Published
December 12, 2023
Case Study: Stem Cells Treat 57 Year Old After Stroke
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In July 2017, a family's trajectory took an unexpected turn after their annual beach vacation. The father, aged 57 and never sick a day in his life, experienced a life-altering stroke. The wife, alongside their daughter, received the startling news moments after landing from their flight.
Initially labeled with an unknown cause, further investigations revealed a congenital disability—a heart hole that remained open since birth. Despite no prior indications, a blood clot traversed this opening, resulting in a stroke. The aftermath left the father with right-side paralysis and severe apraxia of speech. While his physical strength and determination facilitated the recovery of walking ability, challenges persisted, particularly in speech and hand functionality.
Therapeutic progress, though substantial, faced disruption when seizures emerged six months post-stroke, surpassing 100 within the following year. This adversity compounded with unbearable post-stroke pain. Medical professionals suggested invasive surgical procedures to treat seizures' origin in the brain, promising but entailing a lengthy recovery.
Overwhelmed, the family delved into alternative solutions and discovered the Cord Blood Center Group in Munich. The prospect of minimally invasive stroke recovery via cord blood infusions for ischemic strokes piqued their interest. A conversation with Dr. Thoennissen ensued, where he sought to comprehend the patient's medical history and truly understand him as an individual. Encouraging consultation with their medical team, he facilitated thorough research into the approach.
Exploring Stanford and Duke studies on cord blood transplants for stroke patients, the family found overwhelmingly positive scientific evidence. Consultations with their medical team yielded no objections, leading them to embark on a journey to Munich in early October. Preliminary testing preceded two days of cord blood stem cell infusions, resulting in minimal side effects—brief fatigue and a temporary odor on breath.
Post-treatment, the father experienced a transformative journey. Remaining seizure-free for an extended period, significant pain reduction occurred around four weeks post-treatment, with manageable discomfort and occasional pain-free days. Unexpectedly, speech improvements surfaced approximately six weeks post-treatment, noted by friends, family, and therapists.
Most importantly, the father's spirits soared. Laughter, smiles, and an uplifted demeanor became more frequent, unburdened by seizures and pain. Cord blood transplantation became a beacon of hope, offering an experience the family will cherish for a lifetime.
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