My name is Jennifer Falkenstern and I'm a twenty-eight year old female who underwent a bone marrow transplant on April 5, 2006. I want this to be an informational website for people to know what is happening with me because I know it will become difficult for me to stay in contact with everyone all the time, especially when I am feeling sick. I have a blog, which is the best way to keep up to date with my progress.

I have a fundraising campaign with National Transplant Assistance Fund. NTAF is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) that has been working with the transplant community for the past 23 years. Your contributions are tax-deductible and will be administered only for my medically related expenses. These donations will be made out to the NTAF, but then will be in "Honor of Jennifer Falkenstern".

I really would like to encourage people to still go out there and donate marrow. There are so many people out there looking for a match. I especially encourage minorities to go out there and become a donor. Minorities can get tested to donate marrow for free because there is a major shortage in the registry. There are a lot of sad stories about people waiting for a donor.

I'm scared of the finances ahead of me, but that is nothing in comparison to the fear of the post-transplant ailments and the different emotions that go along with it. I know this situation is very heartbreaking but there are so many things we can do right now. I want this page to inspire others and to know that this totally sucks, but it can be okay at the same time. I want to thank everybody who donates, who gives me their time and love and who deals with me! I'm a feisty one.

The Smile-Forever Foundation has become my new project. Pat Gonnelli calls just to say "Hi, how are you?" It's my favorite local organization. Getting any kind of individual funding is very difficult, and his organization truly helps the person. Sunday, June 10 2007, Smile Forever is holding their annual walk, which includes many other activities for people of all ages. I will be there and I hope many of you can come out and support my favorite organization.

I really appreciate the community and especially my hometown of Norwood, NJ. I'm overwhelmed most of the time and sometimes left with this great feeling of peace because I feel so loved. Thank you all. Because when it comes down to it, it truly is the care and support you get that keeps you alive and wanting to live. I have amazing doctors, family members, a girlfriend, friends and even some strangers who have helped me breathe. Thank you.

Please contact me with any inquiries

Bio - Events - Blog - Donate - Links