Happy 3rd re-Birthday to me

[vickij]

Today is my 3rd re-birthday from a SCT for MDS thanks to my wonderful donor. I hope I get a chance to thank him someday. The past 3 years have not been easy. Main problems have been fatigue & depression. I have been very fortunate to not have any problems with GVHD. I am finally beginning to feel like my old self again. So to all of you just starting on this journey, hang in there, it does get better. God is good and I know that my faith and the prayers of friends and family helped me get this far.

[DanL]

Vickij,

Congratulations on your 3rd re-birthday! It is great to hear that you are both disease free and cGVHD free this far out from transplant. It gives me hope. It is also great to hear that you are beginning to get back your energy, as fatigue has been one of my nemeses.

Dan

[PaulS]

Hi Vickij - Congratulations on your 3 year re-birthday!!

Not being quite a year out yet from my transplant- its inspiring to hear stories of others who are still plugging away at life years after transplant.

Sorry its been difficult for you - but great you don't have GVHD. Fatigue and depression often go hand in hand and can be difficult - sounds like you are able to draw strength from your faith and loved ones - which should help you through dark times. Hopefully as you gain strength and energy you will fell less depression. For me, the transplant experience is a big lesson in learning patience.

I had been prone to mild depression most of my life - Now when I find myself thinking negative thoughts and on the brink of despair I remind myself of all the people who helped me through the transplant - from my donor, doctors, nurses and family to people I hardly knew who have told me they were praying for me -it helps change my focus from sadness to gratitude -

Stay well and stay strong. You'll be in my prayers.

Best wishes,
Paul

[Cheryl C]

Congratulations, Vicki J. Great that you're emerging from the fatigue and depression. God bless you and give you long life!

[GoodDay5150]

Hi Vickij. We are all glad to hear that you are mostly doing well. I had a STC for PNH in Dec 2011. I have had some GVHD and a few other issues along the way, but I would do it all over again. I too had a MUD donor who I have never met or communicated with. By that I mean that he never replied to my letter that I sent. I was told only that he was 27, had type O blood, (diff than mine), and lived in the U.S. Like you, I have some fatigue every now and then but it seems like it is less than it was in the last few years. I hope that you continue to improve and are able to work through any issues.

Mario

[KatailS]

Today is my 3rd re-birthday from a SCT for MDS thanks to my wonderful donor. I hope I get a chance to thank him someday. The past 3 years have not been easy. Main problems have been fatigue & depression. I have been very fortunate to not have any problems with GVHD. I am finally beginning to feel like my old self again. So to all of you just starting on this journey, hang in there, it does get better. God is good and I know that my faith and the prayers of friends and family helped me get this far.

Wishing you many more healthy days ahead!! Your story is an inspiration to those of us just beginning our journey