My grandfather, Bob, is closely involved with Blood Cancer United and helped found Visionary of the Year in Sacramento. The event spun into Student Visionary of the Year and is now the campaign I am co-leading. I am very passionate about Blood Cancer United and want to make a difference in raising money to fight the disease that took my uncle's life at the age of 19.
My uncle, Bobby, collapsed on the soccer field playing for his high school at the age of 16. They found a tumor the size of a closed fist and forearm wrapped around his chest, collapsing his lung. After radiation and chemotherapy, Bobby entered remission and was able to graduate with his class in 1987.
He went to Chico State during his freshman year of college, and during the summer after, he was diagnosed with leukemia. After several rounds of chemotherapy, he underwent a bone marrow transplant. My mother, Susie, was his donor. The transplant was successful; however, Bobby lost his life two months later due to complications.
Every story I have heard about Bobby is heroic. He was truly a star who was robbed of a life far too young. If given the same diagnosis today, his odds of living would be much higher. This is a fight I want to fight to help others continue to win the battle against blood cancer.
Perry
Family member and supporter
