Last year, my younger brother, Owen, was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). He is a healthy 45-year-old dad of two amazing kids — AND lives in England with his family. When we heard the news, my parents and I boarded a plane and flew across the sea to be with him and his family during his first round of chemo/treatment. While I was there, we learned the best scenario for his health was a full stem cell transplant, and as his sister, I was tested to see if I would be a match.
I flew back home to the States, resumed my role as an art teacher and mom, and awaited the news. I was hopeful, but learned that even siblings only have a 25% chance of being a match. I couldn't believe it when I opened my email one morning with the news that I was a 100% match for Owen and labeled an "excellent" candidate to be his stem cell donor.
I made plans, my parents and I purchased tickets again, found long-term housing overseas, and moved to England for two months! Because I was not from the UK, I needed to have all my pre-donor testing and clearance done in the UK, wait for approval, go through COVID isolation, get my shots to boost my stem cell production, and ultimately donate two rounds of stem cells, then another round of lymphocytes. It was quite the time to say the least! While I was going through the donation process, my brother was enduring the horribly difficult chemotherapy treatments and preparing for the transplant himself. He was such a warrior! Never complained, never wavered. He will forever inspire me with his grit, humor, and perseverance! HE IS THE BEST!
Fast forward, we are one year post-transplant, and I am so happy to report his transplant went as well as the doctors expected! He had no graft-versus-host disease or severe complications and continues to fight and be in good spirits. Recently, he has been labeled in remission, and although we know nothing is guaranteed, I know the science and research behind what we went through saved his life. Thank God for science, research, and people fighting for a cause like Blood Cancer United! I am BEYOND honored to be able to run the NYC marathon in Owen's honor and for all those who are fighting blood cancer right now!
Claire
Family member and supporter/donor
