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My Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT/SCT) story: Will you share yours?
The past two years have been a storied journey of facing Acute Myeloid Leukemia and a subsequent bone marrow transplant. Being in a high risk category for relapse for AML, a transplant was necessary. Simply put, it would provide a completely new immune system to fend off any remaining AML cells lurking about in my body, after my original factory installed version had become defective in recognizing them. My husband and I shared a collective sigh of relief with the news that my latest bone marrow biopsy, at 19 months post transplant, showed no AML or the mutation which caused it. My new immune system is working!
While celebrating the results with my husband and a pizza, it occurred to me how far I’ve come and how life has changed in the past two years since the onset of AML and the transplant. There have been some challenging transitions but none insurmountable. Of course, life as a genetically modified organism, with two sets of DNA and a new blood type, can have its turf wars with a few GvHD issues, adaptations to medications and such. But I’m incredibly happy to have a second chance with this generous gift of life from an anonymous donor, and through the medical expertise of my amazing BMT-team at Mayo-Rochester. Hopefully I can meet my donor someday to thank him in person. I did send him a card right after the transplant giving him my “undying” gratitude!
We’ve all been given a gift of life. I’d love to hear your story. Lori
What diagnosis brought you to a BMT?
How has it impacted your life and that of your caregiver?
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I was treated at MD Anderson for my Mantle Cell Lymohoma and they saved my life. I was misdiagnoses at my home in Mandeville, La. and went to see the doctor that was treating my brother. He retested me and we began a treatment plan that has kept me alive and well for years. I'll be 82 this July.
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3 ReactionsHi @golfer0744 Welcome to Connect! Getting the right diagnosis is critical for receiving the proper treatment. You’re living proof of that! Sometimes we have to be our own advocates and I’m relieved you kept seeking answers by going to your brother’s doctor.
What was your treatment plan for Mantle Cell Lymphoma? If you don’t mind sharing, what was your brother being treated for? Did he also have lymphoma?
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1 Reaction@g4c
Thank you. It is a tough time for her 38-year-old autistic son. My sister took care of him and never told us he likely has autism. She had secrets. This family one too. Three of my sisters 4 siblings spent time since Monday. My nephew needed time with his dad. Sadly, is Dad had spoken with his son about moving to Indiana. Too soon. He just lost his mom and this house has so much of his mom in every nook and cranny.
Prayers for my nephew I have said as his comfort must know come from his dad. His Dad not like his mom hardly at all.
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