Maya Angelou once said, “When you learn, teach. When you get, give.”  

What have I learned this past year since launching MPN Peoria on Rare Disease Day back in February, 2019?  I have learned that the amount of inherent generosity among those around us is limitless and flows freely from individuals with caring hearts and an innate desire to help.  I have also learned that together we can do anything, accomplish the unimaginable, and make the difference for those living with Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPNs), a group of blood cancers that afflict thousands but whose cure is non-existent at this point.  

I have also learned that if one has a vision and a passion to invoke change, the sky’s the limit.  In our inaugural year of existence, MPN Peoria raised over $75,000. Never in my wildest imagination did I ever think that we could raise that kind of money in our first year.  One thing I also learned is that our community is a giving community. I was touched by the enormous outpouring of support, both emotionally and financially. For that, I will be forever grateful.

But we are just beginning.  We have a long road ahead of us and a lot of work that needs to be done.  You see, without a cure, MPNs, like many other cancers, are burdening lives not only with disease-related symptoms and treatment side effects but also financial hardships from the cost of lab testing, procedures and medications.  This is unacceptable to me, and I am asking for your help. I am fighting for those less fortunate than myself.

In honor of Rare Disease Day, February 29, 2020, let us take this opportunity to support MPN Peoria.  Registration is now open for the 2nd Annual MPN Peoria Hike to be held on June 13, 2020. Please join us on the trails to raise money for such a great cause.  If you are unable to participate in the Hike, please consider making a donation. You can donate online at www.mpnpeoria.org or you can mail a donation to our address listed below.  Also, if you are interested in being a Corporate Sponsor of the Hike, please reach out to us at mpnpeoria@gmail.com.  

Thank you from the bottom of my heart, and I will never forget the blessings you have given all of us MPN patients and know that you are Making the Difference.

Sincerely,  

Michele A. Couri, MD
MPN Peoria, Founder/Director

P O Box 9576

Peoria, IL  61612-9576