About

When I was 15, my dad was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). The day after getting diagnosed, he got admitted in to the hospital for 30 days straight for “induction chemo”. Thereafter, he was facing a stem cell transplant for which he selected Siteman Cancer Center at BJC/WashU in St. Louis. Over the next two years, my dad spent months away from home with my mom at his side supporting him. Through these extended visits, my mom and dad got the chance to meet many different families from diverse backgrounds. One family in particular stood out. They had trouble keeping up with parking fees, meals, and other simple comforts. This problem, which appears like a small issue relative to leukemia, led to major inconveniences for the family, adding to the stress and challenge of supporting their loved one. This situation shed light on many often-overlooked expenses associated with leukemia care that are often not covered in medical insurance.

Those two years were difficult for me. I rarely saw my mom and dad and sometimes left wondering “what if”, but still had to keep up with school and sports sometimes feeling helpless.

I don’t know the origin of the quote, but my dad always tells me: “Everyone is fighting a battle you know nothing about”. I don’t need to know the battle, but if I can help just a little, it seems worth it.