Patients
Support for living with GVHD
Support and Encouragement
Whether you’re someone who’s been recently diagnosed with GVHD or you’ve been living with it for years, we’re happy you’re here.
Led by a 20+ year survivor, the Meredith A. Cowden Foundation exists to connect you to the resources that will not only help you better understand your disease, but live well and thrive with it…and introduce you to others doing the same.
We’re In This Together
Receiving a diagnosis like GVHD can be scary—and isolating. We understand that feeling all too well, and it’s one of the biggest reasons the Cowden’s started the Foundation back in 2007…to make sure others would feel less alone in their own journeys.
So, how can we help you?
Patient Resources
Learn More About GVHD
Whether you want to learn more about the disease itself or the latest research and treatments available, we’ve compiled it all in one place for you.
Attend Our Symposium
Each year we host our National GVHD Symposium, which brings together top doctors and researchers from around the country with survivors like you—face to face, at the same conference—for a unique, shared learning opportunity. You can also attend virtually, or view videos of past presentations.
Mental Health Tips
Not only is our Foundation’s executive director, Meredith Cowden, a 20+ year BMT survivor and someone living with GVHD herself, she’s also a clinical counselor who loves to share her knowledge with others. Read her best tips for handling the anxiety, depression, and feelings of overwhelm that are common with a chronic disease like GVHD. Not only is our Foundation’s executive director, Meredith Cowden, a 20+ year BMT survivor and someone living with GVHD herself, she’s also a clinical counselor who loves to share her knowledge with others.
Tips for Communicating with Your Care Team
It’s incredibly difficult to share all the information you need to with your healthcare team in your allotted appointment time…and let’s be honest—white coat syndrome is real. We have tips for how to overcome appointment anxiety and communicate your needs to your healthcare team effectively.
Nutrition, Lifestyle and GVHD
There’s growing evidence that nutrition and lifestyle choices directly affect the course of GVHD. We’ve compiled the best advice and latest research to give you the ability to take a holistic approach to your health.
Coming Soon!
Connect with Fellow Survivors
Whether you’re looking for a referral to a support group or are interested in joining our GVHD Ambassador program, we offer numerous ways to build community with other people who understand the road you’re traveling. When we share our experiences with one another, we’re all better for it!
Coming Soon!
Caregivers
Living with GVHD is incredibly hard, and so is caring for someone living with GVHD. Our caregiver resource can help you better understand how to support yourself so you can be there for your loved one as they navigate the disease.
Do you need help with something else not listed on this page? Please email us any time at info@cowdenfoundation.org.
Free Downloadable Resources
Explore our collection of free patient guides and worksheets created to help you understand GVHD, prepare for appointments, and advocate for your health throughout your transplant and recovery journey.
Figuring Out GVHD, Together
This printable worksheet helps you prepare for appointments by organizing your symptoms, questions, and treatment goals. It encourages shared decision-making, making it easier to have meaningful conversations with your healthcare team and ensure your voice is part of every care decision.
Navigating the Transplant Journey
Whether you’re preparing for a stem cell transplant or navigating recovery, this guide offers practical information, emotional encouragement, and tips for recognizing potential signs of GVHD. It’s designed to help patients and caregivers better understand what to expect and feel more confident throughout the transplant journey.