Jamal’s Fight to See His Daughter Grow Up

Retired First Sergeant Jamal Smith, my nephew, was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia B-Cell Philadelphia Like, on September 20, 2022. This is an aggressive disease and if rapid treatment is not received can result in accelerated decline.

Jamal has bravely served his country. After serving 24 years he retired from the United States Army in 2014. During that time, he served three combat deployments to Iraq including two 15-month deployments where he did convoy escorts, base operations, and base security. On his last deployment, he served as the First Sergeant for over 200 soldiers and ended his tour with zero loss of life.

Jamal’s outstanding service and dedication to duty earned him two Bronze Stars for combat operations in Iraq. After retiring from the Army, Jamal continued to give service to the military that supported him by working with the Mobilization Support Brigade assisting Soldiers in mobilizing and de-mobilizing into different areas of operation around the world. Life after retirement was good…working, supporting his family, raising his only child, continuing to cultivate bonds and relationships made throughout the years and being of service where needed.

Then, with one visit his life would forever be changed.

After going to the VA (Veterans Administration) for his biannual checkup appointment, Jamal received a call from his primary care manager (PCM), on September 14, 2022, stating that he had an abnormal blood test result that could be Leukemia. Having no symptoms, this news shocked as if suddenly fired upon with an artillery round. He was immediately referred to an oncologist. After meeting with the oncologist and having comprehensive blood work done, Jamal received the diagnosis of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

In October of 2022, Jamal began his aggressive treatment of the cancer which included multiple hospital stays, multiple lumbar punctures, multiple rounds of aggressive chemotherapy, multiple bone marrow biopsies, immunotherapy and blood draws which the count was lost within the first month of diagnosis. He’s endured kidney, lung, intestinal damage and of course the regular effects of chemo.

Through it all Jamal has remained positive, his mantra of “Someone always has it worse than I do, so no need to complain” allows him to be thankful every day that he is still alive and reminds him that “it’s a daily blessing to see the living world daily”.

This disease will require a lifesaving Stem Cell Transplant and because Thirteen (13) years ago a miracle made her way here Jamal has a match, his daughter! So, now they will begin the process of harvesting the stem cells from the brave little warrior, who will now have the opportunity to give her dad the gift of continued life as he gave her life. God is awesome in his divine wisdom!

Insurance covers most of the medical treatment for this upcoming Stem Cell Transplant but not everything. There will be some uncovered expenses. Jamal will be moving to Houston for treatment and recovery, which will be about a four-month journey. His wife Rashawn is designated as his caregiver during this time so she will be on site in Houston during treatment and recovery. Gas, lodging (basically a temporary relocation), meals, and donor support all come into play during this journey.

Along the way, people have asked Jamal and family, “What can I do to help?” His reply has always been “nothing at this time”. But now he needs your help. Whatever you are willing and led to donate the family will be thankful and appreciative of your contribution. Moreover, they solicit and receive your prayers. Any proceeds not utilized will be recycled into the support system to help other leukemia patients!