My father rarely spoke about his illness. Most have never heard of Polycythemia Vera (PV).

When his disease took over, he quietly retired early from his longtime role at Medtronic, where he spent two decades making a difference. He loved his oncologist Dr. Jade Anderson who helped him thrive for as long as possible.

Although he ultimately died of skin cancer, his blood cancer was the reason he was more susceptible to disease and infection. My father tended to his gardens until he could no longer walk on his own.

My father loved to teach and help people. I know he would want to help others who are facing the same illness or other blood cancers. Ultimately, he would want a cure.

Thank you for helping me to honor my favorite humanitarian.