Marion had a healthy upbringing, rarely falling ill with colds or the flu. However, things took a turn as she grew older.
When Marion reached her late 50s, her doctor discovered a cancerous wart. To combat this, she underwent a rigorous six-week course of radiation therapy alongside chemotherapy. Almost five years later, Marion received another diagnosis: myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), a rare type of blood cancer commonly found in individuals who have previously undergone radiation or chemotherapy.
Typically, a stem cell transplant is essential for survival in MDS cases. Unfortunately, due to Marion's age and preexisting health conditions, she was not a suitable candidate for the procedure. Instead, her hematologist prescribed medication, which yielded positive results.
Presently, Marion sees her doctor every four weeks for blood tests and has been free from treatment for over 18 months.
Reflecting on her experience, Marion asserts, "I don't dwell on the past. The disease does not define who I am. I am still the same person."
When Marion reached her late 50s, her doctor discovered a cancerous wart. To combat this, she underwent a rigorous six-week course of radiation therapy alongside chemotherapy. Almost five years later, Marion received another diagnosis: myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), a rare type of blood cancer commonly found in individuals who have previously undergone radiation or chemotherapy.
Typically, a stem cell transplant is essential for survival in MDS cases. Unfortunately, due to Marion's age and preexisting health conditions, she was not a suitable candidate for the procedure. Instead, her hematologist prescribed medication, which yielded positive results.
Presently, Marion sees her doctor every four weeks for blood tests and has been free from treatment for over 18 months.
Reflecting on her experience, Marion asserts, "I don't dwell on the past. The disease does not define who I am. I am still the same person."