Like you, I no longer experience survivor’s guilt. But there were a few instances where the passing of an acquaintance sure hit me. Anyway, now we have the opportunity to use our experiences as a survival guide for others.

It’s interesting that you met a 5 year SCT survivor and the impact they had on you. I had a similar experience about 1.5 months post transplant. I was back in general pop for labs by that time and was sitting in the large lab waiting area. It was pretty crowded…before Covid. So I’m sitting there with my Vogg mask, bald head, dark circles under my eyes. Haha you know the look. Anyway, the lady across from me complimented me on my shoes, bless her heart! ☺️ We got to talking and then she asked if I had a bone marrow transplant. “I asked, what gave that secret away?” 😂. Anyway, she replied that she was there for her Two-year followup. Wow, she looked fabulous. Full head of hair, gorgeous skin, a little tan…picture of health. Then, next to her a man said, “No kidding, I’m here for my 5 year!”

The conversations were priceless and their impact was powerful!! I will never forget that moment. They gave me hope!! And that is why, @alive, you and I are here. We had those seminal moments of understanding…of how it important it is to have mentors. To be able to speak with someone who has walked the same rocky path before them. Thank you for being such a positive and encouraging lifeline within our community and beyond…you help give hope.