I am an MPN researcher and pediatric hematologist oncologist dedicated to discovering better therapies for MPN patients.  In my clinic, I care for children and young adults with MPN, and my goal for these inspirational young people is to lead long and healthy lives.  In my laboratory, we use diverse experimental models, including mice with MPN and blood stem cells from patients, to identify underlying causes and treatment strategies to prevent complications.  My mother also has MPN - so this work is very personal for my family and me!  I also know first hand that MPN research is costly, and a greater awareness and funding will be essential to discover the best therapies for children and older people with MPN.

I am therefore dedicating every day during the month of May to be active and raise funds and awareness for MPN research.  I will swim 6 miles a week and put in 10,000 steps a day.  My mother (in her 80s!) with MPN also walks almost 10,000 steps a day – we can do this!  Together, we will discover better treatments to cure MPN and help our patients and their families.  I am extremely grateful to be caring for MPN patients who inspire me each and every day!