On June 10, 2021, I received the devastating news that I had developed a type of myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) known as myelofibrosis, and that there was no cure! I have spent my entire adult life preaching and practicing health and fitness personally, and in my career as an athletic trainer/director of sports medicine for a professional hockey team. This could not be happening to me! I had not felt right for some time but until that fateful day, there was no explanation given for the pain, horrific cramps, fatigue, abnormal bloodwork, etc. The mental anguish is too much to detail here. Needless to say, I was not in a good place. I felt hopeless.

As we became more educated about MPNs and myelofibrosis, we discovered that there were some promising clinical trials available. We found a specialist at the Cleveland Clinic: Dr. Aaron Gerds, who changed everything for me. On the first visit, Dr. Gerds, spent well over an hour with us. He explained where I was in the disease and how this clinical trial could help me. I had HOPE! I began the clinical trial in February of 2022. At that time, my pain and symptoms were frequently a 10 out of 10. Now, my pain is a 1 to 2 out of 10 and my blood work has improved. I am feeling stronger and almost like “myself” again. Anyone who has walked this walk or a similar walk understands what I mean by that.

This was/is only possible due to organizations such as the MPN Research Foundation and generous donations from the private sector. Many of you know that every year (pre-COVID) my wife and I have fundraised for various important charities. This time it’s personal.Any donation you can make to the MPN Research Foundation will give me, and others like me, the realistic HOPE that a cure for our MPN is right around the corner.Until then, medical progress continues to provide more ways to manage our symptoms than ever before. Prior to participating in my clinical trial, the THOUGHT of a trek like this would have been laughable. Six months later, it is doable! Robyn, our family and I thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your support!

Donate to Jim’s fundraising page: https://secure.qgiv.com/event/s2s22/account/1305187/