Thrive!
Thrive! — A BMT InfoNet Podcast explores the evolving landscape of stem cell transplant, CAR T-cell therapy, and GVHD (graft-versus-host disease) survivorship. Each week, we highlight key headlines, emerging research, and deeper discussions on topics shaping recovery and long-term care. Drawing on insights from leading clinicians and the lived experiences of survivors and caregivers, Thrive! delivers clear, credible, and compassionate information to help patients, families, and healthcare professionals feel connected, informed, and empowered throughout survivorship.
Each episode features a quick roundup of current news from the transplant, CAR T-cell, and GVHD space, followed by a spotlight on one of BMT InfoNet’s many programs that support patients, survivors, and caregivers. The show closes with a “Deep Dive” — an in-depth look at a key topic drawn from BMT InfoNet’s extensive library of expert-led presentations and educational resources.
New episodes premiere each Tuesday.
To learn more and explore additional resources, visit bmtinfonet.org. Stay connected by subscribing to our weekly emails, following BMT InfoNet on social media, and exploring our YouTube channel for trusted information and survivor stories.
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Episodes
Tuesday Mar 10, 2026
Tuesday Mar 10, 2026
Sometimes the most difficult part of recovery begins after treatment is over.
For many people who undergo an autologous stem cell transplant (a transplant using their own stem cells), the most intense phase of treatment may last only a few weeks. But the process of rebuilding health, energy, and confidence can unfold over months and years.
In this episode of Thrive!, we take a closer look at what long-term recovery after an autologous transplant can actually look like. Guided by Dr. Alfred Garfall, Director of the Autologous Stem Cell Transplant Program at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, this Deep Dive explores how the immune system rebuilds, what kinds of late effects can emerge over time, and how patients and care partners can approach long-term monitoring, prevention, and quality of life after treatment.
In this week’s news update, we examine a recent New York Times article exploring how artificial intelligence may reshape parts of medical care and what that could mean for both doctors and patients. We also highlight BMT InfoNet’s collection of books about transplant and CAR T-cell therapy — resources designed to help patients, survivors, and care partners better understand the transplant experience.
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CHAPTER MARKERS
00:00 Welcome
00:51 Updates — What AI Means for Medicine
03:20 A Quick Note
04:04 Something That May Help — BMT InfoNet Books
05:31 Deep Dive — Cold Open
06:34 Deep Dive — Your Health After an Autologous Transplant
07:45 Deep Dive — Understanding Autologous Transplant
09:37 Deep Dive — Early Recovery: The First Weeks to 3 Months
11:40 Deep Dive — The Immune System Rebuilds
13:44 Deep Dive — Returning to Routine Healthcare
14:42 Deep Dive — Late Effects to Watch For
18:27 Deep Dive — Sexual Health and Fertility
19:56 Deep Dive — Symptoms That Can Linger
22:25 Deep Dive — Multiple Myeloma–Specific Long-Term Considerations
24:06 Deep Dive — Takeaways
25:12 One Last Thought
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RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE
Deep Dive Presentation
Dr. Alfred Garfall — Long Term Effects of a Transplant Using Your Own Stem Cells (Autologous Transplant)
https://bmtinfonet.org/video/long-term-effects-transplant-using-your-own-stem-cells-autologous-transplant
News Article Mentioned
New York Times — What A.I. Means for Medicine — and for Patients
https://www.nytimes.com/2026/02/09/health/ai-chatbots-doctors-medicine.html
Something That May Help
BMT InfoNet — Books About Transplant and CAR T
https://bmtinfonet.org/products/books
Join the BMT InfoNet Facebook Community
https://www.facebook.com/bonemarrowstemcelltransplantclub
Email Us
thrive@bmtinfonet.org
Links were active at the time of publication.
Stay Connected with BMT InfoNet BMT InfoNet provides trusted information and compassionate support for anyone affected by stem cell transplant or CAR T-cell therapy. www.bmtinfonet.org Contact the Thrive! Team Questions, feedback, or topic ideas: thrive@bmtinfonet.org Get Involved Support BMT InfoNet’s mission and stay informed. Donate: bmtinfonet.org/form/donation Email Updates: bmtinfonet.org/email-signup Pay It Forward: bmtinfonet.org/transplant-article/pay-it-forward Explore Resources Education, connection, and practical support. Events & Workshops: bmtinfonet.org/events Support Groups: bmtinfonet.org/support-groups Resource Directory: bmtinfonet.org/resource-directory Patient Assistance Fund: bmtinfonet.org/patient-assistance-fund Follow BMT InfoNet Facebook: facebook.com/BMTInfoNet Instagram: instagram.com/bmtinfonet LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/bmtinfonet X (Twitter): twitter.com/bmtinfonet Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/bmtinfonet.bsky.social YouTube: youtube.com/BMTInfoNet Produced by La Strada Productions for BMT InfoNet www.lastrada.productions
Wednesday Feb 25, 2026
Wednesday Feb 25, 2026
Sometimes the first sign that recovery is still unfolding is a moment that feels slightly different than it used to.
For people who undergo an allogeneic stem cell transplant (a transplant using donor stem cells), recovery doesn’t end when treatment does. As the new immune system settles in and the body continues to heal, changes in health can emerge months or even years after transplant.
In this episode of Thrive!, we take a closer look at life after an allogeneic transplant and the long-term health considerations that can develop over time. Guided by Dr. John McCarty, Medical Director of the Cellular Immunotherapy and Transplant Program at Virginia Commonwealth University’s Massey Cancer Center, this Deep Dive explores what “late effects” really means, why long-term follow-up care can extend for years, and how survivors can better understand the role of monitoring, prevention, and communication in protecting long-term health.
In this week’s news update, we examine recent research reviewed in The Washington Post exploring whether dietary supplements help prevent cancer and what large clinical trials have actually shown. We also highlight BMT InfoNet’s GVHD Support Groups for transplant survivors — a resource designed to offer connection and guidance for those living with graft-versus-host disease.
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CHAPTER MARKERS
00:00 Welcome
00:54 Updates — Small Movements, Meaningful Impact
02:54 A Quick Note
04:02 Something That May Help — GVHD Adult Support Groups
05:27 Deep Dive — Cold Open
06:43 Deep Dive — Your Health After an Allogeneic Transplant
08:11 Deep Dive — What Is an Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplant?
10:12 Deep Dive — The Importance of Long-Term Follow-Up
11:55 Deep Dive — How to Reduce Long-Term Risks
14:40 Deep Dive — Quality of Life
17:07 Deep Dive — What to Know About New Cancers After Transplant
18:48 Deep Dive — Living Well After Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplant
22:03 Deep Dive — Takeaways
23:19 One Last Thought
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RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE
Deep Dive Presentation
Dr. John McCarty — Limiting Late Effects Following a Transplant Using Donor Cells (Allogeneic)
https://bmtinfonet.org/archived-video/limiting-late-effects-following-transplant-using-donor-cells-allogeneic
News Article Mentioned
Washington Post — What Science Says About Cancer and Supplements
https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/2026/02/02/can-supplements-reduce-cancer-risk/
Something That May Help
BMT InfoNet — GVHD Support Groups for Survivors
https://bmtinfonet.org/support-group-list
Join the BMT InfoNet Facebook Community
https://www.facebook.com/bonemarrowstemcelltransplantclub
Email Us
thrive@bmtinfonet.org
Links were active at the time of publication.
Stay Connected with BMT InfoNet BMT InfoNet provides trusted information and compassionate support for anyone affected by stem cell transplant or CAR T-cell therapy. www.bmtinfonet.org Contact the Thrive! Team Questions, feedback, or topic ideas: thrive@bmtinfonet.org Get Involved Support BMT InfoNet’s mission and stay informed. Donate: bmtinfonet.org/form/donation Email Updates: bmtinfonet.org/email-signup Pay It Forward: bmtinfonet.org/transplant-article/pay-it-forward Explore Resources Education, connection, and practical support. Events & Workshops: bmtinfonet.org/events Support Groups: bmtinfonet.org/support-groups Resource Directory: bmtinfonet.org/resource-directory Patient Assistance Fund: bmtinfonet.org/patient-assistance-fund Follow BMT InfoNet Facebook: facebook.com/BMTInfoNet Instagram: instagram.com/bmtinfonet LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/bmtinfonet X (Twitter): twitter.com/bmtinfonet Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/bmtinfonet.bsky.social YouTube: youtube.com/BMTInfoNet Produced by La Strada Productions for BMT InfoNet www.lastrada.productions
Tuesday Feb 10, 2026
Tuesday Feb 10, 2026
Small changes can matter more than we think — especially during recovery.
When doctors consider stem cell transplant or CAR T-cell therapy for older adults, age is often the first question people think about. But for many patients, the more important question isn’t how old someone is — it’s how strong and resilient their body is when treatment begins.
In this episode of Thrive!, we take a closer look at how transplant and CAR T-cell therapy are evaluated in older adults. Guided by Dr. Amelia Langston of Emory University’s Winship Cancer Institute, this Deep Dive explores why age alone is rarely the deciding factor and how factors like overall health, mobility, cognition, resilience, and caregiver support can play a much larger role in determining whether treatment is appropriate.
In this week’s news update, we examine new research showing that even small amounts of daily movement — just a few minutes at a time — may support long-term health and longevity. We also highlight BMT InfoNet’s Directory of Transplant Centers, a practical resource designed to help patients, survivors, and care partners compare programs and better understand where care happens.
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CHAPTER MARKERS
00:00 Welcome
00:52 Updates — Small Movements, Meaningful Impact
03:18 A Quick Note
04:37 Something That May Help — BMT Transplant Directory
06:30 Deep Dive — Cold Open
07:32 Deep Dive — Transplant and CAR T in Older Adults
08:41 Deep Dive — Why Age Matters — And Why It Doesn’t
11:17 Deep Dive — The Real Deciding Factor — Resilience
13:54 Deep Dive — How Providers Measure Fitness in Older Adults
16:13 Deep Dive — What Outcomes Really Look Like in Older Adults
17:41 Deep Dive — What Providers Can Do to Improve Outcomes
18:47 Deep Dive — What Patients and Families Can Do
20:02 Deep Dive — The Real Question Isn’t “Who Should Get a Transplant”
20:41 Deep Dive — Takeaways
21:43 One Last Thought
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RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE
Deep Dive Presentation
Dr. Amelia Langston — Transplant and CAR T-Cell Therapy in Older Adults: Finding Balance Between Benefit and Risk
https://bmtinfonet.org/video/transplant-and-car-t-cell-therapy-older-adults-finding-balance-between-benefit-and-risk
News Articles Mentioned
Washington Post — Small Amounts of Daily Walking Linked to Longer Lifespan
https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/2026/01/31/walking-exercise-increased-lifespan-study/
The Lancet — Physical Activity and Mortality Risk Study
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(25)02219-6/abstract
Something That May Help
BMT InfoNet — Directory of Transplant Centers
https://bmtinfonet.org/transplantcenters
BMT InfoNet — Directory of CAR T Centers
https://bmtinfonet.org/directory-car-t-cell-therapy-centers
Join the BMT InfoNet Facebook Community
https://www.facebook.com/bonemarrowstemcelltransplantclub
Email Us
thrive@bmtinfonet.org
Links were active at the time of publication.
Stay Connected with BMT InfoNet BMT InfoNet provides trusted information and compassionate support for anyone affected by stem cell transplant or CAR T-cell therapy. www.bmtinfonet.org Contact the Thrive! Team Questions, feedback, or topic ideas: thrive@bmtinfonet.org Get Involved Support BMT InfoNet’s mission and stay informed. Donate: bmtinfonet.org/form/donation Email Updates: bmtinfonet.org/email-signup Pay It Forward: bmtinfonet.org/transplant-article/pay-it-forward Explore Resources Education, connection, and practical support. Events & Workshops: bmtinfonet.org/events Support Groups: bmtinfonet.org/support-groups Resource Directory: bmtinfonet.org/resource-directory Patient Assistance Fund: bmtinfonet.org/patient-assistance-fund Follow BMT InfoNet Facebook: facebook.com/BMTInfoNet Instagram: instagram.com/bmtinfonet LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/bmtinfonet X (Twitter): twitter.com/bmtinfonet Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/bmtinfonet.bsky.social YouTube: youtube.com/BMTInfoNet Produced by La Strada Productions for BMT InfoNet www.lastrada.productions
Wednesday Feb 04, 2026
Wednesday Feb 04, 2026
Sometimes the earliest signs of a complication don’t look the way we expect.
For people who undergo an allogeneic stem cell transplant (a transplant using donor stem cells), graft-versus-host disease — or GVHD — can affect many parts of the body. One of the areas it can impact is the eyes, where symptoms often begin subtly and may be mistaken for common dryness or irritation.
In this episode of Thrive!, we take a closer look at ocular GVHD and how it can affect vision and eye health after transplant. Guided by Dr. Katie Luo of Massachusetts Eye and Ear and Harvard Medical School, this Deep Dive explores how ocular GVHD develops, why early symptoms may appear gradually, and what warning signs patients and care partners should watch for.
You’ll hear how changes such as crusting on the lashes, increased tearing, light sensitivity, or difficulty with everyday vision can signal inflammation affecting the surface of the eye — and why recognizing those symptoms early can help protect long-term eye health. We also discuss why regular monitoring during periods of immune activation is important, and how working with eye specialists familiar with GVHD can make a meaningful difference in care.
In this week’s news update, we examine a recent Medscape article exploring how physicians are navigating conversations with patients about health-related misinformation, and the importance of trust and clear communication in medical decision-making. We also highlight BMT InfoNet’s directory of GVHD clinics and specialists — a resource designed to help transplant survivors locate providers experienced in managing graft-versus-host disease.
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CHAPTER MARKERS
00:00 Welcome!
00:52 Updates – Why Trust Matters in Medical Conversations
03:21 A Quick Note
04:31 Something That May Help – GVHD Providers
06:18 Deep Dive – Cold Open
07:43 Deep Dive – Your Eyes After Transplant
08:42 Deep Dive – Understanding What GVHD Is
10:41 Deep Dive – The Early Warning Signs Most Patients Miss
13:02 Deep Dive – What Triggers Ocular GVHD to Start
14:18 Deep Dive – How Ocular GVHD Damages the Eyes
15:05 Deep Dive – What You Can Do: Prevention and Daily Care
16:35 Deep Dive – Lubrication, Medications, and Procedures
18:39 Deep Dive – When Surgery Should and Should Not Be Used
21:13 Deep Dive – Hope, Advocacy, and Empowerment
22:45 Deep Dive – Takeaways
23:51 One Last Thought
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RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE
Deep Dive Presentation
Dr. Katie Luo – Graft-versus-Host Disease: What to Do When It Affects Your Eyes
https://bmtinfonet.org/video/graft-versus-host-disease-what-do-when-it-affects-your-eyes
News Article Mentioned
Medscape – Tips for Talking to Patients About Health-Related Misinformation
https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/tips-talking-patients-about-health-related-misinformation-2026a100025h?ecd=WNL_trdalrt_pos1_260125_etid8056324&uac=291963MK&impID=8056324
Something That May Help
BMT InfoNet – Directory of GVHD Clinics, Specialists, and Subspecialists
https://bmtinfonet.org/gvhd-directory
Join the BMT InfoNet Facebook Community
https://www.facebook.com/bonemarrowstemcelltransplantclub
Email us
thrive@bmtinfonet.org
Links were active at the time of publication.
Stay Connected with BMT InfoNet BMT InfoNet provides trusted information and compassionate support for anyone affected by stem cell transplant or CAR T-cell therapy. www.bmtinfonet.org Contact the Thrive! Team Questions, feedback, or topic ideas: thrive@bmtinfonet.org Get Involved Support BMT InfoNet’s mission and stay informed. Donate: bmtinfonet.org/form/donation Email Updates: bmtinfonet.org/email-signup Pay It Forward: bmtinfonet.org/transplant-article/pay-it-forward Explore Resources Education, connection, and practical support. Events & Workshops: bmtinfonet.org/events Support Groups: bmtinfonet.org/support-groups Resource Directory: bmtinfonet.org/resource-directory Patient Assistance Fund: bmtinfonet.org/patient-assistance-fund Follow BMT InfoNet Facebook: facebook.com/BMTInfoNet Instagram: instagram.com/bmtinfonet LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/bmtinfonet X (Twitter): twitter.com/bmtinfonet Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/bmtinfonet.bsky.social YouTube: youtube.com/BMTInfoNet Produced by La Strada Productions for BMT InfoNet www.lastrada.productions
Tuesday Jan 27, 2026
Tuesday Jan 27, 2026
Sometimes the biggest questions about a treatment aren’t about how it works — but about what life looks like during recovery.
CAR T-cell therapy has transformed treatment options for many blood cancers, but the experience involves far more than the infusion itself. Patients and care partners often have practical questions about what happens before treatment begins, what the recovery period looks like, and how daily life may change in the weeks and months that follow.
In this episode of Thrive!, we take a closer look at the full CAR T-cell therapy journey — from preparation to recovery. Guided by insights from BMT InfoNet’s webinar Ask the CAR T Experts, this Deep Dive brings together perspectives from Dr. Jay Spiegel of the University of Miami Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Dr. Diana Cirstea of Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute, and psychosocial specialist Margaret Franzetti, LCSW.
Together, they address real questions from patients and care partners navigating CAR T therapy: how the process unfolds from leukapheresis through infusion, what side effects such as cytokine release syndrome and neurotoxicity can look like, how infection risks are managed at home, and the important role care partners play throughout recovery.
In this week’s news update, we look at recent reporting from The New York Times exploring how physicians evaluate research on dietary supplements — and why transplant recipients should approach supplements cautiously. We also highlight the legacy of Dr. Rainer Storb, a pioneer in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation whose work helped shape modern transplant medicine. In addition, we share a resource that may help: BMT InfoNet’s Caring Connections program, which offers peer support for transplant and CAR T recipients and their families.
Whether you’re considering CAR T therapy, supporting someone through treatment, or working with patients in a clinical setting, this episode offers practical context, expert insight, and a clearer understanding of the path from preparation through recovery.
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CHAPTER MARKERS
00:00 Welcome!
01:02 Updates – Supplements and Transplant Safety
02:56 Updates – Honoring a Pioneer: Rainer Storb
04:58 A Quick Note
06:21 Something That May Help – Caring Connections
07:23 Deep Dive – Cold Open
08:12 Deep Dive – The CAR T Option
09:34 Deep Dive – CAR T: What Are the Steps Involved
11:07 Deep Dive – What Are the Most Common Side Effects
12:09 Deep Dive – How Long Do CAR T Cells Survive in the Body
13:23 Deep Dive – How Can I Avoid Infections
14:21 Deep Dive – How Long Do I Need a Caregiver
16:12 Deep Dive – Lingering Symptoms After CAR T
16:53 Deep Dive – Quality of Life After CAR T
17:58 Deep Dive – Takeaways
19:22 One Last Thought
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RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE
News Articles Mentioned
The New York Times – Doctor Tips on Supplements and Research
https://www.nytimes.com/2026/01/23/well/doctor-tips-supplements-research.html
ASH News Daily – Honoring a Pioneer in Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
https://ashpublications.org/ashnewsdaily/news/8953/Honoring-a-Pioneer-in-Hematopoietic-Stem-Cell
Deep Dive Presentation
Ask the CAR T Experts
https://bmtinfonet.org/video/ask-car-t-cell-experts
Something That May Help
BMT InfoNet – CAR T Support Groups
https://bmtinfonet.org/event/car-t-support-group
Additional Resource
Herbs and Supplements: Are They Safe for Transplant Recipients?
https://bmtinfonet.org/video/herbs-and-supplements-are-they-safe-transplant-recipients
Book
CAR T-Cell Therapy: What to Expect Before, During and After
https://bmtinfonet.org/product/car-t-cell-therapy-what-expect-during-and-after
Join the BMT InfoNet Facebook Community
https://www.facebook.com/bonemarrowstemcelltransplantclub
Email us
thrive@bmtinfonet.org
Links were active at the time of publication.
Stay Connected with BMT InfoNet BMT InfoNet provides trusted information and compassionate support for anyone affected by stem cell transplant or CAR T-cell therapy. www.bmtinfonet.org Contact the Thrive! Team Questions, feedback, or topic ideas: thrive@bmtinfonet.org Get Involved Support BMT InfoNet’s mission and stay informed. Donate: bmtinfonet.org/form/donation Email Updates: bmtinfonet.org/email-signup Pay It Forward: bmtinfonet.org/transplant-article/pay-it-forward Explore Resources Education, connection, and practical support. Events & Workshops: bmtinfonet.org/events Support Groups: bmtinfonet.org/support-groups Resource Directory: bmtinfonet.org/resource-directory Patient Assistance Fund: bmtinfonet.org/patient-assistance-fund Follow BMT InfoNet Facebook: facebook.com/BMTInfoNet Instagram: instagram.com/bmtinfonet LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/bmtinfonet X (Twitter): twitter.com/bmtinfonet Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/bmtinfonet.bsky.social YouTube: youtube.com/BMTInfoNet Produced by La Strada Productions for BMT InfoNet www.lastrada.productions
Tuesday Jan 20, 2026
Tuesday Jan 20, 2026
Sometimes the effects of treatment continue long after therapy ends.
For people who undergo a stem cell transplant or CAR T-cell therapy, recovery often includes rebuilding strength, monitoring long-term health, and managing changes that can emerge months or even years later. One of the areas that can be affected — but is often overlooked — is bone health.
In this episode of Thrive!, we take a closer look at bone health after transplant and cellular therapy. Guided by Dr. Angeliki Stamatouli, an endocrinologist at Virginia Commonwealth University’s Massey Cancer Center, this Deep Dive explores why bone loss can occur after treatment, who may be most at risk, and how bone health can be monitored, protected, and treated as part of survivorship care.
You’ll hear why factors such as chemotherapy, steroid use, hormonal changes, and reduced physical activity can affect bone strength, how conditions like osteoporosis develop, and what patients and care partners can do to help support long-term bone health through monitoring, lifestyle adjustments, and treatment options.
In this week’s news update, we highlight several developments shaping cancer care and survivorship: new research offering hope for people living with multiple myeloma through combination immunotherapy, growing insights into what rising cancer survival rates mean for long-term follow-up care and quality of life, and the increasing demands placed on older spouses who often serve as primary caregivers during recovery. We also highlight a resource that may help: BMT InfoNet’s Directory of Mental Health Providers, designed to help patients, survivors, and care partners find emotional and psychological support after treatment.
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CHAPTER MARKERS
00:01 Welcome!
00:51 Updates – News Introduction
01:06 Updates – New Hope for Multiple Myeloma Patients
03:01 Updates – What Longer Cancer Survival Means
05:05 Updates – The Growing Burden on Older Care Partners
07:16 A Quick Note
08:37 Something That May Help – Mental Health Directory
10:06 Deep Dive – Cold Open
11:10 Deep Dive – Bone Health After Treatment
12:30 Deep Dive – Why Bone Health Matters
13:32 Deep Dive – Understanding Osteoporosis
14:34 Deep Dive – Risk Factors for Bone Loss
15:49 Deep Dive – Monitoring Bone Health
17:44 Deep Dive – Building Stronger Bones Through Lifestyle and Nutrition
19:51 Deep Dive – Treatment Options
21:03 Deep Dive – Takeaways
22:43 One Last Thought
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RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE
Deep Dive Presentation
Dr. Angeliki Stamatouli – Bone Health and Other Endocrine Issues After Transplant or CAR T-Cell Therapy
https://bmtinfonet.org/video/bone-health-and-other-endocrine-issues-after-transplant-or-car-t-cell-therapy
News Articles Mentioned
Washington Post – New Hope for Multiple Myeloma Patients
https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2026/01/15/cancer-drug-multiple-myeloma-immunotherapy
Washington Post – What Longer Cancer Survival Means
https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2026/01/13/cancer-survival-treatment-screening-research
Washington Post – The Growing Demands on Older Care Partners
https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2026/01/10/senior-caregivers-spouse/
Something That May Help
BMT InfoNet – Directory of Mental Health Providers
https://bmtinfonet.org/mh-directory
Join the BMT InfoNet Email List
https://bmtinfonet.org/form/join-news
Join the BMT InfoNet Facebook Community
https://www.facebook.com/bonemarrowstemcelltransplantclub
Email us
thrive@bmtinfonet.org
Links were active at the time of publication.
Stay Connected with BMT InfoNet BMT InfoNet provides trusted information and compassionate support for anyone affected by stem cell transplant or CAR T-cell therapy. www.bmtinfonet.org Contact the Thrive! Team Questions, feedback, or topic ideas: thrive@bmtinfonet.org Get Involved Support BMT InfoNet’s mission and stay informed. Donate: bmtinfonet.org/form/donation Email Updates: bmtinfonet.org/email-signup Pay It Forward: bmtinfonet.org/transplant-article/pay-it-forward Explore Resources Education, connection, and practical support. Events & Workshops: bmtinfonet.org/events Support Groups: bmtinfonet.org/support-groups Resource Directory: bmtinfonet.org/resource-directory Patient Assistance Fund: bmtinfonet.org/patient-assistance-fund Follow BMT InfoNet Facebook: facebook.com/BMTInfoNet Instagram: instagram.com/bmtinfonet LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/bmtinfonet X (Twitter): twitter.com/bmtinfonet Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/bmtinfonet.bsky.social YouTube: youtube.com/BMTInfoNet Produced by La Strada Productions for BMT InfoNet www.lastrada.productions
Tuesday Jan 13, 2026
Tuesday Jan 13, 2026
Sometimes one of the most important parts of recovery is protecting the body while it rebuilds.
For people who undergo a stem cell transplant or CAR T-cell therapy, the immune system can remain vulnerable for months after treatment. During this time, understanding infection risk — and knowing when to seek care — becomes a critical part of recovery.
In this episode of Thrive!, we take a closer look at managing infections after transplant and CAR T-cell therapy. Guided by infectious disease specialist Dr. Gowri Satyanarayana, this Deep Dive explores why infection risk exists during recovery, what symptoms should never be ignored, and how patients and care partners can reduce risk while maintaining quality of life.
You’ll hear why conditions such as neutropenic fever require immediate attention, how clinicians think about the different categories of infections that can occur after treatment, and what practical steps patients and care partners can take to help prevent infections at home. We also discuss travel considerations, vaccination timelines, and how recovery gradually evolves as the immune system strengthens.
In this week’s news update, we highlight several developments shaping transplant and CAR T care: ongoing efforts to expand access to CAR T-cell therapy through improvements in awareness, capacity, and healthcare infrastructure; the FDA’s approval of the first therapy specifically indicated for transplant-associated thrombotic microangiopathy (TA-TMA); and new research examining patient-reported outcomes following stem cell transplant and CAR T therapy. We also highlight a resource that may help: BMT InfoNet’s Caring Connections program, which connects patients, survivors, and care partners with trained volunteers who understand the transplant and CAR T experience firsthand.
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CHAPTER MARKERS
00:01 Welcome!
00:46 Updates – CAR T Access and Availability
02:27 Updates – FDA Approves First Therapy for TA-TMA
03:56 Updates – Patient-Reported Outcomes After Treatment
05:21 A Quick Note
06:14 Something That May Help – Caring Connections
07:12 Deep Dive – Cold Open
08:11 Deep Dive – Managing Infections After Treatment
09:38 Deep Dive – Understanding Neutropenic Fever
11:04 Deep Dive – Four Categories of Infections
14:53 Deep Dive – Preventing Infections at Home
16:04 Deep Dive – Travel After Treatment
16:36 Deep Dive – Vaccinations After Transplant and CAR T
18:08 Deep Dive – Takeaways
19:32 One Last Thought
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RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE
Deep Dive Presentation
Dr. Gowri Satyanarayana – Managing Infections After Transplant and CAR T-Cell Therapy
https://bmtinfonet.org/video/managing-infections-after-transplant-and-car-t-cell-therapy-0
News Articles Mentioned
Targeted Oncology – Promoting CAR T Access: Awareness, Capacity, and Economics
https://targetedonc.com/view/promoting-car-t-access-focuses-on-awareness-capacity-and-economics
Omeros – FDA Approves YARTEMLEA™ as the First Therapy for TA-TMA
https://investor.omeros.com/news-releases/news-release-details/fda-approves-omeros-yartemlear-first-and-only-therapy-indicated
Blood Advances – Patient-Reported Outcomes After Stem Cell Transplant and CAR T-Cell Therapy
https://ashpublications.org/bloodadvances/article/9/24/6380/547438/Patient-reported-outcomes-in-patients-with
Something That May Help
BMT InfoNet – Caring Connections
https://bmtinfonet.org/support/caring-connections
Patient Stories from the BMT and CAR T Community
https://bmtinfonet.org/stories
Join the BMT InfoNet Facebook Community
https://www.facebook.com/bonemarrowstemcelltransplantclub
Email us
thrive@bmtinfonet.org
Links were active at the time of publication.
Stay Connected with BMT InfoNet BMT InfoNet provides trusted information and compassionate support for anyone affected by stem cell transplant or CAR T-cell therapy. www.bmtinfonet.org Contact the Thrive! Team Questions, feedback, or topic ideas: thrive@bmtinfonet.org Get Involved Support BMT InfoNet’s mission and stay informed. Donate: bmtinfonet.org/form/donation Email Updates: bmtinfonet.org/email-signup Pay It Forward: bmtinfonet.org/transplant-article/pay-it-forward Explore Resources Education, connection, and practical support. Events & Workshops: bmtinfonet.org/events Support Groups: bmtinfonet.org/support-groups Resource Directory: bmtinfonet.org/resource-directory Patient Assistance Fund: bmtinfonet.org/patient-assistance-fund Follow BMT InfoNet Facebook: facebook.com/BMTInfoNet Instagram: instagram.com/bmtinfonet LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/bmtinfonet X (Twitter): twitter.com/bmtinfonet Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/bmtinfonet.bsky.social YouTube: youtube.com/BMTInfoNet Produced by La Strada Productions for BMT InfoNet www.lastrada.productions
Tuesday Jan 06, 2026
Tuesday Jan 06, 2026
Sometimes the effects of treatment extend beyond the body.
For many people who undergo a stem cell transplant or CAR T-cell therapy, recovery can involve changes in memory, focus, and mental clarity. These cognitive changes can be subtle at first, but they can affect daily life in meaningful ways during survivorship.
In this premiere episode of Thrive!, we take a closer look at how transplant and cellular therapies can affect the brain and cognitive function during recovery. Guided by psychiatrist and psycho-oncology specialist Dr. Zev Nakamura of the Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, this Deep Dive explores why cognitive changes can occur after treatment, how common they are, who may be most at risk, and what strategies may help support recovery over time.
You’ll hear how symptoms such as difficulty concentrating, slowed thinking, memory lapses, and mental fatigue can develop after treatment, why these changes can happen biologically and psychologically, and what approaches patients and care partners can take to support cognitive healing and adaptation.
In this week’s news update, we highlight several developments shaping survivorship and transplant care: a new mobile app designed to help cancer survivors manage symptoms of post-traumatic stress, emerging research suggesting patients may successfully undergo transplant more quickly using alternative donors, and new evidence showing improved outcomes when older donors are used with modern graft-versus-host disease prevention strategies. We also highlight a resource that may help: BMT InfoNet’s Caring Connections program, which connects patients, survivors, and care partners with trained volunteers who have firsthand experience navigating transplant and recovery.
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CHAPTER MARKERS
00:01 Welcome!
01:16 Updates – PTSD Support App
02:34 Updates – Faster Transplant with Alternative Donors
04:14 Updates – Older Donors and Modern GVHD Prevention
05:29 A Quick Note
06:21 Something That May Help – Caring Connections
07:38 Deep Dive – Cold Open
08:37 Deep Dive – The Mind After Treatment
10:17 Deep Dive – What Are Cognitive Changes?
12:38 Deep Dive – Why Do Cognitive Changes Occur?
14:03 Deep Dive – How Common Are These Problems?
15:39 Deep Dive – Who Is at Greater Risk?
17:17 Deep Dive – What Can Help?
20:34 Deep Dive – Takeaways
21:41 One Last Thought
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RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE
Deep Dive Presentation
Dr. Zev Nakamura – Managing Cognitive Challenges After Transplant and CAR T-Cell Therapy
https://bmtinfonet.org/video/cognitive-challenges-after-transplant-and-car-t-cell-therapy-and-treatment-options
Recommended Reading
Improving Cognitive Function After Cancer – Shelli Kesler, PhD
(Out of general print as of this episode’s publication, but often available through libraries or used-book sellers.)
News Articles Mentioned
ASCO Daily News – Mobile App Helps Survivors Manage PTSD Symptoms
https://dailynews.ascopubs.org/do/mobile-app-offers-promising-intervention-ptsd-symptom-relief-cancer-survivors-received
Targeted Oncology – Study Supports Faster Transplant with Alternative Donors
https://targetedonc.com/view/transplant-patients-may-have-same-success-with-alternative-and-fully-matched-donors
ASTCT – Improved Outcomes with Older Donors Using Modern GVHD Prevention
https://astct.org/Nucleus/Article/unrelated-donor-age-and-recipient-outcomes-after-posttransplant-cyclophosphamide-vs-conventional-prophylaxis
Something That May Help
BMT InfoNet – Caring Connections
https://bmtinfonet.org/caring-connections
Join the BMT InfoNet Facebook Community
https://www.facebook.com/bonemarrowstemcelltransplantclub
Email us
thrive@bmtinfonet.org
Links were active at the time of publication.
Stay Connected with BMT InfoNet BMT InfoNet provides trusted information and compassionate support for anyone affected by stem cell transplant or CAR T-cell therapy. www.bmtinfonet.org Contact the Thrive! Team Questions, feedback, or topic ideas: thrive@bmtinfonet.org Get Involved Support BMT InfoNet’s mission and stay informed. Donate: bmtinfonet.org/form/donation Email Updates: bmtinfonet.org/email-signup Pay It Forward: bmtinfonet.org/transplant-article/pay-it-forward Explore Resources Education, connection, and practical support. Events & Workshops: bmtinfonet.org/events Support Groups: bmtinfonet.org/support-groups Resource Directory: bmtinfonet.org/resource-directory Patient Assistance Fund: bmtinfonet.org/patient-assistance-fund Follow BMT InfoNet Facebook: facebook.com/BMTInfoNet Instagram: instagram.com/bmtinfonet LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/bmtinfonet X (Twitter): twitter.com/bmtinfonet Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/bmtinfonet.bsky.social YouTube: youtube.com/BMTInfoNet Produced by La Strada Productions for BMT InfoNet www.lastrada.productions
Tuesday Nov 18, 2025
Tuesday Nov 18, 2025
Welcome to Thrive!, a new podcast from BMT InfoNet designed to support people navigating life before, during, and after a stem cell transplant or CAR T-cell therapy.
Each episode features expert guidance from leading transplant and CAR T clinicians, real stories from survivors and caregivers, and practical tips to help you understand treatment options, manage side effects, and feel more confident in your recovery.
Whether you’re preparing for a transplant, adjusting after CAR T-cell therapy, or caring for someone on this journey, Thrive! is here to keep you informed, connected, and empowered.
Listen to the trailer to learn what’s ahead — and join us as we explore the tools, insights, and hope that help people thrive after transplant and CAR T-cell therapy.
Stay Connected with BMT InfoNet BMT InfoNet provides trusted information and compassionate support for anyone affected by stem cell transplant or CAR T-cell therapy. www.bmtinfonet.org Contact the Thrive! Team Questions, feedback, or topic ideas: thrive@bmtinfonet.org Get Involved Support BMT InfoNet’s mission and stay informed. Donate: bmtinfonet.org/form/donation Email Updates: bmtinfonet.org/email-signup Pay It Forward: bmtinfonet.org/transplant-article/pay-it-forward Explore Resources Education, connection, and practical support. Events & Workshops: bmtinfonet.org/events Support Groups: bmtinfonet.org/support-groups Resource Directory: bmtinfonet.org/resource-directory Patient Assistance Fund: bmtinfonet.org/patient-assistance-fund Follow BMT InfoNet Facebook: facebook.com/BMTInfoNet Instagram: instagram.com/bmtinfonet LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/bmtinfonet X (Twitter): twitter.com/bmtinfonet Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/bmtinfonet.bsky.social YouTube: youtube.com/BMTInfoNet Produced by La Strada Productions for BMT InfoNet www.lastrada.productions