June 27, 2003

Celebrating 10 years of saving lives

T he MGH Bone Marrow Transplant Program commemorated its 10th anniversary June 18 with a special program, "Celebrating 10 years of Patient Care and Research," followed by a reception in the Cox Lobby.

Peter L. Slavin, MD, president of the MGH, kicked off the event with praise for Thomas Spitzer, MD, director of the Bone Marrow Transplant Program, and the Bone Marrow Transplant team for their outstanding efforts. In the 10 years that the Bone Marrow Transplant Program has been in operation, 588 transplants have been performed. "The success of this program lies in the amazing trust that the community and patients place in the MGH and the staff of the Bone Marrow Transplant Program," said Spitzer.

The highlight of the celebration was 10 special guests — transplant patients representing the 10 years the program has been in existence — who spoke about their personal experiences. The special guests were Robert Tudor, who was treated in 1993, Gretchen Clark from 1994, Mary Brainard from 1995, Ann Hartwell from 1996, Angela Buuck from 1997, John Bianco from 1998, Laila O'Keefe, (right), from 1999, Susan Zajonc from 2000, Kenneth Wernick from 2001, Patrice Maihos from 2002 and James Hill from 2003.

The program concluded with remarks from Bruce Chabner, MD, clinical director of the MGH Cancer Center. "Each of these stories reflects the courage and cooperation of patients and staff who have made this effort an outstanding success — a natural treasure," he said.