A "Peace" of Kate: "My Sister was a Match" Written by Meghan Rizzo

My name is Meghan Rizzo and I was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia at 34 years old, 1 week after giving birth to my 3rd daughter.

I was told I needed several rounds of chemotherapy and a stem cell transplant. I stayed in NYC for the next several months, family and friends never left my side, imagine there wasn't a minute I was alone - my family and friends were amazing. Luckily my sister was a match for stem cell and we were quickly on the road to recovery. She saved my life. With several ups and downs I am now 18 months post transplant and cancer free. There have been many advancements for blood cancer, I am blessed to currently be taking a maintenance drug that has only been on the market for a little over a year. 

Currently I am blessed to be living in Little Silver N.J. with my husband David and 3 daughters, Maddie, Noelle and Carys. Organizations like The Kate Shea Foundation are helping us get closer to a cure for leukemia and awareness of the need for stem cell donors. It is great to be part of the Bay Head 5k. 

If you haven't yet joined the stem cell/bone marrow registry you can go to dkms.org or sign up on the day of the race for free! 

Sincerely, 
Meghan Rizzo