Understanding stem cell therapy for MDS
10 Feb. 2026In this presentation, Patricia Cardoso, Bone Marrow Transplant Coordinator and Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) at King’s College Hospital, London, explains what to expect before, during, and after a donor stem cell transplant. The session covers donor selection, transplant preparation, chemotherapy, recovery, side effects, and long-term follow-up.
Watch the presentation
This session was recorded for MDS UK Patient Support Group - February 2026.
About Patricia Cardoso
Patricia Cardoso is a Haematology Nurse with over 10 years’ experience in cancer care and a long-standing commitment to supporting people with blood disorders. She currently works as a Bone Marrow Transplant Coordinator and Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) at King’s College Hospital, where she coordinates complex donor stem cell transplants and supports patients and families throughout the transplant journey.
Her work spans from transplant preparation through treatment and recovery, with a focus on helping patients feel informed, supported, and confident during this critical stage of their care.
Downloadable booklets about stem cell transplants
Patricia mentioned a number of booklets in her presentation, which we’ve listed below. Click or tap the links or booklet images to download a PDF copy.
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Blood stem cell and bone marrow transplants: The seven steps This booklet is for people who are going to have a stem cell transplant, and for those supporting them. It explains the transplant process in clear, step-by-step stages, helping you understand what lies ahead and how each stage supports your recovery.
(If you’d prefer a printed copy, you can order one free of charge from the Blood Cancer UK online shop. Free delivery is available for information booklets.)
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The seven steps the next steps - A handbook for long-term recovery after a stem cell transplant This is a guide for transplant patients to help them navigate the weeks, months and years after a blood stem cell or bone marrow transplant.
If you’d prefer a printed copy, you can contact: Anthony Nolan patient support via patientinfo@anthonynolan.org
Further information and resources from MDS UK
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Watch MDS & transplantation explained: Risks, timing, new prognostic scores (March 2024), a presentation by Consultant Haematologist and Associate Professor Dr Beth Payne from University College London (UCL). It's a clear overview of when stem cell transplant is considered in MDS, the risks and benefits involved, and how newer scoring systems like IPSS-M are influencing treatment decisions.
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Download our comprehensive MDS Patient Guide for clear, reliable information about living with MDS and understanding your diagnosis.
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You don’t have to face MDS alone — explore our Support section for practical advice and emotional support via our support line and virtual meetings.
