Referrals for Stem Cell Transplant:

After her last doctor appointment, we asked Dr. Kafaja to provide us with some info on stem cell transplant.  If this is something we may be considering in the future we wanted to start doing our research now.  Grammie has also reached out to cousin Kathi (Dr. Adamson- Pathologist) up in Seattle to see if she has any information. Ironically the information provided by both Dr. Adamson and Dr. Kafaja/Dr. Furst were to the same doctor up in Seattle, Dr. Georges.

It took a week or so before I could place the phone call to inquire on stem cell transplant. I had my list of questions and placed the call to the research nurse, Bernie.  I felt my heart racing as if I was getting ready for a job interview.  Bernie was very nice and provided a lot of information.  I will admit it was an overwhelming and very emotional call. 

She shared two types of transplants; one using your own cells and one requiring a donor.  Of course our first choice would be to use Britt’s own cells (less chance of rejection).  Unfortunately, it isn’t that easy.  Based on the last set of PFTs, Britt’s lungs are not in a healthy enough condition to be able to use her own cells.  We would need to see an increase in lung function from 39% to 45% to even consider it.  At this time it isn’t an option but Britt is a fighter and she will continue her next two rounds of chemo and then we will reassess.

Bernie encouraged us to talk further with Dr. Furst and Dr. Kafaja.  She provided some additional information on studies to read.  She advised us to schedule a consultation with Dr. Georges; come up, see the center and discuss further.