Patient Story | Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML-M2) Survivor: 9 Years Post-Transplant, Embracing the Power of Hope and Rebirth
In 2014, just five months after becoming a father, Mr. Liang (a pseudonym) received a devastating diagnosis: Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML-M2). His world was turned upside down as he experienced the harsh realities of life’s fragility. Despite undergoing two rounds of chemotherapy locally, his condition remained unresolved, prompting him and his family to seek more specialized treatment. They arrived at Lu Daopei Hospital, where a comprehensive treatment plan was crafted by Dr. Zhang Xian and the team at the Hematology Department, which brought hope to the family as Liang entered complete remission.
However, the battle was far from over. With the goal of achieving a permanent cure, Liang was transferred to Dr. Zhou Jirui’s team to prepare for a life-saving haploidentical stem cell transplant. The transplant process was grueling, marked by immense physical pain, the mental toll of numerous rounds of chemotherapy, and the financial strain. Yet, throughout these challenges, Liang held on to an unwavering belief in the power of life and love.
On February 15, 2015—just days before the Chinese New Year—he received a life-changing infusion of his father’s stem cells, marking the beginning of his rebirth. The subsequent recovery was arduous, with complications such as hemorrhagic cystitis, cytomegalovirus (CMV) viremia, and acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), but with the expert care of Dr. Zhou and his dedicated medical team, Liang steadily improved.
Nine years post-transplant, Liang has fully recovered and is living a normal life, both in his personal and professional spheres. His medical tests show stable remission, with the AML1-ETO fusion gene levels steadily declining, and his condition continues to remain stable with no signs of relapse.
Reflecting on his journey, Liang shared, “In the midst of pain and suffering, I held onto hope, which became the light guiding me through the darkness. Life is like a seed; with love and care, it will grow and blossom. I believe that no matter where we are, if we hold onto our faith, we can stand tall like a tree, weathering any storm.”
He expressed his deep gratitude to Dr. Zhou, Dr. Wang Jingyu, and the nursing staff at Lu Daopei Hospital, whose unwavering professionalism and compassion gave him a second chance at life. He also extended heartfelt thanks to his wife, who provided endless love and support while caring for their child during the most challenging times.
Liang’s story is not just one of medical triumph but also a testament to love, courage, and the power of belief. It serves as an inspiration for all patients fighting their own battles. His message to fellow patients: "Believe in the power of hope, believe in your doctors, believe in your family, and most importantly, believe in yourself. No matter how tough the road ahead may seem, with faith in your heart, you will shine brightly, lighting the way forward.”
Patient Background:
- Patient Age: 32
- Diagnosis: AML-M2 (with AML1-ETO fusion gene positive and chromosome-Y abnormality)
- Treatment: After unsuccessful chemotherapy, he underwent haploidentical stem cell transplantation using his father's cells in February 2015 at Lu Daopei Hospital.
- Post-transplant complications: Hemorrhagic cystitis, CMV viremia, and acute GVHD (skin type).
- Current Status: Stable remission, 9 years post-transplant, living a healthy, normal life.
Liang’s story is a testament to the life-changing impact of modern hematology treatments, and the hope that each patient can experience through the skilled care provided at Lu Daopei Hospital.