Today I learned a very courageous man has passed away. His name is John, he was 31 years old and diagnosed with AML M6 in October 2010. He has left behind a wife and two young children. His youngest was only three months old at the time of his diagnosis.
John and I meant through the First Connection program with the Leukemia Lymphoma Society. We were matched up because we are both parents in our 30's. I called him as a First Connection Volunteer to offer support.
He endured so much during his fight, induction, chemotherapy, high fevers, infections, not to mention long hospital stays away from his family. As he prepared for his first transplant his donor actually backed out on him. Sadly, when another donor was found John relapsed, just prior to transplant.
March 2011 he called me to share the great news that he would be receiving his new stem cells that evening, from yet another donor. I talked to him that day and reassured him that those stem cells would heal his body and blood.
Now, I pray for his family during this difficult time.
John put up a good fight and will be dearly missed. Rest In Peace my friend!
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