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Phone 303-388-4876 • Fax 303-336-2193 • Toll Free 1-800-891-7622

URL http://www.rockymountainbmt.com/patient_stories/Maggie-Brunner-21.html

Maggie Brunner

"I was faced with my own mortality," said Maggie. "After the realization and acceptance of the seriousness of my sickness, I was forced to go to some pretty unreal places emotionally. My husband and I discussed our wishes for our three children and their futures, with and without me."

Maggie received an allogeneic transplant from her brother's donated stem cells in August of 2000 to treat a diagnosis of aplastic anemia. Over the next 11 months, she relied on faith, family and friends to see her through the tough times.

"My follow up visits to the program became very important to me because that was where I could interact with other transplant patients and staff," said Maggie. "I cherish those friendships because they were created through a process that was incredibly difficult, so the level of understanding and compassion went deep. That in and of itself made for very special human interaction."

It was also music that uplifted her day after day.

"Growing up with five brothers and sisters, in a single parent home (my mom was the greatest), I relied heavily on music for strength and entertainment. Music is still very important to me today and played a huge role in getting me through my transplant. It really helps to put me in my happy place."

As Maggie went through her pre-transplant and recovery steps, the organization and specificity of transplant protocols really struck her. Dr. Matous and the staff of the Rocky Mountain Blood and Marrow Transplant Program put her at ease as they dedicated themselves to her care.

"Going into the transplant I had a feeling that I would walk out of it and be okay." said Maggie. "Dr. Matous and his staff played a big role in giving me that sense of peace."