Tandem Transplant

Oh yes, me and neuropathy know each other well.  I've been off all chemo and steroids since 31 July 09.  I can honestly say, the feet are getting better.  It's still bothersome, but it's getting better.  Lyrica worked well for me; however, it made me gain weight and I didn't like that. So, I went with nothing.  Warm soaking seems to help as well.

I agree with your plan on harvesting as many stem cells as possible.  I kicked out 28M in a day and a half.  I've used half so far.  Guess I have enough for two - three more transplants...but I'd rather not go there.

Back in the early 90s I was seeing an accupunturist named Dr. Kim in San Antonio...that guy was amazing!  Not sure if he's still working, but worth looking up in the phone book next time you're in SA

PS:  I can't remember being in Wimberley, but I sure do love Austin!  Though I'm a Utah native, I sure love Texas...great times there.

Bestest to you as always

Doug

Hi Donna,

Just wanted to add my hubby's experience. He had Sct in July and when they harvested, they harvested enough for another SCT if required.

Here, unless you are aged 70 and above and unable to harvest your cells...they will opt for an Allo transplant. I understand from our haematologist, allo transplants are more complicated and sometimes not successful.

Just thought this might help...grace

I spoke with a woman who has my doctor and had the auto and mini allo transplant last year.  She said she did get GVHD, but it was not too bad.  Her brother was a 100% match to her as is mine.  She was a few years older than me, but other than that fairly healthy.  She says she is doing very well now.  I'm just wondering if there is a benefit to doing it this way?  The doc seems to think this is the best course for me personally.

Donna

Sounds like you have some decisions to make.  There's a lot of material out there to educate yourself with.

I wish you the very best Donna

Doug

I am in my third cycle of Rev/Dex.  My numbers are coming down fairly well.  I am also being set up for a tandem. I was told that as soon as they plateau we will move forward with the sct.   I found out a couple of days ago that my baby sis is a match for the allo.

The reason the Dr and I chose the tandem is based on my cytogenics.  I am considered in the worst categories as far prognosis goes in relation to the cytogenics.  As someone else stated the tandem is quite often suggested for those with poor prognosis. 

I would be interested to hear from others what their cyto studies look like.

Godspeed to all!

Terri