Donate to help support PJ's Battle Against Aplastic Anemia
Donation protected
It is with a heavy heart that I share this news. PJ has been diagnosed with Aplastic Anemia. This has happened suddenly and is a shock to the Ceral Family. As you can imagine, PJ and his family are feeling overwhelmed with this news and are focused on making sure PJ is feeling comfortable, safe, and as upbeat as possible. Just this past weekend, PJ had 2 blood transfusions and 4 platelet transfusions, along with countless blood and genetic tests.
PJ is at home right now, but he will be in and out of Oakland Kaiser for the foreseeable future.
The financial strain is significant, with medical bills already mounting. Ongoing stress is affecting both PJ and his family - PJ's mother Princess is in remission herself. Understandible, the news about PJ has taken the wind out of the whole family. PJ was ready to start community college and work and he cannot do either of those now. Your support will have a huge impact and will be greatly appreciated.
Also, if you feel like sending some words of encouragement or support to PJ, I'm sure he would love a text. Please reach out to me for his phone number. Or you can leave a message below. As of now, due to his immune system being so weak, visitors are not allowed.
What is Aplastic Anemia?
- It is a rare and serious condition that can develop at any age. It can occur suddenly or it can come on slowly and worsen over time. It can be mild or severe. PJ has severe Aplastic Anemia.
- About 2 out of 1 million people in the US are diagnosed with Aplastic Anemia. It can be acquired, or hereditary.
- Treatment, depending on the severity, includes medications, blood transfusions, or a stem cell transplant, also known as a bone marrow transplant.
- The Ceral family is still waiting for more genetic testing results to determine the source. If it is hereditary, they will not be able use his brother CJ's stem cells.
- There is no cure without a bone marrow match and bone marrow transplant.
How else can you help? Join the National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP) registry. https://my.bethematch.org/s/join?
For the safety of patients and donors, you need to be between 18 and 40 to join the registry because research has shown that cells from younger donors lead to better long-term survival for patients.
PJ, CJ, Princess and Dan are very grateful for your support.
I will keep you updated on PJ's health and relay that you are all holding him in your thoughts.
Best,
Tuyen
Organizer and beneficiary
Tuyen Bonneau
Organizer
Mill Valley, CA
Dan Ceral
Beneficiary