I've rewritten this letter about six times now and I haven't been happy with any version, including this one. It's difficult to tell someone that keeping me alive has improved the lives of others. It sounds very arrogant. I would like to think I have made a difference, teaching children for so long and I believe I have but it's just difficult to put that in words.
This letter will probably be translated into whatever language is needed. I haven't sent it yet so if you have suggestions, please let me know.
Hello. I am the recipient of your stem cells from November, 2015. Thank you for your sacrifice which ultimately saved my life.
Just over two years ago, I was diagnosed with multiple myeloma or bone marrow cancer. After some genetic testing, it was determined that I should have two stem cell transplants, one with my own stem cells and one with stem cells from a donor. Without the second transplant of your stem cells, the doctors told me I would not survive more than two or three years. The treatment took almost nine months in Seattle, Washington, USA. It’s remarkable to me that somebody like you would go through the painful donation process for a complete stranger but please know that you saved my life and I will continue to work to improve the lives of others.
At this time, they can’t find any cancer cells in my bone marrow. It isn’t a complete cure but I will probably live a healthy life for decades to come. I’m not supposed to give you my name yet but allow me to tell you a little about myself. I’m a 57 year old male, living in Alaska, USA. I teach music at a high school and I perform with various orchestras. In the Summer months, I commercial fish for salmon.
As a teacher, I look at nearly everything as a learning experience. I shared details about my cancer treatment with my students through a blog. Many of my students and of course my family and friends were very concerned about my health and survival and they all deeply appreciate what you have done. Thank you for your huge act of kindness.
I can't imagine it being easy to send a letter to someone you don't know, about something very personal. How does a stranger process it? What pleases them? It depends on who they are. If they were present, It might be no more than a thank you and a hand shake until you got to know them. I think your letter might be the best it can be.
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