Dan Rinehart was a one-of-a-kind guy. As a flight nurse for Carle Foundation Hospital, he cared for patients who needed to be air-lifted to the emergency room. Giving quality patient care with a personal touch came easily to Dan and he truly enjoyed his profession.

For the past two years, Dan was also a patient, having been diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia.

Community Blood Services did not know Dan and his family until April of 1999. It was the day of our annual donor banquet and at the last hour, we were frantically looking for a patient who could share their experiences as a blood transfusion recipient with our honored guests. Dan got wind of our search and called the blood center around noon, volunteering to tell his story — as a nurse and as a patient. We readily agreed, and breathed a sigh of relief! Dan’s speech that evening was incredible; he freely talked about his need for blood in the treatment of his leukemia and thanked everyone in the room for being a blood donor. Dan also mentioned his volunteer work with the National Leukemia Foundation and spoke of his love for his family. He talked about the nearly miraculous birth of his son, who came after Dan had undergone chemotherapy and radiation treatments.

In June of 1999, Dan received a bone marrow transplant at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis. His donor was found in the National Marrow Donor Program’s registry — a perfect stranger. Less than a month after his transplant, he was released from the hospital! His blood counts were excellent and he was feeling great! Sadly, Dan relapsed early in December. Heroic attempts were made to save his life, including another transplant. On December 22, 1999, surrounded by his wife, family and friends, Dan Rinehart quietly passed away.

Leukemia could not suppress Dan’s wonderful sense of humor. Throughout the past year, we received updates of his condition via e-mail. He made us smile at his funny observations and inspired us with his courage and dignity. Dan’s motto was "nothing wasted," meaning that his last days were rich and full. Though we only knew Dan for a short period of time, the impact he made on our lives cannot be explained. Dan is survived by his wife, Suzanne and their children, Sydney and Matthew.