Facing PTLD: My Cancer Diagnosis After Liver Transplant

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Over the past month or so, you’ve seen me sharing updates—about food, moving around, hosting guests, socialising, striking a pose, and just life in general. I’ve been feeling stronger and continuing to rebuild after my transplant in March last year. Physically, that still holds true as of today.

What I haven’t shared—until now—is that in July, I was diagnosed with a type of blood cancer, one that’s sometimes seen in transplant recipients.


The immunosuppressants that protect my transplanted organ also lower immunity, making us more vulnerable to things like this.

Still, it came as a surprise. I don’t have the usual symptoms, but our bodies are complex—what’s happening inside doesn’t always show outside.


After a series of tests and scans, I’m starting the first line of treatment. I won’t need to stay in hospital unless something unexpected comes up. For now, it’s once a week infusions for at least a month at the same hospital where I had my transplant which brings a sense of comfort and familiarity. My transplant and haematology teams are working closely together, which helps.

I’ve always followed medical advice closely and listened to my body, and I’ll continue doing just that.



This past year has taught me: when faced with something you can’t control, learn more about it, advocate for yourself, and stay as positive as you can. The mind is powerful. Tune out unqualified advice (however well meant), and focus on those who truly know.

Also, remember—not all illnesses have a “look.” Not all patients react or cope the same way; both in body and mind. And that’s okay. There’s no one-size-fits-all. Your journey is yours alone.


I don’t yet know how my body will respond to this drug, and yes, I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t a bit nervous. But the team is hopeful, and I’m trying to be too. If this treatment works well, we may not need to escalate further.

So, if you’re reading this, please don’t feel sorry—instead, do send lots (and lots!) of love, prayers and positive vibes my way. I can definitely do with some cheerleaders behind me and my family, and the more the better.

I’ve promised my family I won’t give up without a fight.

Let’s do this!❤️💪

-Sunita

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All my cancer stories on this website can be found here.

You might also like to read more of my health journey here.


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Sunita's World- Life and food

Sunita's World- Life and food

Blog- www.sunitabhuyan.net
YouTube channel- https://youtube.com/@sunitasworld-lifeandfood?si=7XaiCwtVrp6uIbgf

Recipe developer🍲,transplant survivor 2024💪🏼, green fingers🌿Award-winning blogger, ft @guardian @thetelegraph
Family favourite recipes🥙

1 day ago

Sunita's World- Life and food
The heatwave in the UK has been quite something this year, and there seems to be no respite. The hot, muggy nights have become the norm, leaving behind a different kind of tiredness the following day. On days like these, I find myself gravitating towards lighter, simpler meals that don't require too much time in the kitchen but are still nourishing and satisfying.I haven't cooked an Assamese-style meal in what seems like ages, so it was about time. This was a very easy meal to put together and wasn't too time-consuming. Only one dish took a little longer, but with multiple things cooking at the same time, it all came together quite easily.On our plates, clockwise: rice, *bengenar bor* (aubergine fritters), *courgette aru bandhakobir khar* (courgette and cabbage khar, a traditional Assamese alkaline dish), bite-sized salmon with baby tomatoes and garlic, fresh baby cucumber sticks, and a bowl of spinach dal.Very light, calm, and simple flavours—just perfect for a summer's day.How is the weather treating you where yo#assamesefoodt#homecookinge#summermealsC#indianhomecookings#simplefoodeCooking #SimpleFood Assamese cuisine, Assamese food, home cooking, traditional recipes, khar, bengenar bor, aubergine fritters, spinach dal, salmon, courgette, cabbage, summer cooking, wholesome meals, everyday cooking, healthy food, seasonal vegetables, Indian regional cuisine, comfort food, simple meals, homemade food. ... See MoreSee Less
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Until next time,

Sunita

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