Marc was diagnosed with polycythaemia vera after doctors thought he had atypical congestive heart failure. He had several vague, but culminating symptoms that led to his initial hospitalization.

While Marc’s cancer has been progressing slowly, his treatment includes on-going, therapeutic phlebotomy. The secondary symptoms that stem from the thickening of his blood have given him the most trouble throughout his diagnosis.

Marc previously worked as a nurse for many years. His patients were the first ones to notice that something wasn’t right with Marc’s health and encouraged him to see a doctor.

Throughout his treatment, Marc has been supported by his wife, JoAnne.

Dana-Farber seemed to be the obvious choice for Marc’s treatment. He says that everyone he knew suggested he go to the Institute as they are the “A-Team” for cancer care. Marc is so grateful for Dr. Steensma’s care and attention.

Dr. Steensma joined Dana-Farber in 2009. He is an internationally recognized expert in myelodysplastic syndromes, myeloproliferative neoplasms, and marrow failure syndromes. He is actively engaged in clinical and translational research and has contributed many oft-cited educational materials in these diseases.