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🥙

4 days ago

Sunita's World- Life and food
Spring, again.This season feels especially poignant for me. Two years ago, I was just a week out of my transplant surgery, still in ICU, with no memory of those early days before and after—just a question mark over what would come next, and whether I’d even get there.And yet, outside those hospital walls, the world carried on. The seasons were turning. Blossoms were opening, quietly, faithfully, as they always do, whether I could see them or not.Since then, I’ve had two bonus springs. Two more chances to see the trees in bloom. To feel the air change. To be here.This year, I again stood under them after my run, admiring their beauty and making the most of second chances.Grateful.-Sunita..#Spring #SecondChances #Gratitude #LifeGoesOn #Blossoms ... See MoreSee Less
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Until next time,

Sunita

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