Jim Watts was diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome, or MDS in 2008.

At that time, he found help against the rare blood disease thousands of miles away. Watts did not know much about his bone marrow donor, but started a journey to connect with him.

It turns out this live-saving donation sparked a friendship that crosses continents.

Good Morning America co-host Robin Roberts brought attention to MDS when she announced her diagnosis in June.