After a triumphant return to the courtroom, Superior Court Judge Carl Fox reflected on his path back to health.

“I’m very fortunate,” Fox said. “It’s nothing short of a miracle for me to be back at work now.”

Fox’s year-long battle with blood cancer ended with a bone marrow transplant. Although he never found a match on the blood donor registry, his luck turned with the donation of an umbilical cord.

“I encourage everyone to give blood and give platelets, register to be on the donor registration, and if they’re pregnant, to donate their umbilical cords for possible matches for folks who are suffering from cancer and need bone marrow transplants. It’s really important.”

Upon his return to work, Fox was greeted with a standing ovation. He said he was surprised to see friends, coworkers and family filling the courtroom.

“I had no idea – I thought it would be about a third of that number of people. It was very humbling and I was a little embarrassed by that number of people – especially those who were retired and didn’t have to be there.”

Before Fox could show his appreciation, he said the overwhelming support left him stunned and inspired.

“I was without words for a few seconds, looking out and seeing all those people.”

Ten months after his transplant, Fox said he is back to his old self and ready to pick up where he left off.

“I feel great. I really enjoyed being back at work and I feel absolutely fine.”

His campaign, “Save the Fox,” will continue to raise awareness for blood cancer and seek to increase the donor registry. Although Fox has successfully beaten the disease, he said he will continue to fight for the healing of others.

“I’ll still participate in efforts when I can to increase the donor registry and blood donations. These are issues that are very dear and important to me.”

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