Marc Dunbabin, a father from Highland, Utah, was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia, a rare bone marrow cancer, after a routine eye examination in 2021. Despite initial success with targeted therapy, the cancer eventually spread to his central nervous system, causing severe symptoms such as migraines and loss of speech. Dunbabin’s doctors at Intermountain LDS Hospital determined that a bone marrow transplant was necessary to save his life. In March 2023, he underwent a successful transplant after undergoing chemotherapy in preparation. Dunbabin is grateful to his anonymous donor, a woman residing in the United States, and hopes to meet her someday to express his gratitude.
Dr. Julie Asch, the Blood and Marrow Transplantation director for Intermountain Health, emphasized the lifesaving potential of bone marrow transplants, stating that they are critical for patients with acute leukemia and bone marrow failure syndromes. While the procedure does carry risks, Dunbabin’s recovery serves as a testament to its success. Dunbabin encourages others to consider becoming bone marrow donors, pointing interested individuals to the BeTheMatch website for more information and registration. This story reinforces the importance of selfless acts and the impact they can have on someone’s life.
