Margy's Transplant

Fungal Pneumonia

2011-09-13T23:17:00.002-04:00

Margy had a fever again Thursday of last week. After some tests Margy was diagnosed with a fungal pneumonia. As mentioned in a previous post (Margy Admitted for Fever) , transplant patients are extremely susceptible to all kinds of conditions due to their low blood counts. A fever indicates an infection and so a fever can be a life-threatening concern with bone marrow transplant patients. This is why it is extremely important to sanitize surfaces in Margy's environment extremely often. Margy wears a mask everywhere except for the apartment where she lives.

Bone marrow is responsible for creating your blood cells, including your white cells. Since radiation and chemo and transplant, Margy's immune system is starting over again. Her immune system is like a baby's immune system. She will have to get immunized again for things she was already immunized for as a child: MMR, chicken pox, etc. Margy's doctors told her that as a result of her immature immune system, she will be sicker the next three years than she has been in her adult life as her system matures.

Margy continued to have a fever intermittently the next several days. Margy's doctors are treating the fungal pneumonia and hopefully she will be fully recovered from that soon.

Engraftment!!

2011-09-05T22:54:00.002-04:00

We received news today that the engraftment test returned with great news -- 100% engraftment! That means the marrow is all donor marrow. The medical team will continue to monitor for graft versus host disease. Since engraftment happened in this percentage and this early, the likelihood of quicker recovery exists than it does for patients with less donor marrow. The path to recovery continues, but this is a huge accomplishment and the news for which we have been waiting!

More Days Off

2011-09-02T22:27:00.002-04:00

Today is day 37 post transplant. Mom had two days off this week and has this weekend off. By "days off" I mean that she didn't have to go into the hospital at all - yay! Less medicines are needed now too, which is great.

We did not get the results of the bone marrow engraftment test today as we had hoped, but should find out Monday once mom returns to the hospital again.

We'll keep you posted...

Mom's Progress and Post Hurricane Update

2011-08-29T08:36:00.006-04:00

Today is day 33. That means it has been 33 days since transplant. The last week plus has been a really exciting time to be here as I've watched mom's blood counts soar upward. The counts they watch for mostly are the white blood cell and neutrophil counts. The white blood cells have gone from less than 50 up to over 1500 today. Normal range for white blood cells is between 4,500 and 10,000. As is normal for patients, her blood counts did fluctuate around 1000 since about mid week last week.

As mom's counts have increased, her medications have decreased and therefore some of the side effects that can accompany taking so many medications. Still, the side effects do get her down sometimes. Cards and packages and emails do lift her spirits, so keep 'em coming! She checks everyday. Overall, mom is very lucky and doing well. She is progressing as her medical team expects.

On day 30 (Friday, August 19) they took a test to see if the donor's marrow has engrafted. We may not know these results until Friday. Mom's medical team suspects that the counts rising in the manner they have indicate that they are likely the donor's cells.

Another benefit of mom's counts rising is spending less time in IPOP (the outpatient clinic at the hospital). She visits IPOP every single day. When she is not in IPOP then she's back at the apartment nearby the hospital. Tomorrow is likely to be mom's first full day off from IPOP. This weekend mom was only in IPOP for 45 minutes. This is a record, since she usually must wait there to see what her blood results show in order to see if they need to give her any blood products or if they need to do anything else. This weekend mom didn't have to wait for her full results to come back (this can take 2 hours or more sometimes). There have been several days now in IPOP where she does not require any IV drips, so yet another thing to be happy about.

Regarding Hurricane Irene, we have been very lucky. Aside from some very heavy winds and a lot of rain Saturday night, Baltimore fared pretty well. Some parts of Baltimore do have power outages, but since we are close to the hospital, we have had no interruption in power. One remnant that remains from Hurricane Irene are wigs and hair pieces -- casualties of the wind -- that have found their new homes on sidewalks and bushes.

Margy's Counts Appear to be Trending Upward

2011-08-20T13:51:00.002-04:00

Margy's blood counts are used as a marker of her recovery. After chemo, radiation, and transplant, the blood counts stay very low for awhile. The past two days her counts have been trending upward. Her white blood cells (WBC) are up to 170 today as are her neutrophils! This is wonderful news and we look forward to seeing this counts continue upward in the next several weeks. Today is day 24 post transplant. On day 30 we will check for whether or not the bone marrow has engrafted. Please keep your prayers going and your fingers crossed!

Margy Admitted for Fever

2011-08-13T10:54:00.004-04:00

On Wednesday and Thursday, Margy was feeling a bit more run down with body aches and a headache. We were keeping a close eye on her temperature at home. In the early evening on Thursday, she had a temp of 100.6, so we called her doctors and they instructed us to come to the hospital immediately for admission and IV antibiotics.

Bone Marrow Transplant patients are extremely susceptible to infection, especially at this stage when they essentially have no immune system. So, any sign of possible infection needs immediate attention because it can be life threatening. A simple cold or sniffle for you or I could be detrimental to a transplant patient, which is why we have had to limit the number of people who come in contact with Margy and we are constantly disinfecting everything. Margy has to wear a mask every time she leaves the apartment in order to help protect her. Germs are the enemy!

Back to the story.....

Luckily, her fever broke on Thursday night and has not returned. They did blood and urine cultures, a CT scan of the chest to check for pneumonia, and they were considering a spinal tap to rule out meningitis. Luckily, Margy's fever and headache went away so quickly and she perked up so nicely by Friday morning that they deferred on performing the spinal tap. She continues to get IV antibiotics in the hospital, and the plan is for her to be discharged back to the apartment with IV antibiotics at least until her white blood cells are at an adequate level.

It was comforting to know ahead of time that virtually all transplant patients get a fever at some point and need to be admitted in order to check for infection. We continue to pray for engraftment of the donor marrow, and we are praying for no more fevers or hospital admissions!

Margy's Progress after Transplant

2011-08-09T19:51:00.010-04:00

Margy continues to do well after the transplant. Certainly she is experiencing some side effects from her many medications, and from hour to hour, she may feel quite different. We are taking each day as it comes. She continues to be in good spirits, however, and all of your cards and support have been so helpful.

Margy had another plasmapharesis after the transplant because although the antibody level was still considered negative, it had increased slightly. They did this as more of a precautionary measure and to make sure the antibody levels remain as low as possible. They will check those levels again this week and once a week thereafter for several more weeks. The doctors at Johns Hopkins are very please with her progress so far.

Margy spends at least several hours every day at the clinic. Some days are longer if she needs blood, platelets, fluids or electrolyte replacement. Our main focus at this point is engraftment. What that means is that the donor marrow becomes the predominant marrow, producing white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets. On day 30 they will do a blood test to see if the donor marrow has engrafted.

We continue to watch closely for any signs of rejection. This remains a critical concern especially for the first year after the transplant. Margy will need to remain in Baltimore for at least 60 days after the transplant if all goes according to plan. So, if you could all please concentrate your thoughts and prayers on this goal of engraftment, we would greatly appreciate it.

Weekend of chemo over!

2011-08-02T22:00:00.004-04:00

Margy had two long days of heavy dose chemo this past weekend in the hospital. She was in the hospital for 12+ hours each day. Fortunately this is the last scheduled chemo for mom's post transplant treatment. Going forward, Margy's days will hopefully usually be between two to four hours in the hospital with an occasional long day for some extra blood products or medication of some sort.

Today they found some more antibodies in Margy's blood. Although the levels may still qualify as normal, they are giving Margy plasmapharesis tomorrow. This means a longer day for mom. Margy has bravely endured these almost three years and now more recently with pre and post transplant. I am so proud of her and happy that her spirits have been well through this time. Due to the extended period of time for treatment, we have needed friends and other family to step in as caregivers and are so grateful for all their help. It is amazing who shows up to help in these moments of need.

Transplant Complete

2011-07-27T21:01:00.003-04:00

The bone marrow was put into Margy's system today and fortunately she is back at the apartment resting. The marrow arrived earlier than expected. More details about today to come.

Transplant Happening Now!

2011-07-27T15:54:00.002-04:00

Mom is receiving the bone marrow as this is being written! Please send your prayers, positive energy, and good thoughts her way in the next few hours. Bone marrow transplants can take anywhere between two to four hours depending on the volume of the "product" which depends on how concentrated the T-cells are from the donor. Thank you donor, whoever you are, for graciously offering my mom a chance at a cure. After three years of waiting, we are excited to receive this gift and begin the work of healing from this day onward.

Transplant Here We Come and Other News

2011-07-24T22:52:00.004-04:00

In a couple of days Margy will get a bone marrow transplant. Thanks to the chemotherapy Margy has undergone in the last months, her cancer is back in remission and her blood counts are in the normal range. Margy is walking many days and getting her exercise. She has also been eating well prior to transplant. Margy is strong and we are all very positive that the transplant will be a success. The transplant will be administered in a similar way to a blood transfusion, so it is not actually a "surgery". The process of transplant is truly remarkable.

Vicky Kepler Didato, a former high school classmate of Margy's, learned about Margy's cancer when they reconnected recently through Facebook. Vicky, who lost both of her parents to cancer, sprung into action and decided that this year's high school reunion would be a good opportunity to raise awareness about bone marrow cancers. The class was such a wonderful support. Many classmates got on the Bone Marrow Registry and many others donated money towards helping Margy with the uncovered medical costs for her transplant. Margy and her family are overwhelmed by and grateful for this support from her high school class. An article was recently written in the Centre Daily Times covering this event.

Article About High School Reunion

Margy would like to thank everyone for their support throughout these almost three years. All of the cards, emails, contributions, phone calls, and thoughts have helped Margy along this difficult journey. Please keep them coming! The journey to wellness continues after transplant and your support will mean even more now than ever. Let's all send our positive thoughts to Margy on Wednesday. We love you, mom!

On the Road

2011-06-02T23:08:00.002-04:00

It looks like we are on the road heading toward a transplant! Margy started inpatient chemotherapy last week because her blasts (a type of white blood cell) had increased because of the cancer. Her doctors decided it was necessary to have this intense chemotherapy in order for her to be able to get the bone marrow transplant. She will have to stay in the hospital for several weeks. Her sister Nancy is staying with her and is taking great care of her, keeping her company, and making meals when the hospital food does not appeal to her. We are not sure of the exact timing of the next steps at this point, however, we should know more in about 2 weeks. If you would like to send her a well-wishing note, feel free to send it through this website. If you would like to send her something in the mail, please contact us and we will provide you with her mailing address. All of your good thoughts and prayers are welcomed and appreciated.

Artist writes love song, sponsors Be The Match

2011-04-17T21:03:00.005-04:00

Knut's Mom commissioned a song to be written for Meredith for her birthday (from Knut). The artist, David Rossiter (of the band Hoodang) offered to do this if anyone donated $100 to Be The Match (national bone marrow registry). Thank you 'Gitte and David Rossiter! We are so touched. Her are the lyrics:

MEREDITH (Knut's Song)

VERSE 1
She's small in stature
but big of heart
heals what's been broken
savin' lives is her art
If you're troubled, in need
She'll help you get through
Need a shoulder to lean on
She's got one of them, too

CHORUS
Meredith
what can I say
I love you tomorrow
same as today
Meredith
don't wake from your sleep
I know you've been dreamin'
dredging the deep

VERSE 2
Hair spun from gold
Eyes arctic blue
Fell hard for you darlin'
Guess you took to me, too
Now there's two real fine kids
Family all 'round
Feel like we're building something
Solid to the ground

CHORUS

VERSE 3
Now time is a thoroughbred
And she's knows how to run
You can feel her pace quicken
With each new day begun
Gonna savor each moment
With you by my side
You're my reason for breathin'
In your heart I abide

CHORUS

Still Waiting For A Match and Bone Marrow Donor Drive

2011-03-04T12:46:00.004-05:00

A post almost a year ago indicated that potential donors had been identified. Unfortunately, however, for various reasons these donors did not work out. While it was also posted on several occasions that my daughters and my sister were half matches, it was also mentioned that I have antibodies to them. The doctors at Johns Hopkins have tried several methods to negate this antibody issue, but were unsuccessful in my case to do so. Thus, they are not able to be considered as donors for my transplant. As a result, we have still been waiting for a match to come through the National Bone Marrow registry, also called Be The Match.

My younger daughter, Meredith, is currently hosting a Bone Marrow Drive in Ann Arbor, Michigan. For more information, you can check out her team page at: http://www.bethematchfoundation.org/site/TR?px=1403490&fr_id=1440&pg=personal
Someone does not need to be in Ann Arbor to be part of the drive. You can go to this site and order a kit, which will be sent to you. The kit involves taking a cheek swab and returning the kit. There is no cost involved in obtaining the kit.

My older daughter, Aprille, is also working on organizing a Bone Marrow Drive in Boulder, Colorado. There will be more information coming on this drive.

I am not the only person looking for a life saving match. There are thousands of other people out there waiting for someone to be a match for them. It is our hope and prayers that more people join the registry every day so that matches can be found for all of us that are waiting. We live in a world where we often put off to tomorrow or the next day or the next month or whenever, what we could do today. But for someone waiting for a transplant, time is critical. So, if becoming a donor is something you are able and willing to do, we hope and pray you will take that step today to join the registry.

While I am the one waiting for the transplant, you may wonder why I use the term "we" so much in my posts. This is easy. This entire process of diagnosis, treatment, ups and downs with possible transplant dates, etc. has been more "doable" for me because of the continued love, prayers and support of my family, friends, business associates, and even strangers. For this, I offer my continued and very humble thanks. We continue to pray for a complete healing, however the Lord determines that to occur.

THANKSGIVING AND ANOTHER LITTLE BLESSING

2010-11-24T14:55:00.025-05:00

Yes, it has been a while since there has been an update. This has been a time of adjustment and another period of working on my patience. The last post mentioned potential non-related donors; however, the most appropriate donor became unavailable for 10 months. The other potential donors from that time turned out to not be suitable once additional testing was performed. The doctors at Johns Hopkins then suggested the transplant be pushed back. So, in the meantime, I have continued my course of monthly treatments of Vidaza; and continue to pray for complete healing of this disease in whatever manner the Lord has planned.

Since the last post, we have welcomed another little blessing into the family. My daughter, Meredith, and her husband, Knut, along with "big brother", Bekan, welcomed a baby boy, Rowan, into our family in July. Rowan is my third grandchild and he is thriving very well. Bekan has welcomed his role as a big brother and remains very helpful with Rowan's care.

In October, the family also celebrated the one year birthday of Eva, my second grandchild. It was wonderful to be a part of the celebration. Eva is now walking, and keeping Aprille and Brad very busy.

During this time of the Thanksgiving Holiday, I hope this finds everyone well. I give thanks daily for each day and for the love, support and care of my family and friends. They are all truly a blessing. I would also like to thank everyone for their continued prayers for my complete healing.

If you have not already done so, please consider giving the gift of life to someone through either a blood donation or through being tested to be a potential bone marrow donor. In addition to myself, there are thousands of people waiting for a bone marrow match to save their life.

Blessings to everyone; and once again, thank you!

Margy

Matching Donors Found! Waiting for one to accept...

2010-04-21T17:21:00.004-04:00

We received some very excellent news in the past month or so. There are several donors that match Margy's typing. One is a full match and the others are a one allele mismatch, which in layman's terms is something like a 90% match. The doctors say they can cure Margaret's cancer with these donors. Today we found out that their first choice match is not available until next year, so the doctors are pursuing the other donors to determine if they are healthy and willing. Please pray we find a donor soon. We are all hoping for a transplant as soon as possible.

Luckily, Margy's bone marrow function is still responding well to her monthly interim drug treatments of Vidaza. This has provided extra time during which the new possible donors were put on the national registry and identified. Perhaps all of the delays and frustrations over the past year were part of God's larger plans for her. She is feeling relatively healthy for a person with bone marrow cancer. We are praying that one of the new potential donors will answer the call for help.

In the meantime, Margy has been enjoying getting to know her most recent grandchild, Eva.

On another note, the transplant manager with whom we have shared a close relationship the past year and a half is being promoted to another position. We will all miss her dearly, as she has been the personalized and familiar face of the cancer team. She's a very caring person and will be very dearly missed. Good luck to you, Lori!

A Wonderful Little Blessing

2010-01-13T12:35:00.003-05:00

Since late October, the entire family has been enjoying a wonderful little blessing - Eva Josephine Jordan! My older daughter, Aprille, and her husband, Brad, became the very proud parents of a beautiful baby girl. Eva arrived to us weighing 6 pounds 9 ounces and was 19 inches long. She is thriving beautifully and bringing joy to everyone. Their dog, Charlie, who loves to lick faces, keeps trying to "get his licks in" with Eva; but so far, Aprille and Brad have been able to keep him at bay.

This makes me an Oma for the second time, and I am so thrilled! It has been thoroughly enjoyable being able to hold and love this new addition to our family.

New GADGET DRIVE for Margy's Transplant Fund

2009-12-21T11:09:00.004-05:00

Announcing: New Gadget Drive to help fund Margy's bone marrow transplant.

Recycle your old, used electronics for free and raise money for Margy's fund at the same time. Here's how it works.

First, collect your old electronics like cell phones, mp3 players, calculators, laptops, etc. Next, go to: http://margytransplant.gazelle.com/ and plug in the your gadget's information.
Send your gadgets to Gazelle for free (they email prepaid shipping for items of value)
Gazelle donates the value of each item to Margy's Transplant fund. Easy!

It is estimated that 70% of the toxic heavy metals in our landfills comes from just 2% of our trash - discarded electronics. So don't throw away your old gadgets. Clean out your junk drawers, help the environment, and raise money for Margy's transplant at the same time.

For example, we are recycling Meredith's last phone ($6) and my ancient phone (no value). Gazelle emailed us a prepaid shipping label for Meredith's phone (not mine). So we're boxing them both up and sending them in using the same prepaid shipping label (I checked it out with them and it's okay). 6 bucks may not seem like much, but every dollar helps. And if we all spread the word, this gadget drive could really make a difference for Margy, not to mention reduce pollution. Please forward this information to all your friends and family, especially the "techies." And encourage them to do the same. Thank you.

If you have questions, see Gazelle's FAQ, or use Gazelle's online chat help. Feel free to email me too (knuthill@yahoo.com). Thank you for recycling your old gadgets to help raise money for Margy's bone marrow transplant!
Happy Holidays, Knut & Meredith

They say "Patience is a Virtue"

2009-11-09T14:49:00.004-05:00

They say that "patience is a virtue", and this has certainly been a test of patience!

It has been some time since our last post. This has been due, in large part, to the fact that we are still in a holding pattern. We do not yet know when in early 2010 Johns Hopkins will be ready for the transplant. In the meantime, however, I continue to respond well to the Vidaza, which I have been receiving once a month since December 2008. This is administered via IV for 7 straight days. I am feeling well, and staying on course with daily exercise and very nutritional meals. Protein, protein and more protein is very important in the diet to build my body for the transplant to come.

During this time of starts and stops and waiting, I cannot adequately express how much it means to receive so many expressions of support. Support that has been displayed in so many ways by so many people - family, friends, business associates, and even total strangers. To all of you - THANK YOU! So often, just when a little (or big) lift is needed, there will be some form of support received that helps to get me through that moment.

Again, thank you everyone for your continued support, love and prayers.

New hope for MDS patients - a drug called Vidaza

2009-08-18T13:11:00.001-04:00

This is the drug my mom is on and has helped hold her cancer at bay until she can get a bone marrow transplant.

Transplant Postponed

2009-08-07T10:28:00.004-04:00

The day before the chemo for transplant was to begin, I was cleaning the house very vigorously in preparation for my mom's immune system to be challenged during her treatment. I got a call from the hospital which appeared on my phone as IPOP 911. OH NO. It was my mom's transplant coordinator. She told me I needed to come over right away. I ran over to the hospital and she told us that my mom's resistance to transplant (antibody count) was still too high to give us the best chance of success (donor engraftment).

While this is a huge disappointment to all of us, doors are still open. The hospital always has a trick up their sleeve. They are currently researching the ability to remove all bone marrow through radiation and chemotherapy and then give patients transplants with their half match donors. This has been the protocol for full matches. The good news is, due to medication my mother has been taking, the cancer is in remission and they would like to take the opportunity to learn more from the research before pursuing this option possibly sometime early next year.

Thanks to everyone for your support thus far. It has been quite a journey and as my sister put it in an earlier post, a roller coaster. I call it an exercise in patience. My mom is such a fighter and her strength through all of this has been inspiring. She is determined to combat this disease and is anxious to put this behind her. Your phone calls, emails, packages, visits, cards and flowers really uplift her spirits, so please keep them coming.

Resistance is up, but mom's raring to fight!

2009-07-28T11:53:00.002-04:00

We found out today that Mom's resistance to transplant went up after going steadily down last week. The hospital has responded by increasing the treatments so on what were her days off she'll be having treatments. This means she'll get treatments every day with the goal that the transplant date will not change. Mom's spirits are high and the fighter in her just motivates her to try harder. She's not taking this laying down!!

Letters, Packages & Visits - Thanks!

2009-07-27T16:29:00.003-04:00

My mom received some packages and letters today and Friday. Thanks for all the thoughtful wishes and items! We love getting mail and when it comes we both sit together as she opens them and enjoy it together.

We also received some visits yesterday. Cousin Frankie stopped by and later my mom's niece Lea and her husband-to-be Scott stopped by. Lea and Scott brought us things we'll be able to use to entertain ourselves over the coming weeks. Thanks for the company and visits! They mean a lot to us as we prepare for mom's chemo which begins this Saturday.

In other news, her resistance to transplant is decreasing every day as she goes through her pre-transplant treatment which continues this week.

Past week's progress and last week before chemo

2009-07-24T23:16:00.002-04:00

My great Aunt Sandy spent the last week plus with my mom, cooking her great food and being a great support. She stayed until Tuesday to transfer the knowledge of caregiving to me once I arrived Monday. Thanks Aunt Sandy! She's a tough act to follow.

Mom went through plasmapheresis treatments this week without much incident, which is wonderful. Wednesday mom's blood pressure dropped some during plasmapheresis, but later in the day despite her fatigue from medication, she still motivated to do a nice long walk. Her blood counts have been pretty good considering and her blood pressure was normal today, and actually higher than mine since I am pregnant. Good job mom! They give her medication which makes her tired when she gets treatment, but today she was very chipper.

This is her last full week before chemotherapy starts on August 1. Chemotherapy will continue for several days leading up to the transplant which is currently scheduled for August 7. This is definitely a great time to send letters, words of encouragement or to call or visit mom. If you don't have her address or phone, just contact us here on the Contact Page. Please send your prayers, good energy and thoughts to her in the coming weeks.

Roller Coaster

2009-07-17T21:25:00.002-04:00

I think it's safe to say that these last few weeks have been a roller coaster ride! With some last minute changes in the treatment plan, we are trying to refocus on the upcoming transplant. Last week it was finalized that Meredith will be the donor. The date is likely August 7. We won't know until about a week before the transplant. Margy is undergoing at least 8 rounds of plasmapheresis to remove antibodies that she developed to foreign B-cells. The goal is to remove enough of these antibodies before the transplant, lessening the chances of rejection.

So, things are underway! It has been a long time coming, and with great patience, we finally made it! Margy is in Baltimore now and started her pre-transplant protocol. Margy had her pheresis catheter placed on Tuesday and the operation went very well. Her first day of plasmapheresis was a bit rough, but they are making necessary adjustments to her treatment so that she will tolerate it better. Aunt Sandy is staying with Margy this week. She brought a whole cooler filled with homemade dinners, jams and baked goods. Thank you Aunt Sandy! The torch will be passed to Aprille when she arrives on Monday.

It's been a long journey so far and there is still a lot ahead. We thank our friends, family, and people we have never even met for your continued support and generosity. Please keep praying for a successful transplant!

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY

2009-05-10T15:58:00.015-04:00

Happy Mother's Day to all our family and friends! I am very blessed with my family; and thank God every day for their love, friendship and support.

I am so excited that Meredith and my grandson, Bekan, will be coming soon for a visit. Talking to Bekan over Skype is great, but not as great as being with him in person. His Oma (me) misses him very much!

I continue to feel well, and am maintaining a good diet and regular exercise. The medication the doctors were giving me the past 3 months did not have as much of an impact on my b-cell antibodies as they had hoped. As a result, they are testing the reaction my blood has with my sister's blood. The results of this will take about 2 weeks. Depending upon the test results, the doctors may perform plasmapheresis on my blood right before the transplant.

The continued support, shown in so many ways, from family, friends and associates means so much. It goes a long way towards keeping my spirits lifted and outlook positive. So, a most sincere thank you to everyone!

Can't Turn Down a Bonus? Donate it...

2009-04-15T21:22:00.005-04:00

What would you do if your boss gave you a bonus but you knew other people in your organization were being laid off? Donate it to a great cause! Pass on the goodness, dodge all of the guilt.

A co-worker of someone in the family recently received a modest bonus for work this year following news that their company was also making cut backs. After all of the hubbub about bail out bonuses on Wall Street, it just didn't feel right to hold onto the unexpected bounty. The first reaction was to refuse the extra compensation. Having no luck that way, and knowing about Margy's life-saving bone marrow transplant, they did the only thing that felt right -- invested it in Margy's only shot at a cure. What a wonderful gesture! Thank you!!

TV Story on ABC Harrisburg

2009-03-23T18:05:00.000-04:00

On March 23, 2009, a TV spot aired on ABC TV in Harrisburg (WHTM) highlighting the fundraiser: Crossing Michigan for Margy's Transplant.

Record Eagle news article (Traverse City)

2009-03-23T09:59:00.005-04:00

Today's Record Eagle paper is running a great news story about Mom and our fundraiser for her bone marrow transplant expenses. Please comment online and pass it on!

Knut to be on WTCM's Monday morning radio show

2009-03-23T08:14:00.002-04:00

UPDATE: In case you missed it, Margy taped the radio interview this morning on FM-WTCM! Here it is:

Thank you DJ Colleen Wares for having me on and for helping tell our story.

OLDER: For you early risers (not that early), I'll be on WTCM Jack O's Morning show on Monday morning at about 7:40 AM. Listen live online (click Listen Live) at their website: www.wtcmi.com

Detroit Free Press article

2009-03-23T06:45:00.004-04:00

The Detroit Free Press ran a story about our fundraiser for Margy's Transplant today (Mon., March 22). Please read it, comment on it, and pass it on. Comments are already coming in from Detroit readers. For instance, one comment writes ". . . there should be nothing stopping from proceeding with any life saving procedure . . . [instead of keeping] it for the ones that can afford it."

The Finish!

2009-03-22T16:58:00.006-04:00

I just reached the Finish at Lake Michigan! After 205 miles, 3 pairs of skis, 11 days on the trail, 8 counties, 28 rivers and streams (one without a bridge), 32 snickers bars, 46 liters of water and hot cocoa, - 6 to 52 °F temperatures, Margy's fund with the National Transplant Assistance Fund received more than 100 contributions, and NTAF provided $1,500 in additional matching grant money. Together, we raised over $11,000 so far for Margy's bone marrow transplant expenses! And counting! Donations are still being accepted online and by check. Here are picture from the Finish. Margy told me before the finish how touched she is by the journey across Michigan and the outpouring of support and prayers for her. She is both humbled and in awe of the incredible support she has gotten to this point.

On behalf of Margy and her family, thank you so much for supporting this fundraiser, for following my adventure across Michigan for her, and for supporting her life-saving transplant. -Knut

Lake Michigan seagulls spotted

2009-03-21T12:35:00.001-04:00

2 hours into day 10 I'm spotting shore birds. can't be far now!!!

Day 10 & FINAL Day 11 planned (Crossing MI for Margy)

2009-03-20T13:46:00.006-04:00

Plans and a banner are ready for the finish in Empire. Here's the outlook for skiing vs. hiking to the Lake Michigan shoreline:

As shown in this google earth picture, the snow cover near Empire is patchy. Weather forecast is for possible snow tonight and tomorrow morning! But any new snow might melt by mid day Saturday. A snowmobile trail for most of Sunday's route make chances good for skiing to the Finish. Skis may be up on my back for Saturday though. We'll see . . .

Watch the website, blog and facebook for possible updates from the Finish in Empire!

Day 9 (Crossing Michigan)

2009-03-15T21:32:00.000-04:00

Global Warming is in effect. Half day today over wet snow and slush. About 9 miles covered, 171 miles total. Other ski organizations are picking up on this cross country ski trek. The finish is another couple days away. Join me at the beach park in Empire, MI on Sunday (March 22 at ~5 PM) as I reach the finish of this 200 mile journey to raise support for our Mom's bone marrow transplant. Thank you.

Day 8 (Crossing MI): Wet 'n Wild

2009-03-14T22:19:00.000-04:00

Day 8 (22.6 miles) of Crossing Michigan for Margy's Transplant was wet, warm, and wild!

Skiing on wet snow and slush is very slick. With many near falls, I'm still not sure how I managed to stay upright. I had to step off the skis at the steepest valleys because it was too dangerous. At the bottom of one of them was a stream with no bridge. Luckily, there was a fallen tree branch just below the water's surface reaching most of the way across. I knew there was no turning back after I tossed my skis to the other side. Halfway across balancing with ski poles, I was surprised that the icy stream below me was more than a couple feet deep. It wouldn't have been the end of the world, but finishing the last 8 miles with "dry" boots was much nicer. Above is a picture of the stream (a Boardman River tributary) and an elevation profile of today's hills. See more pictures from the day and a map here.

After two ~20 mile days in a row, I'm pooped. My right foot is bruised, and I may only have enough energy to do a half day tomorrow. 162 miles covered so far. Another 50 miles to go!

Dat 7 of Crossing Michigan for Margy's Transplant

2009-03-13T23:01:00.003-04:00

18 miles today, 139 total. From Bear Lake, I skied to the west of Kalkaska, MI. Half the day was over packed down snow on forested snowmobile trails. Lucky for me and other cross country ski bums, this winter seems long. But many hungry deer were out scrounging for food. Then I followed Nash Rd., a long road leading to Kalkaska. I skied up on the plowed snowbank. Once in Kalkaska, I stopped for some sweets and human contact. This is the first time I've stopped to actually sit down during any of my days out. :^) My new monocular (thanks BJ and Holly) helped me find a dropped glove after doubling back. I finished by picking up another snowmobile trail west of the city. Though my foot hurts, the snow is melting, so I'm gonna go for a big day tomorrow.

Days 7 and 8 planned - Crossing Michigan for Margy's Transplant

2009-03-12T21:30:00.000-04:00

After some rest, I am heading back out on the trail for another two or three days. I hope to cover close to 40 miles. It should start off cold tomorrow morning with the windchill below zero ('F), so this week's fresh snow should be good. But warmer temperatures will melt it away over the next few days. Hopefully, there will be enough snow to continue skiing. If not, I'll have to trek through mud and slush in hiking boots and/or maybe carry the skis at times. Thank you for everyone's support of my crossing Michigan for my mother-in-law's (Margy Davis) bone marrow transplant fund.

News Coverage of the Trek Across Michigan

2009-03-05T13:07:00.004-05:00

The Ann Arbor news in Michigan was so inspired by Knut's efforts to help out his mother-in-law that they wrote up an article on Sunday, March 1. Thanks, Ann Arbor news! It was a well-written article.

Click here to read the article

One correction to the article is that we do not currently have a definite date of transplant. We will know in another month or two, however.

NEW VIDEO - Crossing Michigan for Margy's Transplant

2009-02-23T18:57:00.003-05:00

Here is a video of Knut Crossing Michigan to raise support and money for Margy's Transplant.

Special thanks to Bonnie Baker for giving us permission to use the beautiful song she co-wrote with Paul Sikes called "The Extra Mile." There is a version of this movie on YouTube too.

Day 6 (Snowstorm)

2009-02-21T22:29:00.000-05:00

Day 6 of Crossing Michigan for Margy's Transplant was snowy!

I skied from the city of Grayling to Bear Lake. 20 miles covered today, 121 miles total since leaving Lake Huron. The weather was a well forecasted winter storm; 14 - 23 ' F (4 - 11 ' F windchill), with heavy snow. Snow fell at a rate of up to 1-2 inches an hour, and 8 inches of new powder piled up before I stepped off my skis. The route was almost all snowmobile and atv trails through pine forest, some of which was shared by Shore to Shore Trail. Lots of snowmobilers out. I had to listen carefully and get ready to step off the trail frequently so I didn't end up under a bear cat. Fresh snow and my third pair of used skis this trip (thank you REI!) made for fast conditions. My arms and legs are tired after pushing it hard today. As hard as it feels to keep pushing, I know my challenge is nothing compared to what Mom must feel everyday. See more Day 6 photos and map here.

Knut Passed the Halfway Point

2009-02-18T11:06:00.014-05:00

This past weekend, Knut passed the half way point on his effort to "cross Michigan". You can read about the legs of his trek so for by visiting his updates. The time, physical and mental effort that he is putting into this is incredible. Thanks Knut! As for me, I continue to do well while waiting for the doctors to retest me to determine when we can once again begin preparations for the transplant. It is truly a test in patience. Thank you to everyone for their continued support! It is very uplifting and greatly contributes to my ability to tackle each day.

Day 5, Halfway across Michigan!

2009-02-15T23:04:00.001-05:00

Skied to Grayling from M-72 (near the south branch of the Au Sable River). Covered 24 miles today, my longest day so far. Whew! That means I passed the 100 mile mark, 101 miles total! I also crossed Interstate-75 so I am more than half-way across the state :^) Today's weather was: 16 - 27 ' F, with light snow. It was a very long, slow day. Over 9 hours on hard ice and snow with a few unplanned side tracks to find the route. I started on ungroomed shore to shore trail through woods. Then I lost the trail because it wasn't marked well and the path on the ground was covered in snow. I picked up local roads, and then got back on trail which followed more back roads and atv trails to finish. I need new skis again though as the second pair are already really beat up. I don't think they are long enough for my weight plus a medium sized pack, so I will ask REI for another pair. They have been great!

Another transfusion

2009-02-11T23:45:00.003-05:00

Yesterday Margy had another transfusion. This makes a total of 12 units since this began back in October. Transfusions take several hours and every transfusion brings with it the possibility of risks. The medication she is taking lowers her blood counts even more than usual. It is common for people undergoing cancer treatment to need transfusions. Keep her in your thoughts.

Support Groups for Patients and Their Families with Cancer

2009-02-07T04:02:00.002-05:00

If you are a cancer patient, family member, or caregiver for someone who has cancer, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) holds support groups. LLS has chapters all over the U.S. I attended one and found it immensely helpful. Not only is it good to know you are not alone in fighting cancer, but it is helpful to learn about other resources you may not know are available to you. Where I live there are several groups in my metro region, each of which hold support groups. To find a support group near you, visit http://lls.org to get the number of your local chapter.

Thanks for your encouragement

2009-02-03T16:57:00.002-05:00

Thanks to everyone for so much support and encouragement during my trek across Michigan. A friend from Alaska, obviously used to the cold, just wrote: "Hope you don't freeze anything important" :^) Thanks again everyone.

Next Crossing Day Planned

2009-02-03T15:53:00.002-05:00

Had to take a few days off because I didn't have anyone to take care of Bekan, my 22 month old. I plan to hit the trail again this weekend for another real long day. Might have to play it by ear with the weather to see if Saturday or Sunday's better. Saturday's forecast is actually for showers up north! Being wet on slippy trails with temps in the mid-30's all day could be dangerous . . .

TOP TEN REASONS why Knut is Crossing Michigan for Margy's Transplant

2009-01-28T00:50:00.000-05:00

1. To call attention to Margy's enormous financial burden for her life-saving bone marrow transplant.
2. Because the trail markers along the Shore to Shore Trail are BLUE, Margy's favorite color.
3. Because like Margy's battle with cancer, crossing Michigan on foot in the winter is a long, tough journey that requires strength and endurance.
4. Because cross-country skiing the equivalent of 7 to 8 marathons is harder than running just one.
5. Because like so many of us, he loves Margy and will do anything to help her.
6. Because skiing uphill warms away the chill.
7. Because it's not fair to ask someone to come up with thousands and thousands of dollars for a vital transplant right when they're dealing with the difficulty of needing and receiving one.
8. Because crossing Pennsylvania instead would take forever.
9. Because both of her daughters are suitable bone marrow matches, so we can't let the costly expenses prevent her from receiving the proper treatment and recovery therapy.
10. Because if it was your Mom, you'd do everything you could to help her too.

Update On Margaret (Margy)

2009-01-27T21:23:00.001-05:00

In searching for a suitable donor, it was found that my sister, Nancy, and both of my daughters, Aprille and Meredith, were half matches. In that Aprille volunteered to be my caregiver during the 2 to 3 month transplant process, Meredith was then chosen as the bone marrow donor.

Preparations were made to relocate to Baltimore for several months for the procedure. The transplant date was set for January 20th. Extensive tests were performed on Meredith and me the first week of January. The day before I was to begin pre-transplant treatment of chemotherapy and radiation, the final matching and mixing of our blood threw up a red flag. A rare situation occurred as a result of one or more of the blood transfusions received since October 2008. That is a white cell or two eeked through and I developed a B-cell antibody. This B-cell antibody makes the possibility of engraftment of the new marrow from Meredith almost nil.

So, the plan was to send me back home and to put me on a medication that is to kill off the B-cell antibodies. This medicine has been used for whole organ transplants for years to kill off the B-cell antibodies after the transplant to prevent rejection, but it has never been used in a pre-bonemarrow transplant situation. The plan is to test me after 3 or 4 months to see if the B-cell antibodies have been removed from my system and then move forward with the transplant.

I will continue to need blood over the next couple of months as well as during the transplant period. So, now we wait and continue to pray.