In March 2006, I contracted one of the most aggressive forms of mantle cell lymphoma (MCL). We never obtained lasting remission from some 12 different chemo treatments while waiting for a unrelated donor stem cell transplant (MUD SCT), one medical procedure that offers hope of a cure for MCL.
The allogeneic SCT was completed on August 22, 2007. On the 44th day post transplant (Oct. 5) results of a PET scan were negative (cancer gone!) and we also received the DNA test results -- the SCT was successful.
Meanwhile, we have now reached day 145 post-transplant. Recovery is steady and my stamina-energy level is gradually retruning to normal. A moderate case of GVHD (skin rash) has cleared and we have been given permission to return to part-time work at the end of February 2008.
I am sharing this positive report with the hope that others who are facing the decision about SCT will know that there is hope. I was given a 10-20 percent chance of success for this procedure in July of last year.