Stem Cell Transplant
Stem Cell Transplant You have heard people talking about stem cell transplants but you are not really sure what they are talking about. Are they transplants from other people, your own body or from another source? And, why would anyone need a stem cell transplant?
Changes are, if you or someone you know is or has been treated for cancer by receiving high dosages of chemotherapy or radiation, you know about stem cell transplants. When a person undergoes these types of treatments, their own bone marrow and stem cells can be destroyed. After receiving one of these treatments, it may be important that they receive a stem cell transplant. A stem cell transplant can be given in two different ways. One is by using your own stem cells that were previously collected and specially prepared and treated so that they could be put back into your system. The other way is by receiving a stem cell donation from another person. The stem cell transplant is given in a drip or influsion after the high dosages of chemotherapy or radiation. The replenished stem cells received during the transplant help your body in several ways. Everyone's body contains bone marrow and it is this substance that makes the cells that eventually develop into different types of blood cells. Our body's make (1) red blood cells that carry oxygen throughout our bodies, (2) white blood cells that fight inflections, and (3) platelets that help prevent bleedings and help the blood to clot. A stem cell transplant after a treatment of chemotherapy or radiation gives the patient the necessary bone marrow that they need to help their bodies through the difficult period following their treatment for cancer. You should remember that the stem cells in their own bodies are destroyed by the cancer treatment drugs. That is why having a stem cell transplant is so important for their successful recovery. A stem cell transplant is a matter of life and death for some people and there is not always enough available for everyone who needs a transplant. Consider being a stem cell donor. Get yourself tested and registered with a local transplant center. That way, if someone desperately needs a stem cell transplant, you may be the person that can save their life. It is fairly easy to become a donor and it costs you nothing but a little bit of your time. Can you really walk around know that people are dying every day because they can not get a stem cell transplant? Take the time and register. You never know, the life you save may be a friend or relative. And, if it is a total stranger, that is okay also. At least you are helping your fellow citizens during a time of need. |