Even though my oncologist had always told me a bone morrow transplant would be the best way to go once the chemo was complete, I really kind of ignored him. When the chemo was complete, I felt great and in my head didn’t want to go through transplant. Well needless to say, all the cancer was gone out my bones and everywhere else except a little lymphoma in my chest where it all began.
After the chemo was complete, he referred me to Karmanos Cancer Center Bone Marrow team. My own white blood cells were cancer free and I could use my own for transplant. My oncologist along with the Karmanos team expressed this would be the best thing for me to prevent the cancer from returning.
September I went in for 22 days for very intense chemo and to get my cells back. It was tolerable but grueling. There were nights of nausea and intense fevers, but I made it through. The thoughts of getting out and being well enough to drive and enjoy my life again motivated me to thrive. Now, the chemo really did a number because foods still taste like cardboard and I tired of drinking Ensure. LOL Those of you that really know me know that I’m a big foody and not being able to enjoy some of these good ole restaurants that have opened is crazy difficult.
I have been asked several times about participating in the transplant program as well but I needed more information. It seems to be working for you and gives me hope my friend. I currently have stage 4 lymphoma cancer and I was in remission for 3 months however it returned so now I’m going through all the treatments again.
I totally understand. I also had stage 4 lymphoma. If you like I can bring you the intro packet I received when I first consulted with the transplant team. They may recommend using someone else’s stem cells or not. Positive vibes to you on this round of your treatment.
Continued prayers for both of you Kings! I send love and hugs, sharing your stories with the world will help others on this path. Greg this is the perfect platform, thank you.