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Re-Establish Normalcy (Getting back to normal life again)

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Next Topic: Revaccination

Getting back to work, school, or social life after a stem cell transplant isn’t a single moment—it’s a gradual, deeply personal process. Recovery continues long after discharge, and your care team will help guide when and how to re-enter different parts of daily life.

What to expect

  • Rehabilitation may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, or emotional support to rebuild stamina, coordination, and confidence

  • You’ll be followed closely—clinic visits, labs, and symptom tracking remain essential

  • Your immune system is still vulnerable, so infection precautions and medication routines continue

  • Emotional recovery is just as important—fatigue, anxiety, and identity shifts are common

Children’s Point of View

  • Kids may feel “different” from peers—physically, emotionally, or socially

  • Help them find language to explain their experience to friends and classmates

  • Encourage schools to offer flexibility and emotional support

  • Use child life specialists or peer mentors to help normalize the journey

What I Wish I Knew

  • Recovery can take a year or more, especially with GVHD, infections, or medication intolerance

  • Radiation side effects may appear months later—ask about fatigue, hormone changes, or organ function

  • Small steps matter—a short walk, a car ride, or a conversation can be part of healing

  • It’s okay to feel different—and that identity shifts are part of survivorship

Questions to Ask

  • When can I safely return to work, school, or social activities?

  • What accommodations are available—half days, remote options, tutoring, or at-home teachers?

  • What symptoms should I watch for as I increase activity?

  • Are there long-term effects from radiation or chemotherapy I should plan for?

Common Myths

Myth: You’ll wake up one day and feel normal again

Fact: Recovery is layered. Some milestones feel big (like returning to work), but many are quiet and slow.

Helpful Tips

  • There’s no rush—take things slow and listen to your body

  • The first few days back may feel strange or uncomfortable—give yourself grace

  • Get to know your care team’s roles—who to call for symptoms, meds, or emotional support

  • Keep tracking medications and infection risks—they’re still part of daily life

Next Topic: Revaccination

Disclaimer: This Journey Map is for educational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Every patient’s situation is unique, and care decisions should always be made in consultation with your clinical team.

We extend our appreciation to Sanofi and Alexion for their generous partnership and active participation in our community. Their support helped bring patients, caregivers, clinicians, and industry partners together to co-create this Journey Map and improve the transplant experience.

Our Journey Map was created for Patients and Caregivers by Patients and Caregivers. Please share any corrections or additions!