The donation and infusion process for a stem cell bone marrow transplant. www.caringbridge.org/visit/jasonwilliams Video Rating: 5 / 5
This is an updated video showing my dad’s stem cell transplant and time spent at Texas Heart Institute. In October 2005 my father, Kevin Johnson, was diagnosed with idopathic cardiomyopathy. Since then he has had two cardiac transplants (June 2006 & February 2007). In June of 2007 the cause for his heart failure was contributed to a very rare blood disease, Light Chain Deposition. In July he underwent a stem cell transplant (involving heavy chemo). By the grace of God my father is doing well today! We are so very thankful to the Lord, everyone on the transplant team, all of the doctors and nurses who touched our lives, and for the two families who donated the hearts of their loved ones. Through organ donation my family has received the gift of life! ( Video Rating: 5 / 5
Controversial and at the heart of much debate, a stem cell transplant is the procedure where the body might not produce enough stem cells within the bone marrow, and other stem cells are transplanted in their place. Sometimes referred to as a bone marrow transplant, a stem cell transplant is often used to treat conditions such as Leukemia, Myelofibrosis, certain forms of cancer, and Aplastic Anemia.
Stem cells could be taken from bone marrow or from the blood of an umbilical cord. Since stem cells are early cell forms, they will with ease adapt and grow into the species of cells that the body needs. Among the benefits of a stem cell transplant involve assisting the body exchange damaged stem cells as well as replace and renew cells that probably get cancerous or malignant. When new, healthy stem cells are transplanted they often include high levels of immunity and can strengthen the body’s weakened immune system.
Undergoing a stem cell transplant is a highly risky procedure and there are many possible complications that might ensue. It is imperative to discuss all of the rewards, risks, and potential complications with your health care provider and to extensively investigate the process being proposed. Some of the most prevalent complications include failure of the stem cell to take, damage to blood vessels or organs, developing cataracts and cancers which can secondary to present cancers, plus a specific condition called Graft versus Host Disease that outcome from donor stem cells.
For those that undergo stem cell transplants, it might occupy to one year before your body becomes normalized, especially if donor cells were used. Healing is quicker when the transplant uses a person’s own stem cells. For those that seek success with their stem cell transplant, and whose bodies do not reject the cells, outcomes are very good as well as patient often enjoys a life free of illness and disease.
here’s a long overdue update as to how the chemotherapy and stem cell transplant are going. I’ve been in the hospital for just over a week now and I’ve been too weak really to be posting anything, but today I got off my ass and made it happen. I’m even getting medicinal marijuana for my nausea
