How a random blood test led to a high-risk MDS diagnosis
My MDS story began just under two years ago. I was a normally healthy 71 year-old (or so I thought): I had no symptoms and I was still jogging a couple of times a week. I just happened to have a random blood test which showed that I had a low white blood cell count.
My doctor son saw the results and strongly advised me to consult a haematologist. That led in turn to bone marrow tests, which showed that I had high-risk MDS (MDS-EB2).
After a stem cell transplant in May 2021: "I’ve been very fortunate"
Stephen Andrews
The pandemic delayed some of my treatment, but eventually, after five cycles of Azacitidine (plus Venetoclax), I had a bone marrow transplant (from an unrelated donor) at King’s in May 2021.
Since being discharged nearly three months ago, I’ve had a couple of weeks back in hospital with infections, but generally I’ve been very fortunate, avoiding the worst of graft versus host disease (GvHD).
My post-transplant blood and bone marrow test results have been positive and, all being well, I am looking forward to getting my new set of Covid jabs within the next few weeks.
A big THANK YOU from MDS UK
Stephen and his son Tom have been amazing participants in last year's 20for20 campaign, raising an incredible £13,848.00, thanks to their wonderful and generous donors.
Take a look at their pages and the lovely messages of support Stephen received!
https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Stephen-Andrews8
https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/TandyMds
Thank you again Andrews family, friends, colleagues, supporters!
Team MDS UK
Feeling inspired? please consider joining our 20for20 campaign too!
It is easy to do - and every pound raised will help our charity maintain our services to MDS patients, as we continue to struggle through the financial impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Be our hero! Join our 20:20 campaign and fundraise for MDS UK
