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Over 140 Things You Need to Know about Your Autologous Bone Marrow or Stem Cell Transplant

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Reviewed By: Carolyn Vachani, MSN, RN, AOCN
Abramson Cancer Center of the University of Pennsylvania
Last Modified: September 14, 2007

Author: Mark Patton Publisher: MGC Publications, © 2005 Information: $11.95+ S&H | 88 pages | ISBN # 0976806002 OncoLink Rating:

Mark Patton describes himself as the world's most transplanted person, and at 2 bone marrow and 3 stem cell transplants, I think he may be correct. So, when you sit down to read Mark's 140+ transplant tips, it's like sitting with Emeril Lagasse and getting cooking tips. The tips start with the pre-transplant period and include things like how to care for your caregiver (and continue to be cared for), how to interact with your nurses (my personal favorite), and how to handle all the things that are second nature to us nurses, but quite foreign to patients (urinating in a bottle, for instance).

The book also takes a humorous approach to the serious issues of transplant, such as neutropenia, infection and nausea. Mark's tips could help even the most serious patient take a lighter look at the process. The end of the book includes an extensive listing of resources and freebies for "transplantees". People should keep in mind that these tips are based on Mark's experiences at one transplant center, and some procedures will vary from center to center.

Mark and his wife / caregiver, Mary Grace, should be commended on their willingness to share his experiences so openly with other "transplantees". In addition, visit Mark's website, www.bmtresources.org for lots of transplant information, resources, encouragement, or to purchase the book.