100

Cancer is a theme in my life. I’m sure it is for everyone that works here, to some extent. My work life and projects are consumed by the minutia of what is needed to support exemplary cancer care and research. In my personal life I’ve had a different experience. My youngest sister fought and beat thyroid cancer in her 20s, my father and step mother fought together and died a few weeks apart from separate cancers, multiple grandparents, aunts, friends, co-workers, even pets have had their lives altered or taken because of this disease. Again, I know I’m not alone. Working here has helped reconcile some of that pain and loss. Even in the smallest of ways, I know my work is contributing to the overall goal. I am helping.

When you have a family member going through treatment, you want to help. You feel like you would do anything. You want to make them feel better. At least, that is how I felt. At one particularly low point in my father’s treatment, I remember feeling that desperation. He had been responding poorly to the chemo, his energy was low, and he was very sick. During that hospital visit, he received an infusion of blood and platelets. What followed were days of coherent thought, energy, and eating. It wasn’t long lasting, as he was very ill, but the quality of that time has stayed with me, even years later. I remember wanting to thank that donor. I started donating platelets shortly after that experience.

This month, I’m reflecting on love, loss and cancer again, as another loved one leaves too soon. As I reflect, I’m moved by the courage, determination, and love that I see. On June 18th, I dedicate my 100th platelet donation in loving memory of those loved ones and in honor of all that are fighting this fight. You are not alone. This one is for you.