A Little Help Goes A Long Way

Many of you may not know that John was diagnosed with Myelofibrosis in November of 2015. Myelofibrosis is a rare bone marrow disorder for which there is no cure. Thoughts for treatment were to begin oral chemotherapy and that he would look at having a stem cell transplant perhaps five years down the road. He continued to work full time through mid-July. After undergoing testing at one of the best places for treatment, Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN; it was determined that there were a couple of genetic mutations that put him at a higher risk for faster progression of his disease and a more likely change to AML (Acute Myeloid Leukemia). With that information, his siblings were tested to see if either could be a match for a stem cell transplant. Although both sisters, Sue and Betty, were a perfect 10/10 match, for various reasons it was decided that Betty would be the preferred donor and she agreed without question. We are so thankful for this second chance for John and for the chance for him to be cancer free in the end. We are blessed with the best support system with our family and friends! We have two beautiful daughters, Brittany and Allie; and two amazing grandchildren, Tori and Chase. Many friends have wanted to help and though we initially declined, we now realize that you can't get through something like this alone. Between hospital bills, medications, inability to work for a year, trying to maintain a household that we aren't living in, temporary housing and the everyday needs here in Rochester, we will graciously accept help. "Life is full of give and take. Give thanks and take nothing for granted." -unknown We appreciate each gift of kindness and hope. With great appreciation, many thanks and much love, Kim and John Walsh