Leah Potts

Today, I believe was the first day that my inner voice was questioning what I've been doing for the last ten years.... seriously I was questioning myself. It's a hard bringing life back into this paralyzed body and today I couldn't stop crying. Ups and downs. The doctors say that it is because we, the patients, are "pregnant" with stem cells and have all side effects like a pregnant woman. Still, I have never had my inner voice question my path before and it kinda scared me.

Don't get me wrong it didn't last long and I think I'm OK... I can do this, I DO have the time, determination and support from my friends, family and community. It's been a long road and with my recent divorce I'm filled with anxiety and questions as to is anything sacred? Time heals, but patience is another ball game.... I don't have patience. I push on one foot in the future and one in the present. In hopes I can figure out what really is.... what really is true. I have given my body to science, it's a lot to endure. Strong mind, strong body. Sleep, rest and awake renewed in order to keep a strong and positive state of mind. Anyway, thank you all for your support and remember to keep the emails coming!

Notes from Dr. Geeta Shroff and Dr. Ashish Verma's question and answer period: Please note this meeting is held in the reception area of the hospital. All patients and caretakers are invited to attend and express any concerns or questions they may have. The doctors are open and honest. Sometimes the only answer is “We don't know yet.” 

Dr. Shroff started her career as an infertility doctor. During her work in the year 1999 and 2000, she made a mistake and over time she realized she was staring directly into stem cells. She then proceeded with research to gain more understanding of it's possibilities. In 2002 she performed her first stem cell transplant. Now she has 567 patients to date.

Dr's Shroff and Verma's goal is to have this treatment available and easily accessible. They sited an example of a paraplegic patient who received stem cells within 1 ½ months after their spinal cord injury; they got full recovery! The doctors went on to explain that it's best to receive stem cells as soon as possible after the injury, before scar tissue formation occurs. They also emphasized the importance of physiotherapy in the stem cells' success; it allows the cells to travel and differentiate. For best results each patient must stay positive and teach their new cells what they need to do. These stem cells are extremely powerful and have the capability to “hone in” on the injury site in order to repair the damaged or dead cells. The doctors have general protocols for the stem cell injections, however every patient is treated individually, based on their disease and needs. Maybe someday stem cells will be more readily available and used as the first line of treatment after an accident. We can only hope and push for the future... 

Represented at today's gathering are people with spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, lyme disease, diabetes, inclusion body myositis, ALS, and vascular disease. As we shared stories about how our bodies have reacted and changed with the treatment, we all began to realize what an impact this has had on all of our lives. Yes, it's quite a roller coaster ride, but overall everyone has made improvements! The energy, determination, and hope that radiates through this hospital is overwhelming and inspiring.