Heart transplant & MDS
 

My father, 51, was diagnosed with MDS on 3/12/2013. The doctors told him he only has 6 months to live because there is no treatment available for him because he has had a heart transplant in 2002. They placed him on supportive treeatment which, to me, means keep him comfortable until he dies. In the beginning his transfused blood held for 2 weeks and now it only holds for 2 days. He only receives red blood cells and platelets. However, his body build up antibodies against the platelets and now they can't give him platelets anymore. I have a feeling that time is running out faster than the 6 months they mentioned, am I right? Is there anything we can do to make him more comfortable and breathe easier? We don't have a medical aid and they don't do stem cell procedures in South Africa that I know of. Any help or advise would be highly appreciated.

Sorry you have to go through this.
I found this link that might help:
http://www.stemcell.org.za/patients.htm

If The Tx's become more frequent and they can't find platelets its not good.
Are there any specialists?
All the best. Hang in there.

My Dad built up antibodies too so he had to get matched platelets and blood. They had to order it the day before each transfusion.

SCT in South Africa
 

I know that Dr Brittain at Pretoria East Hospital has facilities for transplants. But it is a private facility. www.abj.oncology-sa.co.za
Also, if you can self-fund for 6 months, then joining a medical aid may help because they are obliged to provide Prescribed Minimum Benefits, and can only exclude pre-existing conditions for 6 months. Otherwise go to one of the major tertiary hospitals with a strong academic interest in oncology, like Bara or Joburg Gen.
Hope this helps!
Peace