Posted by ESPN.com’s Matt Mosley

Stephanie Stradley of NFL FanHouse has provided a very personal and helpful account of what Vikings defensive end Kenechi Udeze will face over the next year in his fight against Leukemia. In case you hadn’t heard, Udeze’s brother was a bone marrow transplant match, which is very fortunate since only about 30 percent of patients find a related donor.

Stephanie’s sister was diagnosed with Leukemia in October 2005, and she’s gone through a long and often painful recovery process. Kudos to the Vikings for doing the right thing and putting Udeze on the reserve non-football illness list, which will guarantee his $807,500 salary for 2008.

“He can focus on getting well,” said Vikings head coach Brad Childress. “He’s done a great job with that so far. He’s been positive. He’s been upbeat.”

The Vikings said they will revisit Udeze’s contract status following the 2008 season, when he’s set to become a free agent.