Support for Ray Hawthrone- bone marrow transplant

In January of 2023, what was supposed to be a quick trip to the ER for 24 year old Ray Hawthrone turned into a month long hospitalization that included a transfer to Birmingham for a higher level of care. Ray was diagnosed with a rare blood disorder called aplastic anemia, which would require a bone marrow transplant. But to be able to have the transplant, he would need a matching donor. Prayers were answered when his sister Tierra was found to be a match and further search in the donor registry would not be required. Ray and his family are returning to Birmingham 2/21/23 for the transplant, which will take place on 3/2/23. The transplant will require Ray to remain in Birmingham for at least 2 months post transplant for close monitoring by his physicians.

As colleagues and friends of his mother, Tanesha Brown, we would like to support Ray, his son little Ray, and his family in any way possible. Ray will not be able to work during this time and there will be considerable medical bills and living expenses for him and the family as they navigate this unexpected journey. We would like to help defray some of these costs and relieve this one burden for them so that they can focus on healing and being together as a family. If you would like to contribute, please consider making a monetary donation.

To Ray and the entire Hawthrone and Brown family, we love you and our thoughts and prayers are with you!

The family has learned a great deal through this process and hopes to provide education to the community about the bone marrow registry process once Ray is healed and home. If you would like to learn more or sign up for the registry, please visit bethematch.org.