DBU president hospitalized for leukemia

Posted: 10/18/07

DBU president hospitalized
with acute form of leukemia

Dallas Baptist University President Gary Cook was diagnosed with acute myelogenous leukemia during his annual physical Oct. 12 and immediately was hospitalized.

“AML is a form of leukemia which is very aggressive, and once someone is discovered with this disease, they are required to begin treatment immediately,” according to a statement posted on the DBU website.

“Unlike other forms of cancer, AML does not necessarily have stages associated with it, and it is still very early in the process to know what the overall diagnosis is. … Early test results seem to indicate that the particular form of AML that he has will respond well with treatment. Also, since Dr. Cook has remained in such good shape over the years, we are very optimistic about his treatment and recovery.”

Cook, 57, received a platelet transfusion Oct. 13 and began his first round of chemo-therapy the next day. He had a second chemotherapy treatment Oct. 16, and he was placed on oxygen. A third round of chemo-therapy was scheduled Oct. 18.

Due to his low platelet count and the treatments he is receiving, Cook cannot see any visitors. He also is unable to receive flowers, food or phone calls.

Cards can be sent to the president’s office at DBU, 3000 Mountain Creek Parkway, Dallas 75211-9299.

“The best thing that anyone can do is to pray for Dr. and Mrs. Cook, as well as the Cook family,” David, Mark and Nicole, a statement on the DBU website said.

“We serve a mighty God, and over the years, Dr. Cook has turned to God in prayer, and God has been faithful to answer these prayers. So Dr. Cook trusts in the power of prayer, and he has humbly asked for others to pray for him during this time.”

For daily updates, visit http://www.dbu.edu/pr.