Hi, my name is Stacey, and I have set this fundraiser up for my friends Jim and Peggy Hunt. Their faces may look familiar to many of you who have shopped at Epicurean Olive Oil at the Avenue in Murfreesboro over the last 10 years. The why behind this fundraiser starts with Jim who has been battling Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) since December 2017. His health has recently taken a turn over the last few months. His most recent bone marrow biopsy in April of this year indicated that more mutation had occurred, and a segment of the number 7 chromosome was missing, which is another indication of MDS progression. These results moved his condition from low risk to intermediate risk, thus prompting the facilitation of a stem cell transplant.

In the latter part of May 2022, Jim had a consultation with his stem cell transplant doctor, and the process was set in motion. Extensive blood testing and antigen typing were completed, and the search for a stem cell donor was initiated. Within two weeks, a suitable donor was located from the worldwide bone marrow donor bank along with more testing and education. UPDATE: as of 7-19-22, his donor has backed out. Although disappointing, Jim and Peggy remain positive and hopeful and have since been blessed to hear that one of Jim’s sons will give him a chance at life.

Before the transplant begins on August 10 at Sarah Cannon in Nashville, Jim will undergo intense chemotherapy. After that, he will remain in the hospital for another 30 days or as required. One hundred days from transplant require 24/7 care and up to 12 months for his immune system to gain normal function. And another 12 months may be necessary for total recovery. This has all come on very suddenly, and they have been on an emotional roller coaster taking classes at Sarah Cannon and preparing for his transplant.

As a result of the fast pace medical issues over these last few months, Jim and Peggy had to make the tough decision to close Epicurean Olive Oil Co. at the Avenue in Murfreesboro, TN. The added stress of this transplant procedure compounded by the pressures of running a business is just too much for their family. And as you can imagine, there will be financial stress from ending their business and beginning this long medical journey.

If you know Jim and Peggy, this decision to ask for assistance was also extremely difficult; however, sometimes in life, we all need a hand up to help us through. They will be forever grateful if you could prayerfully consider sharing their story and contributing to this fundraiser.

Sincerely,

Stacey H.