I'm sad to say that Robert died on Jan. 9th at 10:45pm. His wife and sons were with him. He contracted a respiratory disease known as Aspergillosis. This condition was unrelated to the transplant back in April, but his weakened immune system was unable to effectively combat what a full-strength person's immune system handles every day.

I did my best to help him have a fighting chance. I wished and prayed just as much as his family that this would be a success, because, you see, we WERE family. We exchanged many letters, via the blood center's editors, and we became like brothers. In fact he called me "Bubba" which he said means brother. His last words to me in my Dec. 2nd letter were:

"I wish good health and happiness and fellowship to you. Please stay in touch with me, I am sorry that I was late in getting back to you. However, I hope you understand. Again, we appreciate so much what you have done for me and my family. This is your blood brother "Bubba" signing off for now. Stay in touch! Thank you!"

I hope his family decides to contact me someday. I would love to learn more about what a great man Robert was. I released my personal information to them, but understand that they are grieving now.

I've received hundreds of very kind responses from all over the world. I just hope I've been able to help others as a result of my experience. A number of readers have gone out and were tested as a direct result of experiencing my story with me. That's a great feeling. I was also able to help many more who have successfully matched. Sort of a self-proclaimed BMT Internet donor guru. Always happy to help. This has become the only living legacy of my experience.

It was a strange, yet wonderful situation to be in. When marrow donors get wrapped up in this whole process of donation, we prepare ourselves to carry this emotional baggage of being part of a life or death struggle for someone we may not even know. I guess one is never fully prepared for the worst, though.

Yes, it hurts like hell, but yes, I'd do it again. I'd DEFINITELY do it again. In the meantime, I'm a regular blood donor now; I just hit the first gallon point, and will continue to donate blood until my marrow numbers come up again. I donate blood in memory of Robert. May he rest in eternal peace.

Don't let Robert's death discourage you. The NMDP says about 40-60% survive the procedure. Better odds than a sure death sentence for these people who need it.

I encourage you to help, and talk others into helping too. Imagine, YOU could possibly affect the future by helping to keep someone on this earth longer! GOOD THINGS CAN HAPPEN!

As I've said before, this person, if he or she were to survive with your help, could literally be the one who cures cancer, or possibly saves the earth from doomsday. Maybe though, you may just extend the joy of a very common person's kids or grandkids ... hopping on their lap, or sharing those great big hugs! Who knows? You could be a part of a VERY wonderful thing!