February 2014 I thought that I had the flu. After resting, taking fluids and every over the counter medication they sell I was getting worse. It was time to go to our local emergency room.  That is when I received some life altering information....I had acute myeloid leukemia.  The year ahead was challenging but finally on December 30, 2014 I returned to my job as a nurse at UPMC Shadyside. It was one of the best moments of my life...being normal again!  On February 5, 2015 I had a routine follow up appointment with my Oncologist. The look on his face upon entering the room told me everything. The leukemia had returned. Since that date I have been preparing for a bone marrow transplant. There have been many twists and turns in the preparation, but the latest is the need to travel to Johns Hopkins for the management of my case.   It was overwhelming...new city, new doctors, finding housing, uprooting my husband to travel with me as my care provider, leaving the amazing support structure of family and friends, but most of all leaving my three children for three months.   I am ready to kick this cancer once and for all but the emotional and financial challenges add a layer of complexity. 
Thank youfor allowing me to share my story.