Joe was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in July, 2008. When he learned he would need a transplant from a stranger to survive, he was frightened and unsure that it would even be possible to find a donor. A donor was found in Gift of Life’s registry and he received his transplant nearly a year later at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York, NY.
Approximately one year later, Joe’s donor, Donna came to meet him at his home in Long Island, New York. Joe said, “It was emotional. Neither of us was sure what to say to each other. We instantly felt a connection and were so happy to meet.” The pair spent time sharing their own transplant experience, as neither had any idea what the other had been through. Today, they enjoy a special friendship, keeping in touch via phone and email, and visiting at least two or three times a year for special occasions or dinner.
Joe said that, following his transplant and recovery, “I look at things more positive and look forward to every experience. I cherish life.” Thanks to his donor and Gift of Life, he can experience the things he loves, including spending time with his grandchildren, taking pictures, traveling, reading, bike riding and enjoying food. He is especially grateful to his wife, Paula, saying, “She is my friend and caregiver. Without her support I would not have survived.”
Recently, Joe, his family and friends gathered to celebrate the five year anniversary of his transplant. Donna, along with her husband and ten other family members were thrilled to attend the very special event, and many of the guests were thrilled to meet the woman who helped save Joe’s life. He said, “We wanted to celebrate and share our happiness with our family, and friends. My wife and I thanked everyone for their support during my illness, and gave special thanks to Donna, who gave me her bone marrow which saved my life and made it possible for me to be here.” He added, “My nine year old granddaughter, Dina sang two beautiful songs for grandpa.”
Though the invitation stressed that gifts were not necessary, many guests made generous contributions to Gift of Life in Joe’s honor. He and Paula are also proud to support Gift of Life through their involvement with the annual Long Island Walk for Life 5K which they help plan and promote. He said, “Gift of Life is a great organization which has saved so many lives and raised awareness about the importance of becoming a bone marrow donor.” He added, “Donors like Donna are unselfish, caring and altruistic people, without whom many lives would not been saved.”
