Re: Thesese and BMT

[Guest guest]

At 02:05 PM 1/4/07 -0600, you wrote:

>Tom had a LOT of complications. He is over 600 days post-transplant

>and still struggling. I would suggest that you consult with a CML

>specialist and seriously look at other medicines before going to

>transplant.

Dear Barb,

That was a very honest answer that you gave the group. I hate that Tommy is

still struggling post-transplant.

Therese,

I agree with what Barb has written. In even the 2 years since Tommy's BMT,

recommendations for transplants have changed....mostly it is seen as a last

resort. You might be in that category but because of the risks with BMT, I

would want to consult with one of the top CML specialists (and not one

associated with a transplant center). I think you are in Canada....but it

might even be worth the personal expense to you to consult with someone

like Dr. Druker or Dr. Talpaz. You need to realize that you will be off

work and recovering for a minimum of a year....don't expect less than that.

Years ago when a very good friend was questioning whether to have a BMT or

not, I told her she needed to consider the worst case scenario......if she

died (sometimes within the first 100 days) and whether she could take that

risk at this time....she also had minor children. You won't die from

Gleevec, you won't die from side effects.........maybe there is a better

medication for you to try. Don't let someone dangle that BMT is the only

cure in front of you, without fully knowing all of the possibilities that

can happen post-BMT. I have lost several very good friends post-transplant.

And in the end, it is of course your decision....and we will support you in

that. I hope you will consult with a major cml specialist and see what they

have to say about your situation.

C.