Providence Cancer System

I am a very fortunate 69 yr old man today. However, in May of 2006 I was diagnosed with what looked like some form of Leukemia. Recent vacation plans to travel across the country were scraped and I began extensive tests to clarify my condition and best treatment.
I spent 35 days in the Hospital enduring two rounds of strong chemotherapy, and another 7 day period for more chemo. The goal was remission and they said it was achieved, but it was a very depleting experience physically. From my past medical life( I am a retired Pharmacist), I realized that to control this Leukemia, my future would be limited by repeated exposure to chemotherapy and progressively more depleting phyicality...and short survival. My Leukemia was now defined as Myelodysplastic Syndrome(MDS) leaning toward Acute Myelocytic Leukemia(AML). So what were my other options?
Options seemed very few for me, I was 64 at that time. The Miracle of some new chemotherapy was always possible, but very uncertain. Then the subject of Bone Marrow Transplant came up. This idea at first seemed to be very far fetched. but as we put togather more information it seemed the best chance for a fuller life. At that time transplants were not openly recommended for older adults
To accomplish this we needed to have reputable site that does this procedure, and a compatable "donor".
The Seattle Cancer Care Alliance was one of the best sites available....and most fortunately, my younger Brother was a willing "10" point match......I will love him always. He donated Stem Cells, not Bone Marrow. My blood is the same as his blood.
Another so critical factor in my continuing success is my wife Helen who, from the begining of the journey, has been my best Caregiver.
I have been so lucky in many other ways throughout this experience. Great Family support, no significant pre-existing medical issues, no hospital stay after the transplant, and not much physical pain...so far.

My Life today is going well. The Transplant probably "aged" me a few more years, but I am active, healthy, and enjoying life.
Currently, I am anticipating a 5 year Survival gathering and celebration at the Fred Hutchinson Site in Seattle this Summer.

The Stem Cell Transplant was an intimidating event to look foreward to, but once we got into it...it was not that bad. If anyone has any questions about Stem Cell Transplant, feel free to sent me an Email.

Michael,
Thank you so much for sharing your inspirational story. What a gift your brother was able to give to you and of course, our unsung heroes, the caregivers who stand by our side.