Wednesday, June 3, 2015

A Final Message From Mexico Gulf Reporter

It is with very great sadness that I would like to inform you of the following:

Edward Vincent Byrne passed away on March 24, 2015. Ed was diagnosed with Hepatosplenic T-Cell Lymphoma in June 2014. After 6 months of aggressive chemotherapy, he was declared 100% in remission. Over Christmas 2014, Ed received a stem cell transplant from his brother, Bill Byrne, who was a perfect match. It is believed that a stem cell transplant is the only way to ensure that this rare form of lymphoma will not return. Ed's transplant was successful for several weeks - his blood counts were moving in a positive direction. However, his weakness and overall change in mood were apparent. As the weeks went on, Ed continually declined. He was able to attend his only child's wedding - Sarah Lillian - in Las Vegas, NV on February 28, 2015. This was Ed's last "good day". The following week, he was admitted to the hospital with stomach pains. During this final hospital stay, his blood counts began to decline and never recovered. Ultimately his cause of death was angiopathy, followed by kidney failure - eventually resulting in respiratory failure at 7:00 am on the morning of March 24. Ed's daughter Sarah and her husband Marc were by his side at the moment of death. Ed passed away surrounded by much love and many prayers.

I apologize that it has taken me so long to post this update. I continue to receive emails with questions from his readers - thank you all, so much. My dad was such a dear friend to many, and it saddens me that after today, this blog will have no further posts. I take comfort in knowing that his writing and stories will remain on this blog permanently.

If you so wish, please do consider a memorial donation in Ed's name to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, or DeleteBloodCancer.org.

Thank you for your readership, your dedication, and your patience. My dad appreciated each and every one of you.

Until we all meet in a far more beautiful place,

Sarah Penner
sarahpenner23@gmail.com
Wichita, KS