Persistent fatigue. That’s how Theresa describes what she would later recognize as the first signs of a rapid health decline. When she started having trouble getting up the stairs she decided it was time to go to the hospital.

After a battery of tests, Theresa received the heart-wrenching news that she had acute myelogenous leukemia, a type of blood cancer. However, her doctors assured her that there were treatment options available.

Theresa began a grueling regimen of chemotherapy, accompanied by a variety of other cancer-fighting drugs – all to little avail. Her physician, Dr. Walker, recommended a stem cell transplant. After a months-long search for a donor, a match was found and the stem cells were grafted.

Despite some initial setbacks in her recovery, with the prescription of an oral cancer medication, the donor stem cells became fully grafted and Theresa eventually achieved remission.

“It’s been wonderful. I have more energy. I’ve been feeling really good. For now, everything’s good,” says Theresa.

The care and compassion she received from her health care team in the Stem Cell Unit left an indelible mark on Theresa’s heart. In gratitude for her exceptional care, Theresa and her husband, Mauro, decided to pay it forward. In the past year alone, they have generously donated $10,000 to support ongoing research and ensure others have access to the same world class services that saved Theresa’s life.

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