Rosemary Fischer, 58, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, Pelham, with Dr. Robert Soiffer, Vice Chair, Department of Medical Oncology & Chief, Division of Hematologic Malignancies, and Co-Chief, Stem Cell Transplantation, Dana-Farber

Rosemary was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in 2011 when she was an Events Coordinator in the Communications department at Dana Farber Cancer Institute. She underwent two years of treatment with many ups and downs. Five years after her treatment began, Rosemary had to receive a stem cell transplant to give her a new immune system and the chance of long-term survival. Her 100% match was a 20-year-old woman from Poland. Five years later, Rosemary still faces challenges from the transplant, but has maintained her faith, optimism, and upbeat outlook on life. She feels especially grateful to her husband, Jim, for all his support over the past 11 years. Rosemary feels Dr. Soiffer is one of the most kindhearted doctors and has unknowingly carried her through her ordeals with his actions, words, and dedication. She would not be here today if it were not for Dr. Soiffer, his incredible team, and the treatment at Dana-Farber. Rosemary appeared on WEEI in 2012.