Equity and justice

Check out this recent Fox news clip of my brother Dan sharing about our journey and the need for donors esp. for underrepresented groups.  

https://foxbaltimore.com/news/local/a-brothers-heroic-response-leads-to-a-fathers-cry-for-help


Thank you for your continued prayers for my transplant situation. With all the options on the table, we felt it would be wise to get a second opinion from a transplant doc from Sloan in NY whom we had been referred to from a friend of my brother’s. After talking with him and him sharing with his colleagues, there was consensus that my brother would be the best donor option while acknowledging the genetic stuff. They did mention an additional molecular genetic test that my brother could do via a bone marrow biopsy which would give more peace of mind but they still felt he was the best choice. 

God has not only opened doors but He has also closed other doors. For example, it looks as though a potential donor in Korea is not going to be a viable option nor is a cord blood transplant as there are no good matches available... this might not sound like good news, but we actually see it as another answered prayer as it helps us to make a decision on transplant. With that said, please keep in prayer as we'll now discuss with our docs here at Penn in light of Sloan's input. There are a few things that Sloan is recommending that differs with Penn's transplant regimen, and also a few things they do that Penn does not offer. At the end of the day, we did discuss the possibility of going to Sloan to do the transplant if needed and best, though that would add another logistical layer of stuff including having to stay in NY for a few months after transplant. We'd rather do the transplant at Penn if possible, but are obviously willing to do whatever is best. Asking the Lord for wisdom and discernment. 🙏 

The past few days, I’ve been fighting fevers and have just been wiped out with fatigue, mouth sores, and stomach issues since this past chemo cycle. But thankfully, I’ve still been able to eat. 😋 At this point, I’ve come to realize that these symptoms are nothing out of the norm so continuing to press on. And getting lots of rest!!

Comments

  1. Kim SmithJune 2, 2020 at 5:08 AM

    God is moving mountains through you and your brother's faith. Equity and justice. Two words that describe what our nation needs right now and to think that it applies to a donor bank as well. Thank you for shedding light on a topic that isn't broadcasted enough. Our thoughts and prayers are with you every day. Kim and Craig Smitb

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