One Patients' Story

Bryce and Linda Morgan say today they are happily married because of Roswell Park.  Their story began in 2000 when Bryce was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia.  They both work at Praxair located in Tonawanda.  Bryce was a consultant and information technology specialist and Linda was a registered nurse. They knew each other but not well.

Upon discussing his diagnosis, Bryce's physician recommended a bone marrow transplant. Understanding the rigors of a bone marrow transplant and with no immediate family in Buffalo, Bryce asked a small group of friends and co-workers to become his family during his treatment.  Linda was among them.

"I got involved in his care as a nurse and as a friend, but as time went on, I marveled at his bravery," Linda remarked.  "I admired his determination...you really get to know what someone is made of when they go through a difficult illness such as cancer," Linda recalls.

From those long days and nights in the hospital, Linda and Bryce's relationship changed from friends to something much more.  "it's because of Roswell Park that we are married."  "It was a slow and thoughtful process, but I have never in my life felt more loved", Bryce explains.

The two were married May 1, 2004. "When I knew I was going to live, I knew I wanted to spend my life with Linda," Bryce remarks with a smile. The family now consists of three sons, a daughter, two daughers-n-law and two wonderful grandsons.

Bryce says the Roswell Park Donor Center and its donors are one reason he is alive and happy today.  While Bryce was receiving treatment, he needed frequent transfusions of red blood cells and platelets. The Buffalo resident recalls "there was a period of about four months that I relied solely on volunteer donors at Roswell Park. Linda adds "every donated unit Bryce received meant another opporunity for him to be well."

Bryce and Linda helped organize many drives and are so grateful to their friends, colleagues and so many anonymous volunteers whose donations were essential to Bryce's recovery and survival.

You too can help.  The Roswell Park Donor Center is open six days a week with flexible daily hours. To donate, you must be at least 17 years of age and weigh at least 110 pounds.  If you are interested in becoming a donor, contact Roswell's Donor Center at (716) 845-8275 or e-mail blooddonor@roswellpark.org.