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My sister, Marianne, has had a rough time of it lately. This evening, after an extended illness (3 years), her mother-in-law passed away. In most families this would be a hardship in and of itself. My sister though I'm sure is more relieved.

I know this sounds callous but it isn't meant that way. Marianne's husband, Jesse, has non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, for the 3rd time in 3 years. This last time it came back just 3 months after his stem cell transplant. They opted for the chemo pill clinical study this time instead of doing the regular chemo. It was suppose to be easier, less side effects, etc. It hasn't been. Jesse is in pain all the time. There has been times the pain has been so bad he has used lamaze breathing to deal with it. The last two times he has gone through treatment he has gained weight but this time he has lost about 50 pounds.

They have been at the hospital everyday for a long time. Whether it was for Jesse or just to see his mom, most days it was both. I don't know how Marianne has kept it together so well. I'm sure I would have already crumbled.

Tonight I pray for peace for this family and a 10 marker match for Jesse.

I don't think most people realize how important it can be to be a living donor. It can be as easy as giving blood. I would not hesitate to give given the opportunity. A couple of weeks ago we, being my mom, sisters, and me, signed up for marrow donation. It is so easy to register. Just go to Be The Match and register. They send out a self kit which basically includes a questionnaire and 4 q-tip things. Fill out the questionnaire and swap your mouth in 4 places, mail it in and you're done.

I'm hoping tomorrow brings better news.