GARRETT'S STORY

As a result of a lifesaving bone marrow transplant to treat his myelogenous leukemia, Garrett Lambert developed Graft versus Host Disease (GvHD), a common but extremely complex condition in which the transplanted bone marrow attacks the tissue of the host. Garrett's GvHD manifested in a rare form of eye irritation and impaired vision, a potentially dangerous complication if left undiagnosed. Through a team approach focusing on a comprehensive continuum of care, the GvHD was recognized and Garrett's transplant physician Leonard Sender, M.D., and pediatric ophthalmologist Florencio Ching, M.D., initiated immunosuppressive therapy consisting of massive doses of steroids. Garrett responded to the treatment plan and was successfully weaned from debilitating immunosuppression. Today, Garrett is an active, healthy teenager. With continuing vigilance and expertise, The CHOC Cancer Institute team will support Garrett in follow-up care through adulthood.