Join Sue's Fight Against Leukemia Aftermath

A MESSAGE FROM SUE-

Marilyn! I love you so much. Can you please pass this along to all of the wonderful people in our lives? Don’t know how I would survive without so many warriors in my corner.

Where do I begin? I have the best support system imaginable and I can’t possibly put into words how much I love, adore and appreciate everyone. I’m a lucky lady.

2024 has SUCKED! I can go on and on with my “woe is me” story and you know what? It wouldn’t change a thing. Here’s the condensed version….

I made the toughest decision this year as I realized I could no longer be a productive and effective teacher. I had to take an early retirement because I couldn’t make it to work. I think I worked a handful of days in 2024, no more. It took me until July 1st then to get my first pension check—all of the ridiculous penalties included because I’m 53.

The chronic graft vs host disease is still fighting me and I’d be a liar if I said there hasn’t been many times I’ve wanted to give up. For some reason, God doesn’t want me just yet. So, I guess I better fight.

I’ve had five hip dislocations, with # 4 and 5 being in the last 3 weeks. Lots of appointments and procedures in the next few weeks, with another hip surgery on September 11th. THEN— when all goes well, I’ll be done with the pain, anxiety and isolation. I’ll be ready to get to living. Just in time to see my favorite football players kick ass on the field.

I promise you, I won’t forget how wonderful each of you are. Thank you for helping me. for prayers for donations, for positive thoughts and for everything you do. My thanks can’t possibly be enough. Please know, I do my best to pay it forward and I have every intention of helping others as you have all helped me. You are all AMAZING. I love you—ALWAYS ❤️

Hello family and friends. My name is Marilyn, and I am the sister and stem cell donor of Sue! Almost 6 years ago, Sue underwent a stem cell transplant. When I was told that of our siblings, I was a perfect match, I jumped at the chance to help my sister, in hopes that it would heal her from Leukemia. Although it did just that, the transplant also caused a debilitating new disease called Graft versus Host. I often say, that had I known of the potential for this awful condition, I may have thought twice about providing my sister with my cells. In GVHD, patients experience symptoms of inflammation, rashes, thickening of the skin, joint issues, fatigue, changes in vision and many more. Sadly, Sue has experienced all of them. She has suffered from a hip dislocation, replacement, loss of vision, as well as having to undergo procedures to stretch her esophagus. Her skin has become so tight and irritated that you might think she had been burned in a fire. Ultimately, Graft versus Host Disease has made it impossible for Sue to continue working, resulting in her having to remain at home, unable to teach which she so very loved. Sue has been unable to provide for her three boys, along with missing many of their milestones over the last 6 years. Can you imagine abruptly losing your salary for reasons beyond your control? I am reaching out to each of you in hopes that we might be able to ease the financial burden that this horrible disease has caused. Sue does not know that I have put this together, and honestly, she would be embarrassed if she knew. I am just hoping that without the worry of how to pay for her medications and doctor visits, that she can focus on healing and becoming strong enough to start living again. If you would like more information, please feel free to reach out. Together we are SueStrong! Thank you and God bless!