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Two transplants mean new life for Derek: a story of high-risk MDS, perseverance, and advocacy

Person's Name: 
Derek Fakehany

Derek was turning 45 and had noticed occasional swelling in his legs. Due to a family history of heart disease, his wife, Amy, was uneasy, noticing this symptom. She encouraged Derek to see his doctor for more thorough testing.

Bone Marrow Disease(s): 
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Alaskan Goes Home for Treatment and a Fresh Start

Person's Name: 
Shauna McMillan

I tell people I'm unique - almost one of a kind. I am 40 years old and have recently been diagnosed with a rare type of MDS having an unusual deletion 12q cytogenetic abnormality, known MDS 12q (-), or MDS 12q minus.  I was diagnosed in February of 2015 at age 38, however my health struggles began several years before that. I had been living in Alaska for nearly twenty-five years. In 2008, I was diagnosed with lymphocytic colitis (also a rare disease for someone of my age).

Bone Marrow Disease(s): 
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