Stem cell transplant

Hi Alice,

I was 36 when I had my auto, so a very similar age. It is a tough procedure, it’s worthwhile preparing yourself for it to be difficult. It’s likely to make you feel poorly for a bit. What is your general level of health and fitness like? I was in relatively good shape, barring the cancer, and I think being a younger age definitely helps to deal with the treatment. I actually didn’t have any major complications and actually found boredom the hardest thing whilst in hospital. It takes a couple of months for your body to recover but I was back to work and feeling good after around 3 months, so I’m really hoping you’ll find the same.

Greg

Hi Greg

Thanks for your reply. My health has always been really good eating right sort of foods I'm not overweight. Even when I was having chemo last time I recovered pretty quickly between rounds. I have a good appetite so far hopefully stay. Not really been able to get out last few weeks as been in hospital most of the time. I enjoy walking. That's really good you made a quick recovery..I'm.hoping to.be same.

I do find the nurses make me laugh a lot whilst I'm there which helps and I take in my iPad and have family members there

Alice 

Hi Alice, I was 58 and 59 when I went through my two Allo SCTs along with a lung condition so going onto this rollercoaster at 35 will help a lot.

My health was rather bad after my second SCT so my recovery was long and complicated but was it worth it? - yes!

I am sure that others will share their thoughts of getting through this. You can also see some of our stories in our profiles if that helps.

Also have a look at this great thread Checklist for SCT Unit where we have collected some folks thoughts about surviving in the SCT Unit.

((hugs))

Thanks Mike

I hope you and Greg are doing well

Alice 

Hi 

I had talk today about stem cell as well as my second kidney function test. I read up about it yesterday to prepare myself.

I should be able to.use my own stem cells. She also said I can see if I'm match with.my sibling through a blood test. 

I got told chemo but haven't got my notes to hand so will add. 

I only got upset by one thing she said about risks..overall I think.i did okay. 

Day off tomorrow then start of MATRIX. I'm pretending I have booked into a hotel and not hospital 

Take care

Alice 

Well done Alice, this is a good step in the right direction. The ‘talk’ can be a challenge but it’s done and you now need to focus on the next part of this treatment - NHS DB&B!!...... not the best hotel but it needs to be done.

((hugs))

Hi Alice,

Hotel NHS isn’t a 5* but the staff will help get you through. Think of the end game to help, too.

sending hugs xxx

Hi my chemo for stem cell is busulpan and thiotepa anyone else had before? Thanks 

Alice 

Hi Alice, I think Ally  had some of this as part of her ‘BLT’ chemo, let’s look to see is she picks up on your post

Hello Alice, yes Highlander is right, I had ASCT in Jan 2018.Part of my conditioning chemo was Bulsafan and Thiotepa along with limoustine. It’s pretty tough but you will cope. I think if you go into it as fit and as healthy as possible that’s a great advantage. I was 44 and pretty fit. Try to exercise daily whilst in hospital even if it is just a little walk up and down the ward, the more you do to maintain muscle the better. I was lucky and did not pick up any real infections whilst neutropenic just a cough and mouth ulcers/ sores  - they did give me pain relief for this. The nursing staff will get you through this, they are all very experienced and know what to expect. If there’s anything you would like to ask me please do, I am more than happy to answer any questions you have. Ally.