Tom’s Story

Site created on June 13, 2022

In the summer of 2020, Tom developed a rash.  It didn't seem out of the ordinary at first, so  his doctor began to test him for any  allergic reaction to soaps, detergents, or medication.   All of these tests came back normal.  After several months of not knowing what was causing this rash, Tom's  doctor noticed an elevation in his white blood cell count.  In March of 2021, he finally had his bone marrow tested.  Through this test, Tom was diagnosed with  Sezary Syndrome, a very rare form of T-Cell Lymphoma.   He was referred to an oncologist in Birmingham.   Dr. Mehda told us of a great immunotherapy that has done wonders for many patients.  We were both very excited about this treatment, but of course his insurance needed to approve it.  It took a couple months for them to deny it the first time around.  His doctor started him on a chemotherapy drug.  This did not work.  His insurance finally approved the immunotherapy.   After beginning this treatment, Tom's rash got  better and wasn't showing up as much.   He had 2 rounds (5 weeks each) of it, but his white blood count was not dropping like it should.   HIs doctor in Birmingham informed us that his next and only option for a cure would be a bone marrow transplant.  Tom started the process at the end of April.  His amazing siblings and children have been or are being tested and have volunteered to be a donor.   As soon as we find a donor, Tom will begin the bone marrow transplant  process.    He is now completing  chemotherapy treatment every other week until he finds a donor.  Please keep Tom in your prayers.  I will continue to update his site so you can follow his journey through  this difficult time in his life.  

Newest Update

November 30, 2023

Journal entry by Laurie Woodward —

On Tuesday, my love lost his battle with cancer at UAB.  He got a fungal infection and his poor body couldn’t fight it off.   He fought hard until the end. 
Our hearts are broken as we grieve the loss of this incredible man who fully loved with all of his heart and soul.  Until we meet again my sweet Tom.
Tom’s funeral service will be at Ward-Wilson Funeral Home in Dothan, Alabama on Thursday, December 7th.  Visitation is from 1:00-2:00.  The service will be at 2:00.  

We want to thank everyone for the love and support through these tough 2 years.  



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