Bone Marrow Transplant for Sickle Cell Anaemia with support from GetWellGo

Living with Sickle Cell Anaemia

Mr. Timothy Kayanja, 24 years old, from Kampala, Uganda, has been living with Sickle Cell Anaemia. This is a genetic disorder causing pain crises due to stiff and sickle shaped red blood cells which may cause restricted blood flow and less oxygen reaching different parts of the body. Timothy needed specialist treatment as he was experiencing recurrent pain crises. He was offered a Bone Marrow Transplant. With the help of GetWellGo, Timothy travelled to India to receive specialist treatment at Fortis Memorial Research Institute (FMRI).

Medical Assessment and Donor

Timothy was assessed medically upon arrival to India. Investigations showed that Timothy had a high percentage of HbS with 90.9% found in the haemoglobin. Timothy’s younger brother, Master Conrad Kigozi, 9 years old was assessed to be a potential stem cell donor. Investigations showed that Master Conrad Kigozi was a haploidentical donor. This means that he was a half matched family donor. Haemoglobin investigations showed that Master Conrad had 59.2% HbA and 37.1% HbS. He therefore has sickle cell trait. Timothy underwent a bone marrow transplant using his younger brother as the donor.

Bone Marrow Transplant

A haploidentical bone marrow transplant was performed on Timothy on 15th May 2026. Prior to the transplant, Timothy had received conditioning treatment including thymoglobulin, cyclophosphamide, fludarabine, thiotepa and total body irradiation. Approximately, 6 million CD34 positive stem cells were infused per kg of body weight. This was done without any issues and his vitals remained stable. Timothy was closely monitored in hospital following the transplant.

Post-Transplant Complications

Timothy developed febrile neutropenia. This is a condition whereby the patient develops a fever and neutrophils are low increasing the risk of severe infection. Timothy was given broad spectrum antibiotics and blood cultures were negative. Timothy’s fever settled. Timothy also developed diarrhoea and grade 2 oral mucositis. This caused inflammation and painful ulcers within the mouth. Supportive treatment was given along with fluids. Timothy’s condition improved.

During hospital, Timothy developed headaches, generalised seizures, altered mental state and hypertension. He required intensive management including anti-epileptic drugs. Brain imaging showed areas of subacute infarction. There were also areas of change suggesting posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES). After treatment and stabilisation, Timothy was moved back to the BMT ward. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) reactivation was also noted. Foscarnet was given to Timothy to combat this. His CMV level dropped from 241,200 copies/mL (28th May 2026) to 19,276 copies/mL (3rd June 2026). Intravenous immunoglobulins were also given. These complications required regular care, monitoring and changes in the medications.

Discharge and Follow-up Care:

Following ongoing treatment, Timothy was discharged from FMRI on 4th June 2026. This was day +20 from the transplant. Timothy was given medication to manage infection, seizures, hypertension, graft versus host disease (GVHD) and other needs. Timothy was advised to attend regular outpatient appointments. He was also advised to take infection prevention measures. If Timothy experienced any warning signs such as a temperature of above 100.4°F, bleeding, shortness of breath, less oral intake or changes in mental state, he should seek urgent medical attention. Timothy was advised to stay in Delhi for around 3-4 months to monitor his condition closely.

Role of GetWellGo:

GetWellGo supported Timothy throughout his medical journey from Uganda to India. International patients will often require complex treatments such as a bone marrow transplant. With support from GetWellGo, hospital appointments, coordination and treatment-related arrangements can be organised to help manage this process.

Conclusion:

The case of Mr. Timothy Kayanja illustrates the complex nature of treating sickle cell anaemia using haploidentical bone marrow transplantation. He had a younger brother as a donor and was treated at the Fortis Memorial Research Institute – Gurugram. Close medical supervision was provided as part of his treatment. Timothy was discharged on 4th June 2026 after undergoing treatment. His long term prognosis and recovery from the transplant will need to be monitored by specialist medical professionals. GetWellGo helped facilitate Timothy’s journey to India to receive specialist treatment.