Here we are, just over a year after Evan's Bone Marrow Transplant and we are sharing some much needed good news!
On September 29th, Evan celebrated 1 year of being "reborn". He was saved by his loving big sister, Eileen, and given the gift of a new immune system. He suffered and persevered more than many of us ever will.
Yesterday, Evan triumphantly graduated to being a SURVIVOR! With his visit to Lurie Children's Hospital and a perfect set of labs, the Bone Marrow Transplant team discharged Evan and officially transferred him to the Survivorship Program. This is a huge milestone, and means that Evan will have quarterly blood work locally, but doesn't have to return to Chicago for a check up for 6 months!
On Evan's 1st Re-Born Day, the Marra family was able to share their joy with Evan's classmates and explain leukemia and bone marrow transplants to a great group of kids. Maybe someday, one of them will be a donor too, and save a life and a family. But even more, we hope and pray for more research to prevent this dreaded disease, so that they don't have to.
We couldn't be more grateful for all the amazing care Evan received at CHLA, and he continues to receive at Lurie Childrens Hospital. Thank you to all of our families and all friends "by the dozens" for your love, prayers and support. We won't stop singing praises or shouting for research until all patients have a result like Evan's.
We love you Evan & Eileen
