My name is Krystle, and I am a single mother of five children. Three weeks ago, my 8-year-old son Michael was hospitalized and has since undergone multiple blood and platelet transfusions. The doctors have told us that Michael needs a bone marrow transplant, and the process before he can even receive the transplant will take three to four months, possibly longer. During this time, he will not be able to attend school and will need to be bed-ridden at home, with frequent trips back and forth to the children’s hospital in Illinois for blood and platelet transfusions every other day.

Michael now has a PICC line—a special kind of IV—inserted in his right arm, between his elbow and shoulder. This line runs through his body directly to his main artery near his heart, allowing him to receive the treatments and transfusions he needs. Seeing him go through this is incredibly difficult, but it is necessary for his care and recovery.

We live in far northwest Indiana, so every hospital visit means traveling out of state to Illinois. This adds extra stress and expense to an already difficult situation. On top of the scheduled treatments, if Michael develops a fever or experiences any bleeding while we are at home, I have to get up right away—no matter what time it is—and bring him to his hospital in Illinois for urgent care. The constant worry and need to be ready at a moment’s notice is overwhelming, but it’s necessary for Michael’s safety and recovery. Right now, our car is down, which makes getting Michael to his appointments and emergencies even more challenging and stressful.

When I was able to go to work daily, I could make sure nothing got disconnected at home. Now, because I am Michael’s primary caregiver and unable to work, I am struggling to keep up with bills and utilities. If something gets shut off at my home, I could lose our home entirely. The cost of transportation between our home and the hospital, along with the ongoing medical needs, has made things even more challenging. As a mother, it is heartbreaking to see my child go through so much and to worry about how I will provide for all of my children during this time.

Recently, the doctors shared that they are hoping Michael can receive his bone marrow transplant from one of his siblings, since all of his brothers and sisters have the same mother and father. This brings a new layer of stress and hope to our journey. If one of his siblings is a match, it means not only will Michael be going through surgery, but so will one of his brothers or sisters. While it is a blessing to have this possibility within our family, it is also overwhelming to think about supporting two children through surgery and recovery at the same time.

I am reaching out for help from our community and anyone who is able to support us. Your donation will help us keep our home, pay our bills, and cover the costs of traveling for Michael’s treatments and emergencies, as well as support both children through the transplant process. Any amount you can give will make a difference for our family. Thank you in advance for your kindness and generosity. Please keep Michael and our family in your prayers as we navigate this difficult journey together.