The operation was uneventful and the patient was stable overnight. Walsh asked that it be noted that Dr. Schrump trained at the University of Michigan. Albany N.Y. The debulking surgery Walsh underwent is essential in preparation for a stem-cell transplant, which Walsh will receive later, because the number of cancer cells present at the time of the transplant is directly related to the success rate of the procedure. Walsh, originally diagnosed with renal cell carcinoma in early July of last year, underwent these procedures to eradicate cancer cells that have spread to his left lung and his sternum.
Stem cells are immature cells that develop into blood cells.
If the transplant is successful, new cells will grow, multiply and attack the cancer cells. The procedure involves transplanting stem cells from someone who is cancer-free and a very close genetic match into the cancer patient. Walsh's brother Kevin will be the donor for the procedure. We would appreciate the media respecting our privacy during my surgery and recovery. Walsh had surgery to remove a cancerous left kidney at the Boston Medical Center July 7, and underwent immunotherapy cycles at UCLA's Jonsson Cancer Center in August and October.