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Dear Fellow Moms: You Have the Power to Make a Difference
Last night, just before I settled in for the night, I scrolled through Facebook one last time and stumbled upon heartbreaking news. My neighbor’s 5-year-old son, Sam, who bravely battled AML, a fierce form of leukemia, has relapsed. He’s facing another round of chemotherapy and likely needs a second bone marrow transplant. My heart shattered.
Just last week, I watched Sam joyfully playing outside with my sons, a vibrant little boy who happily shares his toys with my younger kids, who aren’t quite experts at sharing yet. I remember him learning to ride his bike just a few months ago on the path by my house. Now, he’s heading back to the hospital, gearing up for yet another tough fight.
What’s even more gut-wrenching is that his parents know exactly what lies ahead. They’re aware of the countless hours they’ll spend away from their youngest child, and the fear that will flash across Sam’s face during the bone marrow biopsies and the harsh medications meant to heal but that will make him feel awful instead. They know. And yet, they keep fighting.
I felt utterly powerless. I’ve been a social worker, walking alongside hundreds of families facing similar battles. I’ve shared tears with mothers and fathers, played games with children who are too sick for visitors, and comforted siblings left wondering why their parents are always at the hospital. But watching a friend’s child endure this struggle is a different kind of heartache. I was eager to help, but I felt limited in what I could do.
Sure, I could mow their lawn, but they already have that covered. I could babysit their little one, but they have plenty of family nearby who can offer more comfort. I can cook meals and provide support, but somehow, that just doesn’t feel like enough when a child’s life is at stake.
Then, this morning, inspiration struck! I need your help, and it’s not what you might think. No, I’m not asking you to contribute to a GoFundMe page.
Before my eldest child was born, I registered as a bone marrow donor. I wanted to make sure that if my family ever needed a match, I had done my part to contribute to the donor pool. I’m still waiting for a match, but I’m grateful my DNA is available for someone in need.
Imagine if every person reading this letter signed up to be a donor. Just think! If we all shared information about bone marrow donation with our friends, we could massively expand the donor pool. We could potentially save countless lives, including those of children, mothers, and fathers. We could truly make an impact.
Becoming a donor is a breeze. Simply head over to bethematch.org, request a kit, and they’ll send you everything you need to swab your cheek from the comfort of your home. It’s that simple! You could be on a list that has the power to save a life. Is there anything more life-changing that’s this easy?
So please, as a mother, for your child, for your loved ones, and for kids like my neighbor’s Sam, consider registering as a bone marrow donor. If you can’t due to health or age restrictions, share this information with others who can.
We may feel limited in our ability to support children like Sam, but we can do something impactful. Please think about registering as a bone marrow donor. It could mean the world to someone.
Always,
Kristen
Summary
In a heartfelt message, Kristen shares the story of her neighbor’s son battling leukemia and urges fellow mothers to register as bone marrow donors. By joining the donor registry, they can significantly impact the lives of sick children and families in need. It’s a simple process that could lead to saving lives.