Michael’s Story

Site created on July 4, 2021

On July 4, 2021 Mike went to the ER at Community for nausea, vomiting, and night sweats that were persistent for the last 2 weeks. His WBC was low and he had a very high percentage of immature/atypical lymphocytes and circulating blasts, along with high liver enzymes. Community transferred him to the University of Chicago where it was confirmed to be acute leukemia. His official diagnosis is B-Cell Ph+ Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Despite the trials and pain ahead, we know God is faithful, God is good, and His love for us never ends. He will provide sustaining grace day by day, moment by moment. We covet your prayers during this time.

Newest Update

Journal entry by Amy T

Next week Saturday, Mike and I and the kids will be going to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society "Light the Night" walk at Soldier Field in Chicago. It's a such a blessing to be able to participate and hear others stories of their blood cancer journey. It's a humbling experience as well since we saw so many people with "yellow" lanterns which represent those who lost their lives to blood cancer. Along the path of the walk, they post tributes and pictures of those who lost their lives as well. It really puts Mike's journey in perspective and how easily we could be carrying a yellow lantern instead of the white lantern for survivors. This year also marks the year where Mike "Rang the Bell" so we feel it is important to mark this milestone and show support for LLS. I included a link below for Mike's donation page and it is also in the links on the home page of this site. Thank you all so much for your love, prayers, and support these past 2 years! 🧡

https://pages.lls.org/ltn/chi/Metrochicago23/MTerpstra
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