#Graft vs Host Disease

[universitycancercentres]

Graft Vs Host Disease: Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and More

Graft versus host disease (GVHD) is a complex medical condition that can occur after a stem cell or bone marrow transplant. It is characterized by the donor's immune cells attacking the recipient's body, leading to a range of symptoms and complications.

The causes of GVHD are multifactorial, involving the interaction between the donor and recipient immune systems, as well as genetic and environmental factors. Diagnosis of GVHD involves a thorough assessment of the patient's medical history, physical examination, and specialized laboratory tests. For more information on GVHD, visit our website or the below-mentioned source link.

Source: graft vs host disease

[thetownidiot]

Imagine if wizards used diseases and symptoms on people instead of spells but it is scientific.

Like some wizard shouts DEMYELINATE and suddenly you fall down because your nerves loose their coating and can’t function

Another wizard yells “GRAFT VS HOST” and suddenly you are in extreme agony from your cells attacking your body.

[quinnmorgendorffer]

Every time they talk about “graft vs host disease” on here I cannot stop myself from thinking of the fucking arrested development hair transplant and can’t take the story seriously

[nathfiset]

Stem cells cord blood

I am ready to enroll in cord blood banking NOW and get my special discount!

By clicking on either buttons, you are agreeing to our TOS and disclaimers and will be redirected to an affiliate cord blood banking provider. We might get financial compensation if you sign up with them through our affiliate links. Unlock your special discounts by adding your promo code.CORD300 in the coupon field to get $300 OFF cord blood and tissue banking. OR cord200 to get $200 OFF if you are getting cord blood banking only. I want more information on cord blood banking

With remarkable advances in medical science, stem cells from cord blood have emerged as a powerful tool for treating a range of diseases and conditions. Cord blood, collected from the umbilical cord after birth, contains valuable stem cells that have the potential to regenerate and repair damaged tissues. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the fascinating world of stem cells from cord blood, their applications in modern medicine, and the promising future they hold for patients in need of innovative treatment options.

Understanding Stem Cells

Types of Stem Cells in Cord BloodBefore delving into the unique properties of cord blood stem cells, it is vital to understand the different types of stem cells found in cord blood. Cord blood contains three main types of stem cells: hematopoietic stem cells, mesenchymal stem cells, and endothelial progenitor cells. Each of these cell types has distinct characteristics and potential applications in medical research and treatments.Cell TypeCharacteristicsHematopoietic Stem CellsResponsible for blood cell productionMesenchymal Stem CellsAbility to differentiate into various cell typesEndothelial Progenitor CellsPlay a role in blood vessel formationAfter understanding the different types of stem cells in cord blood, one can appreciate the diverse potential of these cells for regenerative medicine and therapeutic applications.The Unique Properties of Cord Blood Stem CellsCord blood stem cells have garnered significant attention due to their unique properties that set them apart from other sources of stem cells. These include their immaturity, which allows them to adapt to different environments and differentiate into various cell types, their high proliferation capacity, and their lower risk of graft-versus-host disease compared to other sources of stem cells.Moreover, cord blood stem cells have an extensive capacity for self-renewal, making them valuable for long-term storage and potential use in treating a wide range of diseases and injuries.

Collection and Storage

Cord Blood Collection ProcessTo collect cord blood, medical professionals will use a sterile needle to draw blood from the umbilical cord once the baby is delivered. This process is painless and safe for both the mother and the newborn. The blood is then stored in a special bag designed for preserving stem cells.Banking Options: Private vs. Public StorageAn important decision parents face when considering cord blood banking is whether to store the cord blood privately for personal use or donate it for public use. Private storage involves paying a fee to have the cord blood stored specifically for your family's future medical needs, while public storage makes the cord blood available for anyone in need of a stem cell transplant.Private cord blood banking ensures that the stem cells will be reserved for your family's exclusive use if the need for a transplant arises in the future. Public storage, on the other hand, offers the opportunity to potentially save the life of someone else in need of a stem cell transplant. It is imperative to weigh the costs and benefits of each option before making a decision.

Therapeutic Applications

Current Treatments Using Cord BloodFor years, cord blood has been used in the treatment of blood disorders, immune deficiencies, and genetic disorders. An invaluable source of stem cells, cord blood transplants offer a potentially life-saving option for patients who do not have a matched bone marrow donor.Research and Potential Future UsesApplications of cord blood stem cells in research are expanding rapidly, with ongoing studies exploring their potential in regenerative medicine, such as tissue repair, organ regeneration, and immune system modulation. This opens new doors for the treatment of conditions like diabetes, cerebral palsy, and heart disease.Current therapeutic applications of cord blood stem cells are primarily focused on blood disorders, immune deficiencies, and genetic disorders. However, ongoing research is shedding light on the potential future uses of these versatile cells in regenerative medicine, offering hope for a wider range of conditions and diseases.

Ethical and Legal Considerations

Ethical Debate Surrounding Stem Cell ResearchMany ethical debates surround stem cell research, particularly the use of embryonic stem cells. Some argue that the potential medical benefits of stem cell research justify the use of embryos, while others believe that it is morally wrong to destroy human embryos for research purposes. Ethical considerations also extend to issues of informed consent and the protection of human subjects in research studies.Regulations Governing Cord Blood BankingFor cord blood banking, regulations vary by country and region. It is important for parents to be informed about the regulations governing cord blood banking in their locality before making a decision. While some countries have strict guidelines in place to ensure the safety and ethical collection of cord blood, others may not have as stringent regulations. It is crucial to work with accredited and reputable cord blood banks that adhere to established guidelines to ensure the quality and safety of stored cord blood units.CellRegulations governing cord blood banking typically cover various aspects such as collection procedures, processing methods, storage conditions, and the release of stored units for transplantation. These regulations are put in place to safeguard the integrity of cord blood units and ensure their viability for potential future use in medical treatments. Cord blood banks must comply with these regulations to maintain high standards of quality and safety in their services.GoverningRegulatory bodies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States oversee the licensing and operation of cord blood banks to ensure compliance with established regulations. These governing bodies play a crucial role in monitoring and enforcing standards to protect the interests of both donors and recipients of cord blood units. By adhering to regulations, cord blood banks can uphold the highest levels of quality and safety in the collection, processing, and storage of cord blood for therapeutic purposes.

Conclusion

From above, it is clear that stem cells extracted from cord blood hold immense potential for medical treatments and research. These cells have the ability to develop into different types of cells in the body, offering hope for treating a wide range of diseases and conditions. By storing cord blood at birth, individuals can secure a valuable resource for future medical needs. As research in this field continues to advance, the possibilities for using cord blood stem cells in regenerative medicine are extensive. It is important for expecting parents to consider cord blood banking as a unique opportunity to invest in the health and well-being of their child. Read the full article

[thatmissquin]

2023 was a year of major change for me. at the beginning of it my husband was finishing up a month long stay at the cancer Institute and undergoing some potentially fatal treatment I am grateful he made it home safe to me and our pets, Gideon and Tink. due to sky high costs of the medical treatment even with help from precious people through our gofundme we had to downsize majorly on our home to a much smaller place. my husband's healing from treatment turned into another disaster by developing graft vs host disease which I was surprised could happen since he was given his own stem cells back to him but bodies can be strange. we found some medication combinations that work and also take their toll but for now it's manageable. we suffered loss of loved ones this year as well. our dear cat Tink had a freak brain tumor and passed away with myself, my husband and Gideon around her. she knew she was loved and for 6 years she completed our little family. loved relatives and friendships passed on. life moves on and relationships shift. I was able to heal in my own ways this year .I conquered my fear of driving and got my license a month before turning 35 (never too late!) and that's give me a lot more freedom to rely on myself and spend time with Gideon around town as evidence by all of our photos together this year. I was able to attend my first Heilung ritual with my girlfriend Ami Mercury it was a powerful experience I am still reeling from months after. some day I do hope to see them at red rocks venue. I let myself enjoy hobbies more and reacquainted myself with comic books (Deadpool and Ironman) and my first video game play since 2005. I'm sure you've noticed around my social media accounts that I'm trapped under the massive rock that is Baldur's gate 3. so much fun and so impressive. video games sure have come a long way!! overall I'm making healthier choices for myself and intend to keep doing so in 2024. I appreciate each and every one of you who have stuck by me over the years despite transitions and challenges and cannot wait to see what the future holds for us all.

[healthcare-gomedii]

Navigating Sickle Cell Treatment Excellence: A Comprehensive Guide to Affordable and Advanced Care in India with GoMedii

Sickle cell disease, a genetic disorder affecting red blood cells, has long been a concern globally. However, India emerges as a beacon of hope, offering not only advanced treatments but also cost-effective solutions. This comprehensive guide aims to shed light on the various facets of sickle cell treatment in India, emphasizing its affordability, skilled healthcare professionals, and cutting-edge medical technologies.

Affordability and Expertise in Indian Healthcare

Unlike many other countries, the cost of sickle cell treatment in India is described as budget-friendly, making it an attractive option for patients seeking quality care without a hefty financial burden. The page highlights the presence of highly-trained healthcare professionals specializing in sickle cell treatment, underlining India's commitment to providing accessible and proficient medical care.

State-of-the-Art Treatments

Indian hospitals are portrayed as pioneers in offering the latest treatments for genetic diseases, including sickle cell disorder. The narrative assures prospective patients that they can benefit from advanced medical technologies without facing exorbitant costs, creating a narrative that positions India as a leading destination for sickle cell treatment.

GoMedii's Commitment to Cost-Effective Robotic Surgery

The guide introduces GoMedii, a platform committed to providing top-notch and cost-effective robotic surgery to both international and domestic patients. It emphasizes the compatibility of advanced medical procedures with economic considerations, positioning GoMedii as a reliable partner in accessing state-of-the-art treatments.

Understanding Sickle Cell Disorder

The guide provides a thorough understanding of sickle cell disorder, explaining its impact on the shape and oxygen-carrying capacity of red blood cells. It introduces the various types of sickle cell disorders, focusing on Sickle Cell Anemia (Hb SS) as the most common form. The concise yet informative language serves to educate readers about the intricacies of the disease.

Treatment Options

Detailed information is provided on the types of treatments available, including medications, blood transfusion, and stem cell transplant. The guide emphasizes the genetic nature of the disorder, highlighting that stem cell transplant remains the only permanent solution. This section aims to empower readers with knowledge about the available medical interventions.

Cost Considerations

A critical aspect discussed is the cost of sickle cell treatment in India, ranging from $13,000 to $15,000. The guide reassures readers that even in severe cases, the cost does not exceed $22,000, making India an economical yet high-quality option for bone marrow transplants.

Recovery and Success Rates

The recovery period for different treatments is outlined, with an emphasis on the relatively high success rates in India. The presence of highly-qualified hematologists and state-of-the-art equipment contributes to success rates ranging from 60-80% for bone marrow transplants and 60-90% for blood transfusions, building confidence in the effectiveness of treatments.

Risks and Post-Treatment Care

Potential risks, such as graft failure, graft vs host disease, and bloodborne infections, are transparently presented. The guide then provides a comprehensive list of do’s and don'ts for post-treatment care, offering practical advice for patients and their families.

Frequently Asked Questions

The guide addresses common queries about sickle cell disease, its permanence, lifestyle considerations, and the latest treatments like gene therapy. This section aims to alleviate concerns and provide a well-rounded understanding of the disease.

GoMedii as a Medical Tourism Partner

The guide concludes by presenting GoMedii as a medical tourism company in India associated with top-class hospitals and doctors. It assures readers of a superior medical care experience, encouraging them to reach out for further assistance via WhatsApp or email.

Conclusion

This comprehensive guide serves as an invaluable resource for individuals seeking information on sickle cell treatment in India. It bridges the gap between affordability and advanced medical care, positioning India as a favorable destination for those navigating the challenges of sickle cell disorder. The inclusion of GoMedii as a reliable partner adds credibility to the narrative, offering a holistic perspective on the available options for patients seeking effective and budget-friendly treatment solutions.

[remodelling]

had a clinical immunology lecture today where we learned about graft vs host disease and all i could think about was him

[herriblog]

SCID

Severe Compromised Immunodeficiency Disease (SCID). It is an immune disorder that is absent in an individual. This is usually detected in a newborn screening done in Singapore when they are about 48 hours old. These newborns have to stay in isolation, preferably a positive pressure room in a hospital till they get a bone marrow transplant (BMT) or what they call it medically HSCT. After the transplant has been done, they still have to stay in isolation till their immune system builds up. During this process, there are many concerns (such as Graft Vs Host Disease, infections etc).

Back to my story, on the 19th September, we found out that he has this condition (based on the newborn screening result). We met with Dr Tash on the 20/09/2023 who had told us not to worry and that we have to do another set of blood test to confirm the diagnosis. He then gave us a pamphlet on SCID (done by Immune Deficiency Foundation) but try not to let it affect us. Hearing that made me and my husband feel a little better. We thought maybe his immune system hadn't kicked in yet or perhaps a wrong specimen was despatched under his name. We went home, still researching about the condition but not letting us get affected by it.

Oh, they even told me not to breastfeed Mannat (my second son) as they are worried that I have a virus that can be passed to him during breastfeeding. So I continued to pump every 3hourly to maintain my supply just in case I could feed him at the next appointment a few days later. Psychological aspect, me as a mother who delivered her son 2 weeks ago was emotionally affected that I would cry every few minutes, wondering why did I plan to have a second child, why when I knew I might have defective gene (my late brother had passed on of mitochondrial disorder when he was 13 years old. And I googled and it stated that it might have been passed down to him by one of my parents. I remember asking a Dr if I should do a genetic test to see if I am a carrier and if I was then, I would avoid having a child entirely so as not to go through what my parents had gone through with my late brother), but he told me not to open a can of worms and live life as it comes. Each time I carried Mannat, I felt so guilty that it was me that caused him to have this condition. The fact that he would have prolonged hospitalisations, multiple blood takings, multiple transfusions of IV Immunoglobulin (to maintain his immunity). I would always end up crying and crying. My husband kept on telling me not to cry. But how do you tell a post partum mother not to cry when her hormones are all over the place? He comforted me and told me not to worry and that I need to be strong. I remember telling him that I can't. I have gone through so much for the year (mother getting diagnosed with Alzheimers, mother in law having a heart attack, underwent bypass surgery only to pass on in the hospital due a negligence by the hospital (that's another story), me having bleeding twice while I was carrying Mannat and having terrible round ligament pains)). I found it hard to keep it together.

On the 21/09/2023, I received a Whatsapp message from the Immunologist Nurse stating that a doctor will be contacting us to update us about the result. Dr Liew (an immunologist from MEH) contacted us by a videocall (we requested for a videocall so we can understand better).

During the video call, he told us that Mannat did in fact have SCID. He showed us the results where:

T cells: 0. B cells: 0 NK cells: 91.

I was starting to tear up. I tried to control it as much as I could. My husband was trying to show a brave front but he was tearing too. I asked the Dr if it was related to what my late brother had as some of the symptoms was what he had (not growing, had chronic diarrhea, he was not able to keep food in, vomitting.) He told me that it was highly unlikely but they will consider screening him for it once they have treated SCID. He reassured us that a bone marrow transplant would usually treat this condition. I asked him about my IgG result to see if I could breastfeed Mannat and he apologised as he was not able to trace the result as he was in his clinic that was in MEH. He then told us that he would be meeting us at the hospital on 25/09/2023 and high chance that Mannat will be admitted due to his blood result. He would be given IVIG and some blood tests will be done and he will be discharged within a few days.

All I did in the next few days was cry and seek comfort in my best friend at work. She gathered information and shared them with me. Some of the things that she had shared was Mannat will definitely need a bone marrow transplant, require hospitalisation for almost a year (based on her oncology friends input) as the bone marrow had to be engraved into Mannat before he would be allowed home. Her oncology friend had shared that she had seen only 2 of such cases. One of them was a foreigner and the other was a local. I sighed at this news. I remember planning to resign after my maternity leave to look after my children. I wanted to be there during their milestones. I did not planned this to happen. But now, looking at the bright side of things, I would see Mannat's milestones one on one. Downside of it, my husband will not be able to see alot of his firsts.

Since the diagnosis was confirmed, we isolated ourselves. Mannat and myself were in another room. We didn't let Akaal near him as much. I remember bringing Mannat home and Akaal was so jealous of him. He didn't want to touch Mannat. He didn't want Mannat to use his baby cot, his room (the room we are currently in was originally Akaal's playroom). But as time went by, I could see how Akaal would be so intrigued by Mannat. Wanting to see him and touch him. Each time, when the door opened, he will rush in and see Mannat and exclaimed, "Baby!" He even tried to climb up the bed to be beside him but we pulled him away. The closest he got was to touch Mannat's hand (mittens on), and shake his hand lightly n said, "baby!!!" and he proceeded to touch his feet (booties on). How I wished I had taken a video of it. It was so sweet. My helper, Khawl, came in to take him away. I immediately took away the booties and mittens to wash them. Not to worry. I have been monitoring him every day. He is afebrile, no cough, runny nose. However he does have vomitting (Dr mentioned that it might be due to not burping well enough and there is nothing to worry about).

[drpriya]

A bone marrow transplant (BMT), also known as a stem cell transplant, can be an effective treatment option for certain types of blood cancer, particularly leukaemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma, as well as some non-cancerous blood disorders.

The effectiveness of a BMT depends on several factors, including the type and stage of the blood cancer, the patient's overall health, and the source of the donor cells.

Here are some key points regarding the effectiveness of bone marrow transplants for treating blood cancer:

Curative Potential: BMT is considered a potentially curative treatment for certain blood cancers, particularly when other treatments have not been successful or when the cancer is at an advanced stage. It aims to replace the patient's diseased or damaged bone marrow with healthy donor stem cells, allowing the production of normal blood cells.

Allogeneic vs. Autologous Transplants: There are two main types of BMTs: allogeneic and autologous. In an allogeneic transplant, donor stem cells are obtained from a compatible donor (usually a sibling or unrelated donor) and are used to replace the patient's marrow. In autologous transplants, the patient's own stem cells are collected and then infused back after high-dose chemotherapy. Allogeneic transplants have a higher potential for cure because they introduce an immune response against cancer cells.

Disease-Specific Efficacy: The effectiveness of a BMT varies depending on the type of blood cancer. For example, allogeneic BMT can be highly effective in treating acute leukemias, while autologous BMT is often used in multiple myeloma and some lymphomas. The success rates and risks associated with each type of transplant can differ.

Risk Factors: BMT is associated with significant risks and potential complications, including graft-versus-host disease (in allogeneic transplants), infections, organ damage, and graft failure. The patient's age, overall health, and the presence of comorbidities can affect the risk profile.

Matching Donors: In allogeneic transplants, finding a suitable donor with compatible human leukocyte antigen (HLA) markers is crucial. The closer the HLA match between donor and recipient, the better the chances of a successful transplant.

Ongoing Monitoring: After a BMT, patients require close monitoring for complications, graft-versus-host disease (in allogeneic transplants), and recurrence of the blood cancer. Long-term follow-up care is essential to ensure the best outcomes.

Individualized Approach: The decision to pursue a bone marrow transplant should be individualized and made in consultation with a hematologist or oncologist. They will consider the patient's specific case, including their diagnosis, overall health, and the availability of suitable donors.

In summary, bone marrow transplants can be highly effective for treating certain blood cancers, offering a potential cure for some patients. However, the decision to undergo a BMT is complex and depends on various factors. Patients and their healthcare teams should thoroughly discuss the risks, benefits, and suitability of BMT as part of the overall treatment plan.

There are best hospitals in Delhi and India, where lymphoma is treated successfully. You may contact these hospitals for knowing more about lymphoma symptoms, lymphoma treatments, success of various treatments like bone marrow transplant, cost of lymphoma treatments, cost of bone marrow treatment in Delhi.

Here are some common treatments for blood cancer:

Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth. It can be administered orally, intravenously, or via other methods, and it's often used as a primary treatment for various blood cancers.

Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays or other types of radiation to target and destroy cancer cells. It is often used in conjunction with chemotherapy or as a localized treatment for specific types of blood cancers.

Stem Cell Transplantation: Stem cell transplantation, also known as bone marrow transplantation, involves replacing damaged or cancerous bone marrow with healthy stem cells. It's used to treat diseases like leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma.

Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapies are drugs that specifically target cancer cells or the processes that drive their growth. These drugs have fewer side effects than chemotherapy and can be highly effective for certain types of blood cancer.

Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy drugs help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. CAR-T cell therapy, for example, is a form of immunotherapy used for certain types of blood cancer, especially some types of leukemia and lymphoma.

Biological Therapy: Biological therapies use substances made from living organisms to treat cancer. For example, monoclonal antibodies can be used to target specific proteins on the surface of cancer cells.

Watchful Waiting: In some cases, especially for slow-growing blood cancers, doctors may adopt a "watchful waiting" approach, where they monitor the condition closely and initiate treatment only when necessary.

Supportive Care: Managing symptoms and side effects is an essential part of blood cancer treatment. Supportive care may include pain management, blood transfusions, antibiotics, and other measures to improve the patient's quality of life.

Clinical Trials: Participating in clinical trials can provide access to experimental treatments and therapies that are not yet widely available. Discuss with your healthcare team whether there are suitable clinical trials for your specific blood cancer.

The choice of treatment depends on factors such as the type and stage of the blood cancer, the patient's overall health and preferences, and the potential risks and benefits of each treatment option. Treatment plans are typically developed by a team of healthcare professionals, including haematologists, oncologists, and other specialists, to provide the most appropriate and effective care for the individual patient.

[universitycancercentres]

GRAFT VS HOST DISEASE: CAUSES, DIAGNOSIS, TREATMENT, AND MORE

A complication that may take place following an allogeneic transplant. This is generally graft vs host disease or GvHD. More than 50 percent of patients who have gone through a transplant can experience this complication. The symptoms of the graft vs host disease can be skin rash, loss of appetite, abnormal liver function, and diarrhea. Those who have weaker immunity and who receive white blood cells from another person are more susceptible to this disease.

[morrisandgill]

What are the most common causes and symptoms of dry eyes?

Aging is a common cause of decreased tear production. Sjogren's syndrome, allergic eye disease, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, scleroderma, graft vs. host disease, sarcoidosis, thyroid disorders, or vitamin A deficiency are all medical conditions that should be avoided. Dry eye symptoms include a dry, gritty, or burning sensation in the eyes, as well as redness, watery or teary eyes, tching, and light sensitivity.

[mcatmemoranda]

Graft versus Host Disease (GvHD) = the transplanted organ has lymphocytes (B and T cells) that release cytokines that activate the donor's immune system to attack the recipient.

In OnlineMedEd, Dustyn said that in graft vs host disease, the lymphocytes in the donor tissue trigger the recipient to make antibodies against the recipient. In this question I just answered, it says that T lymphs in the donated organ are sensitized to the recipient's MHC Ag and then they attack the host's tissues. Donor T cells from the donated organ go into the host's tissues, become sensitized to the host's MHC antigens, and then the donor CD4+ and CD8+ T cells destroy host cells. The GI tract, the skin, and the liver are usually affected. The pt can get a rash that includes the palms and soles.

[mission-to-dietitian]

Sadly, some patients get GVHD years after stem cell transplant. The donor cells attack the host's tissues (can attack any tissue). Skin GVHD has to be treated like a burn. Some patients get eye GVHD and go blind, lung GVHD and have trouble breathing, GI GVHD (cannot absorb anymore), etc. For allo/haplotransplant regimens have built-in antibiotics and antivirals to help cover the patient while they are neutropenic. Allo/haplo also has built-in immunosuppression. Patient might be given tacrolimus or more chemo, or methotrexate to help suppress GVHD. We want to make sure donor cells are not attacking the patient.

[chemochronicles]

New GVHD Blood Treatment Update. 12.31.17

You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. Psalm 16:11

Is tonight already New Year’s Eve? Time keeps passing so fast. Tomorrow is the start of 2018, and I’d be lying if I didn’t admit that I’m disappointed that I’m not where I hoped I’d be by now with my health. And along with continued GVHD being unpredictable, there have been so many new changes recently! A new place to live, new GVHD blood treatments, and also a new hospital and team for some of those treatments. (I still love all my UCLA doctors, but city of hope has a Graft vs Host Disease clinic that UCLA doesn’t have, their campus is more convenient to get to, and parking there is free!)

We’re still in survival mode, and we’re still pressing on. It just occurred to me that I’ve been living with chronic Graft vs Host Disease for over a year now. I’m not sure if I’m any better or worst, or the same again, from how I was doing in September when things got scary bad. Is this just the way life goes? I’m learning to accept it and fight the temptation towards bitterness… Because Romans 8 and James 1 and Philippians 4 and intimately knowing who God is, are some powerful motivators. 

The last time I shared, my breathing wasn’t doing well. I went in to three different specialists who did several types of tests that all came back normal. I haven’t noticed as many breathing issues as frequently as they were last month… but then many other symptoms have become more severe, and each day and each week are all pretty unpredictable. Symptoms come and go and the severity of each symptom varies from mild to extreme depending on the day, but I haven’t been able to find the patterns and triggers yet. I’m having trouble functioning most of the time and Caleb is constantly on overdrive for me, handling it all like a champ of coarse. Showing me the literal tangible picture of Jesus’s sacrificial, selfless love, daily. I’m so thankful that despite all these hard things, I have a husband who is committed to humility. Now that’s a leader I will gladly follow, and a gift that I hope I never take for granted!

When your entire world is turned upside down with no end in sight, and no assurance of physical relief, you have to change your expectations and look for the little glimmers of light in each moment. Or else the darkness of selfishness and pride will consume you (and there are times when it still creeps in and gets too cozy).

This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us. 1 John 1:5-10

This season is really forcing me to slow down, and pay attention to each small thing in front of me because that’s all my tired mind can handle focusing on right now. But, like all trials for a true Christian, it’s not necessarily a bad thing. (James 1) How much was I missing before, when I was distracted by things that are all physical and superficial?

So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal. 2 Corinthians 4:16-18

Maybe I was supposed to learn that… and maybe I was supposed to share it with anyone who’s willing to listen..

Imbruvica isn’t working as well as they hoped, so the next thing they’re trying for treatment seems low risk and promising, but it will be a big long term commitment. I’ll start extracorporeal photophoresis (AKA ecp, or photopheresis) which is photobiomodulation (or light therapy) of the blood; with city of hope next week. I had my Hickman central line placed last week, which will be my new accessory for a while. It’s a blood treatment where I’ll get transfusions twice a week until they see the results they’re hoping for, and then eventually taper down. The closest common thing I can think of to compare it to would be dialysis, because they’re taking blood out of my body, using this machine to filter/clean the blood with a special form of UV light, and then putting it back in my body. Most people with GVHD in forums that I’ve read do this for a few years, but of coarse I’m hoping it’s less. A year ago I would have been upset about this treatment, but now I’m just so thankful for an option, desperate for relief and ready to start!

I took a break from social media a little under two months ago and it’s been so good for me… I’m not sure how / to what extent I’ll go back, we’ll see. But if you’ve been considering deleting your social media apps for a season, I highly recommend it. My well-being and contentment have improved so much, by removing temptation to envy, to over share and the selfishness that it can breed. And I’m no longer dragged down by negativity every time I instinctively check facebook. It’s wonderful! Thanks to Tony Reinke (12 ways your Phone is changing you) & Simon Sinek! 

We also moved a few weeks ago, and I can’t be more thankful that it all came together - yet in the most chaotic and stressful way. Between Caleb traveling on a few different business trips out of state, my symptoms and breathing trouble all flaring up limiting my ability to function or pack. Caleb was planning on packing everything for us the weekend before, in the short window that he was home in two weeks - but he got the worst stomach flu he’s ever had. He recovered right before he left for his next trip, and got back the day before our “moving day” to pack. It felt like everything that could go wrong, did. BUT. With the help of our family and friends that weekend it all worked out, and now we can laugh about it with dropped jaws! Even though there are plenty of things going “wrong” in life, there are plenty of things going right too. In our other apartment I had to calculate how much energy it’d take me to walk up and down the stairs and find my parking spot (which was another source of stress: parking!) if I wanted to leave the house. Now we have an attached garage on the first floor and I am able to use more of my scarce energy on things that actually matter! Thank you, Lord for these little blessings!

So that’s the latest! Please pray that these new treatments work… I’m really praying that God would allow me to heal so I can function, we can live our lives and move past this long season of survival mode. But if that’s not in God’s Sovereign and ultimately greater plan, please pray that my heart would change. That Caleb and I would continue to fight for the beloved joy that is only found in Jesus’s saving grace.

Until next time, Elisabeth

PS. I put together a little youtube playlist that I keep on in the background at home. It’s peaceful and beautiful and sincere and uplifting. I thought I’d share in case anyone else would like it too. You can click here to listen. :) 

 ❤️

No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. 1 Corinthians 10:13

The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance. 2 Peter 3:9

Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones that you have broken rejoice. Hide your face from my sins, and blot out all my iniquities. Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit. Then I will teach transgressors your ways, and sinners will return to you. Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, O God of my salvation, and my tongue will sing aloud of your righteousness. O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise. Psalm 51:8-15

[medical-af]

in bone marrow transplants, GRAFT REJECTS YOU