[Ruth Cuadra]

Hi, Bruku.

I can appreciate how hard it must have been to decide betweent transplant and "watch and wait". It must have helped to know that Courtney had a perfectly matched donor.

The symptoms you mentioned--headaches, sore throat, high blood pressure--are all expected side effects. In the early days after transplant, I was on dilaudid (morphine substitute) for the mucositis (sore throat and mouth). Be sure your daughter gets enough meds to control that pain. The headaches and blood pressure issues are usually related to cyclosporine or other immunosuppressants that are being given in large doses. I'm sure the doctors are watching her carefully, but since you know her best, you can help interpret how she is feeling if she is unable to do so for herself for a while.

Thanks for offering to share Courtney's experience here. It helps others who are considering transplants to know the inside scoop.

Regards,
Ruth Cuadra