Breaking the Decade Drought: Hospital's First Autologous Bone Marrow Transplant in 10 Years
Our Lady of the Lake's Major Milestone
Our Lady of the Lake Hospital in Baton Rouge marked a significant achievement on Wednesday by performing its first autologous bone marrow transplant in nearly ten years. This event highlights the hospital's commitment to advancing cancer treatment options for its patients. The transplant procedure uses the patient's own healthy stem cells to replace those affected by cancer. This milestone reflects the hospital's dedication to providing cutting-edge medical care to the community.
Facing Multiple Myeloma: William Carruthers' Journey
William Carruthers battled multiple myeloma, a cancer that impacts the bones, immune system, and kidneys, and also leads to a significant decrease in his body's ability to produce healthy cells. Prior to undergoing the transplant, Carruthers endured eight months of chemotherapy, which took a toll on his appetite and led to a significant weight loss of 35 pounds. Despite the challenging diagnosis, Carruthers remained determined, motivated by his love for his family.
Understanding Autologous Bone Marrow Transplant
An autologous bone marrow transplant involves collecting healthy stem cells from the patient's own body and using them to replace damaged bone marrow after intensive treatment. This procedure helps restore the body's ability to produce healthy cells, combating the effects of cancer. Our Lady of the Lake Hospital had not offered this surgery for eight or nine years, making its recent performance a notable comeback in cancer treatment services.
Expanding Oncology Expertise at the Hospital
Our Lady of the Lake has bolstered its oncology department by bringing on board experienced oncologists Dr. Hana Safa and Dr. Nakhle Saba. Their expertise has been instrumental in reintroducing advanced procedures like the autologous bone marrow transplant to the hospital. This expansion allows the medical center to offer life-saving treatments and attract more patients seeking comprehensive cancer care in the Baton Rouge area.
The Power of Family Support
Throughout his treatment, William Carruthers was driven by his love for his children and granddaughter. He expressed that his family was his motivation to fight the disease and stay strong during his recovery. Carruthers acknowledged the emotional challenge of being unable to hold his family during the 100-day recovery period, highlighting the deep bonds that sustain him through tough times.
Conclusion
Our Lady of the Lake Hospital's successful bone marrow transplant marks a new chapter in its cancer treatment offerings. William Carruthers' experience underscores the importance of advanced medical procedures and the support of loved ones in battling serious illnesses. The hospital encourages everyone to maintain regular health checkups, as timely medical appointments can be crucial in saving lives.
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