Dr. Andy Harris on the Challenges Facing Young Patients with cGVHD

Dr. Andy Harris was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) when he was a 19 year old pre-med college student.  After receiving lifesaving care at the University of Michigan, he vowed to pay it forward.  Now he works with young people at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York.Today we do a deep dive with Dr. Harris on the unique challenges posed to kids of all ages fighting cancer.  Babies are supposed to be spending this time bonding with their parents.  Toddlers are supposed to be starting school.   Older kids are supposed to be learning social skills, and teenagers are supposed to be forming their own identity.  No matter what the patient's age, the treatment process is a major disruption to their lives and development.Going through a life-threatening situation will change anyone's perspective, but this can be especially true of kids.  And often, their peers don't know how to react.  Sadly, friends may drop off.  Others may not know what to say, or be intimidated to broach the topic.  And patients may miss out on milestones - homecoming, prom, sports, and much more.Dr. Harris and his colleagues work on an individualized treatment plan for each and every patient.  This may include different therapies, and facilitating any necessary accommodations when they return to school and/or work.  This can include coordinating with school nurses on any necessary treatment.It's important to remember that each patient has their own timetable, both physically and mentally.  Peer support groups can often be a great way to find common ground, understanding, and help.Often, the relationship with a patient's parents can be challenging.  A child who was just finding their independence may suddenly find themself in need of more support.  And on the back end, parents may have a difficult time with the child regaining independence. Counseling can be another great tool here.Dr. Harris isn't quick to tell his patients that he's an AML and bone marrow transplant survivor.  He's happy to answer any questions honestly, but every cancer journey is different and he is aware of this when talking to his patients and their loved ones.Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Website: https://www.mskcc.org/Andy Harris Bio: https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/doctors/andrew-harrisOther ResourcesNational Bone Marrow Transplant Link - (800) LINK-BMT, or (800) 546-5268.nbmtLINK Website: https://www.nbmtlink.org/nbmtLINK Facebook Page:  https://www.facebook.com/nbmtLINKnbmtLINK YouTube Page can be found by clicking here.Thank you to this season's sponsors:Supported by Pharmacyclics, an AbbVie Company (https://www.pharmacyclics.com/) and Janssen Biotech, Inc. (https://www.janssen.com/)Incyte: https://www.incyte.com/ National Bone Marrow Transplant Link - (800) LINK-BMT, or (800) 546-5268.nbmtLINK Website: https://www.nbmtlink.org/Check out our valued nbmtLINK resource books, some for sale, some free as downloadable, https://www.nbmtlink.org/shop/nbmtLINK Facebook Page:  https://www.facebook.com/nbmtLINKFollow the nbmtLINK on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/nbmtlink/The nbmtLINK YouTube Page can be found by clicking here.This content is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.  It is crucial to consult directly with a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical conditions, treatment options, or other health concerns.The views and opinions expressed by the speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the nbmtLINK.  Unless otherwise stated in an official policy, the nbmtLINK does not endorse any specific treatments, products, or services mentioned by the speakers. Reliance on any information provided is solely at your own risk.The Marrow Masters Podcast is produced by JAG Podcast Productions: https://jagpodcastproductions.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.