Letter from Dr Martha Q Lacy, April 1, 2015

Dear Friends and Family,

As you know, I am a physician specializing in hematologic cancers at Mayo Clinic. My practice focuses on treatment of multiple myeloma, amyloidosis, and bone marrow transplant. Each year I treat hundreds of patients. I rejoice with them in their victories. We share joy and laughter every time a patient tells me about seeing a child or grandchild reach a milestone he or she was afraid she would never see. We also share the suffering and agony of each defeat. It is heartbreaking yet awe-inspiring to be a daily witness to the strength and grace of those facing a new relapse or other setback.

Ten years ago the probability of being alive at 3 years was only about 30-40% while now it is closer to 90%! I have been fortunate to practice during a period when there has been a sea change in treatment options. We have scores of new drugs that can control the disease for years. I have many patients who are surviving more than 15-20 years. How did we make this progress? The answer is simple: research. The Leukemia Lymphoma Society has been a part of this success. LLS has funded more than $1 billion in research for blood cancers. This research has funded many of the most promising therapies including targeted therapies, immunotherapies and virotherapies.

The LLS mission also includes improving the quality of life of patients and their families. A diagnosis of a blood cancer is a tremendous stress on a family emotionally as well as financially. LLS sponsors numerous educational programs that help patients understand their disease and treatment options. LLS also provides direct financial assistance to patients including travel funds to seek the best care and co-pay assistance that helps offset the staggering cost of medications.

This year I have the honor of being selected to compete in the Man & Woman of the Year fundraising campaign. This is a 10 week fundraising competition to raise money for research, education, and direct patient assistance. During the next ten weeks, our team goal is to raise $100,000. We hope that you will be able to support this event by making a charitable donation that will make a difference. Over 80% of the funds raised go directly to support the mission of the LLS. As a non-profit agency, the agency relies exclusively on donations from individuals and corporations.

Please make a secure online donation by visiting http://www.mwoy.org/pages/mn/MN15/mlacyv.

Collectively we can craft a better future for everyone with blood cancers. I look forward to the day that myeloma is cured. I am dedicating this campaign to all my patients who constantly teach me the meaning of the words “courage” and “grace under pressure”. They give me so much more than I give them. It is a privilege to be able to give back!

Martha Lacy, M.D.
Mayo Clinic
Professor of Medicine
Chair, Division of Hematology
Candidate for 2015 Woman of the Year