Supporting a spouse through a bone marrow transplant is a big deal, and it's important to know that help is available for caregivers too. An MPN diagnosis affects the whole family, not just the individual.
Here are some key support options for spouses and caregivers:
- Palliative care teams can provide practical and Show Full Answer
Supporting a spouse through a bone marrow transplant is a big deal, and it's important to know that help is available for caregivers too. An MPN diagnosis affects the whole family, not just the individual.
Here are some key support options for spouses and caregivers:
- Palliative care teams can provide practical and emotional support for family members, helping with day-to-day responsibilities
- Social workers (often part of palliative care) can assist with finding transportation, housing, childcare, insurance paperwork, and financial resources
- Nonprofit organizations like the National Foundation for Transplants and the Blood and Marrow Transplant Information Network offer support for those involved in transplants
- The Cancer Financial Assistance Coalition has resources for non-medical expenses like transportation and housing
- The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society offers strategies for managing the financial burden of transplants
It's also worth noting that spouses may be called upon to act as a daily caregiver, especially during the first 100 days after the transplant. If that's not possible, the care team can help find a reputable hired caregiver.
Don't hesitate to ask the transplant team about all available support services — that's exactly what they're there for.
June 9