Any tips to help prepare for BMT? What to know for during & after?

I haven't been on here for awhile and started to reply to another post when my computer died and I can't find it again. But I just want to say to anyone having a Bone Marrow Transplant it is well worth all the issues. My husband was 68 yrs old when we found out out his MDS and 19% blast per bone marrow biopsy. He was immediately sent to our local Bone Marrow Clinic on a Tuesday and the following Thursday started his chemo. He did start out as an outpatient but had a severe reaction to the very strong chemo and was hospitalized for quite sometime and actually was told at that time he wouldn't be a good candidate for transplant. Well with the support of a physical therapist he was able to regain his strength and received his transplant Feb, 14 2022. Let me say it wasn't without some issues but all tolerable. As of next Feb he is 3 yrs out from transplant and things are all looking up at his last checkup this month. His was an 100% donor for which we are thankful everyday. So please if anyone is thinking about doing the transplant it is well worth a second chance at life. and this blog site and Lori got me through a lot of craziness. Amen and prayers to all that come to this diagnosis.

Good morning @jrwilli1 It’s great to see you here this morning and I’m so happy your husband is doing so well now. Can you believe he’s coming up on his 3rd “Cell”-iversary?
I know your husband (and you) certainly had some higher anxiety moments…crazy roller coaster ride! But as you said, it was all worth the 2nd chance at life! Have a lovely holiday season! Any big plans?

@loribmtOur 3 boys are all coming in after Xmas to celebrate. We saw them all for thanksgiving so for Xmas they go the in-laws houses. I did want to say that my husband has talked with his donor several times and plan to again in Feb. I really don’t know how I got through some of those days without all of the help from you and the group. Thanks

@jrwilli1 Aw, I’m so happy you’re able to spend the holidays with the whole family!! This is what you and your husband went through all of this hoopla for!! To be able to have these joyous occasions with family and friends, make new memories and appreciate every day!

I’m a teensy bit envious with your husband having been able to talk with his donor!! My donor has chosen to remain anonymous. I’ve tried a few times to initiate contact through the facilitator but no go… I’ve sent cards and written a few letters, not knowing if they even reached him. I mean, really, how does one completely get across the depth of gratitude we have for the incredible gift of life the donor gives us.
I know, my donor owes me nothing, but I owe him everything! He literally saved my life. So I am really delighted for your husband that he’s been able to talk with his donor! That’s so cool! And even for the donor, it has to be so heartwarming knowing they were instrumental in saving a life so a complete stranger may continue to enjoy priceless family moments together, like Christmas!
Was his donor from the US or Europe? Older, younger, male, female? Not that it matters, I just really love these stories so I’m nosy. 😅