Planning Ahead
Deciding to have a transplant is a significant event. It is like embarking on a long, challenging journey. It is also the beginning of a busy time when you will be organizing your personal affairs so that you can give your full attention to coping with the treatment experience.
Most patients begin by first making an appointment to consult with our doctors to discuss the possibility of a transplant. Once you are determined eligible and scheduled for a transplant, our staff will send you a book and DVD called “Preparing for Transplant,” which will guide you through the necessary planning, preparation, and decision-making, which includes information about:
- Living in Seattle
- Selecting a caregiver
- Bringing children with you and arranging for school and/or childcare
- Making financial arrangements to pay for your transplant and your living expenses during your time in Seattle, or raising funds to help.
The Patient and Family Resource Center has information about support services and classes. They also offer computer work stations with printers, fax machines, and copy machines for you to use.