At 49 years old, Leny has spent his career working in aircraft maintenance for a major airline, taking pride in supporting himself and handling life’s responsibilities without asking for help.
That changed in 2024 when a biopsy led to a diagnosis of myelofibrosis. After undergoing radiation and chemotherapy treatments, Leny received a bone marrow transplant in April 2026. Just two months later, he received great news: he is in remission!
While that milestone brought hope, recovery remains a difficult journey.
Because his immune system is highly compromised, Leny faces strict precautions during a six-month recovery period. Even minor illnesses can become serious. He must carefully handle and prepare food, attend follow-up appointments every two weeks, and recently spent five days hospitalized after becoming ill.
Unable to work during recovery, Leny is also facing growing financial pressure. Mortgage payments and everyday expenses have become increasingly difficult to manage, forcing him to borrow money to stay current on his bills. Like many men, Leny dislikes carrying debt and feels uncomfortable asking for assistance. More than anything, he wants to get back to work and support himself again.
Although Leny lives alone in Arlington, he has been blessed with support from his two children, ages 20 and 18, who are taking turns traveling in from Boston to stay with him during his recovery.
Leny’s story reflects a challenge Mankind sees often. Many men facing serious health issues are reluctant to seek help, even when circumstances are beyond their control. Yet these are exactly the moments when support matters most.
Thankfully, Leny’s outlook is positive. His remission is a major victory, and each day brings him closer to returning to work and normal life. Until then, Mankind is proud to stand beside him and help ease some of the burden as he focuses on what matters most – his recovery.