Survivors Discuss Allogeneic Transplant Risks

We open this six-part series with two survivors who've experienced difficult to life-threatening complications before and after allogeneic transplant. They describe their diagnoses and help us understand the first two concerns of transplant recipients — trepidation and the fear of the unknown.

In Part 2, we dive deeper into each patient’s allogeneic transplant experience to understand the types of complications that can arise during preconditioning treatments, including chemotherapy. Hear from City of Hope clinical experts who explain what may go wrong.

In Part 3, our patients recall their experiences starting from Day 1 (infusion day). They share complications as varied and diverse as themselves. However, common themes emerge after transplant, such as the increased risk of acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD).

What happens after 100 days have passed and the patient is ready to go home? In some cases, GVHD and other long-term complications occur.

One of the best things to do before any major cancer treatment is to prepare. Studies suggest that preparedness can improve outcomes. City of Hope’s supportive care program experts explain the goals of care and advance directives and why completing those documents before the transplant provides patients, families and caregivers peace of mind.

In the final chapter of this six-part series, we begin to understand what survival and post-transplant life look like, especially from an emotional and spiritual perspective, and the mental state needed to thrive afterward.