Matt Waning, 37, acute myeloid leukemia, Methuen, with Sharon (wife), Richard M. Stone, MD, Chief of Staff & Director of Translational Research in the Adult Leukemia Program, Dana-Farber, and Ilene Galinsky, BSN, RN, NP, Dana-Farber

Matt Waning's cancer journey began in 2021, at the age of 34, when he was diagnosed with testicular cancer. The aggressive nature of his illness led to surgery that removed a tumor the size of a watermelon, along with his left testicle and kidney, as the tumor had reached his aorta. Following surgery, he underwent two months of preventive chemotherapy known as VIP treatment and celebrated being in remission by August 2021. However, the VIP treatment came with a rare side effect—a potential risk of developing acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Unfortunately, in January 2023, Matt was diagnosed with AML as a result of the chemotherapy he had previously received. Matt is an avid Boston sports fan, with a particular passion for the Bruins. Music is another love of his, offering solace and joy throughout his journey. As the oldest of three siblings, he shares a special bond with his family, including his dog Mogley, named after the main character from "The Jungle Book." Dr. Stone is currently the Director of the Adult Acute Leukemia Program at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, serves on the Medical Oncology Board of the American Board of Internal Medicine, and is vice chair of the Leukemia Core Committee for the national cooperative trials group Cancer and Leukemia Group B. As the Senior Leukemia Protocol Research Nurse Practitioner at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Ilene Galinsky practices autonomously and in collaboration with physicians and other members of the multidisciplinary team in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of patients with acute and chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), myelofibrosis, and other bone marrow failure diseases.