I've been away from HealthUnlocked for some time following my allogenic bone marrow transplant for Richter's Transformation 11 months ago at MDA Houston. I'm happy to report my transplant has been a success and I'm in complete remission from Richter's and I'm feeling great.
I tolerated the transplant better than most without any serious side effects and rebounded quickly and was back at work 2 months post transplant - working virtually of course. The engraftment process for me, however, has been slower than anticipated and nearly one year post transplant, I'm still hovering around 70% engraftment. My doctor has been especially cautious about GVHD (graft verses host disease) and has me on the long road of tapering me off my anti rejection meds, which has in effect, delayed my full engraftment. Or at least that is the hypothesis. Although the Richter's is no longer present, I still do have about 9% CLL cells in my marrow which should continue to decline as I approach 100% engraftment. I have some GVHD, but so far that hasn't manifested beyond some redness in my face and neck.
What a year this has been since I was diagnosed in November 2019 - one not to be repeated, but one I have grown from with a new appreciation for life, family and science. I still have some work to do to get back in shape and and recover lost muscle tone and stamina, so 2021 is the year of not just recovery for me, but for optimizing my body, spirit and soul. New adventures lie ahead. The future looks bright!
Written by
SarasotaPaul
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This is fabulous and reassuring news Paul! Let’s hope 2021 sees a year of total renewal and recovery for you. Your news made me smile on a day there isn’t much to smile about! 😊
Thanks for the update Paul! Great news! I hope your journey continues to be all good news. Hugs from your neighbor in Bradenton! Hope when it’s safe we can meet up 😊
Great news Paul. What an uplifting post. For all it’s bad side effects, for some of us cancer has the good side effect you so eloquently describe, a new appreciation for life.
Paul, your post give us all hope. May the lovely spirit you express make your still ahead of you work to regain physical stamina assist you in your renewal. Thank you for the heartening words in regard to your appreciation for life. Best wishes and please keep us posted.
Thanks for posting this. That is such fantastic news Paul. So happy to hear this for you! It is also encouraging news for all of us. I wish you continued improvement in your health in 2021 and far into the future!
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10 months post Stem Cell Transplant 
