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.

Bryce approached his diagnosis with intensity, taking on the science of cancer as if it were a second career. He studied medical journals, sought second opinions, read patient journals on-line and decided Roswell Park was where he wanted to receive his treatment. His physician recommended a bone marrow transplant.

"My doctor explained the risks, but I already understood a transplant was the only chance I had for a cure. I paid attention to every detail and stayed focused on the outcome: beating this disease," he recalls.

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 four sons, a daughter, a grandson, a daughter-in-law and a fiancé.

The newlyweds have this message of hope for the holidays: "Keep the faith. You have to realistically face cancer, but you can make a difference in your own care if you study the options and select the treatment plan that is best for you. Rely on your family and if your family is not close, create a support network of friends and co-workers. They will help see you through the tough times."