About the Program
Treating blood disorders and cancers cannot be done alone. It requires the strong will of a patient, the support of a family, and the compassion and expertise of a world-renowned health care team.
Since the UAB Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cell Therapy Program opened in 1991, and have dedicated each day to lead with innovation and serve with compassion, along with the most advanced treatment methods in a comfortable, cutting–edge facility. Each patient is treated by a team of healthcare professionals dedicated to providing outstanding care throughout the transplant process. The program is constantly building a work environment of professionalism where each person is valued and respected. The sole focus is ensuring the best possible results, the greatest quality of life, and the hope for a healthier future. Here at the UAB Bone Marrow Transplant Program, we celebrate life every day.
The BMT unit provides both autologous and allogeneic stem cell transplants, including haploidentical and umbilical cord transplants if necessary, and our program leads the nation in high-risk AML transplants. Our unit is staffed with physicians, pharmacists, nurses, nurse practitioners, clinical care coordinators, transplant coordinators, patient care technicians, research/data staff, social workers, nutritionists, and support staff who are dedicated to provide the best care for patients throughout the transplant process.
Patient Spotlight
Ed Reifenberg - Ed Reifenberg and his wife, Joann, hosted a celebration in remembrance of Ed’s bone marrow transplant in 1998. Ed’s wife Joann was his caregiver for his transplant. Ed along with friends and family celebrated the last 20 years and the second chance at life his transplant continues to give him.
Skye Savren-McCormick - A bone marrow harvest produced a beautiful and an unexpected friendship. Hayden Hatfield Ryals signed up to be a marrow donor and ended up not only being a perfect match, but also saving the life of Skye Savren-McCormick, who was suffering from junvenile myelomonocytic leukemia at the time.
Jimmy Roberson - After being diagnosed with aplastic anemia, two unsuccessful chemotherapy treatments, 50 blood transfusions, and more than 25 platelet injections, Jimmy Roberson finally met who he says is his angel here on Earth. Her name is Alina Franke, a 27-year-old Hamburg, Germany, native who donated stem cells way back in 2009, all because she hoped to help someone in need one day.