Mark McDaniels Rare Malignant Hematology Hope Grant

Mark Alan McDaniels

February 25, 1967 - December 12, 2024

In lieu of flowers, please support the Mark McDaniels Rare Malignant Hematology Hope Grant, created in Mark’s honor through Johns Hopkins Hospital.

Getting an unexpected stage 4, non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma diagnosis was devastating, yet Mark never lost his optimism, certain he would beat the cancer. Not uncommon for oncology patients with low blood counts, he knew his ability to manage treatment was dependent on blood transfusions.

We soon learned that Mark’s biggest obstacle was complicated by having a rare blood condition. The Johns Hopkins Oncology and Hematology team discovered the cancer in his spleen had created a rare antigen that exists on 99.9% of all human red blood cells. This blood condition meant Mark’s body was attacking both donor blood and his own red blood cells. Mark’s oncologist and hematology team worked together to develop a treatment plan to increase his blood numbers while fighting Lymphoma. Creating a plan for Mark was especially challenging since his condition was extremely rare. There exist less than 15 patient case studies with this antigen since 1972 (anti-ANWJ).

Sourcing a perfect blood donation match was nearly impossible. Johns Hopkins Hospital contacted national and international rare blood registries to obtain the best match. In total, the search identified only 4 units of blood that were given to Mark. He spent 33 of his 74 days (since diagnosis) in the hospital.

Throughout Mark’s treatment, his attitude and spark remained bright, even as his body struggled with limited resources. Eventually, Mark’s body, with chemotherapy treatments, couldn’t maintain the red, white, and platelet blood levels needed to survive. After an intense 10-week fight with tremendous medical efforts, Mark lost his battle with cancer and passed away peacefully on December 12, 2024.

Mark’s struggles demonstrate the challenges and complexity of managing cancer with rare blood disorders. In partnership with the Johns Hopkins Oncology and Hematology department, we established the Mark McDaniels Rare Malignant Hematology Hope Grant to help other patients experiencing similar blood challenges. Mark’s determination and spirit will never be forgotten; we thank you for your support.

All money collected will be donated to Dr. Cole Sterling at the Johns Hopkins Oncology Unit.

Special Thanks to:

Dr. Cole Sterling, Johns Hopkins Hospital

Dr. Gloria Gerber, Johns Hopkins Hospital

Dr. Michael Cole, Johns Hopkins Hospital

Dr. Robert Brodsky, Johns Hopkins Hospital

Dr. Andrew Mener, Maryland Oncology and Hematology

Dr. Diane Kepner, Crossroads Medical Group

The amazing nursing and medical team, 5th Floor Johns Hopkins Oncology and Howard County General Hospital ICU