Bone marrow transplant

[dave117]

Hi all

I have just started on blood transfusion and likely to have to have them every four/five weeks. It has also been suggested that I may be eligible for a bone marrow transplant. Does anyone have any thoughts on bone marrow transplants that they could share with me. TIA

[bruddery]

There has been plenty on this site regarding bone marrow transplant. I reckon if you look at Jedi Reject's page you will find lots of real hands on experience. Good luck, Bruddery

[dave117 in reply to bruddery]

Thanks bruddy I will go and look around as you suggest, it was quite a shock when this was suggested to me by my consultant.

[piggie50]

Hi dave117,

Both the Chris's and crapaud regularly contribute to this forum, all have undergone SCT. I'm side you will hear from them. If you also click on the related posts you will find lots of info.

Very best wishes

Judy

[dave117 in reply to piggie50]

Thank you

[piggie50]

Forgot to say, if you look at mpnvoice.org.uk Chris's story is on there.

[Helen1952]

Hello Dave

I have just started the road to transplant .

I have MPN/MDS overlap so its inevitable for me .

I feel that my consultants have eased me into it and don’t feel rushed .

I find it easiest to take one appointment at a time and just eat the elephant one bite at a time .

Hopefully you will have great consultants like mine and will have plenty of discussions with them .

Helen x

[dave117 in reply to Helen1952]

Thank you for your reply and comments. I have a great consultant at Macclesfield Hostpital although at times he can be very blunt, but that's a good thing.

I have a appointment at Christie's Manchester soon so I will find out more then.

Once again thanks

Dave

[MFBMT2011]

First Chris reporting in. 6.5 years out from a MUD (matched unrelated donor) SCT (stem cell transplant) done in London when i was 58. A tough process with serious risks but great potential, as your tansplant team will explain. You will need to be medically assessed by the team to ensure your body can handle the rigours of transplant. It is not right for all

Happy to answer any questions here, by personal email, where I can share other's stories, or on the phone. Know, and am still in touch with, plenty who have been through the process worldwide.

Versions of my story are on line as standalone articles or with others as. part of multi transplant stories - try googling Chris Harper Stem Cell Transplant

Good luck

Chris H

[dave117 in reply to MFBMT2011]

Thanks for this Chris. Just one question, you call it stem 'cell transplant', I assume this is the same as 'bone marrow transplant' ?

Dave.

[MFBMT2011 in reply to dave117]

Same process but cells harvested in a different way, BMT from hip while SCT is from blood after injections to stimulate over production. 80%+ of transplants are SCT.

[dave117 in reply to MFBMT2011]

Having another transfusion now as I type. Haemoglobin back up to 91 but platlets down to 90. Still adjusting Rux to get it right.

Still waiting for appointment at Christies.

Dave

[MFBMT2011 in reply to dave117]

Didn't have transfusions before as HGB managed to stay above 8 but lots afterwards until 'the girls' took over. Had platelets too

Chris

[crapaud]

Hello Dave,

I underwent a SCT just over 2 years ago (unrelated matched doner).

To put things lightly it is not a 'carefree easy' process but in my case was life saving and I have no regrets.

My advice is simple, do what you feel is best for you (obviously considering the options and advice/opinions of the specialist consultants) - personal conviction is important.

Don't hesitate to ask for more feedback if and when required.

Crapaud

[dave117 in reply to crapaud]

Thanks for your response. Decisions as important as this will be made when, and as you say, we have all the information needed to make the decision. Once again thank you.

Dave

[dave117]

Having another transfusion now as I type. Haemoglobin back up to 91 but platlets down to 90. Still adjusting Rux to get it right.

Still waiting for appointment at Christies.

Dave