Learning about transplants can be a good way to reduce anxiety and help you regain a sense of control.
Excellent information is available in print, on the Internet, and by phone.
A particularly helpful Internet resource is the National Bone Marrow Transplant Link (www.nbmtlink.org). There you can read online -- or print out a free copy of -- "Survivors' Guide for Bone Marrow/Stem Cell Transplant: What to Expect and How to Get Through It."
Talking to doctors, visiting transplant centers and calling cancer organizations can help you better understand the process. You may also reach the Cancer Information Service, a resource of the National Cancer Institute, by phone, Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (your local time), at 1-800-4-CANCER.
Speaking to a transplant survivor can be very reassuring. A former patient's answers to your questions and a personal perspective on the experience may help you feel more prepared to make decisions about care and treatment. Many support organizations can help put you in contact with a transplant survivor, either by phone or online:
The National Bone Marrow Transplant Link
800-LINK-BMT
www.nbmtlink.org
The Blood and Marrow Transplant Information Network
888-597-7674
www.bmtinfonet.org
The Bone Marrow Foundation
800-365-1336
