated and cared for. But even they admit that unless someone has gone through this, walked the walk, it’s impossible to convey the range of emotions that impact us and the side effects we may face. Having someone to speak with such as the members in the forum really benefit each other, helping us all get through some of the roughest days.

And there will be some challenging days ahead…mostly the first 2-3 weeks with possible nausea and extreme fatigue. However! You will get past those days! Slowly your newly implanted cells will start producing new blood cells and you’ll be on the road to a slow, but steady recovery.

We’re right here for you, Deb. Day 3 you might begin feeling a little more tired as the chemo starts kicking in. So eat, drink water, nap…and stay positive. That calmness you feel is real. I felt the same once admitted and never lost one moment of sleep from worry during my odyssey. Feeling calm, trusting team to have your back, keeping a sense of humor and staying positive will carry you through all of this. ☺️