Remember Todd, our superstar?

He’s gotten yet another chance at life.

My name is Maria and I have been working at DKMS for over one year now. I will be writing about my hero, Todd, who some of you may have already read about.(Todd - in the orange shirt - is pictured with his younger brother and mother).

I met Todd in October 2007 at the marrow donor drive DKMS holds annually at the University of Missouri. He was the first patient I had the privelage of meeting. We bonded instantly. He was warm, kind, funny and overall, a down-to-earth, happy go lucky kind of guy. He also has a big heart, like the rest of his family, especially his cousin Julie, who has been by his side through his tough journey, and has been an advocate for marrow registration.

When I returned home three days after meeting Todd, I felt so blessed to have met a person like him. After everything he has been through he continues to remain strong and have such a positive outlook on life. He is my hero; a true inspiration.

Fast forward to the present. Tragedy strikes his family, yet again. Earlier this year, Todd developed an infection and began running a high fever. He had to be immediately hospitalized and undergo another bout of tests. Once again, Todd relapsed. This news was hard to accept for me, especially having been given the opportunity to bond with such an amazing individual. I was teaching him Italian remotely, as he always wanted to learn the language of love.

Todd’s angel was sent to him again. Todd needed yet another transplant and his donor consented to donating his life-saving stem cells a second time. There are people in this world who truly treasure human life, and Todd’s donor is one of these individuals.

After three months in the hospital, Todd is back home with his family. He has a very tough road ahead of him, but because of his mental strength, the support of his great family and friends and his positive attitude, he will overcome the obstacles he has been faced with again.

I am forever grateful to Todd’s donor who has given him another chance to live and enjoy new experiences. It gives me great comfort knowing that there are special people in this world who want to help make a difference. Thank you.

I am routing for Todd. And, I wish him all the best on his road to recovery.

- Maria