Knowledge is Power!

If you've spent any time around this blog, you've probably guessed by now that we're big believers in education - seeking out, soaking up, and sharing information. It's a belief that has helped Georgia and our whole family (and hopefully some of you) navigate this journey as we prepare for, and then reflect on, every step of the way. And so it was that Trevor and I went to Dallas this weekend for the Lone Star Blood Cancer Conference, presented by the North Texas Chapter of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. This free annual event is open to all patients, caregivers, and health care professionals, and the topics covered diagnosis and treatment, research, survivorship, and - first shot out of the barrel - the Methotrexate shortage. These folks came prepared!

We, of course, attended the ALL-specific breakout sessions, and it was very comforting to hear the same information there that we've been hearing from our treatment team here for the past two-plus years. And in a word, the news is GOOD. Georgia's post-treatment prognosis is GOOD. And so we are THANKFUL.

We also took the opportunity to visit with the different vendors at the conference, and Trevor registered with the National Marrow Donor "Be The Match" Program. It really is SO easy and could absolutely mean the gift of life if you're matched with someone in need of a blood stem cell transplant. There is only a 30% chance of finding a match within a patient's family, so the need is great. To join the registry, all it takes is a short donor information and history form and four swabs of your cheeks with ginormous Q-tips:

  And that's it!

As much as we've asked y'all to donate blood, this is equally important! Click these links for more information on the donation process (including some myths and facts - BTW, it doesn't hurt!) and how to join the registry (either online or by finding a donor drive near you). You could Be The Match!

And while we cats were away, our mice sure did play - with Poppa at the St. Catherine's (Grand)Father/(Grand)Daughter Dance. A great time was had by all!

.