The agreement to turn the gene therapy cure for beta thalassemia over to Sloan Kettering, under the supervision of Dr Michel Sadelain, has been finalized and signed. We can expect trials in humans to begin this year. I have complete confidence in Dr Sadelain and his ability to perfect this cure using the true beta globin gene.
On behalf of everyone involved in the world of thalassemia, I want to thank Pat Girondi for the 19 years of work that have brought us to this point. Without Pat's tireless efforts to raise money and support for this incredible endeavor, we would not be where we are today. Pat, from the bottom of our hearts we thank you for everything. You are what I call a "real person" and I am thankful for your friendship and reminders that the road is never easy. As I sit here listening to your song "Lisa" a tear comes to my eye as I think of all those who have come before, are here now and are yet to come and how we each in our own ways have given so much to give some hope to those who need it most, and that we are about to cross into a new frontier, and the tears of sadness over those we have lost turn to tears of joy with the realization just how important this is.
For Rocco, who knows how much his dad has given of himself to try to give his son and every thal on earth a better life, and for everyone who has ever been touched by thalassemia, I salute you, Pat g. And for my little sis
"Lisa forever and ever you."